Groups that take an interest in the production of alcohol, love a guided tour, or simply enjoy a glass of bubbly should look no further than The Champagne Tour Company for trip inspiration.
Based in Reims, France, the company provides personalised tours across the Champagne region for groups of up to 80 people.
A typical day time itinerary can include coach transport, a local guide, meals and Champagne tastings, plus the opportunity to stop at nearby historic attractions along the chosen route if desired.
An example itinerary on a luxury cellar tour
Reims is two hours away from Paris by coach. Groups taking a Champagne day trip can experience a taste of French culture as well as food and drink.
Reims is a key location for Champagne making. Groups can choose to visit a tasting house in Pommery or Taittinger to view the chalk cellars where Champagne is aged.
A multi-tasting Champagne lunch is also on the cards, as is a stop at nearby Reims Cathedral.
The UNESCO site is a great stop for history enthusiasts; there is Gothic art displayed, as well as stained glass windows all around the cathedral.
The tour continues through picturesque Grand and Premier Cru vineyards, passing the Verzenay Lighthouse.
The group will then finish the day with a visit to the village of Hautvillers to see where the original blending process of Dom Perignon was first mastered.
Other types of tour
GTOs can choose from other types of tour as well as the luxury cellar tour.
Artisan vineyard tours and tastings aim to teach visitors about the many components of Champagne. During the day, groups will visit four or five Champagne grower-producers and taste up to 15 types of bubbly.
Meanwhile, on a discovery tour, visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds with a visit to a historic house as well as to two family estates to learn about the key stages in production. There will also be multiple chances to taste Champagne.
For further information about Champagne tours, visit www.champagne-tour.com.
