Traveldir.org features a collection of France travel, vacation and hotels related articles. Please feel free to submit your travel guide, personal travelogue, France hotel guide or any other travel related story.
Most people visiting the Champagne-Ardenne region will be there for one thing only; the bubbles! But there's much more to this area in northeast France than expensive fizz. There are beautiful towns, historic buildings, museums and stunning scenery.
Epernay
Of course, no visit to the region would be complete without a trip to a champagne vineyard. There are several caves in the area that are open to visitors or organise tours where you can learn everything about making champagne and get to sample some of the product. The town itself is full o stylish 19th century buildings, all built on the back of the wealth that champagne brought to Epernay. Moet and Chandon and Mercier are two of the more well-known brands that are based in Epernay, but by visiting a smaller producer you are more likely to get the personal touch on your tour.
Religious Reims
Despite the damage it suffered in World War II, the town of Reims is still home to some beautiful and spectacular religious buildings. Reims Cathedral has exquisite carving on the doors and paintings and sculptures inside, while the Palais du Tau next door was once the home to French Kings. If you're interested in works of art, the town's museum features fine examples by Gaugin and Matisse. There are even some Roman remains left within the town, illustrating Reims' long and important history within France.
Troyes and Langres
Troyes and Langres are two medieval towns with plenty of interesting architecture and attractions. Troyes has a beautiful main square surrounded by half-timbered buildings; a great place to stop in the sunshine and enjoy a glass of local champagne. The town is also home to the St Jean au Marche church where the English King Henry V married his French wife. The highlight of Langres is the 3.5 km of ramparts that surround the town. The ramparts date from between 2000 years ago to the 16th century and provide great views of Langres. If you have trouble walking the ramparts you can take a small tram that runs the length of the walls.
Talk to the Animals
The St Laurent Animals Park allows visitors to get up close to creatures such as deer, sheep, wild boars and many species of birds. On weekends, there is a market within the park where local farmers can sell their produce. Parc Aventure is a great place for the kids to blow off some steam, clambering on trails through the treetops, with supervisors keeping an eye on them so you don't have to.