Driving Tour - Northern France
Join the GRRC as we explore the Vallée de la Marne and Cote des Blancs, two iconic sub-regions of Champagne which provide iconic driving.
Overview
The Champagne region in France offers over 600 km of breathtaking scenery, with winding roads through vineyards on rugged hillsides, rustic villages, and breathtaking chateaux. Join the GRRC as we explore the Vallée de la Marne and Cote des Blancs, two iconic sub-regions of Champagne which provide iconic driving. This three-night, four-day tour will give you a taster of this world-famous region of France, encapsulating all that the area has to offer. Our beautiful driving routes will be paired perfectly with luxury accommodation, delicious gastronomy, and a visit to an authentic Champagne house.
Itinerary
Stationed in the heart of the Champagne Region, our stay will be hosted by the charming 5-star Chateau de Sacy, within touching distance of the city of Reims. Guests will arrive through the scenic vineyards, reaching the hilltop mansion ready to enjoy a three-night stay of comfort and prestige. On the first night we will enjoy an opening dinner in the authentic Chateau de Sacy restaurant. Members will be treated to the reputable tasting menu, where they will be guided through the exceptional food by Chef Guillaume Diether, while also enjoying a wine pairing to accompany the delicious food and panoramic views.
Expected driving time: 3hrs 40mins
Expected driving distance: 114 miles
Our driving tour will take full flight on the second day. Heading down to Epernay, we will follow the famous Vallee de la Marne through the petite eastern towns and rolling hills. Starting on the outskirts of Epernay, we will begin this 114-mile journey meeting exquisite viewing points into the surrounding vineyards. Along the route, we head into the town of Hautvillers, in what is best known as one of the birthplaces of Champagne. Famously you will find the tomb of Dom Pierre Perignon in the church, who of course was integral to both the production of Champagne and the region today. Further west we encounter beautiful stretches of rural French land, interjoined by the canal of Cumieies, and the charming local villages of Fleury-La-Riviere and Chatillon-Sur-Marne. The changing landscapes create great respite to the long stretches of roads buried in the terraced valleys. Looping back towards Epernay, we tail through historic communes such as Dormans, Troissy, and Pierrywhere members can enjoy gorgeous views of the gardens in bloom and the wooded banks of the river, before returning to our starting point.
The second evening will be free for members to explore the local areas of the region. The city of Reims is a 20-minute drive away and is known for its cultural connections to fine dining, champagne and architectural heritage.
Expected driving time: 03hrs 50mins
Expected driving distance: 134 miles
Departing on our third day we will head south onto the route of Cotes Des Blancs. The famed region is of course interlinked to its name. Around 95% of the passing vineyards are connected to the Chardonnay grape. Our drive will once again begin on the outskirts of Epernay, this time heading south on some of France's greatest stretches of open roads. The long straights give ample opportunity to those who want to really feel the force of their car's engine, but also for those who want to be immersed in the beautiful banks of unmissable French vineyards. We will head all the way down to Sezzane through the prestigious commune of Etoges, where a stunning 17th century Chateau is visible. Swooping back north, the roads are equally as alluring. In the depths of French forests and countryside the quiet D951 brings us back to Epernay. The road stretches for 25 miles offering drivers the freedom of sweeping corners and broad straights to motor back towards the mountains of Reims, completing our 134-mile adventure. Our final night will see us all unite in experiencing the region's namesake attraction at a local Champagne house, allowing us to raise a glass to a spectacular tour.
What's Included
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3 nights' accommodation in a five-star hotel
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Breakfast daily
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Evening meals on the first and final evenings including wine
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Overnight parking for all cars
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Printed route book including a full itinerary, driving directions and suggested places to visit
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Satellite navigation units
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Personnel to assist all members
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Support vehicles for transporting luggage (limited availability)
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VAT and all local taxes
What's Excluded
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Channel Crossing
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Medical & travel insurance
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All lunchtime meals
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Second night dinner
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Fuel
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Any medical assistance with your car during the tour
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Vehicle insurance
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Alcohol (save for the allowances included with evening meals)
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Incidental extras such as use of the mini bar, spa treatments and room service
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Motorway tolls
Prices & Accommodation
Due to availability within our accommodation, Chateau de Sacy, the rooms will be allocated on a first come first serve basis. Single person pricing can be provided upon request.
£3,955 based on two people sharing a vehicle, in a Suite
£3,755 based on two people sharing a vehicle, in a Deluxe Room
£3,555 based on two people sharing a vehicle, in a Classic Room