A Toast to France - Champagne & Burgundy

Day 2 Reims

After breakfast , we’ll visit the magnificent Cathédrale Notre Dame de Reims. Adorned with over 2,300 intricate statures on its façade, it was the traditional site for the coronation of the kings of France, here our guided tour will bring centuries of stories to life.

This afternoon, we'll travel to the town of Épernay and visit a Champagne house. You'll descend into the chalk cellars and learn how Champagne is crafted using traditional methods perfected over centuries before a tasting—a perfect introduction to understanding what makes each producer unique.

Day 3 at Leisure

Today is yours to explore. Perhaps wander through Reims' charming streets, visit local shops, or relax at a café with a glass of something special. Alternatively, you are invited to join an optional excursion to Hautvilliers. Visit the beautiful village where Dom Pérignon, the pioneering Benedictine monk, perfected the art of Champagne making. We’ll visit his final resting place in the historic church, then enjoy the panoramic views stretching across the chalk slopes and vineyards. You'll complete the experience with a guided tasting at a local cellar.

Day 4 Troyes & Dijon

After breakfast, we'll travel south to the enchanting medieval town of Troyes, one of Champagne's best-kept secrets. With beautifully preserved, colourful half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, stepping into Troyes feels like stepping back in time. Our guided walking tour highlights the charming Goldsmith's House with its distinctive turret, the atmospheric Ruelle des Chats (Cats' Alley), so-called because the roofs are so close together that cats could leap across the narrow gap, and we'll admire the ornate stained-glass windows that adorn many buildings.

Later, we'll travel to Dijon, the capital of Burgundy. You’ll have free time to explore the historic centre, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This evening we'll enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 5 Burgundy

This morning, we'll take a guided tour of the beautifully restored Château de Châteauneuf, set in the heart of Burgundy’s wine country. Dating back to 1175, this historic estate offers insights into centuries of winemaking tradition.

Next, we'll visit a traditional Moutarderie (Mustard Mill) in the medieval town of Beaune. Here you’ll discover the secrets behind Dijon’s world-famous mustard and a tasting will reveal why this condiment has been treasured for generations.

This afternoon, we’ll visit Château du Clos de Vougeot, nestled in the heart of the Climats du Vignoble de Bourgogne. These 'Climats' are individually named parcels of land, each producing distinctive wines. The château itself is surrounded by vines producing some of Burgundy's finest Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays. Your visit concludes with a tasting of local wine, allowing you to experience first hand the quality that has made this region legendary.

Day 6 at Leisure

The day is yours to explore Dijon at your own pace-perhaps visit the Palais des Ducs, wander the medieval squares, or enjoy lunch at a local café. Alternatively, you could join an optional excursion to Nuits Saint Georges, a picturesque wine village approximately 30 mins from Dijon. You'll have free time here to explore. Renowned for its elegant Pinot Noirs, this charming destination invites you to stroll the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visit intimate wine bars (caves) where you can taste local producers' wines, and perhaps enjoy lunch at a traditional bistro serving authentic Burgundian specialities.

Day 7 Chablis & Sens

As we head north towards our final destination of Sens, we’ll stop in Chablis, the northernmost region of Burgundy and home to crisp, mineral-driven Chardonnays. We'll enjoy a guided wine tasting and tour at a local producer, where you'll gain insight into what makes Chablis unique. The rolling hillsides dotted with Chardonnay vines create a picturesque backdrop to your visit.

You'll have free time to explore the town. Don't miss the Grand Rue with its charming half-timbered shops, or the remarkable industrial covered market, featuring an impressive brick façade that's a testament to the town's proud heritage.

This evening, we'll gather for a farewell dinner in Sens with your fellow travellers, It's the perfect opportunity to share memories and reflect on an unforgettable week.

Day 8 Sens - UK