From Reims Full day Electric bike Champagne and lunch

If you’re dreaming of a day wandering through the vineyards of Champagne, this full-day e-bike experience from Reims might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, plenty of travelers rave about the chance to cycle through UNESCO-listed vineyards, visit historic sites, and sample some of the region’s finest bubbly—all in a manageable and scenic format.

What draws many to this experience? First, the guided cycling through beautiful countryside and remote villages offers a refreshing way to see the region beyond the usual bus tours. Second, the wine and champagne tastings, combined with a delicious French lunch, create a perfect balance of activity and relaxation. One small caveat to consider: the tour lasts around 7 hours, which means a fair amount of time outdoors, so good weather and comfortable cycling skills are a must.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy gentle exercise, scenic landscapes, and genuine cultural experiences. If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Champagne, with knowledgeable guides by your side, this could be a great fit—just be prepared for a full day on the move.

Key Points

• Balanced mix of cycling, tasting, and dining provides a well-rounded experience of Champagne.
• Small group size (max 8) ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Visiting Hautvillers offers a glimpse into medieval Champagne history and the burial site of Dom Pérignon.
• Tastings include 4 glasses—two champagnes, a red wine, and Ratafia—giving a good variety for enthusiasts.
• The tour is suitable for those comfortable on a heavier e-bike and in good physical shape.
• Weather considerations might lead to adjustments, including a switch to minivans if necessary, so packing appropriately is wise.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point in Reims

The tour kicks off right in the heart of Reims at 9:00 am, meeting in front of the train station’s tourist office. The convenient location makes it easy to arrive by train or public transport, which is ideal if you’re staying locally. From this point, the guide will load you into an air-conditioned vehicle for a brief drive through the city, passing the famed Avenue de Champagne, a street lined with historic Champagne houses.

The E-Bikes at Le Clos Corbier

Once you arrive at Le Clos Corbier, your e-bikes are prepped and ready for your adventure. The electric assist makes it easier to cycle through rolling countryside, even if you’re not an experienced cyclist. You’ll ride through Premier and Grand Cru villages, which are some of the most prestigious wine-producing areas in Champagne, enjoying the views and learning about the region’s terroir.

Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon

One of the highlights is a visit to Hautvillers, a charming village that’s often called the birthplace of Champagne. Here, you’ll get magnificent vistas of the vineyards and stop at the church where Dom Pérignon is laid to rest. Travelers have praised the guide’s knowledge about these historic sites, with comments like: “Our guide Suzanne was outstanding, her knowledge of everything was second to none,” from a happy visitor.

Lunch Break in Mareuil-sur-Ay

After cycling through scenic landscapes, you’re treated to an authentic French lunch that lasts about 1.5 hours. The meal features local specialties such as cheese puffs, paté-croûte, quiche, and Reims pink biscuits—adaptable for dietary needs. It’s a chance to relax, refuel, and chat with your fellow travelers. Reviewers have called the lunch “delicious,” with the local produce and traditional recipes adding to the charm.

The Champagne Tasting

The tastings are spread throughout the day, with four glasses included: two champagnes, one red wine, and Ratafia. These are paired with the scenic backdrop of vineyards, making every sip feel all the more special. Guests often mention how the tasting sessions are led by guides who are “knowledgeable and engaging,” which enhances the experience.

Return to Reims

The tour wraps up back in Reims, with a return around 4 pm. The small group setting means you’ll have plenty of chances to ask questions or share impressions with your guide. Many reviews emphasize the personalized attention and the relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

What We Love About This Experience

The small group size (max 8 people) really makes a difference, offering a more intimate, tailored experience. Guides like Suzanne, Jerome, and Anne are repeatedly praised for their knowledge and approachability, making the tour not just educational but genuinely enjoyable.

The scenic cycling route through vineyards and villages lets you see the countryside in a relaxed way. Unlike bus tours, biking allows you to slow down and really take in your surroundings, from the lush rows of grapevines to historic sites like Hautvillers.

Another highlight is the diversity of tastings and the inclusion of a generous lunch. Not just sips from a single producer, but a variety including Champagne, red wine, and Ratafia, which makes this tour appealing even to those with a broader palate.

Of course, the cost of around $226 per person might seem high at first glance, but consider that it covers guides, bike rentals, tastings, transportation, and a full meal. For many, it’s a well-rounded package that offers a lot of value—especially given the knowledgeable guides and intimate setting.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you’re a wine enthusiast eager to learn more about Champagne beyond just drinking it. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy light outdoor activity, scenic drives, and cultural discovery.

You’ll want to be comfortable on a heavier e-bike and prepared for a full day outside—so it’s not the best choice if you’re looking for a quick, casual outing or if you have mobility concerns.

It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small groups wanting a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Champagne’s countryside. Families with older children or teens might also enjoy it, provided they are comfortable cycling and interested in wine and history.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The tour runs from Reims at 9:00 am and lasts approximately 7 hours.
• Expect to cycle through vineyards, visit Hautvillers, and enjoy a French lunch with tastings.
• The group size is limited to 8, so booking well in advance—about 56 days—is recommended.
• The price includes guide services, bike rental, tastings, and lunch, but not personal expenses or hotel transfers.
• Weather could impact the day; if it rains or becomes icy, the tour might switch to minivans or be rescheduled.
• Given the temperature inside cellars is around 10°C, packing a jacket is a smart move.
• Participants should be confident cyclists, as the heavier e-bikes require some riding skill.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children with good cycling skills might enjoy the experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable on heavier bikes and with an interest in wine and scenery.

Can I book this tour last minute?
It’s recommended to book around 56 days in advance, as it’s a popular experience. Last-minute bookings might be difficult depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing suitable for cycling, a jacket for cellar visits, sunscreen, sun glasses, and possibly a hat for sunny days.

Is the lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional French lunch featuring local specialties. The lunch is designed to complement the wine tastings.

What if it rains?
Weather can alter the schedule; if rain or icy conditions occur, the tour may be modified or switched to minivans to keep everyone comfortable and safe.

How many tastings are included?
Four glasses are included—two champagnes, one red wine, and Ratafia—allowing for a varied tasting experience.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of scenic cycling, expert guides, authentic visits like Hautvillers, and a good variety of tastings and lunch makes it a well-rounded way to explore Champagne.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it lasts about 7 hours, making it a comprehensive experience but still manageable within a day.

Can I participate if I’m not an experienced cyclist?
Participants should be comfortable riding a heavier e-bike, as they are not standard bikes. If unsure, contact the tour provider beforehand.

Are there any age restrictions?
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned, but participants should be physically capable of riding an e-bike comfortably for several hours.

Final Thoughts

This full-day e-bike tour from Reims offers a genuine taste of Champagne’s landscape, history, and flavors. It’s a dynamic, engaging way to explore the region—combining scenic cycling, expert-guided visits, and delicious culinary experiences. The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it particularly appealing for those seeking a personal and authentic adventure.

While it isn’t the cheapest option out there, the value lies in the mix of activities, local insights, and the chance to see the countryside from a different perspective. If you’re after a leisurely yet immersive day, this could very well turn into one of your favorite parts of a trip to France.

Whether you’re a wine lover, a cycling enthusiast, or simply someone wanting to see Champagne beyond the cellars, this tour has a lot to offer. Just remember to pack your sense of curiosity—and a jacket for cellar visits!