Full Day Champagne Pommery Small Group Tour

If you’re heading to Reims and love the idea of exploring Champagne beyond just popping bottles, this Full Day Champagne Pommery Small Group Tour is worth considering. It promises a mix of history, culture, and plenty of tasting opportunities—all within an intimate setting that keeps the experience personal and engaging.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines visits to renowned Champagne houses with cultural landmarks like Reims Cathedral. Plus, the small-group vibe means you’ll have more chances to ask questions and really get a sense of the region. That said, it’s a full day, so having an appreciation for a busy schedule and some walking is helpful.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but considering the comprehensive itinerary and expert guides, it offers good value. It’s especially suited for those who love history, good wine, and a bit of sightseeing all rolled into one.

If you’re curious about exploring Champagne with a knowledgeable guide, enjoy cultural sights, and want to taste authentic local champagnes, this tour might just be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Intimate group size ensures personalized attention and more questions answered
• Includes visits to top Champagne houses and a small producer for diverse tastings
• Rich cultural stops like Reims Cathedral and Hautvillers village
• Balanced mix of sightseeing, tasting, and leisure time in Épernay
• Expert guides provide deeper insights into the history and production of Champagne
• Convenient transportation and pickup included make logistics easy for travelers

The Full Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Starting Point and Duration

The tour kicks off bright and early at 9:30 am from 1 Cr de la Gare, Reims. It lasts about 8 hours, which means you’ll be on the move but also have enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The group is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, so it stays cozy and personal. Expect a private, air-conditioned vehicle to whisk you around the Champagne region comfortably.

Stop 1: Champagne Pommery

This stop is a highlight and a fantastic introduction to the world of Champagne. Pommery isn’t just any champagne house—it’s among the biggest, sitting atop Saint Nicaise Hill, a UNESCO site thanks to Roman chalk mines. Here, you’ll get a cellar tour and taste some glasses directly from the source.

The cellars are over 2,000 years old, and the setting is a mix of old-world charm with contemporary art installations, giving a real sense of the history and artistry behind Champagne. The story of Jeanne Pommery is inspiring—she built her empire as a widow, proving that women could lead in this industry. As one reviewer shared, “Rafael was so personable and fun, we didn’t want the day to end,” highlighting the engaging guides that make these stops memorable.

Stop 2: Notre-Dame de Reims

Next, it’s time to visit Reims Cathedral, a true Gothic masterpiece. The guide, a certified French National Monument expert, will walk you through its stunning sculptures and stained glass.

This site is not only beautiful but historically significant: Clovis the First was baptized here in 496, starting a tradition of coronations for over 30 French kings. It’s a chance to appreciate the architecture and learn about France’s royal heritage, making this stop well worth the 45-minute visit.

Drive-by: Avenue de Champagne

A quick 15-minute drive along Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne introduces you to some of the most famous Champagne houses—Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, Pol Roger, and others. You’ll see behind-the-scenes where the magic is made, with plenty of photo opportunities of the grand facades.

Reims City Drive

A leisurely 30-minute drive takes you through Reims’ main sights. You’ll see historic squares, Roman ruins, and art deco architecture reflecting the city’s reconstruction after WWI. The city is dotted with champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Krug, and Taittinger, giving you a good sense of the area’s prestige.

Stop 3: Hautvillers Village

Often called the Cradle of Champagne, Hautvillers is a charming village perched above the Marne Valley. Here, you’ll stop for the view and visit the church where Dom Pérignon, the legendary monk associated with Champagne’s origins, lived and died.

You’ll see his tomb and hear stories about his influence. As one reviewer mentioned, “The view was magnificent, and the village’s medieval signs added to the charm.” It’s a scenic spot that captures the essence of the region’s heritage.

Stop 4: Small Producer in Cumières

For a more personal taste of Champagne, you’ll visit a small local producer. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those who want to see the winemaking process up close.

You’ll explore the cellar, learn about the production, and taste some of their wines. This offers a contrast to the larger Champagne houses and highlights the diversity of producers in the region. Reviewers raved about the variety of tastings and learning about grape growing and bottling.

Lunch Break in Épernay

After a busy morning of sightseeing and tastings, you’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes to enjoy lunch in Épernay. The guide will suggest good restaurants, giving you flexibility to choose what suits your taste and pace. You can relax, soak in the scenery, and plan your next stops.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour balances culture, history, and wine in a way that feels natural and not overly commercialized. The inclusion of iconic sites like Reims Cathedral and the vineyards of Hautvillers offers a well-rounded experience.

The small-group setting is a significant plus, making the conversations with your guide more meaningful. Many reviews praise the knowledge and personality of the guide, which enhances the overall experience. For example, one traveler said, “Rafael was excellent! We really enjoyed the day,” highlighting how the guide’s expertise and friendliness make a difference.

The Champagne Tastings

One of the biggest draws is the chance to sample different kinds of Champagne. Visiting both a large house like Pommery and a smaller producer gives you insight into the variety available and the differences in style and quality. As some reviewers noted, the tastings were varied and plentiful, making the experience both fun and educational.

Cultural and Scenic Highlights

Walking through Reims’ historic city center and the picturesque Hautvillers village provides more than just wine. You’ll get a glimpse into the region’s past, architecture, and local life, which adds depth to the experience.

Logistics and Value

Transportation is included, making getting around stress-free. The pickup from Reims is convenient, especially if you’re staying nearby. While the price of about $295 per person might seem steep, many agree that the comprehensive itinerary, expert guides, and tastings justify the cost. The tour’s reviews consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the diverse stops as major benefits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re interested in learning about Champagne’s history and production, this tour will suit you well. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small group settings and want an insider’s perspective. Travelers who enjoy cultural landmarks and wine tasting will find plenty to love.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more casual, self-guided experience, this might not be the best fit. Also, since it’s a full day with some walking and sightseeing, it’s best for people who enjoy active outings.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day Champagne Pommery Small Group Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience that combines historic sights, scenic views, and top-notch tastings. The small-group format ensures a friendly, engaging atmosphere, and the itinerary covers both big-name Champagne houses and local producers for a well-rounded taste of the region.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the trip’s depth and quality make it worthwhile for wine lovers, history buffs, and culture enthusiasts alike. The expertly guided visits and the variety of stops make this a memorable way to spend a day in Champagne.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to learn more about one of France’s most iconic regions, this tour can deliver a satisfying, informative, and fun experience. Just be prepared for a full day and a lot of tasting—your palate will thank you.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 are not served alcohol, and since much of the tour involves wine tastings, it’s best suited for adults. However, the cultural and scenic stops can still be interesting for older teens with an interest in history.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers guided visits to Champagne houses, tastings, transportation, bottled water, and pickup from Reims. Lunch isn’t included, but the guide will suggest good restaurants.

How big is the group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience and plenty of interaction with your guide.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be walking, especially at sites like the cathedral and Hautvillers. Dress according to the weather, as parts of the tour are outdoors.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is by private, air-conditioned vehicle, making the day more relaxed and enjoyable.

How long is the lunch stop?
You’ll have about 1 hour 30 minutes to enjoy lunch in Épernay, giving you flexibility to choose a restaurant and relax.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews emphasize the guide’s expertise and engaging personality, which makes the experience more meaningful.

Are the tastings sufficient?
Yes, the tastings are varied and plentiful, with opportunities to sample different champagnes at both large and small producers.

This tour is an excellent way to deepen your appreciation for Champagne, beyond just the bubbly in your glass. It’s detailed, engaging, and designed to give you a true taste of the region’s artistry and heritage.