Private Champagne tour, family growers and lunch

A Friendly Look at the Private Champagne Tour with Family Growers and Lunch

If you’re considering exploring the Champagne region without the fuss of large groups or cookie-cutter itineraries, a private tour like this one from Reims might just be your ticket. Designed to give you a personalized, authentic peek into the world of Champagne, this experience combines visits to family-run wineries, iconic landmarks, and a relaxed lunch — all wrapped up in roughly eight hours. It’s a flexible way to really get a sense of both the history and the craft behind this famous bubbly.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances guided professionalism with a genuine, local touch. You’re not just being herded from one tasting room to the next; instead, you get to enjoy the scenery along the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne and connect more deeply at carefully selected family growers. Plus, it’s all about quality, with six tastings included, which makes it a tasting-focused day that’s great for enthusiasts or curious travelers alike.

That said, one potential consideration is the cost — at around $720 per person, it’s not the cheapest day out. But when you factor in private transportation, the expert guide, multiple tastings, and a nice lunch, it can be quite good value for those wanting a tailored and comprehensive Champagne experience.

This tour is probably best suited for those who appreciate wine, enjoy immersive local experiences, and prefer a relaxed, well-paced day. It’s ideal if you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to deepen your understanding of Champagne beyond just popping bottles at a bar.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guides and tailored visits give you a more intimate look at Champagne making.
• Multiple Tastings: Six tastings from family growers help you understand the diversity of Champagne styles.
• Historic Landmarks: Visit Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, and the church where Dom Pérignon is buried.
• Scenic Drives: Enjoy the views of UNESCO-listed Champagne Avenue and lush vineyards.
• All-Inclusive: Transportation, beverages, visits, and a casual lunch at a winery are included, with no hidden costs.
• Flexible and Weather-Ready: Operates in all weather conditions, and pickup/drop-off options make it convenient.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting with a Champagne House Tour and Tasting

Your day kicks off around 10:00 am with a private group visit to a well-known Champagne house. This is a good chance to see what makes that house special and to taste their signature creations. Reviewers consistently mention the value of these tastings, with one saying, “We had an amazing experience with Ann… she helped us organize extra tastings,” which shows how guides can go the extra mile. It’s a straightforward way to get introduced to the Champagne process and enjoy some top-tier bubbles right at the beginning.

Driving Along Champagne Avenue

Next, you’ll cruise down the UNESCO World Heritage site of Avenue de Champagne in Épernay. This 15-minute drive might seem brief, but it’s enough to soak in the grandeur of this historic street lined with grand champagne houses and impressive architecture. It’s a visual highlight and a moment to appreciate the region’s fame.

Visiting Hautvillers, the Birthplace of Champagne

The tour then takes you through the picturesque village of Hautvillers, where you’ll have about 45 minutes to walk and admire the charming streets. The church where Dom Pérignon is buried is a standout, and it’s a meaningful stop for anyone interested in Champagne’s origins. According to a review, “Drive by the charming UNESCO village of Hautvillers and visit its famous church,” which captures how this stop combines history and scenery. It’s a peaceful spot that really emphasizes the feeling of being in a region with a deep-rooted tradition.

Visiting Family Growers for Tasting and Lunch

The real heart of the tour is visiting TWO family-run Champagne growers, which is a highlight for many. You’ll spend roughly two hours here, and while tastings are free, it’s the quality of these visits that travelers rave about. As one review says, “We went to two exceptional family champagne houses,” emphasizing how these visits feel authentic and intimate.

Lunch is served at one of these wineries, and it’s described as casual but lovely, with local delicacies that complement the Champagne perfectly. A reviewer notes that “lunch at Le Corbier was the best meal of our trip,” highlighting how a good meal adds extra value to the day.

What You’ll Really Experience

Throughout these visits, expect to learn about Champagne production, from vineyard practices to the art of blending. Guides often share insights into the region’s history and the different flavors of Champagne from small producers. Many reviews mention the guides’ knowledge and personable approach, which helps make the experience memorable.

Transportation and Comfort

The tour includes air-conditioned private transport, meaning you won’t have to worry about navigating or fitting everything in. Pickup and drop-off are available in Reims or Epernay, making it convenient whether you’re staying in either city. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress appropriately and wear casual shoes because you’ll be stopping in the vineyards.

Group Size and Price

The tour runs with a minimum of two participants and is designed for small groups, which enhances the personalized feel. At nearly $720 per person, it is on the higher end, but considering the private guide, multiple tastings, lunch, and exclusive visits, many find the price justified for a full, immersive day.

What Past Travelers Say

From glowing reviews, it’s clear this tour hits all the right notes. Travelers often highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one saying, “Theo was a wonderful guide,” and “he’s super friendly and shares our values of travel and learning.” The scenic drives and visits to family growers are frequently praised, with many mentioning they left with not only bottles of Champagne but also a deeper understanding of the region’s craft.

For example, “We liked the way producers were carefully chosen based on requests,” shows how tailored the experience can be. Another review calls it, “the best way to experience the Champagne region,” reaffirming how well this experience combines comfort, authenticity, and education.

Final Word: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who loves wine or bubbles, values a private, relaxed approach, and wants to see behind the scenes of Champagne production, this tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s particularly well-suited for those looking for a comprehensive day, with multiple tastings, historic stops, and a delicious lunch. It offers a genuine connection to the region, thanks to visits to family-growers and local landmarks.

However, the price might be a consideration if you’re budget-conscious. The experience’s inclusiveness — transportation, tastings, and lunch — makes it feel worth it for anyone wanting a hassle-free, immersive day. Keep in mind that it’s a longer, full-day tour, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and gentle walking.

In the end, this private Champagne tour offers a thoughtful way to celebrate the region’s heritage without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. It’s ideal if you value quality over quantity, appreciate local stories, and want a memorable day in the heart of Champagne.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, offering a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a private guide, visits to two family-winerys with six tastings, and a casual lunch at a winery are included. Beverages and visits are all covered.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 8 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending around 6:00 pm, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s popular and typically booked 67 days in advance on average. Booking early guarantees your spot.

Can I customize the tour?
While it’s a set itinerary, guides often tailor visits based on your interests, especially regarding the selection of family growers.

Is transportation within the Champagne region included?
Yes, all transport within the region is included, making logistics easy and comfortable.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly family-focused, children who enjoy wine and scenic drives could enjoy the relaxed pace, but consider the age and interest levels.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. Keep in mind that some parts involve outdoor stops, like walking in vineyards.

This private Champagne day out strikes a fine balance between education, indulgence, and relaxation, making it a standout choice for those wanting to deeply experience this iconic wine region.