Top Places to Stay in the Champagne Region
From grand chateaus to charming guesthouses, these are our favourite places to stay in the famed French wine region.
9 July 2023
“Come quickly, I am tasting the stars!” reportedly called out Dom Pierre Pérignon to his fellow monks when he first tasted Champagne, so intoxicated was he by the bubbles he had created. The year was 1693, and just like the famous monk, we’ve all been captivated by Champagne’s sparkle ever since. The Champagne countryside also has its enduring appeal: sweeping views of lush vineyards, charming villages, and historic domaines combined with a ‘when in Rome’ attitude when it comes to bottle popping making this one of France’s most fun and festive wine regions.
With Reims just 45 minutes by train from Paris and Épernay not much further at around 1 hour 15, Champagne makes an easy day trip to add onto a city break. However, with a flurry of new hotel openings in the last few years—from sleek city centre boltholes to luxe spa retreats—it would be a shame not to stay the night. Here’s our pick of the top stays across the region to inspire your next Champagne getaway.
Domaine les Crayères
What would a jaunt to the French countryside be without a night in an opulent French chateau? Decadent rooms transport you straight into a period drama with colourful florals, marble fireplaces, gilded gold mirrors, and in the fancier categories, four-poster beds. Dinner at the hotel’s two Michelin-star restaurant Le Parc is simply superb; this is French fine dining at its best. In summertime, the evening starts with an al fresco apéritif (une coupe de champagne, bien sûr) overlooking the perfectly manicured garden before moving into the stunning dining room to embark on a culinary journey through Champagne. In winter, you can cosy up in the tartan-clad bar with the excellent Champagne list.
Price: from about £546 per night
Address: 4 Bd Henry Vasnier, 51100 Reims, France
Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa
Situated on a former coaching inn site where the French Royal Army would freshen up on their way to Reims (including Napoleon himself), the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa was completely purpose-built for its 2018 opening, save for one historic facade. The angular amphitheatre design was created with the view in mind; all 47 suites provide an outdoor balcony to enjoy it from. With a vast spa, an impressively long menu of wellness treatments, and a choice of two restaurants, the service is unparalleled in Champagne.
Price: from about £769 per night
Address: 9 Rue de la République, 51160 Champillon, France
La Caserne Chanzy
After sitting empty for years, this former fire station was reborn as Reims’ only five-star hotel, just opposite the 13th-century Gothic Reims Cathedral. Interiors take design cues from la Champagne and le champagne—think an earthy colour palette and suspended lights mimicking the shape of champagne bottles. There’s a picturesque view from every angle. Downstairs, a subterranean spa awaits if you have time between sightseeing, while the hotel’s restaurant offers a contemporary take on French cuisine.
Price: from about £271 per night
Address: 18 Rue Tronsson Ducoudray, 51100 Reims, France
Manoir Henri Giraud
Owned by Champagne Henri Giraud, this luxury guesthouse sits surrounded by vineyards and Japanese gardens in the village of Aÿ. The guest rooms feature a unique colour palette and chic decorations. Thoughtful extras come as standard, and exclusive experiences are available, including private cellar tours and Champagne tasting with the resident chef.
Price: from about £810 per night
Address: 83 Bd Charles de Gaulle, 51160 Aÿ-Champagne, France
Parva Domus
This ivy-clad property on the Avenue de Champagne features a cozy atmosphere with antique furnishings and romantic standalone tubs. The gated garden is shared with a nearby Champagne bar, offering a curated menu of organic and biodynamic wines.
Price: from about €180 per night
Address: 27 Av. de Champagne, 51200 Épernay, France
Résidence Eisenhower
This private mansion has undergone a thoughtful restoration, merging modern comforts with its historic charm. Each room is uniquely designed, offering personalized luxury and the opportunity for private Champagne tastings and gourmet experiences.
Price: from about €395 per night
Address: 17 Bd Lundy, 51100 Reims, France
Le Gîte de l’Avenue de Champagne
An unmarked white door on the Avenue de Champagne opens to a spacious apartment designed for families or groups. Each morning, guests find fresh croissants and baguettes left by the family’s grandmother.
Price: from €2,200 for two nights
Address: 25 T Avenue de Champagne, 51200 Épernay, France
