Explore Aÿ: A Champagne Lover’s Paradise
As one of the most famous wine regions in the world, Champagne is a must-visit destination for wine lovers and those eager to escape to the French countryside, enjoying a glass of exquisite fizz.
The main towns of Épernay and Reims serve as popular bases for exploring the region’s abundant champagne houses; however, the village of Aÿ offers surprising charm and historical depth. As the birthplace of Champagne Bollinger and famed French jeweler René Lalique, Aÿ has plenty to captivate visitors over a weekend. The diverse selection of champagne houses in Aÿ provides a thorough introduction to the world of champagne. Here are the best things to do in Aÿ.
1. Get to Know Aÿ with a Guided Tour
To delve into Aÿ’s rich history, a guided tour is highly recommended. Excursions are available through the Tourist Office in Hautviller. These tours spotlight either the historical and architectural wonders of Aÿ, featuring its charming half-timbered houses and the 15th-century Gothic-style Église Saint-Brice, or they explore the commune’s gourmet offerings. Tourists can stroll through picturesque vineyards, stopping at shops to purchase bottles of champagne, local cheeses, and Champagne’s traditional pink biscuits, Biscuits roses de Reims.
Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in the life of René Lalique through a self-guided tour. Information is available via totems throughout the village or by obtaining a map from the town hall.
2. Sweep Through the Vineyards on an E-Bike
Enjoy exhilarating e-bike tours available in Champagne, starting from locations such as Reims, Épernay, and Mareuil-sur-Aÿ. After getting suited up with necessary equipment, participants pedal through UNESCO-listed vineyards, including La Côte aux Enfants, known for grapes used in prestigious Champagne and red wine.
The steep hillside is notable for its white chalky cliffs, and it’s often described as historically challenging to climb to harvest grapes. An excursion also includes a visit to the charming commune of Hautvillers, where tourists can see Dom Pérignon’s tomb and indulge in a well-deserved champagne tasting back in Mareuil-sur-Aÿ.
3. Go Tasting at the Champagne Houses
Champagne Bollinger, founded in 1829, stands as Aÿ’s most renowned champagne house, known for its Royal Warrant and legacy. Visitors can explore the historic cellars and enjoy tastings that highlight the complexities of their champagne. Another house worth a visit is Champagne Ayala, established in 1860, known for producing low-dosage champagnes that emphasize Chardonnay’s purity.
Additionally, several other esteemed houses in Aÿ offer tours that present an opportunity to experience their unique champagne flavors.
4. Get Schooled in Champagne at the Pressoria Museum
Housed in the historic pressing room of Champagne Pommery, the Pressoria museum presents an engaging introduction to champagne. This interactive experience utilizes all five senses, allowing guests to examine different grape varieties, blend their champagne virtually, and compare various types through tastings. The hands-on activities make it an enjoyable experience for visitors of all ages.
5. Pair Your Fizz with Traditional French Cuisine
While sampling champagne is a primary culinary experience in Aÿ, visitors can also savor local specialties. Look for creamy cheeses like Langres, velvety Vignotte, or Cendré de Champagne. On the sweeter side, Biscuits roses de Reims are dry pink biscuits traditionally enjoyed with champagne.
If you wish to explore something different, try Ratafia de Champagne, a delightful liqueur made from the same grapes as champagne, offering a sweet, easy-to-drink aperitif.
How to Get to Aÿ
Aÿ is located 7 km east of Épernay in northeastern France. It is easily accessible by train, taking approximately 90 minutes from Paris Gare de l’Est (with a change at Épernay) or about two hours by car. For those traveling from Reims, Aÿ is conveniently reachable in 20 minutes by train or a 35-minute drive.
Stay in One of Aÿ’s Historic Mansions
The accommodation in Aÿ primarily consists of charming chambre d’hôtes (B&Bs) situated in historic properties. Recommendations include the 18th-century La Mongeardière and Villa Collery, which can arrange champagne tastings. For more extensive amenities, travelers can consider Castel Jeanson, a former 19th-century mansion boasting original stained-glass windows and an Art Nouveau glass roof.
