Champagne

Best known for its celebratory drink, the Champagne region bordering Belgium is renowned for its vineyards and rich history. The capital of the area is not Reims, as many believe, but Chalons en Champagne, formerly known as Chalons sur Marne.

Popular visits in Champagne are

• Troyes: This town dates from Roman times and was an important crossroads for several highways, little remains of the ancient settlement other than traces of an aqueduct. The town still has many old timber houses dating from the 16th century.
• Langres: The many religious, civil, and military buildings in Langres prove the richness of the Renaissance period. Large sections of the town's defensive walls, dating from the 14th and 15th centuries, remain. Visit the museum to discover the Gallic Roman artefacts.
• Chalons en Champagne: The region's capital, this town retains its French charm.
• The Notre Dame en Vaux church, built between 1157 and 1217, is part of the UNESCO world heritage, while St Etienne's Cathedral dates back to the 12th century.
• Epernay: This is perhaps the most famous vineyard town. Its Avenue du Champagne is to Champagne lovers what the Champs Elysses is to retail therapists!
• Reims: Founded by the Gauls, Reims became an important Roman town. Before the French Revolution, numerous kings were crowned in the cathedral here. Reims is large, lively, and one of the region's most visited towns.