7 days
From US $1,395
Self-guided Champagne Bike Tour
This Champagne cycling tour invites you to experience the elegance and charm of France’s most iconic sparkling wine region at the perfect pace—on two wheels. Starting and ending in Reims, the unofficial capital of Champagne, your journey winds through rolling vineyards, forested hills, and charming villages steeped in centuries of winemaking tradition.
Over the course of the week, you'll explore the famed Montagne de Reims and the Marne Valley, following quiet country lanes and the Champagne Tourist Trail. Stops in villages like Bouzy, Verzenay, and Hautvillers offer a deeper glimpse into the culture of Champagne, while Epernay—a highlight of the trip—welcomes you with its prestigious Avenue de Champagne and world-renowned cellars. From gentle canal-side rides to scenic climbs with panoramic vineyard views, each day offers a fresh perspective on this lush, fertile region.
Loop rides through the Côte des Blancs and Marne Valley showcase the diversity of Champagne’s terroir and grape varieties. Along the way, you’ll pass Romanesque churches, oversized Champagne bottles, and chalk-carved restaurants that add character to your journey. Whether you're a wine lover, a nature enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates life’s finer details, this tour is a celebration of taste, tradition, and tranquil riding.
With carefully chosen routes, rich cultural experiences, and plenty of opportunity to sample the region’s finest, this is a cycling holiday that bubbles over with charm.
Reims
Reims
casual
moderate
37km / 23mi
5
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
Min. 2, Max. 10
Highlights
Cycling the Champagne Trail through the Marne Valley
Glide through vineyard-covered hills with sweeping views of the Marne River, passing postcard-perfect villages like Hautvillers and Cumières. The trail offers a scenic blend of nature and heritage, with quiet paths, hidden cellars, and unforgettable vistas around every bend—a true showcase of Champagne’s enchanting countryside.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Place | casual Inns (subject to availability) | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Reims | Grand hôtel Continent | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Matougues | Auberge des Moisson | B | 50km / 32mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Epernay | Parva Domus | B | 30km / 18mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Epernay | Parva Domus | B | 37km / 23mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Epernay | Parva Domus | B | 35km / 22mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Reims | Grand hôtel Continent | B | 36km / 22mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Reims | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Reims
Welcome to Reims, the heart of the Champagne region and your base for the start of this sparkling adventure.
You’ll arrive at your hotel in the afternoon, where a warm welcome and a comprehensive tour package await you at reception. Inside, you’ll find everything you need—maps, a road book, and plenty of local tips to help you make the most of your ride.
There’s time to relax, explore the vibrant streets of Reims, or sip a glass of bubbly to toast the journey ahead. Stroll past grand boulevards, marvel at the Gothic beauty of Reims Cathedral, and soak in the atmosphere—your cycling journey begins tomorrow.
Day 2: Matougues
Your Champagne journey kicks off with a beautiful ride through the famed Montagne de Reims vineyards.
After breakfast, set off past the city limits into rolling countryside, where tiny villages like Mailly Champagne, Verzenay, and Bouzy dot the landscape. These are places where the rhythm of life follows the vine, and every hill offers views worth pausing for.
The route undulates gently, taking you through a tapestry of vineyards and forested slopes. By late afternoon, you’ll reach Matougues, a peaceful village where you can relax and reflect on the day’s ride—perhaps with a glass of local bubbly in hand.
Elevation: +417 m / -418 m
Day 3: Epernay
Today’s ride is a gentle one, offering time to unwind and immerse yourself in the Champagne region’s serene beauty.
Pedal alongside the peaceful Marne Canal as you make your way toward Epernay, the iconic capital of Champagne. The short distance means you’ll arrive with plenty of time to explore this charming town.
Visit grand Champagne houses with sprawling underground cellars, stroll along the prestigious Avenue de Champagne, or simply enjoy a café terrace and watch the world go by. It’s a leisurely day, full of flavor and charm, setting the stage for deeper exploration tomorrow.
Elevation: +118 m / -121 m
Day 4: Epernay
Today’s loop ride is a delightful journey through the Marne Valley, where vineyards cling to the hillsides and panoramic views abound. The Champagne Trail winds through charming villages, including Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon once lived and where the soul of Champagne still resides.
You’ll cycle past stone cottages, lush rows of vines, and scenic overlooks that beg for a photo stop. Pause for lunch in Cumières—perhaps at a restaurant carved into chalk rock—before continuing past the elegant Château de Boursault.
The route leads through peaceful countryside and riverside villages before circling back to Epernay for another relaxing evening.
Elevation: +471 m / -472 m
Day 5: Epernay
Today, you’ll explore the Côte des Blancs, where Chardonnay reigns supreme.
This loop ride takes you through a landscape of sweeping vineyards, chalky cliffs, and centuries-old villages. Your path follows the Champagne Tourist Trail, leading first to Pierry, home to an 18th-century château and historic wine cellars.
From there, continue to Chavot-Courcourt and its solitary Romanesque church standing amid the vines.
Discover the oversized Champagne bottle in Cramant and the mural-adorned village of Avize, where each fresco tells a story of local tradition. The ride is a feast for the senses, ending with a relaxing return to Epernay.
Elevation: +435 m / -432 m
Day 6: Reims
Your final ride weaves through the tranquil beauty of the Forest of Hautvillers and the quiet villages beyond. From Epernay, pedal through Avenay Val d’Or and Germaine, where wooded paths and vineyard views create a soothing rhythm.
This route offers a perfect blend of nature and heritage, bringing you gradually back toward Reims via Ludes. It’s a day to reflect on the highlights of the week—each glass of Champagne, each village square, and every vineyard vista.
Arrive in Reims with a sense of accomplishment and one last evening to enjoy the elegance of the region.
Elevation: +429 m / -425 m
Day 7: Reims
After breakfast, it’s time to part ways with the Champagne countryside. Whether heading home or onward to your next destination, you’ll carry with you memories of vineyard roads, hillside views, and the unmistakable sparkle of Champagne.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $750
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $200
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Giant Argento or similar
Included in your trip price
Moustache Samedi 28 or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Your tour begins and ends in Reims. The closest major international airport is the Paris Charles de Gaulle airport located 110 (69mi) away. There is a smaller airport called Chalon Vatry international airport located closer to Reims, but has very limited flight connectivity.
There are two train stations in Reims – one for high-speed trains (TGV) the other one in the city center (regular trains)
You can take a train from the TGV’s station to Reims train station “Reims ville” (about 15mn – ~3€)
You can take the tramway – line B to Reims city center and the main train station (about 30mn - ~2€)
High speed trains from Paris take approx. 1h to Reims (there may have a connection at Champagne-Ardennes TGV’s station)
Reims train station is about 5 min’s walk from the hotels.
There is a taxi station at the train station if needed.
Weather
Cycling in Champagne is best enjoyed from March to October, when the weather is generally mild and the countryside comes alive. Spring offers blossoming vineyards and cool, fresh air—ideal for leisurely rides.
Summer brings long, sunny days and lush green landscapes, perfect for full-day cycling. Autumn, particularly September and October, adds golden hues to the vineyards and a pleasant crispness to the air, making it a scenic and tranquil time to ride.
Outside of these months, from November to February, cycling conditions are less favorable. Winter is often cold, damp, and quiet, with shorter days and fewer services available in rural areas. January and February are considered the low season and are generally not suitable for tours.
March and November are more transitional months—some days can be quite nice for cycling, but the weather is less predictable. Overall, March to October provides the best balance of comfort, scenery, and accessibility
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.