Current as of: May 8, 2024 - 19:50
Cycle Champagne & Burgundy – Premium Adventure Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Premium Adventures, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: France
- Programmes: Cycling, Premium Adventures
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Activity Level:
2 out of 7 - Leisurely / Moderate
- 7 Days: Flight Inclusive
- 7 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 18+
- Trip Code: MBC
Trip Overview
Discover the perfect pairing: World-renowned vineyards and gentle cycling through two prestigious wine regions
Champagne and Burgundy: You know the names; you’ve sipped the drinks. Now it’s time to discover for yourself why these two endlessly romantic French wine regions are among the most celebrated on the planet. Starting in Reims, Champagne, and ending in beautiful Beaune, Burgundy, we embark on an immersive cycling adventure taking in world-renowned vineyards, celebrated wine villages and a host of cultural treasures. We will, of course, tour illustrious wine estates, sample the local produce and hear from the experts, while also enjoying the simple pleasure of a gentle cycle along vineyard-lined roads and through idyllic rural landscapes.
At a Glance
- Six nights in hotels
- Four cycling days
- Gentle route
- Group normally 4 to 16. Minimum age: 18
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E-bikes available for an additional cost
- Option to travel by train to your adventure
Highlights
- Walk in the footsteps of royalty at Notre Dame Cathedral in Reims
- Stop at a Côte des Blancs wine estate for a tour and tasting
- Pass through historic Dijon, the charming capital of Burgundy
- Visit the ancient Château du Clos Vougeot, a picturesque manor and former wine farm
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is graded Activity Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
The terrain of the Champagne and Burgundy regions gently undulates, with an average daily ascent of just over 985ft (300m). Cycling distances are relatively short (maximum of 24mi/38km on Day 5) and there will plenty of opportunities to rest during the rides. The cycling is broken up with a rest day at the mid-point of the trip (Day 4), when you travel from Epernay (Champagne) to Beaune (Burgundy).
Where possible, we stick to cycle trails and quiet roads to make the journeys as pleasant as possible; however, we may have to use some busier routes on occasion.
A support vehicle is available on all cycling days; if you would like to use an e-bike for the trip, these are available for a supplementary cost and need to be booked in advance. Please speak to your sales representative for more information.
Group
We are accompanied by a local cycling guide for the duration of the adventure.
Adult min age: 18
Min group size: 4
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Reims
- End City: Beaune
Flight Inclusive
- Start City: London
- End City: London
Land Only Itinerary
Fly from London; arrive in Reims; welcome dinner
Landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, we take a two-hour private transfer to Reims, arriving around 5pm. The city is home to pretty boulevards and dominated by a grand gothic cathedral. We gather for the first time this evening over a welcome dinner, a great chance to get to know each other a little and discuss the adventures to come.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Paix (or similar)
Start in Reims; welcome dinner
The adventure begins in Reims, an intoxicating city of pretty boulevards. We gather for the first time this evening over a welcome dinner, a great chance to get to know each other a little and discuss the adventures to come.
Accommodation: Hotel de la Paix (or similar)
City tour of Reims; cycle through wine villages to Dom Pérignon’s Hautvillers
We ease into the trip with a cultural tour around Reims, exploring the fascinating art and history of the city, and visiting the grand Notre Dame Cathedral, a Unesco-listed gothic masterpiece where Charles VII was crowned with Joan of Arc next to him.
We then transfer (40 minutes) to the starting point of our first cycling stage, hopping onto the saddle to pedal between pretty wine villages, such as Oeuilly and Fleury la Rivière. We track small vineyard-lined roads enjoying views of the Marne Valley as we go. Our end point is Hautvillers, where the Benedictine monk – and champagne maestro – Dom Pérignon worked in the abbey cellar. It’s then to our hotel in Epernay, where we can relax and toast to our first cycling day.
Accommodation: Hôtel Jean Moët (or similar)
Cycle through the Côte des Blancs; guided vineyard tour and wine tasting
The day kicks off at the pretty church of Chavot-Courcourt, isolated in the heart of the vineyards. From here, we cycle along the Côte des Blancs, part of the Champagne region known as the cradle of Chardonnay, where we admire a sea of vineyards. Along the way, we pass traditional villages, elegantly nestled between vineyards and forests: Avize, Cramant and Mesnil-sur-Oger among them.
We take time to stop at one of the wine estates for a guided tour before sampling their sparkling drinks. It’s then back to our Epernay hotel to relax.
Accommodation: Hôtel Jean Moët (or similar)
Leave Epernay; free time in Dijon; explore the Hospices de Beaune
We leave Epernay today, driving to Beaune, which is ranked as one of the prettiest towns in France. After about three hours on the road, we reach Dijon, capital of the Burgundy region, where we have free time to visit the historic centre to admire the many private mansions built here between the 15th and 18th centuries.
We then hop back into the vehicle for a 30-minute ride to Beaune. Here we have free time at the 15th-century Hospices de Beaune, which was initially built to care for the poor people of Burgundy, but now stands as an architectural masterpiece with a storybook gothic style and a standout glazed-tile roof.
Accommodation: Hôtel des Remparts (or similar)
Cycling adventure through the Côte de Nuits; wine tasting in Nuits Saint Georges
We get back on the bikes today for a cycling exploration of the prestigious Côte de Nuits wine region. It’s well known in the wine community for producing the Grands Vins de Bourgogne – those considered the highest quality in the region – and particularly its red wines: Chambolle Musigny, Vosne Romanée and the most expensive wine in Burgundy, Romanée Conti.
We can visit the Château du Clos de Vougeot, an impossibly picturesque Renaissance-style chateau and one-time wine farm, and the village of Nuits Saint Georges where we stop for a wine tasting.
Accommodation: Hôtel des Remparts (or similar)
Cycle the Côte de Beaune wine region; end in Beaune
On our final day of cycling, we track the VéloVoie bike trail through the Côte de Beaune wine region, taking in renowned vineyards such as Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet and Pommard. We end in style, crossing the beautiful Burgundy countryside to end in Beaune.
Accommodation: Hôtel des Remparts (or similar)
Finish in Beaune
The adventure comes to an end after breakfast. Bid a fond farewell to each other and begin your return journey home.
Finish in Beaune
The adventure comes to an end after breakfast. Bid a fond farewell to each other and begin your return journey home.
Accommodation
Four-star hotels in Reims, Epernay and Beaune
Our time on this Premium cycling trip is split between three unique destinations: Reims, Epernay and Beaune. Below are the accommodations we typically use.
Reims: Hôtel de la Paix (night 1)
Part of the Best Western Premier collection, this four-star hotel is in the heart of Reims, close to both the UNESCO-protected Notre-Dame Cathedral and the shops and eateries of Place d’Erlon. Hôtel de la Paix offers contemporary, elegant décor, and amenities include a sauna, heated indoor swimming pool, restaurant and champagne bar.
Epernay: Hôtel Jean Moët (nights 2-3)
Stay in an 18th-century building in the centre of Epernay, the self-proclaimed capital of the Champagne region. Just a few minutes’ walk away is the Avenue de Champagne, 68mi (110km) of UNESCO-listed wine cellars. Accommodation has a fresh, modern feel and a stand-out feature is the breakfast room, which is bathed in light that enters via a glass canopy.
Beaune: Hôtel des Remparts (nights 4-6)
Carefully renovated to preserve the history of the building, Hôtel des Remparts provides a character-filled stay in Beaune old town. It’s run by successful local hoteliers Bruno and Emmanuelle Epailly and offers a delightful wine bar, plus rooms with a classic French style.
Single supplement from £ 1,080
Food & Drink
All breakfasts, four lunches and two dinners are included.
For breakfast, the hotels offer a wide choice of cereals, fruit, cheeses and cold meats and all types of drinks (tea, coffee, milk, fruit juice).
Four picnic lunches are included, prepared by the guide or assistant guide. Picnics are an important part of a day’s cycling, and we’ve selected a few products from the Champagne and Burgundy regiona for you to try during your stay: Reims croquignoles, cheeses (Epoisses, Charolais (goat’s milk cheese), Soumaintrain (made from raw cow’s milk), Mâconnais, etc.), the famous Dijon mustard, gingerbread, etc. accompanied in moderation by local wines. We are committed to offering a proportion of regional products, chosen whenever possible from local producers to support short circuits, favour quality products and include a proportion of organic food, and reduce packaging, particularly plastic, and recycle what remains.
The two dinners are taken in a restaurant with a set menu comprising starter, main course and dessert. The restaurants are selected to offer an opportunity to discover local gastronomy including local specialities: the andouillette from Troyes, the white blood sausage from Rethe for Champagne, the boeuf bourguignon and the snails for Burgundy, are all examples of choice.
Vegetarians can be fairly easily accommodated; however, vegans may find the variety of dishes available is rather limited. Larger supermarkets can provide gluten-free bread and baked goods but this is less common in local bakeries.
Transport
All transport mentioned in the itinerary is included, except for optional excursions. Airport transfers and transfers during the week will be by private, air-conditioned minibus. There will be vehicle assistance available during the cycling in case of bike issues and luggage will be transferred between hotels.
Weather & Seasonality
In Champagne and Burgundy, the summers are a comfortable temperature and partly cloudy, which makes it ideal for cycling. Winters can be very cold, windy and mostly cloudy. Over the course of the year, the temperature typically varies from 0C to 25C (32F to 77F) and is rarely below -7C (19F) or above 31C (88F). The hottest month is July with daily average temperatures around 24C (75F).
May to June and September to November are considered the best times to visit Champagne and Burgundy due to the pleasant temperatures and quieter roads. The region can be particularly busy in July and August, when European holidaymakers flock to the vineyards and picturesque towns.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Best Western Premier Hotel De La Paix, 9 Rue Buirette, 51100 Reims
Phone: +33 3 26 40 04 08
Recommended arrival time: 5pm. There is a welcome briefing and dinner in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately a 1hr 30min drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
If you are coming from the UK, you may prefer to take the Eurostar to Paris Gare du Nord, then meet the group transfer at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Alternatively, it’s a 10-minute walk from Gare du Nord to Gare de l’Est and from there, you can take a direct train to Reims. We can also arrange a private transfer – please speak to your sales representative for more details.
The cost of a taxi from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to the start hotel is in the region of €220 one way, so we advise joining the group transfer if possible.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Reims
Location end: Beaune
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen and lip salve
- Sun hat
- Water bottle
- Small backpack
- Warm extra layer for the evenings
- Energy snacks
Equipment Hire
Included standard bike
We will take your height at the time of booking to reserve equipment. If you have a preferred bike size, please request when booking.
E-bike upgrade
Electric bikes are available on this trip; prices from £100/US$150/190 Canadian dollars. Speak to your sales representative for more information.
Bringing your own bike
If you’d prefer to bring your own bike, please advise us at the time of booking and you will receive a discount on the price of the trip. However, you will be responsible for any extra baggage charges; assembling and disassembling your bike; and bringing along spare parts and any tools specific to it. You should also ensure you have adequate insurance to cover loss, damage or theft.
Accessories and clothing
Bringing equipment from home
You’re welcome to bring your own equipment, such as SPD pedals or clipless pedals, your own saddle (excluding the seat post), or gel saddle cover for the hire bikes. Your leader will help you fit these when bikes are distributed.
Helmets
Helmets are mandatory for everyone on a guided Exodus cycling trip. You must bring your own as, following best safety practice, they are not available for hire.
Cycling clothing
For all cycling trips we recommend:
- Padded cycling shorts: For destinations with more modest cultures, we also recommend loose ‘over-shorts’ for riding or rest stops
- Eyewear: Either sunglasses or eye protection with clear lenses to protect the eyes while riding
- Cycling gloves: Especially for riding off-road or on rugged surfaces
- Cycling shoes: Cycling is more efficient with stiff-soled shoes. We don’t recommend open-toed shoes or sandals
- Small close-fitting backpack or bum bag (fanny pack): To keep spare clothing or essential items to hand during the ride
Practical Information
Visa
France
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter France. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/france
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/france
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/france/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/France.html
Vaccinations and Health
France
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus, rabies and tick-borne encephalitis. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Ticks are known to be present in this region and can carry lyme disease, tick-borne encephalitis and other diseases. Please take care to protect yourself. You can read more about ticks here.
Local Time
France's time zone: Europe/Paris (UTC +02:00)
Electricity
France's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and E (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
France's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
We recommend you bring some spending money in cash (for use in smaller shops), but a credit or debit card will be useful for larger payments.
Tipping
On this Premium Adventure, tipping for any local support staff is included and will be taken care of by your tour leader (or in some cases through our local partner), so there is no need for any tipping kitty contributions or to give your own tips during the trip.
Our ‘included tips’ will normally be distributed among drivers, local specialist guides, certain hotel staff and serving staff for included meals. Amounts will be in line with the local standard. Of course, if you wish to make a further tip for extra special service you may do so.
Tips for the tour leader are not included. Whether to tip at all and the amount is entirely at your own discretion, but as a starting point we suggest a starting point of €20 per person per week.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that have a positive impact on the people and places we visit and look after the planet we explore. Learn more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People
How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- Local guides keep you well informed about local traditions and cultural-social sensitivities.
- This trip brings income and opportunity to the destination community through the inclusion of locally owned hotels, restaurants, and other enterprises, and by championing locally produced food wherever possible.
- Read more about our other initiatives here
Places
How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- By travelling in a small group, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively reduce waste; this includes eliminating all single-use plastic water bottles by providing refills for reusable bottles.
- The Hotel de la Paix used on this trip is Clef Verte certified for its sustainability efforts.
- The payment of entrance fees to natural reserves and archaeological sites generates income used to upkeep and develop these important sites.
- We rewild 1,075sqft (100sqm) per passenger to compensate for all trip and flight emissions.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels with us.
Planet
How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- For the picnics on the trip we work with local restaurants to provide meals in washable containers with local produced organic food.
- Cycling trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low-impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same. If there are no recycling facilities in-country, consider bringing recyclable materials home with you.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring a reusable water bottle on this trip, also consider avoiding single-use hotel toiletries, which generate a large amount of plastic waste.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.