What are the most beautiful villages to visit around Reims?

The Reims region holds genuine hidden treasures, picturesque villages nestled in the heart of Champagne vineyards that invite discovery. Between Reims and Épernay, these authentic gems offer remarkable architectural heritage, breathtaking landscapes and total immersion in the Champagne way of life. Discover what are the most beautiful villages to visit around Reims for an unforgettable stay in Champagne country.

1. Verzenay: the lighthouse of Champagne vineyards

Perched on the Montagne de Reims, Verzenay stands out with its iconic lighthouse that dominates a sea of vines. This exceptional village offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views over the Champagne vineyard. The Phare de Verzenay (Rue du Phare, 51360 Verzenay, rated 4.2/5 on Google for 1515 reviews) constitutes a unique museum dedicated to vine and wine, offering from its 25 meters height an exceptional 360° panorama over the surrounding hills.

This small wine village of 1000 inhabitants houses approximately 420 hectares of vines operated by 250 winegrowers. The greatest Champagne brands source their grapes here, testifying to the exceptional quality of the terroir. The cobbled streets wind between traditional winegrowers' houses, creating an authentic and preserved atmosphere.

2. Hautvillers: the birthplace of champagne

Impossible to talk about the most beautiful villages around Reims without mentioning Hautvillers, the mythical village where Dom Pérignon revolutionized the art of champagne. This classified village, ideally located between Reims and Épernay, charms with its winegrowers' houses adorned with wrought iron signs and its flowered streets that tell the story of champagne.

The Abbey of Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon rests, constitutes the historic soul of the village. The terraces offer breathtaking views over the Marne Valley and the slopes of Épernay. A dozen tasting cellars allow you to savor local champagnes in an authentic setting.

3. Sacy: Champagne elegance

Nestled in the Tardenois, Sacy seduces with its picturesque charm and preserved heritage. This character village houses the prestigious Château de Sacy (Rue des Croisettes, 51500 Sacy, rated 4.5/5 on Google for 1944 reviews), a 19th century building transformed into a luxury hotel-restaurant in the heart of the vineyards.

Family champagne houses like Duménil or Wafflart Briet perpetuate winemaking traditions in this exceptional terroir. The vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a harmonious landscape dotted with limestone houses typical of the region. The church of Saint-Avertin, architectural jewel of the village, testifies to the rich historical past of Sacy.

4. Chigny-les-Roses: an exceptional premier cru

Classified Premier Cru, Chigny-les-Roses figures among the most prestigious wine villages of the Montagne de Reims. This commune of 700 inhabitants mainly cultivates Pinot Noir and Chardonnay on an exceptional limestone terroir, recognized for the quality of its grapes used by the greatest champagne houses.

The village preserves its authentic character with its traditional winegrowers' houses and century-old cellars. Local producers like Champagne J. Dumangin Fils or Champagne Michel Tixier offer intimate tastings allowing discovery of this Premier Cru terroir's specificity. The wine trails offer magnificent walks through the vineyards with panoramas over the Reims plain.

5. Mailly-Champagne: 100% Grand Cru

Mailly-Champagne holds the rare privilege of being classified 100% Grand Cru, a distinction that places this village at the top of the Champagne hierarchy. Located on the Montagne de Reims, this small village of 500 inhabitants produces exclusively the highest quality grapes, used by the cooperative Champagne Mailly Grand Cru, the only producer to elaborate its champagnes exclusively from Grand Cru vines.

The village, nestled in the Regional Natural Park of the Montagne de Reims, offers a preserved natural setting. The 70 hectares of vineyards extend on south-facing slopes, benefiting from optimal sunshine. Traditional Champagne architecture harmoniously blends with wine landscapes, creating an ensemble of striking beauty.

6. Rilly-la-Montagne: tradition and modernity

Premier Cru of the Montagne de Reims, Rilly-la-Montagne combines wine tradition and modern dynamism. This village of 1100 inhabitants, located a few kilometers south of Reims, has managed to preserve its heritage while welcoming innovative champagne houses.

Family producers like Champagne Michel Fagot or Champagne Didier Herbert perpetuate a know-how transmitted from generation to generation. The village preserves traces of its historical past, notably the railway tunnel that served as shelter during World War II. The narrow streets bordered by vines create a unique intimate atmosphere.

7. Ambonnay: jewel of the Grande Montagne

Grand Cru village of the Montagne de Reims, Ambonnay stands as one of the most prestigious terroirs of Champagne. Its 387 hectares of vineyards, composed of 81% Pinot Noir and 19% Chardonnay, produce exceptional grapes sought after by the greatest houses.

This preserved medieval village houses renowned producers like Champagne H. Billiot Fils and R.H. Coutier, who elaborate rare and refined champagnes. Traditional architecture, historic cellars and panoramas over the vineyards make Ambonnay a privileged destination for lovers of authenticity and excellence.

8. Aÿ-Champagne: small city of character

Labeled "Small City of Character", Aÿ-Champagne constitutes one of the historic cradles of champagne. This commune of 4000 inhabitants, located on the right bank of the Marne, produces exclusively Grand Cru grapes and houses the most prestigious champagne houses.

The exceptional architectural heritage of Aÿ testifies to its secular wine prosperity. Historic presses, thousand-year-old cellars and private mansions of merchants create a unique urban ensemble. The proximity to Épernay and transportation facilities make Aÿ an ideal base for exploring the Champagne region.

How to discover these authentic villages

To optimize your discovery of these picturesque villages around Reims, several options are available to you. The Champagne tourist route connects most of these villages, allowing a complete circuit through exceptional terroirs. The short distances (generally 10 to 30 km from Reims) facilitate travel by car.

Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous bike paths developed through the vineyards. These marked itineraries offer a gentle and contemplative approach to Champagne landscapes, with tasting stops at local producers.

Download the audio-guided circuit to discover Reims on foot and independently

Before setting off to explore the surrounding villages, discover Reims with the Ryo audio-guided itinerary. This 8.2 km route takes you through 3000 years of history, from Notre-Dame Cathedral to champagne cellars, passing through the emblematic places of the city of coronations. The app guides you step by step with 21 audio commentaries for an enriching and autonomous visit of the Champagne capital.

The gastronomy of Champagne villages

Each village in the Reims region has its culinary specialties, often linked to wine tradition. Reims pink biscuits, Reims ham or ratafia and champagne marc perfectly accompany local tastings. Village restaurants offer authentic cuisine highlighting local products.

Local markets, notably that of Sacy on Sunday mornings, allow discovery of regional producers: goat cheeses from the slopes, linden honey, vegetables grown between the vines. This gastronomic richness harmoniously complements the wine discovery of Champagne villages.

Village events and festivals

Throughout the year, the villages around Reims organize events that celebrate Champagne culture. The harvest in September transforms the villages into real hives of activity, with traditional festivals and open houses at winegrowers'.

The Sacres festival in Reims, the Habits de lumière in Épernay or the Champagne Days punctuate the regional cultural calendar. These events offer the opportunity to meet producers, discover elaboration techniques and taste champagnes in a friendly and authentic atmosphere.

In conclusion, the villages around Reims constitute an exceptional heritage where history, gastronomy and way of life blend. From Verzenay to Ambonnay, each stop reveals the secrets of authentic Champagne. For optimal discovery, don't hesitate to let yourself be guided by the Ryo itinerary of Reims which will allow you to understand the history and culture of this exceptional region before setting out to conquer its most beautiful villages.

What is the best time to visit the villages around Reims?

The ideal period extends from May to October, with a peak of interest in September during harvest time. Spring offers green landscapes, summer allows enjoying cellar terraces, and autumn reveals golden colors of vineyards. Winter remains pleasant for cellar visits, although some outdoor attractions are closed.

How to organize a circuit of Champagne villages from Reims?

Plan 2 to 3 villages per day according to distances (generally 15-30 minutes by car between each village). Start with Verzenay and its lighthouse, continue to Mailly-Champagne, then Ambonnay. The next day, explore Hautvillers, Aÿ and finish with Épernay. Book your tastings in advance, especially during high season.

Can you visit champagne cellars in all these villages?

Each village has producers offering visits and tastings, from large cooperatives like Mailly Grand Cru to small family producers. Visits vary from €10 to €25 per person depending on the service. Some cellars require advance booking, especially weekends and during tourist periods.