The region of Champagne-Ardenne is well known, if only by reputation, by many.  Who has not heard of champagne?  This marvellous wine is made in the region with all the vineyards offering the opportunity to learn more about it, taste it and buy a case or two!  There are 31,000 hectares of the region devoted to the production.   However, this region is about more than just champagne.  Located, as it is, on the north east border of France, this area has been subject to many invasions. There are battlegrounds from both world wars and the last fortress from the Maginot Line is here.

The region is home to huge forests full of wildlife, and the many activities on offer include hiking on marked trails, bird-watching, cycling, horse riding, and hot air ballooning.  There are many lakes for sailing and watersports and canals where you can hire a cruiser for taking life at a slower pace.   There are many beautiful, flower-decked villages and towns, whilst the city of Reims is a large cosmopolitan city with all the shopping, restaurants, hotels, museums, galleries and churches you would expect.
There is a big choice of places to stay in Champagne-Ardenne.  You can choose from city hotels to country auberges, from chateaux to simple bed and breakfast establishments and a range of self catering gites and farmhouses.  Wherever you choose to stay, you are sure of a warm welcome and a fascinating holiday.
The Departments
The department of Ardennes is famous for its pate, based on game and wild boar and also for the traditionally smoked ham.  It is an area of unspoilt countryside and sweeping views.  Sedan's fortified chateau is the largest medieval stronghold in Europe.  You should not miss a visit to the elegant town of Charlevelle-Meziers with its puppet shows and bustling markets. The Aube is a haven for water sports enthusiasts and a vist to the Parc d'Orient with its' 5000 hectares of lakes should not be missed.
The city of Troyes is a vibrant place with shops, bars, restaurants and hotels.  The annual champagne fair, held in June, is world famous.  The Aube also boasts France's only half timbered churces.
Haute Marne is where to find the Spa town of Bourbonne les Bains, which has been popular since Roman times and is still visited by sufferers of rheumatism to its healing waters.  The town of Chaumont has a world class collection of posters and graphic art, and stunning statuary in the basilica.  The fortified, hill top town of Langres is famous for its cheeses.

The department of Marne is where the lion's share of the region's champagne is produced.  There are many guided tours and tasting sessions to choose from.  In fact, in the cellars beneath the sleepy town of Epernay, are 90 million bottles.  The city of Reims provides cosmopolitan living with excellent restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and hotels.  The gothic cathedral and the museum next door are fascinating.  The town of Chalons sur Champagne is where the Romans finally defeated Atilla the Hun and has been famous ever since.