A SPARKLING DESTINATION

The Champagne region of France is more than just about its famous effervescent drink, it's also an area 'bubbling' with unique attractions and experiences

- MARK EVANS 

TRAVEL INSPIRATION CAN come from virtually anywhere. We may not like to admit but social media has been a recent and frequent source of ‘inspiro’ when it comes to wanderlust. But occasionally, an inclination to pack our bags and explore someplace new can reveal itself in some unique places. This time, it was a revelation that appeared in a bottom of a glass, or in this case of a recently emptied champagne flute.

For those familiar with wine production techniques you will know that there is a difference between champagne, sparkling wine and other types of crémant. Although similar in its effervescent nature, what makes champagne, champagne is down to where it is produced. A bottle of champagne can only be deemed as such if its produced to certain production methods and only if it comes from the Champagne region of France.

Spread out approximately 132 square miles, the beloved drink effectively put the region on the map. However, there is more to Champagne than just its fancy bubbles. Laid back, quaint and serene, it provides a perfect juxtaposition to tourist hotspot, Paris. The region is just over an hour by train from the French capital with Reims and Epernay as the two primary areas. And they both hold their own respective unique appeals.

CITY OF CORONATIONS

The largest town in Champagne, Reims also owns the distinction for being France’s city of coronations. Thirty Kings of France were crowned at its majestic cathedral, which remains just one of many stunning attractions the city has to offer.