From Reims Full day Electric bike Champagne and lunch

Great for wine lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this full-day e-bike tour from Reims offers a blend of scenic cycling, local history, and authentic Champagne tasting. For $226.41 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours exploring the UNESCO-listed vineyards, visiting the birthplace of Champagne in Hautvillers, and enjoying a traditional French lunch. Led by knowledgeable guides like Suzanne or Anne, this experience is perfect for those who love a blend of active travel and culture.

What we particularly like are the luxury of electric bikes, making the rolling countryside accessible even if you’re not a seasoned cyclist, and the small group size, which guarantees a more personal touch. The inclusion of 4 glasses of tasting—covering Champagne, red wine, and Ratafia—adds a well-rounded beverage experience. One consideration? The weather can impact the day, especially for biking, so packing accordingly is wise.

This tour appeals most to wine connoisseurs, curious travelers eager to learn about the Champagne region, and active travelers who appreciate a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, authentic experience that combines scenery, history, and tasting, this is a superb choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Champagne experience: Visit the historic home of Dom Pérignon and UNESCO-listed vineyards.
• Scenic cycling: Ride through Premier and Grand Cru villages on easy-to-manage e-bikes.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides like Suzanne or Anne enhance the experience.
• Tastings and lunch: Enjoy 4 glasses of Champagne, plus a traditional French meal made with local ingredients.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to 8 participants for a personalized, relaxed experience.
• Weather considerations: The tour can be adapted for rain or cold, but bike riding requires confidence.

Exploring the Full-Day Champagne E-Bike Tour

This tour is a delightful way to appreciate the beauty and complexity of the Champagne region. Starting in Reims at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up conveniently at the train station, making it easy to combine with your travel schedule. The initial drive along the Avenue de Champagne sets the tone—famous for its historic champagne houses—although the real magic begins as you hop onto your electric bike at Le Clos Corbier.

The Itinerary in Detail

First stop: Reims and the Avenue de Champagne
Passing by this legendary street, you’ll get a good sense of the region’s champagne heritage, although the tour doesn’t include visits to the big houses like Moët & Chandon. It’s more about the countryside and smaller estates.

Next stop: Le Clos Corbier
This is where your e-bikes are ready, and you’ll start riding through the rolling vineyard landscape. The advantage of electric bikes is that you can cover more ground with less effort, even in hilly terrain, which means you’ll access some of the most remote and picturesque parts of the Champagne countryside. Reviewers have praised the easy manageability of the bikes, even for those who might worry about cycling for a full day.

Vineyards and Villages
Your guide will lead you through Premier and Grand Cru villages, where you’ll see vines in various stages of growth, and learn about the craftsmanship involved in producing Champagne. Many reviews mention that the guides are incredibly knowledgeable, sharing insights about the region’s terroir, the Champagne-making process, and local anecdotes, making the ride both enjoyable and educational.

Hautvillers and Dom Pérignon
A highlight is the visit to the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d’Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne, where Dom Pérignon lived and is buried. The panoramic views of the UNESCO-listed vineyards are stunning, and you’ll have a chance to explore the charming town. One reviewer noted that the guide Anne was enthusiastic and kind, which enhanced the visit.

Lunch in Mareuil-sur-Ay
After a morning of riding, you’ll enjoy a relaxing 1.5-hour lunch featuring local specialties such as cheese puffs, pâté-croûte, quiche, and Reims pink biscuits. Many reviews mention the delicious, locally sourced food and the opportunity to savor French cuisine in a cozy setting. The lunch also includes a Champagne tasting, which, while from the same family, is highly praised for its quality.

Final stops and return
The tour wraps up with a short drive back to Reims, ending around 4:00 pm. The small group size adds to the intimate atmosphere, allowing everyone to engage and ask questions comfortably.

Authenticity and Value

One of the strengths of this tour is its focus on genuine experiences. You won’t just taste Champagne; you’ll learn about its history, production, and regional significance. Several reviews highlight how guides like Suzanne, Anne, or Jérôme are passionate and approachable, providing insights that go beyond the surface.

The value for money is evident when you consider the all-inclusive nature: electric bikes, helmets, guide, multiple tastings, and a hearty French lunch. For many, the small group size makes the experience feel personalized, turning a simple day trip into a memorable adventure.

However, the price might seem high to some travelers, especially if you expected more cellar visits or winery tours. It’s important to note that the experience focuses more on scenic cycling, historical visits, and tasting rather than extensive winery tours. If you’re seeking a deep dive into wine production or visits to multiple cellars, this might not fully satisfy.

Weather can be a concern—the tour can be adapted if it rains, often switching to a minivan instead of bikes. You’ll want to pack layers, especially since parts of the cellar visit are cool (around 10°C). Plus, if you’re not confident on a bike or have mobility issues, this might not be the best choice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for active travelers who enjoy cycling and want a more intimate look at the Champagne region. It’s ideal for those who appreciate history, local culture, and wine tasting in a relaxed setting. The small group setup ensures a more personal connection with guides and fellow travelers, making it perfect for social and curious guests.

It’s also well-suited for those who want a full-day, immersive experience, combining outdoor activity with cultural insights and culinary delights. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or a partner who enjoys a mix of education and adventure, this tour offers excellent value.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or teenagers?
The tour is designed for adults comfortable riding e-bikes and with a good physical level, so children or teenagers may not be ideal unless very confident cyclists.

How physically demanding is the ride?
While e-bikes make the ride easier, you should be comfortable cycling and prepared for about 4 hours on the bike, including some hills.

What should I bring?
Bring layers for variable weather, especially a jacket if visiting cellars, sunscreen and sunglasses in summer, and comfortable footwear for cycling.

Can I join if I have limited cycling experience?
Yes, the bikes are electric and user-friendly, but you should be confident riding a bike as participation may be refused otherwise.

What kind of lunch is included?
A traditional French meal with local specialties like cheese puffs, pâté, quiche, and regional biscuits. Dietary restrictions can usually be accommodated.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour can be adjusted to a van-based experience if needed, ensuring you still experience the sights and tastings.

Are the tastings included?
Yes, you will taste 4 glasses—2 Champagne, 1 red wine, and 1 Ratafia.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off at Reims train station are included in the price.

Can I book this tour as a solo traveler?
Yes, but note that there is a minimum of 2 participants required; if only 1 person books, the tour provider will contact you for rescheduling or refund.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Champagne e-bike tour from Reims strikes a fantastic balance between active exploration and cultural discovery. You’ll love the stunning vineyard views, engaging guides, and excellent tastings, all delivered in a small-group setting that feels personal without being crowded.

It’s an especially good fit if you’re passionate about learning the story behind Champagne, enjoy outdoor activity, and want a relaxed yet enriching experience. The inclusion of a local French lunch makes it a satisfying full-day adventure—worth every penny for those seeking authenticity and a touch of adventure.

While it may not suit travelers who prefer luxury winery tours or extensive cellar visits, it offers a charming glimpse into the region’s landscape, history, and craftsmanship—an experience that stays with you long after the bikes are parked.

Whether you’re a wine novice or a seasoned connoisseur, this tour offers a memorable way to see Champagne through the eyes of a local, pedal-powered and full of flavor.