Full Day Pommery Small Group Tour

A Complete Day in Champagne: The Full Day Pommery Small Group Tour

Imagine a day spent exploring famous Champagne houses, strolling through historic cathedrals, and soaking in the scenic beauty of France’s Marne Valley—all in just one well-paced trip. For around $291 per person, this 8-hour small-group experience takes you from the bustling city of Reims, home to legendary Champagne brands, to the picturesque villages and vineyards that make this region so special. Led by knowledgeable guides, your day combines cultural highlights, fascinating cellar tours, and plenty of tasting opportunities, all in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances indoor and outdoor experiences. First, you’ll explore the spectacular Reims Cathedral, an iconic Gothic structure with centuries of history. Then, you’ll wander through the Roman cellars of Pommery, marveling at their ancient underground tunnels while sampling some of the finest Champagne. The visit to a boutique winery offers an intimate look at Champagne production, often missing in larger, more commercial tours. Lastly, a stop at Hautvillers to see Dom Pérignon’s tomb connects you directly to the roots of Champagne craftsmanship.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking and some stops may require stairs—though most Champagne houses are accessible, small producers might not be. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to budget some time and money for a meal in Épernay or nearby. This tour suits travelers who enjoy cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and tasting without feeling rushed, and who appreciate a small, personalized group experience that’s both relaxed and informative.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Champagne Experience: Tour includes visits to Pommery and a boutique producer, with tastings that showcase the region’s best.
• Cultural Highlights: Stroll through Reims Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece, and visit Dom Pérignon’s tomb at Hautvillers.
• Scenic Vistas: Enjoy picturesque views of vineyards and the Marne River Valley, perfect for photos and appreciating the landscape.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Raphael enhance the experience with detailed explanations and engaging stories.
• Flexible & Small Group: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Value for Money: The combination of transportation, guided tours, and multiple tastings offers good value, especially for those wanting an all-in-one day.

A Little Background on the Tour

Starting in Reims, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the Champagne region in France’s Grand Est. The focus is on historic sites, renowned Champagne houses, and scenic vineyards, giving you a taste of both the cultural and natural sides of this celebrated area. For anyone visiting Paris, this can be a perfect escape—an 8-hour immersion that offers more than just tasting but a genuine look into Champagne’s history and production.

The tour’s cost of $291, while not the cheapest, covers an impressive variety of experiences. It includes transportation, guided visits to Pommery’s Roman cellars, and tastings of multiple Champagnes—some with a mix of old and contemporary art installations in underground tunnels. The inclusion of a boutique winery at the end adds a personal touch, and the small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

One of the biggest draws is the visit to the Pommery Champagne house, especially since the tour takes place inside 2000-year-old Roman mines. Imagine tasting Champagne where ancient tunnels once stored wine, now filled with modern art—this isn’t something you find everywhere. The guided tour here lasts about an hour and a half, giving you plenty of time to appreciate both the history and craftsmanship.

Another highlight, praised by travelers, is the guided visit to Reims Cathedral. As the site where French kings were crowned, this Gothic monument offers stunning architecture and a sense of history that’s almost palpable. Pairing this with a walk through Reims’ streets, with some free time for photos or a quick coffee, makes for a well-rounded city visit.

The Itinerary in Detail

More Great Tours Nearby

Reims City Tour & Cathedral

Your day begins with a pick-up in Reims, followed by a quick van ride to the city’s heart. The Reims Cathedral of Notre-Dame is your first stop. Expect a 30-minute guided tour that will leave you in awe of the stained glass windows, soaring arches, and intricate sculptures. This cathedral isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a monument that played a crucial role in French history.

Champagne Pommery Cellars

Next, you’ll visit Pommery, one of the region’s most iconic Champagne houses. The guided tour of their Roman cellars takes about 1.5 hours, with a tasting of one glass of Champagne included. The underground tunnels, filled with contemporary art installations, make for a fascinating contrast to the historic setting. The combination of ancient tunnels and modern art makes this visit stand out as both educational and memorable.

Hautvillers & Dom Pérignon

After the Pommery visit, a short 30-minute drive takes you to Hautvillers, a charming village where Dom Pérignon is buried. The Abbaye Saint-Pierre and the tomb are authentic links to Champagne’s origins, and the guided walk here offers a chance to enjoy local scenery and learn about the monk credited with improving Champagne production.

Lunch & Avenue de Champagne

Your break in Épernay lasts about 1.5 hours, giving enough time for a relaxed lunch and a stroll down Avenue de Champagne. This street is lined with prestigious Champagne houses and boutique shops, and it’s a perfect place to soak in the luxury and history of Champagne. Many travelers enjoy browsing the windows, taking photos, and possibly buying a bottle or two.

Boutique Winery & Final Tastings

The day closes with a visit to a small boutique Champagne producer. Here, you’ll learn firsthand how Champagne is made, from grape to glass, and enjoy tasting three different Champagnes. This intimate setting often provides more personal insights and the chance to ask questions directly to the producer.

Return to Reims

After a full day of sights, tastings, and stories, you’ll be taken back to your starting point in Reims, often feeling more connected to the region and its legendary drink.

The Experience from Travelers’ Perspectives

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery as key strengths. One reviewer mentions, “Raphael was very knowledgeable, and the eight hours passed quickly,” which suggests that engaging storytelling and expert guidance are integral to this experience. Another says, “Very nice visit with a really nice guide who gives lots of information,” emphasizing the value of a personable guide in making the day enjoyable.

The scenery of vineyards and the river valley also receives frequent praise, with travelers noting the photo-worthy views of the rolling hills and lush vines. The combination of historic sites, beautiful landscapes, and wine makes this a well-rounded experience.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drive between stops easy and relaxing. The small group size (up to 8 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, allowing for questions and a friendly atmosphere.

Since lunch isn’t included, travelers should plan ahead if they want a sit-down meal or quick snack in Épernay. The tour also includes water and tickets to Pommery, enhancing the overall value.

For anyone concerned about accessibility, most Champagne houses are handicap friendly, but some smaller producers may involve stairs—it’s wise to mention any needs when booking.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy combining cultural history with wine tasting, this tour is a winner. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate storytelling about heritage sites, as well as travelers seeking an intimate, small-group experience. Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of tastings and cellar visits, and anyone interested in French architecture and history will find plenty to marvel at.

The tour is also perfect for visitors who want to escape Paris for a day but still enjoy a luxurious, guided experience with plenty of insights and beautiful scenery.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day Champagne experience offers a fine balance of history, culture, and wine—ideal for travelers who value authenticity and personalized service. The knowledgeable guides, along with the chance to visit iconic sites like Reims Cathedral and Dom Pérignon’s tomb, bring the region’s story to life.

It’s a great choice for wine lovers, history buffs, and those who want a comprehensive introduction to Champagne without the rush of larger, more commercial tours. The combination of scenic drives, cellar tours, and tastings makes this a memorable way to spend a day in one of France’s most iconic regions.

For travelers seeking a relaxed, well-organized, and engaging experience that combines culture, scenery, and Champagne, this tour will deliver more than just a tasting—it offers a genuine connection to the region’s soul.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. The itinerary allows time for you to find a restaurant or café in Épernay, with suggestions often provided by your guide.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary, but generally include about 30 minutes at Reims Cathedral, 1.5 hours at Pommery, approximately 20-30 minutes at Hautvillers, and 1.5 hours for the boutique winery. The drive between sites is also included.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 8 people, making it a small, intimate experience that allows for more interaction and personalized attention.

Are the sites wheelchair accessible?
Most Champagne Houses are handicap friendly, but small producers may have stairs. It’s best to mention any accessibility needs when booking.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking at sites and along streets, and possibly in cellar areas which can be cool.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While mainly aimed at adults, older children with an interest in history and wine may enjoy the experience. Check with the provider for age restrictions.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reservations are flexible—reserve now and pay later.

This detailed look at the Full Day Pommery Small Group Tour reveals that it’s a thoughtfully curated experience blending history, scenery, and the art of Champagne-making. Perfect for those wanting a deeper, more personal connection to the region, it combines education, beauty, and great taste in one memorable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: