REIMS
Reims is Royal in more ways than one. This is where Clovis was baptised in 498, where Charles VII was crowned King in 1429 … And, of course, it is in Reims that the major houses of Champagne have their wine cellars. The city is a real history book, with a bit taken from all its pages. And it has certainly not forgotten worldly, modern pleasures of the palate!

Out and about
The town of Reims has played a major role in France's history. Many monarchs have travelled there to be crowned King of France. This gives some idea of the importance of its Cathedral. This stone behemoth, which dates back to the 13th century, stands on an ancient Christian site. It is one of a group of several religious monuments, including the splendid Palais du Tau. Within easy reach, this is the ancient residence of the archbishopric. The King would stop here just after his coronation. Today, it houses a number of treasures, including a 15th century tapestry depicting the baptism of Clovis. It is impossible to think of the conversion of the Frankish King without thinking of the Saint Remi. The basilica that bears his name, a Roman-Gothic Benedictine abbey, houses his tomb. Since your back is never turned on history when you visit Reims – the Porte de Mars evokes its Gallo-Roman past – which can easily encourage you the pleasant experience of popping Champagne corks.
No fewer than 9 houses in Champagne offer a visit to their wine cellars, some of these carved into ancient Gallo-Roman chalk quarries. Let us stay in the land of bubbles and set sail for the Phare de Verzenay. Yes, you did read that correctly. Only
15 km from Reims, overhanging one of the prized hillsides of the Montagne de Reims, there is indeed a lighthouse which guards the vine. Built in 1909 as a publicity lighthouse, today it houses the Musée de la Vigne. And, since you are at the wheel, drive over and park along avenue Georges Clemenceau in Reims. Here you are at the automobile museum. Almost 200 vehicles, cars and motorcycles, from 1908 to the present day, may be viewed there. This haven for motor-lovers of all kinds also has a nice collection of enamelled plaques and over 5,000 automobile miniatures and toys.
Reims can also be explored on foot. The Tourist Office can suggest a number of guided tours. Nature, Art deco, history… And when your stomach is as empty as your feet are tired, it is as a gourmet city that Reims will really come into its own.

WHAT’S ON...

Musical summer strolls
2009 - June 18 to July 22
Almost 100 concerts by the greatest names in classical music and jazz light up Reims' summers. For the most part free, these concerts take place at prestigious or unusual sites such as St. Remi Basilica or the city's parks.
www.flaneriesreims.com/

The Johan Festival and Folkloric Coronations
2009 - June 6 and 7
The highlight of the celebrations is the Great Coronation Procession, in which 2,000 marchers in period costumes are led by Joan of Arc and Charles VII. At the time, Reims welcomes northern France's largest folklore festival.
www.reims-fetes.com/fetes_johaniques.php

SPECIAL OFFERS

Reims, Champagne & Golf
All year round
2 days /1 night – 206 euros per person in a 3* hotel, double room (including breakfast, green fee, 1 lunch or dinner in a restaurant of Reims, the visit of the cellars of a prestigious Champagne House of Reims, 1 bottle of Champagne for two)
Transport not included

Created in 1928 by the Champagne Houses of Reims and Epernay, Reims Golf Club has an international reputation.

Reims Tourist Office 12, boulevard Général Leclerc F-51100 Reims www.reims-tourism.com Tel + 33 (0)8 92 701 351 Fax + 33 (0)3 26 35 44 47

Highway A 26 in Calais up to Reims (2h30).
Treat yourself to a jaunt in Champagne !
All year round

3 days/2 nights, 3* hotel for 2 persons, from 109 euros per person for a double room (including breakfast).
This package includes per person :
3 days/2 nights with breakfast in a double room - Discovery pass for museums - Reims audioguided tour (access to Tau Palace and Saint-Remi Museum not included) - Visit of famous Champagne cellars followed by a tasting - 1 bottle of Champagne per couple.
Transport not included
Reims Tourist Office 12, boulevard Général Leclerc F-51100 Reims www.reims-tourism.com Tel + 33 (0)8 92 701 351 Fax + 33 (0)3 26 35 44 47
www.reims-tourism.com/tabid/3451/Default.aspx
Highway A 26 in Calais up to Reims (2h30).

Transport Partner
SeaFrance

SeaFrance Dover-Calais Ferries
SeaFrance is the only French operator on the Dover-Calais route, offering an authentic French experience even before you arrive in France. Onboard SeaFrance you will discover a stylish environment with a selection of restaurants and bars, lounges and tempting duty paid shops. Indulge yourself with a meal in the acclaimed La Brasserie fine dining restaurant, or simply put your feet up in one of the onboard café bars and get into the French mood with a coffee and croissant. And travelling across the Channel doesn’t cost the earth. With SeaFrance’s excellent value day trip and longer stay fares, you can afford to treat yourself!
To book or for more information, visit seafrance.com or call 0871 22 22 500

Click here to book