Reims and Champagne Region

After emerging from the chunnel, we were politely told over the intercom of the train to "please remember to drive on the right side of the road" and we were off to find our way to Reims, France - our first pit stop on the journey. 

The French countryside was very beautiful, pastoral and sparsely populated as we drove another 2 1/2 hours south.  We passed dozens of landmark signs that we would have liked to stop at, but we had to make it to our hotel at a reasonable hour.

The next morning (Sunday), Tyler searched unsuccessfully for a bakery while everyone dressed.  Ultimately, we drove our car near the cathedral and found a patisserie to grab a few croissants and sweet rolls.

We strolled around the mostly deserted streets and had our breakfast outside the enormous cathedral - built in the 1200s. 

The west façade had recently been cleaned and created quite the contrast with the darkened stones elsewhere on the exterior. 

We then wandered around the interior, taking in the grandeur.  Started in 1211 and completed in 1275, it was impressive - especially being so ancient.

 

After about an hour or so, we starting walking back to the car and Claire spotted a carousel at the end of the street.  Carousels are probably one of her favorite things in the world right now since she is in love with horses.  So, after a quick ride around, we hopped in the car and started south to tour the champagne region.

We drove south out of town and after a few miles crested a hill and saw miles of vineyards stretching out in front of us. The Champagne region is not very large, and much of the land still has clumps of forest at the tops of the hills. 

We continued along and stopped at the first place that displayed a tasting sign since our guidebook said everyone closes for lunchtime around 12 - 2.  We had a fun time saying our few French words and tasting several types of Champagne.  Interestingly, several wineries produced champagne from just Chardonnay grapes, called blanc de blancs.

We bought a few bottles and made our way along until we found a beautiful turquois river and decided to have a picnic.  Before the mosquitos starting attacking, we had a lovely view.

We continued our drive to make it to Alsace by evening taking smaller country roads as opposed to the highway. A very gorgeous day in the heart of France.