Epernay City Guide
Epernay is the Holy Grail for champagne lovers. Situated 88 miles outside of Paris, the capital of Champagne consists of 20,000 hectares of vineyards and 120 kilometres of underground cellars. However, there is more to Epernay than bubbly, this pretty flower town has a wealth of heritage to explore, such as the magnificent 19th Century town hall or the grand Gabriel-Dorziat Theatre. Come to Epernay and experience the finer things in life.
What to do and see in and around Epernay
Avenue de Champagne
You will recognize many of the names of the houses lining The Avenue de Champagne as it contains the mansions and ostentatious houses of the most prominent champagne producers in the world, such as the Chateau Perrier built in 1854.
The XVIII century mansion
Famous for providing refuge to the French royal family during their 1791 flight from Varennes, the Rohan Mansion was completely destroyed during Epernay’s 1918 barrage but was rebuilt in 1923 and has since been home to several businesses including a brasserie.
Gabriel-Dorziat Theatre
Dating back to 1900, this atmospheric theatre has a heroic past, withstanding fire in 1915, artillery bombardments in 1918 and acting as one of the occupying forces last strongholds of resistance during the town’s liberation in WW2. Designed as it is in the style of Louis XV, the dramatic feel to the theatre does justice to its colorful past.
The Castellane Tower
For unrivalled views of the Marne valley vineyards and Epernay itself, climb the 237 steps to the top of the Castellane Tower, which at a height of 63 meters is the tallest building in Epernay and dates back to 1903.
The Church of Notre-Dame
Another victim of the 1917 bombardment, the Church of Notre-Dame was built just 29 years earlier in 1888. Rebuilt in 1922 the church is a mixture of Roman and Gothic architecture complete with stunning stained glass windows.
Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall)
Built in 1858 for another familiar name, Victor Auban-Moët, this magnificent mansion was donated to Epernay in 1919 as a home for the town’s municipal departments. With its beautiful surrounding park and gardens the Hôtel de Ville and its outbuildings make for an impressive sight.
Champagne cellars
Many of the cellars lining the Avenue de Champagne offer guided tours where you can see where the champagne is stored as well as enjoying that all important tasting session.
Floral walking routes
In keeping with the rest of the Marne region, Epernay has a variety of flower beds and green spaces. To highlight this array of flora and fauna, three walking routes were created in 2002, all of which can be completed in under an hour. The routes have signs along the way so you can learn the names of the plant life on display.
Maison Gallice
An antique enthusiast’s paradise, the Maison Gallice was built in 1899 by the architect Charles Blondel. This contemporary classic contains, among other treasures, a listed Grüber chandelier designed as a legacy to Epernay’s suffering in the Great War. Once home to Louis Henri Marcel Gallice, it is now the residence of the Regional Office for Culture in Champagne-Ardennes.
Saint-Martin's Gate
This decorative gate was originally built in 1540 sculpted by the Reims artist Pierre Jacques. Depicted on this elegant monument you will find lovers, heroes and an assortment of animals. Originally situated next to the Church of Notre-Dame the gate was demolished in 1909, having been rebuilt it now stands in a square nearby.
Send to a Friend
Email Newsletter
Subscribe to the railbookers.com newsletter for all our latest special offers and news.
