Tuesday, September 24, 2024 The once-exclusive Champagne region of France is now more accessible to travelers, thanks to new hotels and enhanced visitor experiences. Known for its high-end bubbles, Champagne is embracing tourism with initiatives like the upcoming Nicolas Ruinart Pavilion , a new welcome center at Ruinart’s historic estate, which opens next month. Designed by renowned Japanese architect Sou Fujimoto , the pavilion will offer tours, tastings, and a modern space for guests to enjoy a glass of champagne on the estate’s 5 acres of landmarked woodlands.
Ruinart has long been difficult to visit unless you were a high-profile guest in the wine industry or had made special arrangements. But starting in October, the estate’s once-elusive chalk-quarry cellars, dating back to Gallo-Roman times, will become more accessible to the general public. The pavilion, with its cathedral-like ambiance created by natural light and sleek design, reflects the brand’s aim to elevate the visitor experience while maintaining its prestigious reputation.
Reims , the region’s main city, is just a 45-minute train ride from Paris , making it an ideal day-trip destination. However, the area has not always been equipped for long-term stays. With limited accommodations and costly entry fees to prestigious champagne houses, many visitors used to stick to short visits.
This is changing, thanks to new hotels and a broader focus on making Champagne a welcoming destination for all travelers.