Known worldwide for its bubbles that have been enjoyed for centuries, the Marne has also left its mark on history from antiquity to the Middle Ages and the two world wars. History, but also cultural, gastronomic or natural heritage make this department an ideal getaway. Because the Marne is also a "natural" destination where visitors can practice all kinds of outdoor activities. In particular, cycling with more than 2,000 km of marked trails. Focus on the main spots of the most flowery department of France. Before tasting champagne as a reward, whether you are passionate or new to the little queen, warm up!
Lake Der, an ornithological jewel
Lake Der, now the largest artificial lake in Europe with its 77 km shores, has become a place of leisure and a natural and ornithological landmark of international interest. More than 300 species are recorded: herons, ducks... and grey cranes, which gather here in spring and autumn from 60 to 140,000 individuals for one stage during their migration
And for the sporty, the Lac du Der, if it is obviously the pleasures of the water, the beaches and water sports, it is also long bike rides on the seawall or on the hiking trails. A good way to discover villages, typical houses, half-timbered churches, museums, viewpoints and gastronomy... All these are the facets that make you come and go here in summer and winter. Moreover, only a few kilometres from the lake, there is also the Champagne Tourist Route of the Coteaux Vitryats. Enough to conclude your cycling day, between lake and river, with bubbles!
Sézanne, the medieval city
Sézanne is a very pleasant city that keeps the air of a medieval city with its church, alleys, squares and shaded mails. Established on this mound since the 10th century, it has crossed history and kept picturesque streets with evocative names: rue Cogne-Fort, la ruelle aux Chats, la Queue-de-Renard..
After visiting the city, you can quickly climb on your saddle to discover this territory of hills and vineyards, ponds, marshes and forests. From Montmirail to the great forest of Traconne (2,400 hectares), nature lovers will be delighted with every pedal stroke!
Epernay, the world capital of champagne
Epernay is undoubtedly the capital of champagne! Located at the crossroads of the famous bubble drink tourist routes, Épernay is a pleasant little town in the heart of the vineyard. After having taken a look at its opulent buildings, we will enjoy cycling in the splendid vineyard landscapes that surround the city of Marne. Many bicycle tours have been set up around the historic champagne hillside tour, which is listed by UNESCO. We will also enjoy slaloming between the villages of the Côte des Blancs, the cradle of chardonnay
Châlons-en-Champagne, along the canals
From the medieval period, this city of art and history has preserved an important architectural heritage that is very pleasant to discover. Because in Châlons-en-Champagne, it is nice to stroll along the banks of the canals or the Marne, during the sunny days, and discover the city's heritage by taking a "nature" route. The rivers that flow through the city are indeed one of the city's charms. Enough to enjoy beautiful bucolic breaks and to find a dream spot for a small picnic. Drizzled with champagne, of course! To avoid ruining anything, the tourist office has designed several judicious routes to allow you to enjoy enriching walks in the old Châlons and even offers pleasant boat rides. From May to October, it is even possible to rent mountain bikes, mountain bikes and electric bikes to follow these routes as you wish.
Reims, in the heart of the vineyard
In the Reims subsoil, about 200 km of sharpened crayons, Gallo-Roman or medieval, contain about 250 million bottles of champagne. Now cellars with prestigious names, many of them can be visited, illustrating the vines that have always been cultivated in the surrounding area. After visiting the cellars and the unmissable Notre-Dame de Reims cathedral, which has been inviting people to pray since the 13th century, it will be time to climb in the saddle of her little queen to discover the surroundings of the city of the coronations. Because they offer a wide choice of hiking and walking trails, in the heart of the vineyard and in the Montagne de Reims Regional Nature Park (300 km of marked hiking trails) where you can discover the enigmatic Faux de Verzy. Exceptional spots to pedal.
L’Argonne, the green lung
You can also follow in the footsteps of history in Argonne, a natural region stretching over the departments of Marne, Ardennes and Meuse. A land of choice for hikers and aficionados of large hardwood trees, the Argonne surprises by the size sometimes even by the vastness of its spaces and forests. In addition to its lush vegetation, it is full of sites that redraw its contours with roundness, like a nose thumb to the stigmas left by the Great War here and there. The ideal place to get in the saddle and attack its 550 km of marked trails through its remarkable oaks and air whose pollution rate is close to 0%. Enough to exercise in complete peace of mind!
Smart info
When? When? All year round, even if the arrival of good weather is obviously more pleasant.
Useful. To prepare your escapade as well as possible
Biking in Champagne - More information on the website
