At a Glance
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Connect to the colourful and spellbinding region of France on this 6 day biking voyage showcasing the sparkling Champagne and Alsace Wine Route. Unveil enchanting towns, ride alongside sleepy canals, soak in spectacular views of vine-laced gardens, and historic castles accompanied with the best champagnes and cuisines of the region.
Your adventure begins in Reims, France after which we transit to the magnificent Côte des Blancs region. Explore the iconic village of Le Mesnil-sur-Oger, home to the walled vineyard where the exquisite Clos du Mesnil champagne is produced. Visit the home of Dom Pérignon, a Benedictine monk celebrated as the spiritual father of champagne. Begin the second part of your adventure in Alsace with a peaceful ride along the Route des Vins (Wine Route), world-renowned for its fine vintages. You’ll bike ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified
- 5 nights of accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfers
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio.
- Sightseeing and activities as stated in the itinerary.
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information.
- Park and other entry fees
- Fully equipped titanium bike, with a helmet and accessories
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: After meeting in Reims, we shuttle to the starting point of our first ride of the week, the magnificent Côte des Blancs region. After a delightful lunch, the tour guides fit your bike and give a brief lecture on the various biking techniques and safety measures, before setting off to explore this stunning area. Spin through the Côte des Blancs' sea of vineyards, known to produce some of the world's most famous champagne. This area is well-known for its champagne blanc de blanc, made only from white wine grapes (most commonly chardonnay). Cycle along the quiet paths, while looking for signs by the side of the road with names of some of the most acclaimed champagne labels: Veuve Clicquot, Moët & Chandon. This is just the beginning of a true Grand Cru experience! Ride through tiny French towns, making sure to stop in Le Mesnil-sur-Oger. This iconic village is home to the walled vineyard where Krug harvests a single plot of chardonnay each year to produce its Clos du Mesnil, one of the rarest and most expensive champagnes in the world. This afternoon, we will be heading to the champagne capital of Épernay to cruise down the Avenue de Champagne. Explore the streets lined with turreted mansions and neoclassical villas. |
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Ride on to our home for the next two nights, the Royal Champagne Hôtel & Spa. A 5-star hotel located in Champillon, France. Surrounded by the vineyards of Champagne. Take a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool or simple bask in the serenity at the garden terrace overlooking the lush surrounding valleys. This evening we toast to the week ahead (with bubbly, of course!) before enjoying a multi-course meal in the hotel's private dining room paired with exquisite wines selected by an adept sommelier. |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: After a hearty breakfast this morning, you head out on your bike from the hotel toward the Marne River, spinning through sun-soaked villages along the way. The area is home to lush forests, sprawling vineyards, colourful gardens, and historic castles. We will be having lunch at a beautiful family-owned winery in Hautvillers located in the heart of the Reims Mountain area. This town is known as the home of Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk credited as the spiritual father of champagne thanks to his contributions to refermentation, the process that gives champagne its bubbles. Swing by the location where Dom Pérignon is buried, the village church. After enjoying a lunch of Champagne-Ardenne specialties, go for a bike ride exploring the Marne Valley while relishing mind-blowing views of the Marne Valley. Pedal past Romanesque churches before crossing the Marne River to return to our hotel, where you can take a dip in the pool or indulge in a spa treatment. |
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Tonight's amazingly luxurious dinner takes place in the oldest Maison de Champagne, Moët & Chandon. Founded in 1743 by Claude Moët, the house was brought to prominence by Claude's grandson Jean-Rémy, a good friend of Napoleon Bonaparte. We have the opportunity to visit one of the most famous cellars in Épernay, a subterranean labyrinth where the grapes complete their transformation into champagne. Tonight, be treated to an exclusive and unforgettable dinner where each course comes with its champagne pairing. |
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TWO BIKING OPTIONS: Today brings the end to the first part of our adventure as we shuttle out of the Champagne region, and we begin the second part of our adventure in Alsace! Arriving in Marlenheim village, begin your ride along the Route des Vins (Wine Route), world-renowned for its fine vintages. The Vosges Mountain Range shields these foothills from ocean weather patterns, creating a sunny, warm and dry microclimate, which makes it excellent for cultivating wine grapes. We will be having lunch today at a traditional Alsatian farm with organic local varieties to choose from. Cycle to the town of Obernai and perhaps enjoy spectacular coffee before going to the foot of Mont Sainte-Odile. If you are up for a challenge this afternoon, climb up Mont Sainte Odile into the heights of the Vosges for pleasant views over the surrounding forests and the lush Rhine Plain. At the peak you'll also find the Hohenburg Abbey, a nunnery founded in 690 AD by Saint Odile. |
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Otherwise continue straight to Ottrott and our home for the evening, Hostellerie des Châteaux. A stunning 17-century manor located 8km from Saint-François on a hill overlooking the sea on the edge of the protected site of the Pointe des Châteaux at the end of Guadeloupe, and 3 minutes from the beach of Salines. Settle into your room, take in views of the valley below as you lounge by one of the three outdoor or indoor pools, or enjoy the spa before we gather to delight in the flavours of Alsace at the hotel's restaurant. |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Go on to the scenic Route des Vins this morning, switching up scenery of cultivated fields for the sylvan landscape of the Vosges forest. Then we're in for a treat in the town of Kintzheim, where lunch at Restaurant Saint Martin awaits. This spot is renowned for its tarte flambée, an Alsatian dish with a thin bread-dough base, traditionally topped with Fromage blanc, thinly sliced onions, and bacon. We'll enjoy the dish according to custom: one tart for four people, replaced immediately when finished so it's always hot and crispy. After enjoying lunch, you are free to travel to the splendidly restored Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, a 12th-century fortress strategically set overlooking the valley. Up for more adventure, continue along the edge of the Vosges, taking in quiet towns where geranium boxes adorn nearly every façade. We come to the end of today’s adventure in Illhaeusern, set along the Ill River by the eastern foothills of the Vosges Mountains. Originally a 15th-century fishing village, Illhaeusern has a long history as a wine and grain producer along the trade routes with Strasbourg. |
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You will be staying at the 5-star Hôtel des Berges for the next two nights. Situated in the heart of Alsace with stunning views of the river. Take a refreshing dip in the picturesquw pool, bask in the serenity by the terrace riverside or stroll through its lush and well manicured gardens. We will be travelling this evening to Ribeauvillé town for a guided tour, walking through the streets adorned with colourful half-timbered houses, spectacular Gothic churches, and mediaeval buildings. Be on the lookout for a restaurant that tickles your fancy for dinner at your own expense. |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Today’s ride brings us to the famous Route des Vins villages, some of which are listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France ”The most beautiful villages of France”. Take a break from your bike to wander through the courtyards in beautifully preserved Riquewihr. After a sumptuous lunch by yourself in thriving Eguisheim, go for a tour through this storybook town, where shops sell wonderful Grand Cru vintages produced at local vineyards. Back on your bike, ride along the Canal of Colmar, or take some time to shop in Colmar. Loopback to the hotel and unwind at the spa or by the pool, or keep pedalling to the ruins of the Château du Hohlandsbourg for some exploration. This evening we celebrate our week with a gastronomic delight: a world-class meal at Auberge de l'Ill. This family-owned restaurant has hosted Michelin stars continuously since 1967 and is renowned for its refined and innovative cuisine, along with its exquisite service. Settle into the chic dining room and prepare to be amazed, before retiring to your cozy room for the night. |
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Level 1, Approx. 23 km (14 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 91 m (300 ft) Not ready to part ways with your bike just yet? Rise early and take it for one last spin through the lush countryside with spectacular mountain views. Cycle through a sea of neatly tended fields and quintessential Alsatian villages as they come to life. Perhaps you'll meet some locals over coffee and croissants at a café along the way. If you choose to stay in instead, enjoy one last delightful breakfast and the serene atmosphere. Gather for a final Alsatian lunch before saying farewell. After, board a private coach bound for Strasbourg, Alsace’s capital and largest city. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is avaialble on request.
More Info
The departure point is Reims, France.
The finish point is Strasbourg, France.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Reims. The closest major international airport to Reims, France is Châlons Vatry Airport. This airport is in Chalons-en-Champagne, France and is 69 km from the center of Reims, France.
The Champagne-Ardenne region's northern location means the area enjoys extended sunny days throughout the summer and fall. Alsace's sheltered valley, enclosed by the Vosges Mountains to the west and the Black Forest to the east, experiences a generally warm summer season. Although the mountains keep the valley dry, rain is possible at any time of year. Don't forget to bring waterproof, breathable rain gear, and be prepared for all types of weather to ensure that your trip is enjoyable.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-4.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
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Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. |
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Performance Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Carbon Bike The Carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS has been put through its paces at both Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France by the UCI World Tour team–EF Pro Cycling. Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package—it’s built for hard-core riders, men and women alike, who are looking for a high-performance bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The Synapse is offered in a complete range of sizes. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Not equipped with a rear rack or bag, bring your own pedals, selection of saddle sizes available. |
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Tandem Bike Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. Suggested for riders with some tandem experience and on trips with flatter terrain. Due to the tandem's size, frequent racking is not realistic, so there may be fewer opportunities to hop in the van. Dropped handlebars for captain position, upright for stoker. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Rear rack and pannier or trunk bag and Flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals) |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.