Epernay - the champagne capital
22nd June 2006
Epernay is renowned for its champagne and with good reason: the distilleries of Mercier and Moet et Chandon are situated in the city.
Mercier's cellar tours are always popular with visitors to Epernay and offer a wonderful chance to see how the champagne is created. English tours are available, meaning travellers from the UK can sit back in one of the laser-guided trains and enjoy the ride! The tour covers over 11 miles of underground tunnels which contain numerous wooden barrels, including one of the world's largest – capable of holding more than 200,000 bottles.
The other favourite attraction for tourists is the Moet et Chandon champagne cellars. One of the most famous and recognisable brand names in the world, this is where the company first began producing champagne. An historic place, it is said that Napoleon always used to stop off in Epernay on his way to battle to stock up on champagne for himself and his troops. Only once did he fail to adhere to this routine – on his way to Waterloo!
However, there is more to Epernay than champagne. While this may be the prime export of the city, Epernay's shops are also not to be missed. Boutiques selling all manner of local produce, including food, antiques, clothes and books, line the main streets. The pedestrian district of place des Arcades is a particular delight for shoppers, who can spend all day wandering around the different stores.
Epernay is therefore the ideal place to take a short break, allowing visitors to enjoy a shopping extravaganza during the day, followed by sipping champagne in the evening!
© Adfero Ltd
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