Champagne Harvest 2012 is coming soon

Written by on August 7, 2012 · 1 Comment


How would you like to join us here in Champagne and experience the highlight of the year – The Harvest?  We’ve put together a programme so you can do just that!

Between the 20th and 30th September, you have the opportunity of becoming part of the harvesting team for one day,  picking the grapes, following them to the “pressoir”, tasting the juice as it comes directly from the crushed grapes, and experiencing the atmosphere and excitement of this special time.

Your day will begin at one of our favourite champagne maker’s “vendangeoir” where you’ll pick up your secateurs and be taken into the vineyards with the team, where you’ll begin picking.  You’ll then follow the process back at the “pressoir” and witness first hand how it’s all done champagne-style.

A traditional harvester’s lunch and some serious champagne tasting is included, and all you need to do now is to book yourself a place by clicking here.

The package includes:

  • Two nights’ B&B accommodation at Les Molyneux
  • Dinner on your arrival night with champagne and wine
  • A full day out with one of our favourite champagne makers

Prices are 355 euros for one person and 520 euros for two people sharing a room.

Here’s what you need to do now:

  1. Simply Click Here to book your accommodation at Les Molyneux
  2. Choose two nights’ between the 20th and 30th September
  3. Put a note for us in the Comments Box of the reservation form that you want to come on the Harvest Special

That’s it!  We’ll then organise your day’s harvesting, and be in touch with you again very soon.

Places are limited, so hurry and book now and we’ll see you soon in Champagne!

Yvonne

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Categories: B&B, B&B in France, Festivals in France, Wine Festivals - Tags: , , , ,

Champagne Stories from the Vineyards

Written by on June 13, 2012 · Leave a Comment

What a priviledge it is to be able to live and work in Champagne!  I am in awe of the beauty of the landscape and the work and toil of the people every single day.  My drive to the supermarket is through vineyards owned by such luminaries as Moet et Chandon, Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot and I marvel at their visions which began almost 3 centuries ago.

I am indeed lucky.

But life wasn’t always bubbly in Champagne. After the devastation of the phylloxera epidemic during the late 1800s and the wine growers’ revolts in the early 1900s, the emergence of champagne as we know it today began.  But life was still tough, and many farmers were very poor.  So much so that over the years, many of their offspring left the bubbly trade in search of adventure elsewhere.

One of those sons is our friend Christian Briard, who after having explored life without bubbles, has returned to his roots and taken up the baton in his grandfather’s champagne business, Champagne Christian Briard, in the Marne Valley.

Christian explains what lead him to where he is now in this interesting article and I encourage you to read it here

 

Categories: B&B, B&B in France, Festivals in France

On the Pilgrim Trail

Written by on June 11, 2012 · Leave a Comment

Running a B&B is a great way to meet new people, and the thing is, we never know who is going to show up next, and that’s exciting.

Verzy is situated on not just one, but two of the great Pilgrim Trails which start in various locations in northern Europe and either lead to Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, or the Via Francigena to Rome in Italy.

People take this pilgrimage for a variety of reasons and not always religious.  Some are walking for a charity or in the memory of someone they’ve lost, or some are doing just because they can. But they all come with a story, and we love to hear their stories.

Some embark on this adventure alone and some with a partner or friend.  Some do the whole thing in one go which takes around 3 months, and some do it a couple of weeks a year, spread out over several years.

Some plan their overnight stays and some don’t.  Some simply knock on the door hoping to find room at the inn, and some have their ipads or other mobile devices, keeping in touch with the real world while on their travels, and have all their lodgings pre-booked in advance. Some are blogging about their adventure and staying connected during the whole journey and some completely cut themselves off to focus on the journey itself and the inevitable silence of being alone.

Some are travelling on a budget, and some are doing it “in style”.  Whoever they are, we welcome them and offer them great accommodation, a good meal and a fond farewell the next morning.

Categories: B&B in France - Tags: , , ,

Bunjee jumping in Verzy!

Written by on May 8, 2012 · Leave a Comment

With the torrential April showers hopefully behind us now, we can turn our attention to what’s happening in May in Champagne.

May is the month of the brocantes – those street markets which sell cast offs and collectors items, featuring everything from used tyres (?) to champagne caps.  Verzy’s brocante was last weekend, and needless to say I didn’t buy anything.

There’s a brocante every weekend now in several villages in the region, and if you like milling around bric-a-brac and looking for a bargain, then don’t miss, come on down.

The highlight of events in Verzy (not to mention the Summer Dance Gala on the 16th June, where yours truly will be dancing!) is the Fete Patronale which is happening on the last weekend of May.

I’m really excited about this because last year it was an absolute hoot on the Sunday afternoon.  We were drawn into the music and entertainment of the drag artists singing and dancing in their luminous outfits and unbelievable wigs.  Sipping champagne in the sunshine with friends and enjoying the ambience of the real France was incredible, and this year promises to be even more fun with the opportunity to participate in bunjee jumping.  Needless to say again, I won’t be jumping, but you can!

Join us if you can, we’re looking forward to meeting you in Champagne!

Categories: B&B in France, Festivals in France, Holidays French - Tags: , , , ,

The French are rude!

Written by on April 13, 2012 · 1 Comment

Living and working in France has and still is one of the most enriching experiences of my life.  I love it here!  I even left it once, only to return “home” as soon as I could.  Why?  I find the French philosophy on life refreshing and it just makes sense to me.

Here in Champagne, the people are warm and friendly, and there is a sense of community, that long-forgotten feeling that used to prevail in the homeland, the UK before it all went wrong.  The French are attached to the earth, the “terroir”, the planet in a way that makes me feel safe and secure, and even loved.

You can imagine my surprise then, when friend and business partner Marion Ryan sent me this article this morning.  Apparently the French have been voted the most rude country to visit for tourists!

Yes, yes, I know that sometimes they are rude, but isn’t everybody?   But what I’ve learned about the French during my many years among them, is that it’s NOT intentional.  My daughter describes them as “direct” and that’s a good description.  They don’t put up with nonsense, poor service, poor food, rules that don’t make sense to them, working harder, working longer (remember they only work 35 hours a week!)  and their lives are much more important than any commercial transaction.

There is a respect here for each other, with the essential “Bonjour Madame or Monsieur” whenever you meet someone in the street.  Eye contact is normal and people smile.  Old people are respected and children are cherished.  People help each other in a distinctly and guarded French way, but nevertheless the support is there.

Of course, I may have to eat my hat if Marine Le Pen wins the next election! God help us!

Categories: B&B in France, Festivals in France, Holidays French, Wine Festivals

Reiki and Champagne

Written by on March 16, 2012 · 1 Comment

I’ve just received the monthly newsletter from the Tourist Office in Epernay (pity it’s only in French) and I’ve noticed that there is a “Reiki Conference” happening on the 31st March.  (The Tourist Office’s website is undergoing some maintenance at the moment, otherwise I’d put a link in here for you).

I know that alternative health treatments are pretty popular around the world, but so far, in France I’ve yet to discover much at all. In fact one of my English students whispered that that sort of thing isn’t welcome in France. And I’m not surprised. The French are pretty wedded to their mainstream medical system, and anything natural or slightly “out there” would probably be shrugged off.

In fact, many of the “spa” treatments the rest of the world has to pay for privately, are offered on the French national health system.  A good friend of mine recently had a heart operation and he was sharing with me recently, that the option to take a “spa” treament was part of his recovery package!

But now, we have a Reiki conference taking place at the stunning Hotel Royal Champagne on the hills outside Epernay on the 31st March, starting at 4pm. I’m certainly going to be there. Anyone else?

Categories: B&B in France, Festivals in France, Holidays French

Fete Henri IV in Aÿ

Written by on March 11, 2012 · Leave a Comment

If you’re planning to come to Champagne this summer, then you won’t want to miss the Bi-annual Fete Henri IV in Aÿ (pronounced aye)

Aÿ used to be the capital of Champagne, over 400 years ago, and at that time was most famous for its still wines.  It’s still home to some of the big well-known champagne houses,  such as Bollinger, and some of the best grapes of the region are to be found in its vineyards.

The best time to visit Aÿ is every other year (even years)  when they hold the Fete Henri IV.  In 2012 it’s on the 6th/7th/8th July.   Many of the champagne houses large and small, open their courtyards, gardens and doors to visitors, where you can sip a glass or two and relax.  It’s a lot of fun.

If you come to the Fete, you’ll be able to walk in and taste some of the little known gems of Ay plus enjoy the atmosphere of a typical champenois event, where the music plays, the food is plentiful and the champagne flows.

Categories: B&B in France, Festivals in France, Holidays French, Wine Festivals

Champagne, Institutions And Why Don’t We Listen?

Written by on February 23, 2012 · 2 Comments

Just got back home from a local networking event in Epernay, near to where I live in Champagne.  The networking event was the first “Speed Networking” event held in Epernay, and I must say I was surprised and impressed to get an invitation.  At least they’re trying, I thought.

The focus of the event was twofold.

First, to bring all us operators in the tourist industry together to share ideas, meet new people and find the odd JV.  I thought this was a very good idea and quietly congratulated the new Director of the Tourist Office.

Secondly to unveil their new iniatiative on getting us all grouped together under yet another banner “Vignobles et Decouvertes”.  We’re already with “Gites de France”, “Tourisme Marne”, “CDT” to name but a few, all of which are supposed to give us credibility and assure the tourists.  And maybe it does, I really don’t know.  All I know is that I have paid handsomely to belong to these institutions in the past and I really can’t recall how much extra business they have brought me, but it’s not a lot.

We were told that the worthies had been down to Burgundy to see what they were doing down there and saw said V&D in action and thought it might be a good idea to do that in Champagne.

And it might be, but my point is “how will this help our visitors, those precious souls who come from far and wide to Champagne, with their expectations, their dreams and their money”  and I’m not sure I can see the answer to that question right now.

So often in business, and I’m as guilty as the next person, we focus on what we want or what we think our customers want, not really listening to their deepest desires and goals.  I wonder how much real research has been done into what visitors really want when they come to Champagne.  When I say real research, I mean asking good questions and then listening to the response without judgement.

I don’t think anyone would have revealed a deep desire to have a label “Vignobles et Decouvertes”  do you?

 

Categories: B&B, B&B in France

Launching an App feels like giving birth….

Written by on February 16, 2012 · 5 Comments

Finally, the day has arrived when you can now have your own personal network of contacts in Champagne downloaded onto your iphone or ipad!

Champagne Day App is being launched at 12 noon GMT tomorrow and I feel as though I’m going to give birth!

It’s been an exciting few months, contacting old friends, making new ones, gathering information, shooting videos, getting the files ready and then sending everything over to our wonderful appman Simon Williams.  If I’m the mother, Jiles is the father, and Simon is definitely the midwife!

And so the “baby” is about to be born, packed full of exactly what you need to plan and enjoy your Champagne experience.  It will introduce you to and take you to meet and see the people and places you probably wouldn’t find on your own, but where we know for sure you’ll have a great time.

To take a look inside the App, before it’s launched tomorrow, by clicking on the video below.  If you’re not already on the VIP Priority List where you can get your App tomorrow at the special one-day-only price then you’ve only got a few hours left to do that, by clicking here. 

I’m looking forward to meeting you soon in Champagne.  Cheers!

Categories: B&B in France, Festivals in France, Holidays French, Wine Festivals - Tags: , , , , ,

Choosing accommodation for your French vacation

Written by on January 20, 2012 · Leave a Comment

Your destination, France, is decided.  The flights/travel dates are booked.  Now you can turn your attention to where to stay.  How do you decide?

If this is your first visit to La Belle France, then there’s a treat in store.  France is the most visited country in the world.  And no wonder.  With beaches, mountains, unspoilt landscapes, food, drink, culture and heritage to name but a few reasons to choose this fair land, plus a favourite re-location destination for “les anglais”, who can resist?

Choosing a B&B or a hotel.  What’s the difference?

The B&B experience offers a unique opportunity to get an insight into the local way of life.  Many B&B owners are passionate and knowledgeable about their local area, and can direct you to people and places you wouldn’t find on your own.  They will make reservations for you; recommend restaurants based on their own experience (not because they get a commission).

They will spend time talking to you about what you need, and can respond quickly to problems and challenges you may have.  They can be your place of refuge in a foreign land.

You will often become part of their family during the time you stay with them, sometimes meeting other family members and their friends.  Sometimes you’ll have dinner with them and the family, and with the other guests.

Dinner choices are not normally offered, but usually good quality home-cooked food is served in a B&B.  You’ll get to meet other travellers too, and make new friends.  Recipes may be shared, and insights gained.  Childrens’ toys and books may be available for you.  You’ll experience a “home from home” atmosphere, that larger hotels cannot provide.  A truly enriching experience for open-minded travellers.

Hotels on the other hand generally provide higher levels of comfort and amenities.  If you’re looking for 4 or 5 star service, discreet waiting staff to attend to your every whim at all hours of the day and night, then a hotel is probably a better choice for you.

Look for B&Bs (and hotels) with lots of positive reviews from past guests when choosing your place to stay.  Customer reviews are far more reliable than anything the owners, managers or websites say.  Think about your expectations and how you’ll feel if they’re not met.  Know what you need and want, and then choose your accommodation accordingly.

Happy travelling!

Categories: B&B in France, Holidays French - Tags: , , ,

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