A breath of fresh air around Jonchery-sur-Vesle

Head for Jonchery-sur-Vesle for a cultural and natural stopover in Champagne. On the programme: animal encounters, strolls through vineyards and charming little villages!

Jonchery-sur-Vesle is the starting point for the second leg of the Champagne Tourist Route! Before hitting the road, take a refreshing dip in the Parc Municipal arboretum. It's the perfect way to start a day out in the Marne if you're taking to the road with the whole family!

Get behind the wheel between the Ardre and Vesle valleys, heading for the village of Vandeuil. Now's the time to put on your hiking boots and set off on the fully signposted trails of the "Circuit du Mont Grenet"! Step by step, you'll pass through 5 flower-filled villages on your way to a bucolic stroll.

After a few minutes' drive, you officially enter the Ardre valley via the village of Serzy-et-Prin. The river you hear is none other than the Ardre, born in the Montagne de Reims. Keep your eyes peeled for vineyards on either side of the river... where the famous Meunier grape is grown!

As you continue to drive through the valley, don't miss the village of Crugny, with its washhouses and Romanesque church. Continue on to Lagery, where you can admire the historic covered market, a real architectural treasure. A short diversions will take you to Arcis-le-Ponsart, a charming neighbouring village. Here you can discover the magnificent Abbaye d'Igny, a tranquil spot well worth a visit! Take time to wander around its gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Then head back towards Faverolles-et-Coëmy, another village with three wash-houses and a church. As you pass through Savigny-sur-Ardres, a plaque opposite the church will no doubt catch your eye: it says that it was here, on 28 May 1940, that General Charles de Gaulle made the first radio appeal of the Resistance! A stage rich in history.

Along the way, be sure to stop off at one of the local winegrowers. They will be delighted to welcome you for cellar tours and tastings, offering you an authentic experience at the heart of the Champagne vineyards.