Champagne is world-renowned for its prestigious Champagne houses and its vineyard landscapes listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But beyond the bubbles, this region is full of little-known and sometimes surprising places that are well worth a visit. Here are 5 unusual spots to explore during your next trip to Champagne.
1. Faux de Verzy
Nestled in the heart of the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, the Faux de Verzy forest is home to a unique concentration of twisted beeches, known locally as “faux” – a phenomenon found nowhere else in Europe.
These trees, with their contorted and mysterious shapes, create an almost otherworldly landscape, straight out of a fairy tale.
There are more than 800 specimens, protected for several decades.
Autumn is a particularly magical time to visit, when the foliage turns to vibrant shades of red and gold.
Marked trails allow you to explore the forest at your own pace.
Distance: 30 minutes from Avize and 25 minutes from Reims.
2. Fort de la Pompelle
Classified as a historical monument, Fort de la Pompelle is a former military fortification dating back to the late 19th century, built to strengthen the defensive belt around Reims.
It played a crucial role during World War I. Today, it has been transformed into a museum showcasing an exceptional collection of helmets and military artifacts from across Europe.
Its imposing architecture, standing in isolation amid the woods, and its powerful historical legacy make it a striking and unusual site, far from the usual tourist trails.
Distance: 40 minutes from Avize, 15 minutes from Reims.
3. Château de Boursault
Built in the 19th century by Madame Clicquot (the famous Widow Clicquot), Château de Boursault is the only château in the region that produces its own Champagne.
This neo-Renaissance residence, perched atop a hill, offers stunning views over the Marne Valley. Little known to the general public, the estate offers private tours by reservation, including tastings.
A discreet immersion in a magnificent setting where history, architecture, and Champagne come together.
Distance: 25 minutes from Avize, 45 minutes from Reims.
4. The Cave of Shells (La Cave aux Coquillages)
Located in Fleury-la-Rivière, this unique cave is a former fossilized sea turned into a paleontological site.
As you explore its chalk galleries, you will discover thousands of fossilized shells dating back over 45 million years.
The visit, guided by a passionate winemaker, is also an opportunity to taste their Champagne, cultivated on this exceptional terroir. A unique blend of geology, viticulture, and natural heritage.
Distance: 10 minutes from Avize, 35 minutes from Reims.
5. The Verzenay Lighthouse
Quintessentially unusual, the Verzenay Lighthouse stands atop a hill, surrounded by vineyards.
Built in 1909 by Joseph Goulet for advertising his Champagne house, it was never intended to guide ships, but today remains one of the region’s most surprising landmarks.
The lighthouse now houses a museum dedicated to vines and wine, and from its summit offers an exceptional panoramic view over the Montagne de Reims and its classified villages.
A must-see visit for the curious traveler.
Distance: 25 minutes from Avize, 20 minutes from Reims.
