Domaine de la Vénerie

In the northern reaches of the Champagne-Ardenne, stays here would surely be missing a trick if they didn’t include some bubbly explores. These can be had with ease in the city of Reims (50 minutes’ drive away) famed for its champagne cellars, including Veuve Clicquot's and some dating to Roman times. Of course, champagne isn’t the only reason to visit Reims. The city has plenty of museums and Roman remains to wander, some gorgeous architecture, and a planetarium for gazing to the skies. Charleville-Mézières (40 minutes) continues the theme of oh-so-pretty buildings, with a spectacular Place Ducale and a famous puppeteer clock. This may be part of France’s champagne region, but that’s far from the only beverage available hereabouts… It’s just 15 minutes from the site to Brasserie Ardwen, a craft brewery where tours, tastings and meals are all to be had. Those who’d prefer a taste of history instead may want to point steps towards Musée Guerre et Paix, 15 minutes away, which is dedicated to World Wars I and II. More about World War II can be explored at the site of one of Hitler’s bunkers in Brûly-de-Pesche (40 minutes), across the border in Belgium. Belgian explores start within 30 minutes of the site.