Note to self: get your driving license, Tanda. Genuinely, because this Easter weekend I was fully passenger princess the entire way — and while I have zero regrets, future me with a licence would be nice!
(Side note: went to a wedding recently — nothing humbles you like carrying your tote and jacket all day. Boots? I get it now.)
This trip was pure my mate Rachel. If you know her, you know she is the walking embodiment of Thomas Cook — she finds joy in planning, she's smart about budget, and she always finds the best bits. Before I even had time to think about logistics, there was already a shared note titled Champagne Easter Weekend with costs, travel, and hotels per person sorted. My only contribution to the planning stage was asking "do I need to transfer you anything now?"
So 2026 Easter weekend, the three of us — me, Rachel and our driver and resident war historian Millie — embarked on a drive down to France through the channel crossing. I was in the back seat taking in the scenery while Millie delivered war facts the entire journey.
Before going, I knew champagne was special. After going, I understand it. Seeing the land is something else. It was one of the first times I've visually experienced a place where an entire region is dedicated to one thing — and does it so beautifully. The vineyards stretch for miles. So when people say, "if it's not from Champagne, it's not champagne"… yeah. I get it now.
Learning that women have been central to the champagne industry for centuries — owning houses, leading businesses, and shaping the legacy of the region entirely. Madame Clicquot Ponsardin built an empire at a time when women simply weren't expected to lead. Her standard? "Only one quality, the finest." Jeez. We love to hear it.
I'll be honest — I had low-key anxiety about France. No shade, but the stereotypes are real and I was especially unsure about whether Champagne would feel welcoming. I was pleasantly surprised. Both Épernay and Reims were genuinely chilled, everyday and relaxed. Every morning we got dressed, sipped champagne, and girl-chatted at different spots without a single awkward moment… well, except the French don't really care about the concept of queuing in cafes — you've just gotta sort yourself out lol.
Recommendations
- Ruinart, Reims — Do this. Just do it. The oldest champagne house in the world. Didn't do the tour, just went for vibes — 10/10, unlimited bread and butter, and staff were so friendly.
- Local champagne house tours — Beyond the big names, do at least one tour with a smaller, family-run house. Talking to the people whose grandparents' grandparents planted these vines is something else entirely.
- Château de Boursault — champagne-chateau-de-boursault.fr — They have a candle made from the bottoms of old wine bottles; I should've bought two!
- Avenue de Champagne, Épernay — Walk it. Stop into Moët for a drink and a photograph.
- Sacré Brunch, Reims — Brunch here. You're welcome.
This trip genuinely made me want to work harder for me and my home gurls. I like nice things. I like champagne. And Blanc de Blancs? That's some yummy stuff.
Going back to Prosecco ain't fun.
This was a LUSH champagne + endless yap trip.
Note: most spots close around 19:00—perfect for dinner, more yapping, then bed… no hangovers!
Oh btw, for us 1992 babies… that was a great year for champagne 🍾
1991 struggled (check the fact books, don't come for me), 1993 was ok but 92 takes this one 😌
So.. guess I'm actually ageing like fine wine 😌
cya xo