Hello -
We are travelling to Paris in early June, looking to take a day trip to the Champagne region. We would like to book a guide to take us on a full-day champagne tasting adventure. My problem, is that when I search for guides, I am mostly given Viator and other such big sites paying for add space. What I would really like is a recommendation for a few smaller local tour guides.
Anyone have recommendations on local tour guides?
Thanks in advance!
DL
Hi -
I see no one responded to your question, but was hoping maybe you did find a tour after all! My husband and I are heading to Paris in September and have the same question as you. I can't seem to find any firsthand experiences on this forum and you're right, when I google only Viator pops up. I too am hoping for a smaller, local outfit.
Let me know if you have any recommendations.
Thanks so much,
Kristen
On Viator, if you peel through the description of the tour under "Additional Info" they tell you who is actually running the tour. Viator is just a platform, it doesn't run any actual tours. You can then use that information to track down the website for who is actually providing and see more about the tour company, the guide, reviews, etc. Another source I have been using for my own trip to France is AirBnB Experiences. What I like about ABBE is I am easily able through my AirBnB account to message the tour "host" and ask questions about what is offered.
On Viator, if you peel through the description of the tour under "Additional Info" they tell you who is actually running the tour. Viator is just a platform, it doesn't run any actual tours. You can then use that information to track down the website for who is actually providing and see more about the tour company, the guide, reviews, etc. and book directly if you prefer. Another source I have been using for my own trip to France is AirBnB Experiences. What I like about ABBE is I am easily able through my AirBnB account to message the tour "host" and ask questions about what is offered. And they have many unique experiences that are not standard tours.
We ended up using Sparkling Tours.
https://www.sparkling-tour.com
We really enjoyed our day! We visited mostly smaller houses.
Here was our itinerary:
• 9:30AM-6PM
• Pick up from the Train Station in Reims
• Visit of a Small Champagne Producer "Premier Cru": Explanation of the process, Visit of the Cellar and tasting of 3 different Champagnes.
• Visit of Hautvillers : Village, where Dom Pérignon is buried and created the Champagne.
• Stop at a View Point into the Vineyard to take few photos.
• Lunch into a French Restaurant in Epernay (3 courses Meal + Glass of Champagne + coffee) – Not a set up Menu but please advise for any allergies.
• Visit of a Second Small Champagne Producer "Premier or Grand Cru": Small visit of their Cellar and tasting of 3 different Champagnes.
• Visit of a Third Small Champagne Producer "Premier or Grand Cru": Tasting of 3 different Champagnes.
DL
Check the Reims visitor bureau web site: https://en.reims-tourisme.com/visits-and-excursions
Links to many half & full day tours.
We have scheduled a full day small group tour for September with http://www.france-intense.com
Really appreciate everyone's feedback!!
