We would like to find a pleasant stopover to break the 7 hour journey between Colmar and Rouen in early September. I imagine that normal stops for fuel, snacks, etc would stretch it to closer to 9 if our past driving experiences hold true. Reims was always the first thought, roughly 4 hours from Colmar and then 3 hours more to Rouen. The historic cathedral holds much appeal, but we really don't have much interest at all in touring the champagne houses or other wine related activities. Now I am thinking about Laon, also a cathedral city but apparently much smaller, and hence perhaps easier to handle than Reims for an afternoon and overnight. We will be in France for roughly 2 1/2 weeks, with a week in Paris, a few days in Alsace, and the remainder in Normandy and a bit of Brittany. I'm certain we won't miss too many cathedrals anywhere. Any comments on Laon or Reims, or any suggestions would be very welcomed. Thank you! I have learned so much from this group and am grateful for all the help we received.
Posted by
Paris
9548 posts
Yes, I echo Jeff in saying that the "Musée de la Reddition," or the Surrender Museum, is well worth a bit of time to round out a non-Champagne stop in Reims.
Posted by
OP
Columbus, OH, USA
2026 posts
Thank you for the replies. It is helpful and we will continue to look at both Reims and Laon as possibilities. Just for the record, we aren't teetolars, but we aren't big drinkers, either. We always try the local wines and beers wherever we go, primarily, and perhaps embarrassingly, because it's cheaper than the Diet Pepsi we really want. :-) It really comes down to spending time and money on things that are truly of interest. I won't rule out a tour of a champagne house, and we shall consider it. Your comments are food (or drink) for thought. Thanks again.
Posted by
Paris
9548 posts
My mom is the same. I know that sometimes she would wish she could have a Diet Coke (excuse me, Cola Light) but just can't bring herself to order it since it costs more than a glass of wine.
I have to say, if you're at all science-inclined or interested, the Champagne house tours are actually quite fascinating. but I don't mean to talk you into something that doesn't really interest you. The Cathedrale and the Surrender Museum are worth a trip, but I must say that Reims as a town (in my opinion) is not that attractive.