Reims + Ludes
When we found out family would be in Europe we leapt at the opportunity, and set of on for a four hour drive literal minutes from wrapping Asher’s 4th birthday party. Shout out to our friend Laura who helped us bring our house back to normal before we departed - having extra help was clutch getting out the door on time.
Our hotel was perfectly situated in the city center and though a bit tight despite having a family room, provided a convenient base for our stay. The fussball table in the lobby didn’t hurt, either.
Eat:
Le Grand Cafe - mussels and frittes, baby.
Paul Bakery - casual French bakery with delightful hot cocoa.
Les Crayeres - home to an extended multi course lunch with exquisite service. The grounds are not to be missed - they’re meticulously managed and the boys had an amazing romp around.
Le Grand Georgette - steps from Notre Dame (which houses a Chagall) and everything we ordered was delicious.
Au 36 - located in Hautville on the way to Ludes and home to the quaintest cafe by Dom Perignon nestled in the town. This is where we tried Dom for the first time and boy, was it a treat!
Play:
Parc Leo Lagrange - a short walk from our hotel and the perfect urban space to play.
Les Basses Promenade - located near the train station and an idyllic spot in the city center to play.
Champagne Tours:
For the tours I carried Asher (4) on my back in our HappyBaby carrier, while Owen (6) walked.
Ruinart - fantastic tour that even Owen loved. During the tastings the boys sat at our feet coloring as we passed them candy bribes. Worth it.
Champagne Ployez Jacquemart - located in Ludes and family owned, this small house stole my heart.
Veuve Cliquot - we missed our first tour time and had a glass of wine on the terrace in lieu, and returned back the next day for a tour.
My favorite Champagne houses, hands down were tied between Ruinart and Ployez-Jacquemart. Two different experiences that were truly memorable. Of note, the experience was a success in no small part to the fact there were four adults supervising two children because, extra arms always.
