The Champagne region owes its worldwide renown for its famous sparkling wine: Champagne.
As you travel through picturesque villages and landscapes full of vineyards you will learn about the region’s heritage. Come and discover its historical sites in towns designated as Cities of Art and History, and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in its scenic countryside.
We will also take you on a tour of one of the famous Champagne cellars.
We will take you on a tour of the city of Reims, nicknamed the « City of Coronations » due to the number of coronations of Carolingian and Capetian kings that took place there from the 9th century onwards.
Its magnificent cathedral is known for having been, from the 11th century onwards, the site of almost all the coronations of the kings of France.
By the end of May 1918, the third German spring offensive had established a salient extending from a point west of Soissons south to Château-Thierry, and then northeast to the outskirts of Reims. An attack pushed west from Soissons in June fell short of German expectations. Another was planned to encircle Reims and cross the Marne River east of Chateau-Thierry in mid-July. The French response was a prepared defense and a strategic counterattack to collapse the Chateau-Thierry salient.
On June 6, a Marine brigade was ordered to retake Belleau Wood, but in a single day the losses were very heavy after attacks in open terrain. On June 10 and 11, 1918, the Germans reinforced their positions in Belleau Wood and in the Bouresches sector. On June 10, the 6th Regiment launched an attack, and on June 11 it was the 5th Marine Regiment’s turn. The Germans were captured, and the wood was retaken. Gradually, the Marines were relieved by other American units.
On the night of June 25, the Marines fully captured Belleau Wood. They earned the nickname “Devil Dogs” at Belleau for their determination in battle. Belleau Wood was named “Wood of the Marine Brigade” by General Degoutte.
Some suggestions of places to see: Belleau Wood – Red Cross’s Farm – Oise Aisne cemetery ( Quentin Roosevelt’s grave – The grave of the poet Joyce Kilmer) – Roosevelt Crash – Lost Battalion
