If you’re exploring the Champagne region, Best Western Le Relais du Vigneron makes a great base. In the heart of the Côte des Blancs, it’s well placed for both vineyard tours and the town of Épernay (a 25-minute drive away), home to some of the most renowned Champagne houses. Its comfortable rooms, bar, restaurant and newly opened spa and gym offer all you need to unwind after a day spent exploring.

Where is it? 

Vertus is about 13 miles from Épernay, in the heart of the Côte des Blancs vineyards famed for chardonnay grapes. The family-owned, fifth-generation Premier Cru Champagne house Veuve Fourny et Fils is based in the village, and offers tastings and tours.

What’s the accommodation like? 

Spaciousness is key, and the rooms are spread across three buildings. The theme, unsurprisingly, is Champagne, with the buildings named after three of the region’s ‘forgotten’ grape varieties – arbanne, petit mélier and fromenteau.

In the rooms, Champagne motifs add nice touches, with the green-and-gold colour scheme evoking the vines and the wine in a glass. The carpets even have curves that echo the cracks in the region’s famous chalk soils.

There’s a range of rooms, from classic and superior to junior and larger suites, as well as studios and apartments with kitchen facilities. They’re good value, comfortable, modern and nicely appointed, with a Nespresso coffee machine, enough hanging space for a short break, high-speed wi-fi, TV, hair dryer and desk. There’s ample parking available for a small daily charge.

What did you eat and drink? 

The breakfast buffet is impressive. As well as healthy options such as yogurts, cereals and plenty of fruit, there are home-made pancakes, a good selection of bread and pastries, and hot food such as eggs, sausages et al. Coffee is standard self-service from a machine or filter jug, and there are lots of teas. Breakfast can also be ordered for your room.

The glitzy bar, Le Balthazar, is the place for a glass of fizz or cocktail, and you can enjoy your drinks out on the terrace. The Terre de Craie restaurant is a go-to locally, with classic French cuisine and vegetarian options on its good-value set menu. It serves one of the best foie gras starters I’ve had, and hearty meat and fish courses. Save space for the cheese trolley, which is wheeled to your table.

What is there to do? 

Drive into Épernay for tours and tastings at Champagne houses on the prestigious Avenue de Champagne. The châteaux and mansions that line this street are home to some of the world’s leading names, including Möet & Chandon and Pol Roger. Then visit the town’s Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology Museum at Château Perrier to learn how the celebrated fizz is made. Book lunch at La Cave à Champagne for traditional fare – with set menus from €29 (£25) – and an extensive list of Champagnes.

What do I need to pack? 

Walking shoes if you want to hike and comfortable cycling gear if you plan to hire an electric bike to visit the vineyards. Smart-casual outfits for tours and dining out. You’ll need warm clothes in winter, as temperatures can drop.

Lasting memory 

Strolling along Épernay’s Avenue de Champagne during the Habits de Lumière, the town’s colourful, three-day festival of light held every December (it’ll run from 11-13 December in 2026). It’s a fun atmosphere, with video mapping on buildings, music, tastings, parades and parties. Be sure to bring your dancing shoes. 

Sainsbury’s magazine insider tip 

Turn you break into a two-centre holiday by visiting the region’s other key centre of Reims, where you can enjoy tastings, art deco architecture and the gothic splendour of the city’s cathedral. The recently opened Hyatt Centric hotel overlooks the Aisne-Marne Canal and is a short walk from the town’s sights.