The SCNF bullet train glides through the outskirts of Paris and into the Champagne region, reaching a blinding 300 kph and arriving in Reims after only 40 minutes. Chic Reims, loaded with history, cobbled streets, and a restaurant for each night of the year.

The Reims Notre Dame Cathedral holds a significant place in French history. King Charles VII stood aside Joan of Arc at his coronation in 1429. The intricate stonework of this Gothic masterpiece is daunting, and the size of the structure ensures it commands the entire city.

The tree lined main street through town is 300 metres of beautifully restored buildings, more alfresco restaurants than you can imagine, and food to die for. Sauerkraut with salmon, goats cheese salad, a bucket of mussels, creme brulee, and a vanilla milkshake.

Full as a French Primary School we stagger to the Cathedral for another look at an amazing part of French history, then on to our hotel.

Being in le Champagne region, it would be irresponsible not to tour a local Champagne house. Sunday morning, before departing for Berne in Switzerland, we take a tour of this treasured process at the Mumm Champagne House, only 10 minutes stroll from the town centre.