Behind the Cellar Door:
Festive Season in Champagne + Alsace
A French Journey Through Wine, Tradition & the Spirit of Celebration
Step beyond the gates of Champagne's most storied houses and discover a side of France few travelers ever experience. From the historic chalk cellars beneath Reims to the intimate world of family-run grower-producers, this is an invitation to explore Champagne through the people who make it extraordinary.
Then, follow the road east to Alsace, where vineyard-covered hills give way to medieval villages dressed for the season. In December, the region takes on a particular magic. Christmas markets fill historic squares, windows glow with candlelight, and the aromas of spiced wine, freshly baked treats, and Alsatian specialties drift through the streets.
Along the way, we'll share tables with winemakers, discover the traditions behind the region's remarkable wines, and enjoy the kind of meals and conversations that turn a journey into something more meaningful.
From Champagne's quiet grandeur to the festive warmth of Alsace, this is France at its most welcoming.
What Awaits
This journey brings together two distinctive wine regions, each with its own traditions, personalities, and pleasures.
In Champagne, we'll step inside the world of the great houses and the independent growers who are shaping the region's future. Our time includes a stay at the historic Résidence Eisenhower at Champagne Charles Heidsieck, an extraordinary private residence with a story all its own. We'll descend into the legendary Crayères beneath Reims, taste exceptional Champagnes, and spend time with producers whose wines and hospitality rarely make it onto the typical traveler's itinerary.
From there, we'll travel east to Alsace. Here, the landscape shifts, the architecture changes, and the culinary traditions take on a character distinctly their own. December is a wonderful time to experience the region. Villages glow with Christmas decorations, market stalls bring local artisans and seasonal specialties into the streets, and the region's wines seem particularly well suited to long, convivial meals.
We'll venture beyond the markets, too. Through personal relationships with local winemakers and hosts, we'll discover the vineyards, cellars, kitchens, and family traditions that give Alsace its character.
And then there's Paris—a final evening together to reflect on the journey, share one last meal, and raise a glass to the places and people we've encountered along the way.
Why This Trip Is Irreplaceable
The best part is always the people.
This journey exists because of relationships built over time—with winemakers, chefs, and hosts who have welcomed us into their worlds and made these experiences possible.
We aren't simply visiting Champagne and Alsace. We're getting to know them through the people who call these places home.
It's the stories behind a bottle, the generosity of a family opening its cellar, the pleasure of a meal that lasts a little longer than expected. It's discovering a village not just for its beautiful streets, but for the people and traditions that bring it to life.
And in Alsace, it's experiencing the Christmas season not simply as a spectator, but as a guest—taking time to wander, taste, gather, and enjoy the particular pleasures of this corner of France in December.
Every stop has a reason. Every experience is considered. And there's always room for the unexpected.
Highlights at a Glance
Private access to the historic chalk cellars of Champagne Charles Heidsieck, which are not open to the public.
An extraordinary stay at the Résidence Eisenhower, the House's historic private residence.
Exceptional Champagne tastings, including rare and limited-production wines.
Personal encounters with both established Champagne houses and independent grower-producers.
Time to explore and soak in the beauty of Alsace's wine villages during the Christmas season.
Visits to traditional Christmas markets, with opportunities to discover regional artisans, seasonal specialties, and local traditions.
Behind-the-scenes visits with acclaimed Alsatian winemakers and family producers.
Market visit and hands-on culinary experience with Chef Kevin Callaghan.
Memorable meals that celebrate the distinctive food cultures of both regions.
A final evening in Paris to bring the journey together.
Thoughtful hosting from Amy and Kevin, with a focus on genuine connection, local insight, and the pleasure of discovering a place well.
Dates & Availability
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December 11-18, 2027
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Limited to 12 guests
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Double Occupancy: $10,000 per person*
*Based on double occupancy. A $2500 surcharge applies for single occupancy.
25% deposit required to confirm booking
Final payment due 60 days prior to arrival
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Accommodations
Seven nights in carefully selected luxury boutique hotels that reflect the character of each destination.
Transportation
Private ground transportation throughout the journey.
First-class train travel between regions, as applicable.
Food & Wine
A curated selection of memorable meals showcasing the culinary traditions of Champagne and Alsace.
Wine and Champagne tastings throughout the journey.
Culinary experiences led by Chef Kevin Callaghan.
Experiences
Visits and experiences designed around the people, traditions, and character of each region.
Time to explore the traditional Christmas markets of Alsace.
Hosting
Dedicated hosting by Amy and Kevin throughout the journey.
Local experts and hosts who bring each destination to life.
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While the following are not included, they can be arranged free of charge by The Olive Road.
Airfare
Optional activities (spa treatments, extended excursions)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, extra drinks)
Meals and alcohol not listed on the final itinerary
Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
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This journey combines private transportation with first-class train travel between regions. Travelers should be comfortable managing their own luggage on and off trains, including navigating station platforms and occasional stairs.
In Alsace, we'll spend time exploring beautiful historic villages, many with cobblestone streets, uneven pathways, and pedestrian-only areas. Comfortable walking shoes and the ability to navigate these surfaces are important.
We'll also build in time for independent exploration, so a sense of curiosity and a little flexibility will go a long way.