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La Cave aux Coquillages: A Journey Through Time

Discover a hidden world beneath the Champagne vineyards at La Cave aux Coquillages, where ancient fossils and sparkling wines create a unique and unforgettable experience in Fleury-la-Rivière.

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La Cave aux Coquillages, nestled in Fleury-la-Rivière, offers a unique blend of geology and oenology, transporting visitors back 45 million years to a tropical sea that once covered the Champagne region. This fascinating museum, situated within a working Champagne vineyard, showcases an impressive collection of fossilized seashells, including the giant Campanile Giganteum. Guided tours lead you through underground galleries, revealing the area's rich paleontological history and its connection to the region's renowned Champagne production. It's an immersive experience that combines education, exploration, and a taste of local bubbly, making it a must-see for those seeking an unusual and enriching excursion in the heart of Champagne.

A brief summary to La Cave aux Coquillages

Local tips

  • Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, as reservations are required to ensure availability.
  • Bring a sweater or jacket, as the temperature in the underground cellars can be cool, even during the summer months.
  • Consider participating in a paleontological workshop for a hands-on experience excavating and restoring fossils.
  • Allow ample time for your visit, as the tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the Champagne tasting.
  • Visit the souvenir shop for unique geological kits, fossils, and jewelry made from Champagne seashells.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Epernay, take the D1 towards Fleury-la-Rivière. The drive is approximately 15 minutes. As you enter Fleury-la-Rivière, follow signs for La Cave aux Coquillages. The site is located on Rue du Bourg de Vesle. Limited free parking is available on-site.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services (like Uber) are available from Epernay. A taxi ride will cost approximately €20-€30. Specify 'La Cave aux Coquillages in Fleury-la-Rivière' as your destination. The journey takes around 15 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't a direct public transport route to La Cave aux Coquillages, you can take a train or bus to Epernay and then take a taxi or ride-sharing service for the final leg of the journey. The train from Reims to Epernay costs around €8-€15. The taxi from Epernay to La Cave aux Coquillages will cost approximately €20-€30.

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Discover more about La Cave aux Coquillages

La Cave aux Coquillages presents a captivating journey through time, where the worlds of geology and Champagne intertwine. Located in the charming village of Fleury-la-Rivière, this unique attraction invites visitors to explore the remnants of a tropical sea that existed 45 million years ago, long before the vineyards that now define the landscape. The story begins with Patrice Legrand, whose passion for fossils led to the discovery of this extraordinary underground world. What started as a quest to expand his family's Champagne cellars evolved into the unearthing of a remarkable fossil site. As you descend into the cool, dimly lit galleries, you're immediately transported to a prehistoric era. The walls are adorned with countless fossilized seashells, perfectly preserved in the chalky rock. Among the most impressive finds is the Campanile Giganteum, a giant snail shell that can reach up to 60 cm in length. These ancient relics offer a tangible connection to a time when the Champagne region was a vibrant marine ecosystem. The guided tour provides a wealth of information about the geology of the area, the types of fossils found, and the history of the Legrand-Latour family's Champagne-making tradition. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, creating an engaging and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Children, in particular, are fascinated by the opportunity to see and touch these ancient treasures. Beyond the fossils, La Cave aux Coquillages offers a glimpse into the world of Champagne production. The cellars themselves are an integral part of the tour, showcasing the traditional methods used to create the region's famous sparkling wine. You'll learn about the different grape varieties, the fermentation process, and the aging techniques that give Champagne its unique character. The visit culminates in a tasting of Legrand-Latour Champagne, a delightful way to appreciate the connection between the region's geology and its viticulture. The minerality of the soil, influenced by the ancient seabed, contributes to the distinctive flavor profile of the Champagne. For those who prefer non-alcoholic options, orange juice is also available. La Cave aux Coquillages is more than just a museum; it's an immersive experience that stimulates the senses and sparks the imagination. The combination of paleontology, geology, and oenology creates a truly unique and unforgettable visit. It's a place where you can learn about the history of the Earth, the art of Champagne making, and the passion of a family dedicated to preserving this extraordinary heritage. To enhance the experience, consider participating in a paleontological workshop, where you can try your hand at excavating and restoring fossils. These hands-on activities provide a deeper understanding of the science behind the discoveries and allow you to connect with the past in a meaningful way. Before leaving, be sure to visit the souvenir shop, where you can find a variety of geological kits, fossils, and jewelry made from Champagne seashells. These unique mementos will serve as a reminder of your journey through time at La Cave aux Coquillages. La Cave aux Coquillages is open year-round, but reservations are required. The temperature in the cellars can be cool, even in summer, so it's advisable to bring a sweater or jacket. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allowing ample time to explore the galleries, learn about the fossils, and enjoy the Champagne tasting. Located in the heart of the Champagne region, La Cave aux Coquillages is easily accessible from nearby towns such as Epernay and Reims. It's a perfect day trip destination for those seeking a unique and enriching experience that combines history, science, and the pleasures of Champagne.

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