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Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers: The Cradle of Champagne

Discover the historic abbey in Hautvillers, the birthplace of champagne and home to the legendary Dom Pérignon.

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Founded in 650 by Saint Nivard, the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers is a former Benedictine monastery with a rich history. It's best known as the home of Dom Pérignon, the monk who made significant contributions to the development of champagne. While the abbey is now owned by Moët & Chandon and not open to the public, its historical significance and beautiful setting in the heart of the Champagne region make it a worthwhile visit.

A brief summary to Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers

  • 21 Rue de l'Abbaye, Hautvillers, 51160, FR

Local tips

  • Visit the Saint-Sindulphe church to see Dom Pérignon's tomb.
  • Explore the charming village of Hautvillers and enjoy the panoramic views of the Champagne region.
  • Visit local champagne houses for tastings and to learn about the champagne-making process.
  • Check out the wrought-iron signs on the facades of the houses in Hautvillers, which are typical of the region.
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Getting There

  • Taxi

    From Épernay, the easiest way to reach Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers is by taxi. A taxi ride from Épernay to Hautvillers typically takes around 7 minutes and costs between €18 and €23. Taxis are readily available in Épernay, especially near the train station.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers via public transport, take a train from Reims to Épernay. Trains are frequent, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Épernay station, you can take a local bus (Line 2) or a taxi to Hautvillers. If you choose the bus, ensure you check the schedule as the frequency may vary. After arriving in Hautvillers, it's a short walk to the abbey at 21 Rue de l'Abbaye.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Hautvillers, the abbey is easily accessible on foot. From the village center, head towards Rue de l'Abbaye and follow the signs. The abbey is located a short walk from the center of the village.

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Discover more about Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers

Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region in the village of Hautvillers, the Abbaye Saint-Pierre d'Hautvillers holds a special place in the history of winemaking. Founded in 650 by Saint Nivard, Archbishop of Reims, the Benedictine abbey thrived for centuries. According to legend, Saint Nivard had a prophetic vision of a dove flying along the hillside, indicating the location where he should build the monastery. The abbey's most famous resident was Dom Pierre Pérignon, who served as the abbey's cellar master in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Dom Pérignon's work in refining the winemaking process is credited with transforming the region's still wines into the sparkling champagne we know today. He is considered the spiritual father of champagne. Although the abbey itself is not open to the public as it is private property of Moët & Chandon, visitors can still appreciate the exterior of the buildings and the surrounding vineyards. The adjacent Saint-Sindulphe church, where Dom Pérignon is buried, is open to visitors. The village of Hautvillers offers panoramic views of the Marne Valley and several champagne houses where visitors can enjoy tastings.

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