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Observation deck · Reims, Grande Leste
Phare de Verzenay
Lighthouse built in the early 20th century in the middle of the vineyards of the Montagne de Reims, with a 360-degree viewing platform reached by 101 steps and the Musée de la Vigne, about work in the vineyards.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Phare de Verzenay
A lighthouse in the middle of the vineyards, more than 100 km from the sea: the Phare de Verzenay was built in the early 20th century by a champagne merchant as an advertising piece, on the top of the slope of the village of Verzenay in the Montagne de Reims. Today it is a small museum and one of the best viewpoints in the region.
There are 101 steps to the top. Up there, a 360-degree lookout shows the vineyards running down the slope, the village of Verzenay, the plain and, on clear days, Reims in the distance. Verzenay is one of the villages classified as grand cru, the highest level in the Champagne vineyard classification.
At the foot of the lighthouse is the Musée de la Vigne, which explains, using audiovisual resources, what is needed to make champagne: the chalk soil, the climate, the grapes and the work of the vine grower throughout the year. There is also a tasting area and a garden with views over the vineyards.
Nearby, on the top of the hill, stands the Moulin de Verzenay, an old windmill amid the vineyards. The lighthouse lies on the route between Reims and Épernay along the vineyard road and combines well with a scenic drive through the Montagne de Reims.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1h30, including the museum and the climb to the lighthouse.
Best time
On a clear day, to enjoy the view. From May to October the vineyards are green, and the harvest usually takes place in September. Access to the lighthouse may be closed for works at certain times: check before you go.
How to get there
It is in Verzenay, about 20 km from Reims along the vineyard road, roughly 25 minutes by car. Public transport to the village is limited; the most practical option is to go by car or on a guided tour.
Tip
Go by car and then follow the scenic vineyard route to Épernay, passing the villages of the Montagne de Reims. If you are driving, you should skip the tasting.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Phare de Verzenay
Why is there a lighthouse in the middle of the vineyards?
It was built in the early 20th century by a champagne merchant as a publicity piece, on the top of the slope of Verzenay. It never served for navigation.
Can you get there by public transport?
Transport to Verzenay is limited. The most practical option is to go by car, about 25 minutes from Reims, or with a guided tour of the vineyards.
How many steps are there on the climb?
There are 101 steps up to the lookout, which offers a 360-degree view over the vineyards of the Montagne de Reims.
Is the lighthouse open year-round?
The museum operates for most of the year, but access to the lighthouse may be closed during certain periods for maintenance. Check before you go.