During the first weekend of July, shortly after having stayed at Schloss Elmau, I had the unique opportunity to visit the champagne region for the very first time. Hosted by Moet & Chandon, I was invited to stay at the exclusive Royal Champagne Hotel in Champillon, situated between Epernay and Reims. I eagerly anticipated a luxurious stay in the heart of Champagne, France. This review encapsulates my 24-hour stay, highlighting both the exceptional and the areas where the experience fell short.

Arrival and First Impressions

Upon arrival at the Royal Champagne Hotel, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of the property. The hotel's elegant façade blends seamlessly with the picturesque landscape of rolling vineyards, setting the stage for what promised to be an opulent experience. The staff welcomed me with professionalism and warmth, swiftly handling the check-in process and making me feel instantly at home.

Room and Amenities

Airy and Elegant Design

My room was a masterpiece of contemporary design, characterized by its airy and elegant aesthetic. The large windows allowed for an abundance of natural light, enhancing the spaciousness of the room. The neutral color palette, complemented by luxurious furnishings, created a serene and sophisticated ambiance. The attention to detail in the room’s design was evident, with every element thoughtfully curated to provide maximum comfort and style.

Stunning Marble Bathroom

The bathroom was a highlight, boasting stunning marble finishes and modern fixtures. The heated mirror was a particularly delightful touch, ensuring a fog-free experience even after a hot shower. The Parisian brand Diptyque provided the bath toiletries, adding a touch of luxury and indulgence. The scents and quality of these products enhanced the overall experience, making the bathroom a sanctuary of relaxation.

Welcome Amenities

The welcome amenities were plentiful, featuring homemade Madeleines, a fruit platter, and bottled water. These thoughtful touches made me feel valued as a guest. However, I was slightly disappointed to find the unique champagne cooler box devoid of a bottle of champagne. Given the geographical situation in the champagne region and the hotel's reputation, I expected a complimentary bottle as part of the welcome package.

Spa and Pool

Spacious and Wonderfully Designed Spa

The spa at the Royal Champagne Hotel is a haven of tranquility. Spacious and beautifully designed, it offers a range of treatments and facilities to rejuvenate both body and mind. The ambiance is serene, with calming colors and soft lighting creating a perfect environment for relaxation. The spa staff were professional and attentive, ensuring that my experience was nothing short of exceptional.

Infinity Pool Experience

Despite the partly cloudy and windy weather on the first day, the following morning was sunny and warm, allowing me to enjoy the hotel’s infinity pool. The pool offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards, making for an idyllic setting. Lounging by the pool, soaking up the sun, and taking in the stunning vistas was a highlight of my stay. The pool area is well-maintained, and the service here was impeccable, with staff readily available to cater to any needs.

Dining Experience

Main Restaurant: A Mixed Experience

While the overall experience at the Royal Champagne Hotel was exceptional, the dining experience at the hotel's main restaurant was somewhat disappointing. Despite the high prices, the presentation and taste of the food did not meet the standards one would expect from an establishment of this caliber. The dishes lacked the finesse and flavor that would justify the cost, making this aspect of the stay less enjoyable.

Breakfast on the Terrace

Breakfast, however, was a different story. The buffet and à la carte options served on the terrace were excellent. The variety and quality of the food were impressive, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The setting, with panoramic views of the vineyards, added to the charm of the morning meal. Nonetheless, I was surprised by the additional cost of 20 euros for Eggs Benedict. Given the room rates of over 1000 euros per night, such items should be included in the breakfast offerings.

Professional and Top-Notch Service

The service at the Royal Champagne Hotel was consistently professional and top-notch. The staff demonstrated a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction, attending to every need with efficiency and courtesy. From the front desk to the spa and pool staff, everyone contributed to a seamless and enjoyable stay. Housekeeping was another area where the hotel excelled. The room was meticulously cleaned and maintained, with attention to every detail. The comfort and cleanliness of the room enhanced the overall experience, ensuring a restful and luxurious stay.

Stunning Views and Exclusive Interior

One of the most remarkable features of the Royal Champagne Hotel is the stunning vistas available from various points on the property. Whether from my room, the terrace, or the pool, the views of the vineyards and the surrounding countryside were breathtaking. These views, coupled with the elegant interior design, created an atmosphere of exclusivity and tranquility. The interior of the hotel is brand new and exudes exclusivity. The design is a perfect blend of modern luxury and classic elegance, with high-quality materials and finishes throughout. The common areas, including the lobby and lounge, are inviting and beautifully appointed, making every moment spent in the hotel a pleasure.

Conclusion

In summary, my 24-hour stay at the Royal Champagne Hotel in Champillon was a luxurious and memorable experience, thanks to an invitation from Moët & Chandon. The airy and elegant room design, stunning marble bathroom, and excellent spa and pool facilities were standout features. The service was professional and top-notch, and the vistas from the property were simply stunning. However, the dining experience at the main restaurant fell short of expectations, and the high cost of certain breakfast items seemed unwarranted given the room rates. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall experience was highly enjoyable, though the price point may still be considered too high given the location and the noted downsides.