Armes de Champagne

Armes de Champagne was built in 1908 as a waystation for travelers, particularly for those making their way via carriages or horseback. As horses fell out of fashion after the emergence of vehicles, the property languished until it was acquired by Nicolas Froment and Pascal Leromain. The new owners set about transforming the inn into a fancy retreat and dining destination, taking advantage of the waystation's proximity to the commune's iconic Gothic cathedral. Much of the inn has been transformed, catering now to a diverse clientele including visitors looking for cultural immersion, locals on a weekend holiday, and those who want to unwind with the hotel's wellness facilities.

Design and Architecture

Due to the restoration and remodeling, most of Armes de Champagne's original features have been replaced. That said, the style the hotel is going for leans more toward modern vintage, creating a stylish aesthetic that still stands out in Chalons en Champagne. The few remaining classic features can be found in select rooms, mainly the ceiling timbers and wood supports. The garden courtyard is perhaps the closest to its old aesthetic, where the old stables have been turned into a venue area.

The signature restaurant of Armes de Champagne is Cuvée 31, headed by the dynamic Chef Thibaut Reppert who turns familiar and comfortable dinner fare into an elevated dining experience. Aside from their delectable culinary selection, they also take advantage of the abundance of quality wines made in Champagne. The Maître de Maison can even make recommendations from their wine menu if you're keen to pair your meal with a fine vintage.

Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday: 12 pm - 1:30 pm (lunch); 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm (dinner)
Reservations: Booking a table is recommended and can be done on Armes de Champagne's official website.

Armes de Champagne isn't just perfect for views of Notre-Dame-de-l'Epine, it's a good spot for your destination wedding because of the proximity of the basilica to the hotel. So the plan should be you'll be holding the ceremony at La Basilique de Notre-Dame-de-l'Epine, and then hold the reception at Armes de Champagne. You can impress your guests with an outdoor banquet spread in the courtyard during the warmer months, or privatize the restaurant if you prefer an indoor celebration.

Cultural Experiences

Like many fine hotels in France, Armes de Champagne makes it a point to provide opportunities for guests to find cultural enrichment. Chalons en Champagne is an old city and has plenty of well-preserved medieval buildings. Foremost among them would be the two Gothic cathedrals of La Basilique de Notre-Dame-de-l'Epine and Église Collégiale Notre-Dame-en-Vaux which are part of the Pilgrimage Route to Santiago de Compostela UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Next up are the various museums and galleries in the city; Le musée des Beaux-arts et d'Archéologie in particular has been around for over two centuries and boasts a vast collection. Now in between culture trips, make sure to take advantage of the on-site wellness facilities such as the spa and sauna to help unwind and destress.

Other Celebrations

Armes de Champagne features a beautiful garden courtyard for hosting private events. You can book it if you're planning a sizable celebration with your family and/or friends. If you're aiming for a more private affair such as a romantic anniversary, you can instead make arrangements with the on-site restaurant Cuvée 31.