La côte des Bar

The pleasant, rolling landscape around Bar-sur-Seine (church and ancient lanes) is dotted with typical villages: Essoyes (home of the painter Auguste Renoir), Les Riceys (old houses), Mussy-sur-Seine (church and castle), Noë-les-Mallets (spectacular view). To the north, Bar-sur-Aube (churches and 16th century wooden gallery) is within easy reach of bucolic countryside that is home to peaceful villages such as Arrentières, Arconville and Lignol-le-Château. At the boundary of the départements of the Aube and the Haute-Marne, the village of Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises attracts crowds of visitors every year who come to spend some quiet moments at General de Gaulle’s graveside. Before reaching the vineyards, take a stroll or relax by the lake in the forest of Orient. The town of Troyes, while outside the wine-growing area proper, is still worth a visit. Wander down ancient lanes lined with half-timbered houses. Admire imposing 14th and 15th century dwellings. Visit rich museums and numerous churches decorated with statues and stained glass windows of memorable beauty.