Discover chateaux and champagne off the beaten track in France’s far north

Imagine a road trip through France: a distant château emerging on the horizon, a glass (or two) of champagne on arrival, and the freedom of the open road. With this in mind, we’ve mapped out a route that blends hidden gems with indulgence—starting just two hours from Calais.

Winding from Laon to Soissons, Compiègne, and Château-Thierry, this 100-mile, 3-4 day journey takes you beyond the usual tourist spots to charming, lesser-known towns. Meet sixth-generation champagne makers, cycle through historic forests, and stumble upon unexpected artistic treasures—all while savoring local culinary delights.

Follow the full itinerary or pick your favorites to enhance your A26 stopovers. Plus, our curated selection of hotels and restaurants ensures stress-free planning, whether you’re after a château stay, a Michelin-starred meal, or a cozy bistro. Time to hit the road!