On your next trip to Champagne, and in between tastings, how about a journey back in time?

As a culture seeker, you’re certainly aware that the Aube was the birthplace of the Order of the Knights Templar, and the homeland of the man who founded the Order no less, Hugues de Payns. For an 800-year flashback, head to the Commanderie d’Avalleur one of the best-preserved Templar complexes in northern Europe. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your five guides for the day – José, Jean, Alain, Claudine and Yolande – Templar cross on their chests and draped in a white alb, or linen vestment. During the guided tour of the chapel and monastery buildings, they will initiate you in the ancestral codes of this turbulent era and top up your knowledge on this fascinating subject. To continue the Templar theme, we suggest you take a stroll through Orient forest in Amance, and make a bee line for the “In the footsteps of the Templars’ trail. This 5-km route is dotted with 11 informative panels that explain the Order's origins in the Aube region.

Tips nearby:

Hôtel Les Comtes de Champagne: Troyes, in the historic centre. Charming hotel within four 16th century houses. 43 rooms in a traditional style with wooden beams and stone walls. Communicating/adjoining rooms for families. Excellent base from which to explore the city.