A trip to champagne was always on my list of things to do before I visit the pearly gates. Our stay Dormans, Champagne, was so relaxed and comfortable due to the beautiful house that we rented for 10 days. La Maison du Clos Rigaux is run by the charming Isabelle and was immaculate, elegant and styled with classic French flair. If you're heading that way, take it from us, we were very impressed! I've taken some photos from Isabelle's website because we trashed the joint with all our bags and ended up un-photo-worthy

When in the little village of Dormans, head up to Silvan Suty tearooms in Luxembourg Square. Silvan and his wife run the little eatery overflowing with freshly made patisseries, chocolates and teas. But the lunches were the best...you're greeted with pate on arrival and we quite often had a simple salad beautifully presented (similar to a top restaurant without the price tag) with a glass of local French champagne. Of course, follow up the 'salty' delights with dessert. Each dessert had a chocolate formed from a champagne cap. Yum