On the way to Switzerland, why not stop off for a night in Champagne? A bath of champagne, in reality, could be rather ticklish and acidic - a day or two in the region, with the August sun warmly shining, is luxurious and perfect.
St Pierre and and St Paul, Montmort
The pulpit at Montmort.
On the way we stopped off in Montmort, where the mighty Chateau towers-up the moment you come close to the village. The church, once monastic, is cruciform with double transepts and ancient glass. The central window of the apse has Christ with a crown of green thorns around his head - signifying life. Elsewhere a large Mediaeval Crucifix has Christ smiling. The church has the most marvellous acoustics - I want to sing there one day...!
Montmort
The Chateau at Etoges is still in private hands and is a most beautifully run place. A moat encircles the house and each corner boasts a round tower. A grand bridge crosses the water - this was once broken in half after a large coach with an even larger duchess crossed it.
Inside there is a sweeping Baroque staircase and a noble enfilade along the moat facade.
This dip into Champagne has whet my appetite for the architecture of the region - I cant wait to return!!
For information on the glorious Chateau d'Etoges go to: http://www.etoges.com
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