When people talk about Avignon, you immediately think of the Palace of the Popes!, the famous bridge spanning the Rhône and the celebrated festival – but we shouldn’t forget that Avignon is also a mecca for wine growing.

Avignon is a real gateway to the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, and plays host to  numerous AOC-themed activities throughout the year.

The programme of festive, cultural and fun activities – always a foodie’s delight – encourages tourists and locals alike to get acquainted with the region’s wines and meet the winemakers who produce them.

Let yourself be charmed by Avignon, its history and vineyards. You’ll undoubtedly return home from your stay in the capital of the Côtes du Rhône “as happy as a pope”, as the French like to say!

Located to the north of the Rhone Valley, Ardèche Hermitage is distinguished by its rich heritage, bountiful countryside and charming, enchanting vineyards.

The three local AOCs – Hermitage, Crozes-Hermitage and Saint Joseph – are grown on the terraced slopes that shape the region’s landscape. And these reds and whites go wonderfully with the local specialties: truffle, cheese, chocolate...

As well as being a region full of flavour, the vineyards here are also a land of adventure! On foot, by bike, in a rosalie (a kind of quadricycle) or even on a small train, you can head off to meet the winemakers who organise tastings on many of the local estates and cellars.

The region really does have everything to make your mouth water!

Located in the heart of the Luberon Nature Reserve, and in stunning countryside overlooking the valley, the Le Phébus & Spa hotel is home to a charming gourmet restaurant that will delight those with a passion for fine dining.

Luxurious, peaceful, sensual. Three words that perfectly describe the spirit and charm of this high-end establishment. Housed within a dry-stone farmhouse built on ruins that date back to the Knights of the Order of Malta, Le Phébus & Spa has around 30 elegant suites for you to relax in, a well-being centre to recharge your batteries and a Michelin-starred restaurant that will delight your taste buds.

In the restaurant’s light and airy dining area, with its large rooms and extensive terrace, a talented duo provide diners with a delightfully refined gourmet experience.

Over in the kitchen, Michelin-starred chef Xavier Mathieu is in the driving seat. A native of Provence, he draws inspiration from the traditional recipes of his home region. Following the seasons, he reinterprets typical dishes with creativity and finesse, creating subtle yet bold plates that are filled with colour. An example of this is his soupe au pistou: a real highlight!

In the cellar, Romain Marlet applies his expertise and sophisticated palate to further enhance the menu’s dishes. To strike the right balance between dishes and wines and find the perfect match, he serves regional wines alongside regional dishes.

Each wine is carefully selected to enhance the menu’s iconic dishes.

High-quality wines from the finest appellations find their way to the table: on the sommelier’s suggestion, the famous soupe au pistou is served with a Ventoux du Domaine de Tara AOP. The aromas of a Ventoux du Domaine du Chêne Bleu AOC embellish the lamb baked in sandy garrigue, and a Muscat de Beaume de Venise du Domaine des Bernardins AOC brings its freshness to the succulent crispy fennel with soured milk.

Many of the wines served in the restaurant are produced in neighbouring wine estates. Adventurous wine lovers can set off by bike along Luberon’s roads to meet winemakers, with a gourmet picnic prepared by the chef in their bike basket.

Foodies, prepare yourselves for pure pleasure!

The vineyards of the Loire Valley, well-known for the quality of their welcome, owe their success to the endeavours of the men and women who make them come live! Five key players in the sector have been recognised at the first Bacchus of Wine Tourism awards.

The winning entries include experiences that will satisfy everyone’s thirst for discovery!

Would you like a little adventure? Then the escape room at Domaine Couly in Chinon or the excursions through the vineyards of Touraine with Val de Loire Travel are just the thing for you.

Feel like some good food? The food and wine pairings at Auberge des Isles in Montreuil-Bellay and the Muscadétours tastings are waiting for you.

Looking for a thrill? Then stand back in amazment at the jury’s top pick: a night in a barrel and a winemaker's picnic at Domaine de Montcy in Cheverny.

And if you’re feeling even more curious, the Loire Valley Wine Routes are a great choice with a wide range of activities. Time to get your road book out!

Autour du Ventoux is a destination that is famous for its wide range of outdoor activities. It is also home to an exceptional vineyard.

AOC Ventoux wines – whether they’re red, white or rosé – draw all their flair and delicious vivacity from the cool nights and pure air of Mont Ventoux.

The grape varieties benefit from an outstanding terroir and preserved biodiversity that helps them express themselves. Located between the Mediterranean and the Alps, Mont Ventoux is listed as a classified biosphere reserve by UNESCO. At its foot, the vineyards thrive in the heart of the garrigue, shaping the beauty of the landscape.

Don’t wait any longer: set out to meet the winemakers who create the winegrowing identity of the so-called Giant of Provence!