Two keen enthusiasts have combined their expertise in the heart of the Orpellières de Sérignan nature conservation area for a river trip followed by a tasting to remember at Domaine de Querelle.

Reuel and Ben, two bubbly young individuals, put down roots in Sérignan, a village full of authentic charm on the coast of Béziers, to set up a business renting out environmentally-friendly small boats and canoes. Their trips run along the final stretch of a calm but majestic river that meanders through the Orpellières conservation area, leading visitors all the way to the Mediterranean. Renting a canoe, kayak or pedal-boat here is a leisurely activity in an outstanding setting that is recognised for the importance of its ecology, fauna and flora.

The area is overlooked by the Domaine de Querelle (the site of a park for motorhomes), which owes its name to the Occitan word "cairas", meaning "stony place". The 15 hectares of this unmissable Languedoc vineyard, with its terraces of vines, are home to a quite remarkable terroir, due in particular to the influence of the sea and the cobble soil. The Abel family, independent winegrowers for three generations, produce HVE-certified high-quality wines with a commitment to the environment. "Soumestre" - their standout red - has also been listed by the Hachette Guide for the last decade or so. This blend of Shiraz, Grenache and Mourvèdre exhibits roasted aromas of candied black fruit with melted, silky tannins.

In summer, the relaxing river outing starts from the village at the end of the day. There are no obstacles or rapids, and time stands still… It is not uncommon to see grey herons and kingfishers just above the water among the numerous ash trees, elms and other giant reeds that grow in large numbers along the river bank. Anyone lucky enough will also spot turtles bathing in the sun or even eels darting between the small craft. Once back in the port of Sérignan, a shuttle takes guests on a visit to Domaine de Querelle - blessed with a superb 360° view - for an informal tasting with Michel Abel.

Château de Raissac - just 4 km from the historic heart of Béziers - is an unmissable stop-off on any visit to the vineyards of Languedoc. Since it was first acquired in 1828, the Viennet dynasty has transformed the estate into a one-of-a-kind venue where art and wine are top of the bill.

The architect Louis Michel Garros converted the 18th century manor house (built on the remains of a Roman villa) into a château in the late 19th century. In fact, around 40 châteaux like Raissac, known as "pinardiers", were built or restored around Béziers. The estate’s splendid park was designed by the celebrated Bühler brothers.

The family of owners is as awe-inspiring as the estate, hailing from a line of men and women who marked the age in which they lived: an army officer, members of parliament, an author, a poet, a member of the French Academy, the founder of the legendary Béziers rugby club, benefactors, winegrowers and so forth. The list is long and prestigious with the Viennets, and the fifth and sixth generations are now breathing new life into the estate with a blend of art and wine!

The surreal artist Jean Viennet is married to Christine, the world-renowned ceramicist. The work of these two talented individuals, together with the rustic ware collection by followers of the potter Bernard Palissy, can be admired in the Ceramics Museum - in the former stables - as well as in the salons of the château.

It is Gustave and Marie Viennet who are in charge of operations in the immense vineyard. Their Terra Incognita, a Syrah-Grenache assemblage (listed in the Hachette Guide) aged in oak barrels reflects the Languedoc PDO terroir to a tee. Such is the reputation of these wines that the Viennets export their labels all over the world.

And there’s no lack of events and activities on the estate! Not just guided tours of the park, museum, and château, but also all kinds of tastings. In 2022, the Mediterranean Béziers Tourist Office also launched the Rallye Pinardier open day, when wine-lovers can step across the château’s threshold on a fun-packed visit.

To make the most of this outstanding property, why not enjoy a stay in one of the sublime guesthouses… or even rent the château for that special event?

Domaine de la Baume and its folly, set amidst France’s largest vineyard close to Béziers, do justice to the exclusive wines produced by the Helfrichs.

Domaine de la Baume, founded in the 19th century by Jean Prat and his sons, was acquired in 2003 by Joseph Helfrich, the visionary boss of the Grands Chais de France. And so this native of Alsace began his adventure in Languedoc, putting together a highly diverse wine-growing heritage and a wealth of outstanding terroirs. A man of conviction with a strong attachment to these lands, Joseph produces high-quality wines that are representative of their region of origin, which he promotes worldwide.

Joseph grows grape varieties typical of the Languedoc-Roussillon region on the 176 hectares of his HVE-classified vineyard, including Cabernet-Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Viognier. Domaine de la Baume keeps the wine-growing traditions alive, and with its Qualité Tourisme certification, it is one of the driving forces behind this tourist destination. The estate’s fresh and aromatic white wines, together with its round and fruity rosés and reds, are enjoyed in the finest Parisian establishments, including in the Barrière Group and the Marriott.

Following extensive renovation work on the estate, the folly has undergone a renaissance and now hosts first-class wine and vine events and activities. The follies of Languedoc are manor houses built in a lavish architectural style that reflect the erstwhile riches of the region's wine merchants. The new cellar now serves as the showcase not just for wines from Baume, but also the bottles produced on all the other properties belonging to the family (Minervois, Terrasses du Larzac, Limoux, Saint-Jean de Minervois, Costières de Nîmes and so forth).

Everything has been redesigned to offer visitors a warm welcome and elegant hospitality with new meeting and tasting rooms, wine bars and landscaped terraces where guests can enjoy an appetising interlude with food and wine pairings. Visitors can make the most of this magical venue all year round on a guided tour or a self-guided visit following the signposted path in the surrounding vineyard. Special events for foodies and themed nights - not to mention a pétanque court - are also sure to be a source of delight!

A short walk from the Minster in the EU capital, the Alsace Association of Independent Winegrowers has its own shop window in the Hôtel Consulaire on Place Gutenberg.

Walkers, cyclists, nature lovers and fans of fine wine - head for this mountainside vineyard set in a breath-taking landscape on a unique wine-themed getaway in the heart of the Basque Country with its own distinct character.

To name but three of the many hiking possibilities in Irouléguy, there are the circuits around Etchaine (2 hours) and Arradoy (2 hours 45 min.) that are sure to delight walkers keen on filling their lungs with fresh air. More seasoned hikers, on the other hand, will be thrilled to explore the 11.5 km of the Jara trail.

For a fun, one-of-a-kind adventure, sporty types will go for a ride-cum-tasting on off-road electric scooters so they can explore the vines at close quarters.

The vineyards are open to everyone, and visitors can also opt for a guided outing in an electric car followed by a tasting.

As for families, they can meander along the narrow lanes of the vineyards: they’re fun to explore by bike starting from Saint-Etienne-de-Baigorry.

There are so many different ways to get around! Horse riders can trot through the mountain vineyards on an equestrian holiday, leaving the outside world behind on a trek organised by the Latsaga zalditokia farm.

Anyone with a yearn to learn can take the experience a stage further by coming here to find out all about the vines and biodiversity on Domaine Gutizia’s educational trail. More playful visitors will be entranced by the puzzles on the Terraventura treasure hunt - a family adventure you can enjoy in the very heart of the village of Irouléguy.

In a nutshell, a visit to Irouléguy means immersing yourself in a green oasis where the terraces of vines blend into the majestic mountains all around, and where the winemakers, so devoted to and proud of their terroir, are keen to transmit their expertise.

For young and old alike - or with family and friends - happiness is… the vineyards of Irouléguy!

Domaine Specht in Mittelwihr produces the entire range of Alsatian wines. This environmentally-responsible vineyard, which has been handed down from father to son since 1955, invites visitors to enjoy a moment suspended in time.

Surrounded by vines, almond trees and a stream, Thibault Specht - the third generation at the helm of Domaine Specht - shares his hard-working expertise with great enthusiasm.

An independent vintner, Thibault introduces visitors to the age-old profession of cooper at the Berger cooperage before revealing his own way of making wine on a tour of the cellar.

This personalised little pause amidst the vines is rounded off with a moment of shared pleasure with a wine tasting accompanied by a local speciality.

The Loire Valley boasts a remarkable architectural and cultural heritage. In the vineyards, the estates demonstrate great creativity in showcasing these riches via a combination of wine, history and culture.

At Montrichard, the tour of the Monmousseau Cellars begins outdoors on a belvedere overlooking magnificent landscapes bordered by the Cher. The visit continues underground in a maze of galleries dug out of tuffeau stone. All along the 700-meter trail, the walls are adorned with illuminated pictures that trace the history of the châteaux of the Loire and the Caves Monmousseau. Then it’s time to enjoy a tasting of the Fines bulles de Touraine AOC wines – made using the traditional winemaking techniques – which have earned the Maison its fine reputation.

At Clos des Quarterons in Saint-Nicolas-de-Bourgeuil, the Amirault family invites  visitors to its "chai d'oeuvre". Amidst the vats, a gigantic street art wall fresco tells the story of the work undertaken by winegrowers throughout the year. From the vines to the cellar, all the key stages in the wine making process are explained through a series of educational graffiti. A tasting tops off these colourful explorations!

Situated in Saint-Cyr-en-Bourg, Robert & Marcel’s Cave aux Sensations takes inquisitive visitors on an immersive, eye-opening journey into the world of wine. Young and old alike can discover the secrets of the wines of Saumur thanks to eight displays. A range of multi-sensory activities offers a mix of light projections, sound effects and olfactory or tactile games. This one-of-a-kind experience is then rounded off with a guided tasting session.

At Ruillé-sur-Loir, the winegrowers of the Lelais family give a warm welcome to their home to all visitors. The guided tours are an ideal opportunity to explore their delightful estate and, in summer, to venture into their superb troglodyte cellar, known as “Bacchus”. In this special setting, the wines served at the tasting put the spotlight on AOC Jasnières wines.

In short, the vineyard highlights the arts and history to offer you some astonishing discoveries.

The Loire Valley is a flagship destination for anyone who loves history and wine: and its landscapes, river, vineyards and châteaux can all be (re)discovered with your head in the clouds!

A three-hour excursion for an hour’s flight at dusk or dawn so you can enjoy the most beautiful light and the sun reflecting like magic over the Loire – that’s the thrilling adventure offered by four firms in Centre-Val de Loire and Pays de la Loire.

Starting from Amboise, Balloon Revolution flies over the prettiest spots in the Loire Valley, the Cher and the Indre in Touraine. After being invited to inflate the balloon in advance, you’ll be carried wherever the wind takes you. And, once back on terra firma, participants receive a certificate and are debriefed with a glass of Touraine Amboise in hand. Make the most of a private hire, an amorous getaway with a hot air balloon flight and a romantic night in Amboise, a tour and tasting in the cellars of Plou et fils… there is no end of special packages on offer!

The balloons of Aérocom Montgolfières take off from some exceptional spots, close to a château, near the Loire in Chaumont-sur-Loire, in Blois or Amboise or on the banks of the Cher at Chenonceau. These flights are suitable for everyone, since one of the baskets has disabled access.

The owners of Domaine de Gagnebert have their own hot air balloon! It takes off directly from the estate before flying over the Anjou vineyard and this wild, majestic river that is the Loire. Participants have the privilege of helping to inflate the balloon and later fold it once the flight is over before savouring a glass of Crémant de Loire.

Participants also help to get the balloons ready with the crew at Anjou-Nantes-Montgolfières, including the famous hot air balloon in the colours of Saumur-Champigny. There are two take-off spots: either the Ancenis / Oudon valley or between Angers and Saumur. Guests on this private outing then fly over the Loire Valley, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In a hot air balloon, the sheer immensity of the landscapes of the Loire stretches out beneath your feet in the most amazing silence...

The Luberon, to the south of the Rhône Valley, is home to vines that have grown here since antiquity in the heart of the Luberon Regional Natural Park, which is recognised by UNESCO not just as a Biosphere Reserve but also as a Global Geopark.

The Luberon is a destination you can explore with the changing seasons to suit everyone’s tastes thanks to the huge choice of things to do in this green oasis with a magic all of its own. Whether you’re a sporty type or a foodie, holiday-makers looking to switch off or keen to share a lively time together, the Luberon has something for you.

And wine-lovers aren’t left out either: almost all the vineyards organise an assortment of wine-themed activities, with highlights including tastings and introductory workshops for amateurs and the initiated alike. It’s an opportunity to (re)discover the complex, seductive aromatic palette that the Luberon’s red, white and rosé wines have to offer.

And, while the wines of the Luberon obviously owe their special character to the local grape varieties, terroir and climate, the winemaker’s know-how is also a vital ingredient! These men and women are driven by a deep love for their profession. What’s more, they are more than happy to share this heritage with visitors – the flora, fauna, smells, panoramas and traditions – so you can have a fun time in all simplicity throughout the year.

Even though the Luberon owes its reputation to its vineyards, the region can also pride itself on its inheritance, its history and its remarkable natural riches. The Luberon’s charms and the quality of life here have also attracted great names of the past, such as the novelist Henri Bosco, who rests alongside Albert Camus in the cemetery in Lourmarin, the village where he lived opposite the mountain surrounded by the appellation. Here is the sublime declaration that Bosco addressed to Camus:

“I had dreamed with a passion before this powerful mountain where, for several years, the smallest rock, the smallest hollow, the smallest cave wraps up, hides, implies, contains the supernatural. And I loved it."

Discovering the Luberon for the first time means making memories that will last a lifetime... and which are sure to make you want to come back!

They’re winegrowers and proud of it! In every corner of the vineyards of the Loire Valley, there are estates that introduce the general public to every aspect of the winegrower's profession with a wide range of fun activities.

Domaine Sauvète welcomes groups to its site at Monthou-sur-Cher. For anyone who loves the great outdoors, the winemaking workshop runs an introductory course on tending the vines in the very heart of the fields. Participants, who are accompanied by an experienced winemaker, can try their hand at pruning, debudding and trellising. And the work varies according to the season! Anyone who prefers the calm of the cellars can join the oenology workshop, where they can create their own blend and unlock the mysteries of winemaking. A tasting of several vintages of the same cuvée will help visitors understand the different subtleties involved in aging the wines.

The winegrowers at Domaine Les Pierres d'Aurèle welcome visitors to their vineyard at Saint-Georges-sur-Cher or to their cellar at Montrichard. There are two different experiences on offer: on the estate, you can take part in workshops on the cycle of the vine and blending (organised throughout the year), while in the cellar there is a beginner’s guide to tasting that introduces the various cuvées. Following these workshops, everyone leaves with a free bottle under their arm! Great experiences that make a wonderful gift!

On the Landron Chartier estate, winegrowers give oenophiles the chance to adopt vine stocks! Four events are then arranged over the coming year so that the “adopters” can help tend the vines, tour the cellars, take part in the harvest or even bottle the wines. As a reward for these months of work, a box of six personalised bottles is given to each apprentice winemaker!

Group visits are also welcome at the Jardin d’Édouard. The producers on this 15-hectare property immerse their guests in the daily life of the winegrowers for half a day so they can discover all the secrets of the profession. A meal with a wine tasting is shared with all participants.

There’s no lack of ingenuity among the winegrowers of the Loire Valley as they share their know how with a down-to-earth approach!