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Sleep as close as you can to the vines in Vaucluse

When the winegrowers in the southern Rhône Valley make a date with the mythical Sandman, there can only be one result: a night you’ll never forget! Here are a handful of places where you can sleep in the vineyard.

Beneath the majestic silhouette of the Dentelles de Montmirail, two properties have chosen to give their guests an unusual welcome. On the campsite at Domaine des Favards - as at the Mas de l'Evajade in the Domaine du Rocher des Dames - huge, fully-equipped barrels are ready to welcome anyone who loves staying in atypical accommodation. These cask-shaped mobile homes are sure to steep you in the world of wine for the night.

 

All your dreams will come true in Gigondas in a comfy nest that will suit you to a T! The hotel-cum-restaurant Les Florêts hosts guests in a Provençal house full of charm. Sitting high above the village, the residence boasts views tailor-made for contemplation. Under the last rays of the setting sun or in the glow of the lanterns on the terrace, the night undoubtedly promises to be mild in this three-star accommodation! The Villa Saint-Anne below is but a few steps from Domaine Pierre Amadieu and its cellar. Behind the facade with its white shutters, this vineyard residence is home to five guest rooms with a discreet charm. When the Provençal sun yields to the moonlight, this lovely building is the perfect place to savour the simple life surrounded by vines.

 

The Bastide Saint-Dominique gîte on the hills of Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a small cocoon with a warm, family atmosphere. With its four beds and sun-kissed terrace, the accommodation has everything you need to abandon yourself to the peaceful surroundings brightened by the singing cicadas. Last but not least, Château La Sable in the heart of the Luberon Regional National Park is a veritable haven of peace. The 18th century bastide is surrounded by 10 hectares of vines and parkland with centuries-old trees. The three guest rooms are full of character and an authentic atmosphere, meaning you can take it easy in the heart of the wine-growing countryside.

 

Lulled by the beauty of the vineyard landscapes, travellers can take advantage of these pied-à-terre as they are embraced by the arms of Morpheus without a care in the world!

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A new way to explore the vineyards of Vaucluse

Vaucluse in the heart of the Rhône Valley unveils a landscape sculpted by mountains, with distinguished vineyards prospering and thriving at their foot. And there’s no shortage of things to do as you explore this rarest of regions.

In Gigondas, winegrowers from Domaine de la Tourade combine the finest vines with the finest “vintage” vehicles, taking visitors on a journey aboard one of their Volkswagen camper vans. You can roam over the property’s 16 hectares or take a tour of the Dentelles de Montmirail that overlook the rows of vines. Taking their seat in one of the two 6-seater vans with their exquisitely retro decor, guests on this mobile tasting listen to their guide recount the history of the estate and introduce their work as a winemaker. The rides are an ideal way to immerse yourself in the region’s terroirs and enjoy spectacular views of the steep hills of the Dentelles de Montmirail – all in a 100% 1970s atmosphere and with a glass of Gigondas in your hand!

 

Around Mont Ventoux and its foothills, Domaine Les Touchines also opens its doors to the public. Located in Saint-Didier, this organic winery stretches out across vineyards, orchards and the wild countryside. As summer draws to a close, visitors can harvest table grapes on outings organised by the estate. After a talk about the region’s multi-fruit terroir and a short introduction to the techniques of shearing, the grape pickers – kitted out with crates and pruning shears - are invited to gather bunches of several different varieties in laid-back style. Everyone then leaves with a harvest of fresh, delicious grapes under their arms - not to mention a few recipes! These "grapillades" are open to everyone, with the guarantee of an authentic, friendly experience.

 

La Balade des Gens Heureux - The Drive for Happy People - follows the small roads on a Solex as they wind their way between Orange and Vaison-la-Romaine, meandering through the picturesque villages and bucolic landscape of Vaucluse. Perched on one of these two-wheelers, riders can choose between a two-hour mini-tour or a half or full-day motorised getaway. The surrounding vines will pass before your eyes on an excursion that is full of charm that opens up new horizons.

 

To each his own for exploring the vineyards in all their splendour and in their full flavour!

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Le Richebourg: an exceptional venue for an exceptional break

With its combination of luxury accommodation, restaurant and spa, Le Richebourg is the perfect staging point for an epicurean, relaxing stopover on the Route des Grands Crus.

This listed 4-star hotel is an exceptional holiday destination: lying at the foot of the vineyards of the village of Vosne-Romanée, it is a veritable jewel in the Burgundy countryside. The hotel gives guests a special welcome with its tailor-made offer that celebrates the gentle local way of life. It boasts just over 20 rooms and suites with top-class amenities.

 

Le Richebourg organises wine-themed outings in partnership with the neighbouring vineyard. Domaine Mongeard-Mugneret, which is just next to the hotel, opens its doors for tours of its 30 hectares of vines, introducing visitors to the 35 red and white appellations produced there. Those who wish can also enjoy a walk through the vineyard that includes an interpretation of the landscape and numerous explanations about the different climats. Participants are then invited to a tasting (with commentary) of four wines in the estate’s cellar, followed by lunch or dinner in the restaurant at Le Richebourg.

 

This gastronomic eatery serves refined seasonal cuisine with all the flavour of the local terroirs in a light-filled room that opens onto the verdant gardens. A wine list showcasing the region’s prestigious vintages is available to accompany the chef’s inventive recipes. The hotel’s wine bar also has a bistro-style menu together with a vast range of Burgundy wines and cocktails you can sip in a lounge-like, cosy atmosphere. When the weather is fine, you can also enjoy a drink on the shaded terrace where you can savour the peace and quiet.

 

To make this bubble of relaxation last that little longer, the vineaSpa wellness area offers a wide variety of treatments made from vine-based cosmetics. A hammam, sauna, relaxation pool, whirlpool bath and sensory showers are also available. All the ingredients are there for an all-embracing stay in the heart of the Burgundy vineyards surrounded by the region’s treasures.

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Treasures of the Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology Museum

Tracing the history of the land of Champagne and its vineyards based on the theme of limestone, the Museum of Champagne Wine and Regional Archaeology, housed in Château Perrier in Épernay, won the “Exceptional Offer” prize of the 2023 Wine Tourism Trophies in the “Promotion of a terroir” category.

This old private mansion – now listed as a Historic Monument – was once home to the cellars of Charles Perrier, heir and manager of the Perrier-Jouët Champagne House. Today, this magnificent 19th century building shelters four museum spaces extending over 4,200 m2. A collection of over 2,000 objects is on display here to showcase the identity of Champagne in all its aspects: geological, viticultural, historical and cultural.

 

The first room, which is devoted to the unique characteristics of the region, looks at how the landscape of Champagne was formed and the chalky subsoil that sets the vineyard’s terroirs apart. Upstairs, a rich archaeological collection dating from prehistory to the early Middle Ages traces the arrival of the first inhabitants in Champagne and the development of human activity in the region.

 

Viticulture comes under the spotlight in the next section, where the history of champagne wine and the appellation is related in detail. A selection of tools, glassware and posters from the 19th and 20th centuries illustrates the advances made in the consumption and production methods of this famous drink. In addition to the technical aspect of viticultural know-how, the social and cultural facets of this sparkling wine – which is associated with the ideas of celebration and excellence – are also touched on.

 

The exhibition has been designed in a modern, fun way throughout so that it appeals to every kind of audience. The objects are depicted through reconstructions and models, and there is a range of interactive activities. The exhibition halls are interspersed with educational terminals, tactile and sensory tables, screenings and sound showers which all guarantee visitors a 100% immersive experience as they explore the riches of Champagne's history.

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The excellence of Alsace at Domaine Pierre Adam

The Alsace Wine Route needs no introduction! The Domaine Pierre Adam is well worth a detour on this 170 km itinerary that winds its way through outstanding landscapes and famous wine-growing villages.

This family property, which has been established for two generations, elected to take root in Ammerschwihr, the cradle of the Kaefferkopf grand cru. In this exceptional region, the estate endeavours to preserve the uniqueness of the terroirs and the unique character of the grape varieties with the sole desire of producing quality cuvées.

 

To achieve this goal, the wine-growers have opted for an integrated and sustainable form of farming across their 6 hectares divided between young and old vines. This philosophy, which blends authentic know-how with a nature-friendly approach, gives birth to a range of top-flight wines, with two major categories standing out: Vins de Tradition grown on the terroirs on the plains and Vins de Prestige from the hillside terroirs.

 

The vineyard opens its doors to the general public with assorted experiences, motivated by the desire to spread the word about the wines and charms of Alsace to as many people as possible. Visitors are welcome throughout the year, when they can enjoy being guided through the wine cellars or learn all about oenology. Lovers of the great outdoors will choose to dive into the vineyard aboard an electric car on a guided tour. The more adventurous will be charmed by the customised treasure hunt, when they can set off along the vineyard paths to explore the history of Ammerschwihr by themselves. Enjoy the experience to the full by rounding off your visit with a tasting in the cellar based on several wines and Grands Crus. Are you part of a group? Then savour this moment of shared enjoyment with a small bight to eat.

 

Would you like to extend the experience and stay on the estate? The property also has guest rooms. All in all, there’s more than enough to soak up the authentic pleasures surrounded by the very best that Alsace has to offer.

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Champagne Drappier: zero-carbon bubbles

Being a winegrower is synonymous above all with a love of nature – which is why Champagne Drappier has taken up the challenge of carbon neutrality. A bold move that is working out well.

The Drappier family, based in Urville in the Côte des Bar, has been growing vines and cultivating excellence for eight generations. Today, faced with the challenges linked to the climate, this illustrious Champagne house is devoting much of its efforts to preserving the land and reducing its carbon footprint. This commitment was even rewarded with EcoAct certification in 2016, making the estate the first property in Champagne to be certified “carbon neutral”.

 

The vineyard stretches over 62 hectares of hillside, and the owners have invested in 2,000 m2 of photovoltaic panels. As a result, solar energy accounts for 75% of the estate's electricity needs, as well as powering the various electric utility vehicles and tractors that roam across the rows of vines.

 

The chemicals used in the vineyard have long since been replaced by green cultivation techniques, including natural compost, manual weeding, partial grass cover and horse-drawn ploughing. The plots are worked here without industrial fertilizers or pesticides. These eco-friendly practices help safeguard the biodiversity and harvest grapes that are in perfect health for outstanding champagnes.

 

The same way of thinking reigns in the cellars: nothing is lost, everything is converted into use! So, the old riddling racks and barrels are recycled to make vine lodges that provide a unique tasting space. Once the bottles have been emptied of their contents, they’re converted into vegetable wax candles and offered for sale.

 

This sustainable approach is the pride and joy of the champagne house, and it’s true that the Drappier family has much to be proud of! Its champagnes are known and enjoyed worldwide for the finesse of their bubbles and the delicate nature of their aromas. To fully understand this, there's nothing like a short stop at the estate: the tasting that punctuates the tour of the Cistercian cellars proves that champagne and ecology definitely go hand-in-hand!

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The Alsace Wine Route aboard Kut’Zig

The Alsace Wine Route is the cradle of exceptional grape varieties and Grands Crus. It also boasts a limitless supply of surprises and new horizons for anyone is curious about wine and has a thirst for discovery!

The Kut'zig bus welcomes tourists and other adventurous souls on board as it drives along this mythical itinerary winding its way through the vines and hillsides. It’s a wonderful little getaway through the heart of the dazzling history of the towns and villages of Alsace.

 

Sitting comfortably in the open-air coach, hair blowing in the wind, passengers enjoy breath-taking views of the vineyard’s magnificent landscapes. You can get on and off the bus as many times as you like throughout the circuit. The shuttle follows a loop with a stopover every 90 minutes at each stage of the journey.

 

The various stops that punctuate the excursion provide the opportunity to visit the iconic towns along the Wine Route: Riquewihr with its half-timbered houses; Kayserberg and its narrow, cobbled streets; Turckheim and its shimmering facades; Eguisheim and its mediaeval centre; Ribeauvillé and its three châteaux; Hunawihr and its white storks; and Voegtlinshoffen with its fountain of Bacchus – all this without forgetting the unmissable town of Colmar, capital of the wines of Alsace, where the innumerable canals have earned it the nickname “Little Venice”.

 

What’s more, thanks to the "micro-adventures” organised by Lisela, ready-to-roll packages are even available to explore these treasures of the vineyard aboard Kut'zig! Before embarking on their semi-independent expedition, participants are given a carefully thought-out road book with activities based on a theme of their choice. The trips focus on exploring the regional viticulture and include walks in the open air, visits to museums and tastings of wines and local products.

 

With the Kut'zig tour bus, all the authenticity of Alsace is in easy reach!

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Domaine La Croix Montjoie

Located in Tharoiseau in Burgundy, the La Croix Montjoie estate – which stretches over the territory of the Vézelay appellation – has made a name for itself as the ambassador of this small AOC.

It was back in 2009 that Sophie and Matthieu Woillez decided to make their home amidst the vines. They set their hearts on the Vézelay vineyards, where they started their business in an old 19th century farm nestling on the slopes opposite Vézelay’s "eternal hill" and imposing basilica. This enthusiastic couple – both trained oenologists– learnt how to rouse the beautiful clay-limestone soil from its slumber, producing wines with a fresh, mineral expression. It was a daring challenge that the winegrowers have passed with flying colours, becoming the proud representatives of a terroir and its appellation.

 

The property's 15 hectares of vines, now converted to organic farming, are planted with Chardonnay for the most part. It follows that the estate's output consists mainly of white wines, the jewels of the Vézelay appellation. Three cuvées have earned the range its reputation together with a 100% pinot noir Bourgogne Rouge, an AOC Irancy, a Crémant de Bourgogne with festive bubbles and a traditional ratafia.

 

Driven on by their love of vines and the desire to put their vineyard on the map, the owners of La Croix Montjoie open the doors to their estate to the public throughout the year. Visitors learn about the history of the appellation and the unique nature of its soil. After discovering the plots of vines, the vat room and the cellars, guests are offered a tasting accompanied by gougères or platters of cheese and charcuterie. Real foodies can even choose to have lunch at the property, enjoying a meal that showcases the flavour of Burgundy to the full!

 

In summer, a pop-up wine bar is installed on the terrace, where you can savour an aperitif looking out over the spectacular panorama of the Morvan foothills bathed in the golden light of the setting sun.

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Domaine des Deux Roches: spreading the word on behalf of southern Burgundy

The Collovray and Terrier families have been working away in the heart of the Burgundy vineyards and its magnificent landscape for over 30 years, striving to bring out the full authenticity of the terroir in their wines.

Situated in Davayé, the Domaine des Deux Roches boasts breath-taking views of the Roches de Solutré and Vergisson from which it takes its name. These rocky spurs – each of which have been classified as a Grand Site de France – appear like look-out posts, towering majestically above the Mâconnais vineyard and its appellation territories.

 

It was in this grandiose setting that the Collovray and Terrier families decided to seal their friendship, which they embedded in their vines. Driven by a shared enthusiasm for wine, they created the vineyard that now stretches over 71 hectares, and which has grown into a benchmark for the Saint-Véran appellation.

 

With its High Environmental Value accreditation, the estate is currently being converted into an organic vineyard, with the first certified vintage being produced in 2023. As a result, all the work carried out on the plots is 100% natural so that it has the least possible impact on the environment: grass is grown between the rows of vines, for example, and manure-based fertilizer is used, excess buds are removed and the shoots thinned. Every action is carried out with respect for the earth to pamper the future grapes!

 

The estate hosts the public at its tastings. Its flagship wines include four iconic appellations from southern Burgundy: Mâcon-Villages, Pouilly-Fuissé, Viré-Clessé and, above all, Saint-Véran. Visitors can also take part in “mindful” tasting workshops led by a sophrologist, giving them the chance to take a new look at wine and wine tasting as well as enjoying a tour of the cellar. These events are held once every quarter or by appointment.

 

A high-end apartment, named Le Balcon des Deux Roches after the two rocks, is also available for rent on the site of the vineyard, where you can take the time to savour the charms of the region to the full during your stay.

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Getting away from it all at Clos de Bourgogne

Created in 2007, Clos de Bourgogne is described both as a cellar where you can buy wine and a domain that hosts a wide variety of wine-themed activities. Every taste is catered for as you set out to explore the vineyard!

Sandrine and André Lanaud are genuine enthusiasts, two wine and vine experts who welcome all guests – newbies and aficionados alike – with gusto. The estate is situated in Gevrey-Chambertin, a famous small market town boasting nine Grands Crus and 26 Premier Crus. It also serves as the starting point for numerous visits through the countryside and the wine-growing heritage of the famous wines route of Bourgogne.

 

The bike rides or walks that Sandrine leads through the vineyards are an ideal opportunity to learn how to "interpret" the landscape. At the same time, you can take a close look at the "climats" (parcels of vines) inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List together with the terroirs and grape varieties that are so characteristic of the region’s prestigious vineyards. Some excursions even include a tour of the fermentation rooms and cellars of an estate in the company of the winemaker. These trips are a moment to be enjoyed together as you immerse yourselves completely in the world of wine, rounded off by a guided tasting of several cuvées where you will learn the tiniest details about the history of the finest vintages.

 

There are other fun events and activities where beginners can learn about the art of tasting and serving wine. After a recap about a few of the rudiments of oenology, it’s time for some sensory activities that call on the eye, nose and – above all – the palate so you can fully appreciate the colours, aromas and different notes of the wines presented. Once the workshops are over, food and wine pairings are served around platters of aperitifs.

 

As well as organising tours, Clos de Bourgogne is committed to providing an outstanding showcase for the best wines from the region and beyond. The cellar boasts a selection of nearly 300 wines for sale that have been meticulously selected from 150 estates with a genuine preference for organic and environmentally-friendly wines.

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