At the foot of the Crussol Massif, a listed Natura 2000 protected site, the vines of the three prestigious Cornas, Saint Péray and Saint Joseph appellations stretch out alongside the twists and turns of the Rhône.

The Vienne tourism pavilion – has become the unmissable gateway to the vineyards of the Rhone Valley since 2015. Situated just outside Lyon, the pavillon showcases the region’s wine and gastronomy.

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!