French Detours
French Detours
French Detours
French Detours
French Detours
chateauneuf-du-pape
You had me at
WINE
and
CHOCOLATE
EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE
Of course this is THE place to come to taste the most prestigious wines of the Rhone Valley, but this enchanting medieval village has other sites of interest to discover as well. Leave your car in one of the free parking lots and stroll through the windy streets to see medieval houses, the old communal oven and olive press, and the charming town hall.
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Le Château des Papes from the 14th century, classified as a Historical Monument in 1892 - Only a few walls and the tower remain, but the views are impressive
Notre Dame de l'Assomption - Romanesque church from the 12th century
The Chapel Saint Théodoric from the 10th and 11th centuries, classified as a Historical Monument in 1984 for its frescoes
The Chapel Pierre de Luxembourg from the 19th century
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Musée du Vin - learn the secrets of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines - free entrance - audio guide available
Hers Tower from the 12th century (exterior only, private property)
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L'Islon St Luc, a protected nature area and starting point for hiking trails good for all ages
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The Place de la Fontaine has plenty of outdoor cafés and restaurants inviting you to sit back with a glass of wine and watch the world go by.
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Olivia Bouachon welcomes you to her artisanal boutique where she personalizes bags and accessories with your photos. Find her at:
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Pimponette
24 bis avenue du Baron le Roy
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Téléphone:
04 90 39 12 31
"A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world"
- Louis Pasteur
Stay and Savor
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There are wine cellars every few feet here, so enter any that tempt you! The appellation of Châteauneu-du-Pape has strict regulations, ensuring a high-quality wine each time. Both reds and white are full-bodied, thanks to the small stones that cover the soil, absorbing the sunshine and heating the grapes at night. For a close-up look at the vineyards, follow the marked walking path that leaves the west side of the village.
Domaines Mousset - "Gardiens des Grandes Traditions" - This impressive castle begs a visit! I was simply unable to stop myself from turning in, and when I did, I was delighted to discover that I had enjoyed a wine tasting here with a group I led back in 2011! The caves of Château des Fines Roches welcomes groups for a variety of activities, and I can't recommend it enough! Even the views from the castle of the surrounding vineyards make it worth the stop! The château belongs to the Relais & Châteaux chain of hotels, so yes, you can even stay here!
Château de la Nerthe - one of the appellation's biggest vineyards with an 18th century residence is just a bit farther down.
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Domaine du Père Caboche - You have to watch your head as you walk down the stairs into the wine cave. This is truly a wine tasting experience. You are indeed in a small cave, with bottles everywhere. You are welcomed into the family business by friendly, knowledgeable people whose passion for wine is palpable. You taste, you enjoy, and then you realize that you are shocked at how much you pay for a Châteauneuf wine at home when truly excellent wine is so affordable here! (Yes, the average price for an exceptional bottle here is about $25. May I suggest a wine suitcase?)
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Restaurant La Part des Anges
Château des Fines Roches
Chocolaterie Castelain
Chocolaterie Castelain: fabrication artisanale - This has been a favorite of mine since 2005 when we first came here as a family. It has every kind of chocolate confection imaginable, as well as workshops (even workshops for kids) and of course, tastings! There is a wine section as well (what goes better with wine than chocolate?) . I am fairly certain I could stay live here! 1745 route de Sorgues 85230 Châteauneuf-du-Pape
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If staying at a chocolaterie or a winery isn't exactly the comfort you had in mind, may we recommend the hotel de charme La Sommellerie ***? Nestled in the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this ancient 17th century sheep barn has been transformed into a haven of peace and tranquility. If you want true Provençal character, this is the place.
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