Hiking the Wine Trails of Provence

From $1,230 pp

  • Duration

    9 days
  • Bookable From

    March - Mid-November
  • Trip Style

    Self-Guided
  • Country

    France
  • Physical Rating

    Average

Overview

Discover off-the-beaten-path wine trails of Provence, hiking from Châteauneuf du Pape to Côtes du Rhône, while visiting medieval cities in between.

Your journey will start in the Historic Center of Avignon (a UNESCO site) and end in the medieval town of Vaison la Romaine, filled with archaeological delights. Along the way, you'll taste robust reds Châteauneuf du Pape, sweet, white Muscats from Côtes du Rhône, and plenty more.

This trip is the ideal combination of hiking, relaxing, tasting good food, and enjoying delectable wine in Provence!

Highlights

  • Wander through famed vineyards in Châteauneuf du Pape, tasting red & white wines
  • Indulge in French cuisine: baguettes, goats cheese, ratatouille & Côtes du Rhône wines
  • Explore the Historic Center of Avignon, a UNESCO site where history echoes in every cobblestone
  • Hike along quiet farms and take in sweeping vistas like Mont Ventoux, the "Giant of Provence"
  • Roam the Rhone Valley's untamed slopes to discover enigmatic church ruins & cave dwellings
  • Uncover Roman traditions by exploring the vastness of France's largest archaeological site
  • Stay in the picturesque villages of Séguret, Le Barroux, & Vaison la Romaine

Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the sun-kissed vineyards of Provence! Start in the enchanting embrace of Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and conclude your adventure amidst the medieval allure of Vaison la Romaine.

Châteauneuf du Pape is Southern France’s most prestigious wine village: grapes have been grown there for 850 years. The Popes brought the vines to this area in the 14th century and, thanks to the amazing growing conditions, many world-renowned and prized vintages have been produced.

The best way to discover the vineyards of Provence is by foot, strolling between the vines from one estate to the next. Vineyards are commonly run by the same families for generations, and you’ll have lots of wine-tasting opportunities on this sustainable Provençal walking tour.

You will pass through Séguret and Gigondas, two medieval villages perched high over the Rhône valley, framed by never-ending seas of reputed vineyards. From Gigondas, you approach the Dentelles de Montmirail, a set of jagged limestone teeth that soar high and defiantly over the Rhône Valley: a playground for magnificent walking and scenery!

You then walk towards the foot of Mont Ventoux (the "Giant of Provence") – through orchards and vineyards, with extraordinary panoramas and a large diversity of landscapes. At 6,263 ft in altitude, Mont Ventoux is Provence’s highest peak. Its remarkable silhouette paints the backdrop of this scenic exploration of Provence.

Seasonal Notes

You can book this trip from March to mid-November, but really we recommend between March and June or between September to mid-November.

Provence enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and mild winters, providing plenty of days of sunshine. The precipitation levels in the region are relatively low and there can be strong and cold winds.

  • March to June: Springtime is ideal for hiking as the trails are less crowded, the wineries are open for tastings, and the countryside is alive with vibrant wildflowers. The weather is agreeably mild, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 68°F.
  • July to August: During summer, this trip is possible, though not ideal. The weather is particularly dry and hot, so hikes would need to be completed in the morning. Importantly, there may be possible trail closures, and access to hiking paths may be closed or be time-restricted if the risk of fires is high in the Dentelles & Ventoux areas. The local prefecture informs the following day's access by phone. Be sure to get this information if you choose to travel during these months.*
  • September to Mid-November: Fall offers lovely hiking conditions with temperatures from 59°F to 77°F, and the autumnal landscape is filled with shades of red, orange, and gold. As this is the harvest season, you can witness vineyards and olive groves bustling with activity.

*Any additional cost for extra transfers due to weather-related restrictions (or for any personal reason) will be at your own expense. Trail closures can also sometimes affect June and September, though this is not as likely as in July and August.

To ensure both comfort and sustainability, we strongly recommend planning your trip for the spring or fall. This helps with tourism dispersal and the alleviation of congestion at peak times. You'll have a more pleasant experience, explore the natural beauty of the region at a more relaxed pace, and have a positive impact on the local communities and environment.

Itinerary

Day 1 Avignon [France] (arrival day)

Avignon is easily reachable by high-speed train from Paris in just under 3 hours or from Marseille Airport (1 hour).

Accommodation: Hotel Boquier (2 stars)

Day 2 Avignon & Châteauneuf du Pape

You have plenty of time today to stroll through Avignon's UNESCO World Heritage Site and its cobbled streets full of history. In your free time, you can visit the famous 12th-century Pont d'Avignon, the 14th-century papal palace, and the nearby Rocher des Doms garden.

At 4:30 pm, your taxi will take you to the esteemed Châteauneuf du Pape where you will spend the next two days.

Accommodation: The Wine Bed & Breakfast guesthouse in Châteauneuf du Pape
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Hike Châteauneuf du Pape - Mont Redon (7 miles | 11km | +/-150m)

Circular walk. Approximate hiking time: 4h15m

Morning: You walk through the vines, alongside tracks packed with the red rocks that were deposited here 15,000 years ago, at the end of the last ice age. They absorb the heat during the day and emit it at night, keeping a constant warmth in the vineyards, and helping produce powerful and spicy reds. We recommend the full loop option that passes by the famous estate of Château Mont-Redon.

Shorter walk: A shortcut is available wherein you can walk just 5 miles (8km), with 100m of elevation gain and descent.

Afternoon of Day 3 or 4: You will have free time in the lovely Châteauneuf du Pape village to wander from one wine shop to the next all the way to the castle, or enjoy an optional half-day wine tour (see below)! The afternoons of Day 3 and 4 are interchangeable based on the wine estate opening days.

  • The Vaudieu & Solitude wineries are closed on Saturday & Sunday
  • The Nalys winery is open on Saturday
  • The Mont-Redon winery is open on Sunday for tasting (however, the cellar visit is not possible on Sunday)

Note: If your trip starts with the first walk on Saturday we recommend you do the Vaudieu, Nalys, & Solitude on Saturday (only the Nalys winery will be open), and the Mont-Redon walk on Sunday.

Optional: You can choose to do a half-day wine tour with a local wine expert (3 hours). Our wine specialist will unveil all the secrets of these vines, taking you on a tour and leading you through a wine-tasting session. You'll learn the concepts of terroir and appellation while perfecting your wine-tasting technique.

Accommodation: The Wine Bed & Breakfast guesthouse in Châteauneuf du Pape
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Hike Châteauneuf du Pape - Vaudieu, Nalys, & Solitude (4 miles | 7km | +/-100m)

Circular walk. Approximate hiking time: 2h30m

Morning: Today, you explore Châteauneuf du Pape and its famous vineyards. Literally “New castle of the Pope”, this village was chosen as the summer residence of the Popes of Avignon, complete with a castle built atop the hill, today reduced to a set of ruins from which views extend far into the horizon. It was the popes who brought the vines here in the 14th century, making wines that have been famous for centuries.

A splendid loop walk stays within the heart of the Châteauneuf appellation, strolling along farming tracks in between the parcels of vines of three widely-known wine estates: Vaudieu, Nalys, & Solitude. As you walk from one centuries-old estate to the next, you'll be pleased to encounter vineyard staff happy to share their savoir-faire with you during a wine tasting. The reds are deep and heavily spiced, while the surprising whites have notes of almond, spice, and honeysuckle.

Afternoon of Day 3 or 4: You will have free time in the lovely Châteauneuf du Pape village to wander from one wine shop to the next all the way to the castle, or enjoy an optional half-day wine tour (see below)! The afternoons of Day 3 and 4 are interchangeable based on the wine estate opening days.

Optional: You can choose to do a half-day wine tour with a local wine expert (3 hours). Our wine specialist will unveil all the secrets of these vines, taking you on a tour and leading you through a wine-tasting session. You'll learn the concepts of terroir and appellation while perfecting your wine-tasting technique.

In the afternoon, you'll be transferred to Séguret.

Accommodation: Domaine de Cabasse 3 stars in Séguret
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Hike Séguret - Gigondas - Vacqueyras (10 miles | 17km | +350m/-450m)

Linear walk. Approximate hiking time: 5h30m

From Séguret, you walk along quiet farm tracks above the Rhône Valley to Gigondas, a picturesque village world-famous for its sublime red wines and stunning surroundings.

From Gigondas, you climb to get a closer view of the spectacular Dentelles de Montmirail, a small mountain range featuring dramatic limestone rock formations renowned for their striking appearance. Their unique, craggy peaks are surrounded by vineyards, making them a veritable, scenic outdoor playground for walking and hiking!

Then, you'll descend to Vacqueyras, a charming, quaint Provençal village and appelation, also reputed for its robust and full-bodied wine.

Accommodation: Le Pradet in Vacqueyras (3 stars)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Hike Vacqueyras - Le Barroux (9 miles | 15km | +420m/-250m)

Linear walk. Approximate hiking time: 5h30m

You continue through the untamed slopes and reach the ruins of a church, set beside ancient cave dwellings. From there, you descend to Beaumes de Venise, where you can indulge in a glass of Muscat, a sweet wine often enjoyed as an aperitif or dessert wine. Beaumes de Venise is known for producing some of the finest and highest-quality Muscat wines in the world, making it a must-visit town for wine lovers.

Then it’s onward to Le Barroux, a medieval hilltop village crowned by the 12th-century castle, Château du Barroux, and quiet cobblestone streets. Le Barroux, even with its stunning architecture and prime location in the heart of the Ventoux wine region, is off-the-beaten-path even for walking holidays! You'll be able to see the Dentelles de Montmirail and the Mont Ventoux out in the distance. On Saturday mornings, there is a small market in the village, too.

Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.

Accommodation: Les Geraniums in Le Barroux (3 stars)
Meals: Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7 Hike Le Barroux - Malaucene (8 miles | 13km | +/-500m)

Linear walk. Approximate hiking time: 4h30m

Your walk takes you into the heart of Mont Ventoux, through its densely forested northern slopes, far from the beaten tourist paths. Along a forestry road 400m above the village, your views extend far into the Baronnies mountains to the north, before you reach a most improbable chapel on a plateau (a great picnic spot). A steep descent leads you down to the small hamlets in the plains, before taking you back to Malaucène, nestled at the base of Mont Ventoux, via quiet country roads laden with truffle-oak plantations and orchards of all kinds.

Optional: If you are up to it, add another 5h loop from Malaucène (10 miles | 17km | +/- 400m). Your walk takes you into the heart of Mont Ventoux, through its densely forested northern slopes, far from the beaten tourist paths. Along a forestry road 400m above the village, your views extend far into the Baronnies mountains to the north, before you reach a most improbable chapel on a plateau (great picnic spot). A steep descent leads you down to the small hamlets in the plains, and you are led back to Malaucène via quiet country roads, laden with truffle-oak plantations and orchards of all kinds. 

Accommodation: Le Pont de l'Orme guesthouse in Malaucène
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Hike Malaucène - Le Crestet - Vaison la Romaine (11 miles | 18km | +400m/-280m)

Linear walk. Approximate hiking time: 6h

From Malaucène, you walk northward on thyme and rosemary-drenched hills to the authentic, perched village of Le Crestet. Le Crestet is a peaceful and charming lesser-known stop, providing a serene and unspoiled Provençal experience.

You continue to the Gallo-Roman village of Vaison la Romaine, rich with cultural heritage and home to the largest archaeological site in France. Vaison la Romaine is renowned for its extensive Roman ruins, which are among the most impressive in France. The town is divided into two main parts: the modern town (Vaison) and the ancient Roman town (Vaison-la-Romaine). In the Roman section, you can explore remarkably well-preserved structures and Romanesque architecture, including a Roman bridge, a Roman theater, and numerous Roman houses with intricate mosaic floors. The Roman theater, in particular, is a significant archaeological site and is still used for various events and performances today.

Accommodation: Eveche guesthouse in Vaison la Romaine
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 Vaison la Romaine (departure day)

If you are in Vaison on a Tuesday, do not miss the great morning market taking place throughout the year! Take time to stroll the medieval village of Vaison and its Roman ruins before finishing your walking holiday. Your tour ends in Vaison.

Customization

Optional extension: You can catch a bus to Orange TGV train station, Carpentras, or Avignon. From Avignon, you can catch the high-speed train to continue your onward journey.

Contact us if you want to customize this itinerary or have any questions about this trip.

Route Map

Map showing the routes and stops for the walking wine tour of Provence, France.

Inclusions & Exclusions

  • 8 nights at hand-picked small guesthouses or 2/3-star hotels

  • 8 buffet breakfasts

  • Dinner on day 6 (excluding drinks)

  • Luggage transfers days 5 to 8

  • Transfer from Avignon to Châteauneuf du Pape (D2)

  • Transfer from Châteauneuf du Pape to Séguret (D4)

  • A full travel kit (welcome letter, vouchers, daily summary, luggage tags)

  • Road Book with detailed walking itineraries & integrated maps

  • GPX files (see FAQ)

  • Emergency contact number

  • Flights to and from the destination

  • All lunches

  • All dinners except on day 6

  • Drinks

  • Optional wine tours

  • Entrance fees

  • Insurance

  • Personal items

Pricing

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

Prices vary between seasons.

  • Low Season: Mar. 1st - 27th; Oct. 29th - Nov. 26th
  • Mid Season: Mar. 28th - Jun. 24th; Sep. 1st - Oct. 28th
  • High Season: Jun. 25th - Aug. 31st
  • Deposit per person

    30% of the trip price

  • Solo Traveler

    Low Season: $2,280 pp Mid Season: $2,350 pp High Season: $2,400 pp

  • Group of 2-3 travelers - price per person

    Low Season: $1,295 pp Mid Season: $1,350 pp High Season: $1,375 pp

  • Group of 4-6 travelers - price per person

    Low Season: $1,230 pp Mid Season: $1,250 pp High Season: $1,300 pp

  • Single Supplement

    $650 pp

Optional Add-ons

  • Half-day, guided wine tour (non private): 95 € pp

Participate in a half-day wine tour of the Southern Rhône's premium wine villages. A local wine expert will reveal a wealth of secrets about the vines and explain the key elements of the wine-making process as you visit the cellar and taste four to five wines at a local wine estate (depending on the wine expert, you'll visit 1 or 2 wine estates). The tasting characteristics, aging potential, and varying influences of the terroir and cellar methods will all be described.

Sustainability

Our tours offer a unique and eco-friendly way to explore a country on foot or by bike, allowing you to travel in a pollution-free manner. Walking and cycling not only provide an eco-responsible mode of transportation but also promote physical activity and mental well-being, allowing you to break free from daily routines and stress.

By moving to the slow rhythm of our footsteps or our pedal strokes, we take the time to observe the landscapes, meet the local population, and find our freedom of movement. In this way, our trips allow travelers to fully immerse in the places they are visiting. We prioritize sustainable and responsible tourism by partnering with small local accommodations and supporting the local economy.

To minimize our carbon footprint, we have partnered with Reforest'Action to offset the CO2 emissions generated by our trips. Through tree planting and the purchase of carbon credits, we aim to contribute to forest preservation and the development of carbon sinks.

By participating in our tours, you not only experience the world up close but also actively support the fight against the negative consequences of tourism and promote a greener form of travel.

Environmental Initiatives

Throughout this self-guided tour, we prioritize sustainability by emphasizing the importance of minimizing waste. Our aim is to leave a minimal impact on the environment and promote a cleaner, healthier planet.

We are also committed to serving local food, preferably sourced from organic producers. By supporting local farmers and businesses, we not only ensure that you have a truly authentic culinary experience but also contribute to the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint associated with long-distance food transportation.

In addition to our food choices, we are conscious of using eco-friendly cleaning products to minimize harm to the environment. We believe in responsible tourism practices that extend to all aspects of our operations, including the products we use to maintain cleanliness and hygiene. Water and energy conservation are also key priorities during the tour. The accommodations we chose are trying to reduce waste and use refilled toiletry items, serve as many local products as possible, and implement water & energy-saving measures. We encourage responsible water usage and provide information on how to minimize water waste. Similarly, we promote energy-saving measures to reduce our ecological impact. By incorporating these practices into our tour operations, we strive to create a sustainable travel experience that respects and preserves the natural resources of the destinations we visit.

Sociocultural Initiatives

In our roadbook, we emphasize the socio-cultural positive impact of our tour. We believe that travel should go beyond sightseeing and offer meaningful interactions with local communities and their traditions.

By highlighting the locations of local markets each day, we encourage you to stroll through these vibrant spaces. It provides you with a unique opportunity to engage with local vendors, taste regional delicacies, and witness the lively atmosphere. These interactions allow you to learn about traditional food practices, support small-scale farmers and artisans, and develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of their customs and traditions.

Furthermore, we provide information on wine and olive oil tastings along the way. These experiences allow you to delve into the rich culinary heritage of the region, learn about wine production techniques, and appreciate the artistry of olive oil making. By visiting these establishments, you not only savor the flavors but also support local winemakers and olive oil producers, contributing to the preservation of traditional craftsmanship.

Economic Initiatives

We have nurtured long-term relationships with small guesthouses, bed and breakfasts, and hotels that are locally owned and operated. Whenever possible, we prioritize partnering with these establishments to support the local economy and contribute to the sustainable development of the region.

By choosing these small-scale accommodations, we ensure that a significant portion of the revenue generated from your stay goes directly into the hands of local entrepreneurs. This not only helps them sustain their businesses but also creates employment opportunities for the local community.

Moreover, our tour is carefully designed to include lesser-known and off-the-beaten-path places in Provence. By exploring these hidden gems, you will have the opportunity to experience the authentic essence of the region and support local providers. From visiting local markets to engaging in wine or olive oil tastings, we guide you toward experiences that connect you with the local economy and cultural heritage.

During your journey, you will have the chance to support approximately 10 local providers in the region. This includes not only your accommodations but also interactions with local artisans, farmers, and producers. By purchasing their products, participating in their activities, and engaging in their services, you contribute directly to the economic sustainability of these individuals and their communities.

Health & Safety

Be sure you have traveler's insurance.
It's recommended to be in good physical condition to do this trip.

FAQs

What does the Physical Rating of "Average" mean for this trip?

For this trip, you need to be used to exercising regularly (whether walking, cycling, aerobics, etc.). Our hiking adventure is suitable for those who are in good shape, keen to set off on all-day walks, and can handle walking uphill (slowly) for up to 2 hours at a time. Walks are generally under 5 hours, on various types of terrain (only 1 hike lasting 6 hours) though nothing technically difficult, with up to 2000ft/600m of climbing per day.

What are the accommodations like?

You will be staying in standard or charming hotels.

Is this trip safe for female, solo, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC travelers?

Our trip is safe for all good minded travelers, no matter sex or group.

How do I find out about potential trail closures?

Between June 1st and September 30th, trail closures might occur and access to forest paths may be forbidden or partially restricted (access until 11:00 a.m.) if the risk of forest fire is high in the Dentelles & Ventoux area.

At 6:00 p.m., the local prefecture creates an automated telephone message for the following day's access; the information is also available on the internet. You are responsible for getting this information.

Luberon+Dentelles+Ventoux Telephone : +33 (0)4 88 17 80 00

What are GPX files?

To follow the hikes on an application, guests can download a GPX-viewer app of their choice and then open the hikes and follow them digitally instead of reading the route notes. GPX files are electronic versions of the hike and are provided in addition to the paper roadbook. They are a bit like a GPS in your car, showing you the way on your mobile phone where you have to hike. Nowadays, most clients no longer read the road book or use it just a little bit, as it is more comfortable to follow the route on your phone or watch.

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