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Avignon and the vineyards of Châteauneuf du Pape, where life is lived in its wine
Tour summary
Avignon for 70 odd years of the early 1300s was centre of the Catholic world. The skyline a magnificent urban landscape, overlooks the city, river Rhône, Rocher des Doms presenting an exceptional set of monuments that includes the Saint Bénezet Bridge - the famous Pont d’Avignon, the Ramparts, Petit Palais, Cathedral & walls of the Popes’ Palace flanked by four mighty towers. Start with a visit to the Palais, gardens & bridge before a short drive to the wine country of Châteauneuf du Pape. Châteauneuf du Pape is at the heart of a region full of history, culture and joie de vivre. A unique, magical place that appears on the hill like an island rising out of a sea of vines. At the summit the vestiges of the ruined château – wall, tower & lower hall built by the popes in the 14th century as a summer residence to escape the city heat of Avignon. It was the popes who planted the town's first vineyards. In the afternoon visit two different vineyards - first Château Fortia who's history dates back to the 17th century & in the 19th century under the ownership of Baron Le Roy, created France's first AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) it's the world standard for wine. Next to a nearby winemaker with 8ha vineyard based exclusively on the appellation owned by five generations of wine-producers. Introducing you to the iconic wines established in 1880's where tradition is enhanced by modernism & excellence, with wine tasting too.
Tour itinerary & highlights
We will arrive to collect you from your hotel or guest house. (If you are staying in a rented apartment or villa, we can arrange that too) We can arrange to meet you at the Cruise ship terminal in Marseille if arriving by ship. However, the tour is not recommended, if you arrive and depart the same day. Tour available from Aix-en-Provence, Marseille or Avignon.
Leaving by car driving first to Avignon. Here we take a guided tour of the Palais des Papes & Pont St Bénézet, the famous bridge of Avignon. Both these exceptional sites make this visit really special. Time for a snack, coffee or early lunch in Avignon before we leave.
Châteauneuf du Pape, time to explore the village and visit two different vineyards for an arranged tasting - learn about the vine and the production of wine in this exceptional wine region. At the end of the tour, returning to Aix-en-Provence, Marseille or Avignon.
Language: English or French
Tour duration & schedule
The total duration of the tour is 8 hours, assuming pick-up in Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Marseille. The order for the tour is flexible enough to take into account the starting point changing depending on your location. There is a scheduled lunch break, at leisure, not included & you have to chance to purchase wine later.
What's included
Pick-up & drop-off at either the Cruise Terminal in Marseille or hotel in Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Marseille. If staying elsewhere we can coordinate a pick-up from your address. (There may be a suppliment payable) Plus we can adapt if you arrive by train.
Travel to all of the sites & destinations proposed with dedicated guide/driver & return to your hotel, address or the cruise terminal. Admission to the sites listed included. Wine tasting & vineyard tours are included. Refreshments, snacks, lunch not included.
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