Our best autumn getaways in the Rhône Valley Vineyards

In the Gard region, autumn looks like something out of a postcard. In Beauvoisin, you can set off on a journey through the heart of the vineyards at Château Beaubois—a fun, engaging experience that can be enjoyed on foot, by bicycle, or even on an electric scooter. Two interactive routes offer a fresh perspective on the vineyard, set against the backdrop of the autumnal colors that blanket the Costières.

Just a few kilometers away, the "From Canal to Canal in the Costières AOC" trail invites you to explore a landscape shaped by water. Winding past irrigation canals, orchards, and vineyards, the route traverses the quintessential scenery of the Gard-side Camargue, revealing a different side of the Costières de Nîmes. In autumn, the light here takes on a particularly soft quality—perfect for taking the time to observe nature and the vines.

A great tip: after your excursion, be sure to stop by one of the many tasting cellars in the Costières de Nîmes AOC to enjoy a wine tasting and further immerse yourself in the local terroir.

In the southern Rhône Valley, autumn can also be experienced through encounters where heritage and nature exist in harmonious dialogue.

In Pertuis, the Jardin Remarquable (Remarkable Garden) at Château Val Joanis offers a pastoral interlude in the heart of the Luberon. Laid out across three terraces, this French-style garden—situated on the site of an ancient Roman villa—brings together a vegetable garden, an orchard, and flower-filled spaces. As the foliage takes on its autumnal hues, a stroll through the grounds becomes especially inspiring.

Further north, in Crestet, the "Sustaina-Bee-Lity" tour at the Le Chêne Bleu estate offers a unique exploration of biodiversity within a vineyard setting. The tour highlights the vines, the apiary, the vegetable garden, and the environmentally conscious practices employed in the cellar. It concludes with a tasting of honey and wine—the perfect way to extend the pleasure of this delightful autumn getaway.

The Ardèche is arguably one of the best places to take in the colors of autumn. In Bourg-Saint-Andéol, the Notre-Dame de Cousignac estate offers a unique experience called "Véloenologie" (wine-cycling), combining scenic exploration with the joy of cycling. On an electric bike, you can traverse vineyards—including those of the Côtes du Rhône, Côtes du Vivarais, and Grignan-les-Adhémar AOC appellations—as they take on golden hues, before concluding the experience with a tasting in the estate’s cellar.

A little further north, the Château de Crussol keeps watch over the Rhône Valley from its rocky promontory. This 11th-century fortress commands a remarkable panoramic view of the surrounding hillsides. In autumn, the vista overlooking the vineyards and the colorful terrain of the Ardèche is, in itself, well worth the trip.

Good to know: The ruins of the Château de Crussol also serve as an excellent starting point for a walk or a picnic with a view over the valley.

The Drôme region has a knack for surprising visitors with original discoveries.

In Suze, within the Clairette de Die appellation area, an educational walk at the Peylong wine estate offers insight into vineyard cultivation and the unique characteristics of this terroir, nestled in the Gervanne Valley. In autumn, the surrounding natural landscape takes on beautiful colors, further enhancing the charm of the visit.

Near Saillans, the Raspail Jean-Claude et Fils estate offers the chance to explore the vineyards on a Segway—a novel way to gain a fresh perspective on the landscape while learning about grape varieties, winemaking, and the aging process. The tour concludes with a tasting at the estate, allowing visitors to delve even deeper into the local terroir.

Far from the typical wine tour, these experiences offer a dynamic way to engage with the vineyards, all while enjoying the tranquility of the season.

For those who love grand landscapes, head to the spectacular hillsides of the northern Rhône Valley. Starting from Condrieu, the "Wine and Ride" experience offers a chance to explore the vineyards of Côte-Rôtie and Condrieu—as well as the rugged terrain of the Pilat massif—by bicycle. With sweeping views of the Rhône River, picturesque villages, and endless stretches of vines, you’ll be captivated by landscapes enhanced by the unique, soft light of autumn.

Another seasonal highlight is the "Randovignes" (vineyard hikes) organized by the Cave de Tain, which take you up onto the famous slopes surrounding Tain-l'Hermitage. Led by a guide, this walking tour combines landscape interpretation and an exploration of wine heritage with an immersive journey through the very Syrah plots that built the reputation of the Hermitage AOC. In autumn, as the vine leaves take on copper and golden hues, the vistas become truly extraordinary.

Our tip: plan your outing for late morning or early afternoon to make the most of the autumnal light, which beautifully illuminates the terraced vineyards.