- With family
- Travelling solo
- With friends
- As a couple
Journées Européennes du Patrimoine 2025: Discovering the vineyards of the Rhône Valley
When we think of Journées Européennes du Patrimoine, we often imagine historic monuments, museums, or castles. But what if this year's real treasure were to be found among the vineyards? From September 20th to 21st, 2025, several estates in the Rhône Valley will be opening their doors to take us on a journey through history and terroir. Not to mention, of course, moments of discovery around the wines that are an integral part of this living heritage.
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Step back in time at Mas des Tourelles
At Mas des Tourelles, in Beaucaire in the heart of the Costières de Nîmes appellation, visitors are immersed in an unexpected setting: a garden and vineyard inspired by Roman times, a cellar reconstructed in the style of antiquity, and exhibitions on experimental archaeology.
You can stroll freely around the site, immerse yourself in the world of archaeology, and even taste the famous Romanum Vinum, made as it was in Gallo-Roman times. And for those who love a good story, archaeologist Fabrice Bigot offers fascinating guided tours, where mosaics and excavations come to life through his anecdotes.
Good to know: the tour is exceptionally free for individuals. A good reason to give it a try!
© Mas des Tourelles
Côte-Rôtie Tour: exploring the hillsides
Sometimes, all it takes is a climb up a vineyard hillside to understand the magic of a terroir. In Ampuis, the Côte-Rôtie Tour offers an unusual ride aboard a small tram that winds its way between terraces carved out centuries ago. The guided tour reveals the secrets of these impressive slopes, where every square meter of vineyard is a feat of engineering.
At the end of the excursion, those who wish can visit the Gilles Barge estate to meet the team and taste their iconic wines. Discover expertise passed down since 1860, through generations, with legendary appellations such as Côte-Rôtie, Condrieu, and Saint-Joseph.
What we love: the exceptional panoramic views of the Rhône Valley, perfect for a photo break.
© DR Instapades Studio
Malijay twilights: one night, one castle, and wines to discover
When the sun goes down, heritage takes on a whole new dimension. At Malijay castle in Jonquières, headlamps are brought out for an intimate tour. Visitors wander through the estate's iconic locations, guided in the darkness by voices and stories that reveal themselves in a different light once night has fallen.
The tour is punctuated by tastings of four carefully selected wines from the leading Côtes du Rhône appellations, like sensory stops along the way. The atmosphere is both mysterious and friendly: you discover the castle in a different way, almost secretly, as if you were one of the privileged few.
Please note: three slots are available on Sunday evenings and admission is free. In other words, this is an opportunity not to be missed!
© Château Malijay
This year, the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine in the Rhône Valley are the perfect opportunity to combine business with pleasure: learn, taste, and marvel. So, get out your calendar, mark the weekend of September 20th and 21st, and treat yourself to an experience where wine is as much about living as it is about tasting.
A piece of advice? Remember to book when possible, as these activities always attract curious visitors and wine lovers.
