French Detours
French Detours
French Detours
French Detours
French Detours
Gigondas
EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE
Gigondas is small yet mighty. If you didn't know it was here, you may fly right past this little village. But you would be missing out! Gigondas is another wine appellation with a world-wide reputation. I hope you will make room in your agenda for both Gigondas and Chateauneuf-du-Pape so you can compare the two. You will understand the word "terroir" for which there is no real equivalent, in any other language! It means that the soil, air, landscape, as well as the human touch all create something that simply cannot be duplicated in any other area. You will notice that here vineyards are on the slopes of the hills, and that the soil doesn't have the large stones that you find in Chateauneuf-du-Pape. So which is better? It's for you to decide! Fortunately there are many opportunities to taste!
Between wine tastings, check out the historical sites of Gigondas:
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Church of Sainte Catherine from the 17th century that oversees the village.
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The Romanesque Chapel of Saint-Cosme et Saint-Damien just outside of town has a lovely view of the Dentelles de Montmirail.
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There are 3 marked hiking trails that lead you into the lacy cliffs known as the Dentelles of Montmirail.
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Wine
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Artisans
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Hiking
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Stay and Savor
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Nez Bar a Vins - a fun and friendly place for a meal or just a few glasses of wine. (No judgement!) Grab a table on the terrace - this is sunny Provence!
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Les Florets *** This charming hotel captured my heart years ago and remains a favorite. Tucked into the hills, it takes a bit to find, but the signs are clear and it is worth the bit of adventure! I'm not sure why it is only 3 starts - I find it romantic and full of character, yet with every comfort. The restaurant is FULL every night, so be sure to reserve. The food is memorable. Get the fixed price menu - you will want every course. And let them pair local wines - heavenly! (Check out the photos below of my courses)
The owners couldn't be more kind and helpful (when I found myself precariously close to both a tree and the car behind me, the owner backed out of the parking lot for me!) . Merci et a bientot!
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1243 route des Florets
84190 Gigondas
Tel: +33 04 90 65 85 01
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Vineyards
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Flora
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Cliffs
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MAGNIFIQUE
Nez Bar a Vins
Les Florets