Chateauneuf-du-Pape: You had me at Wine & Chocolate

EXPLORE AND EXPERIENCE

Le Château des Papes from the  14th century, classified as a Historical Monument  in 1892 – Only a few walls and the tower remain, but the views are impressive

Notre Dame de l’Assomption –  Romanesque church from the 12th century

The Chapel  Saint Théodoric from the 10th and 11th centuries, classified as a Historical Monument in 1984 for its frescoes 

The Chapel Pierre de Luxembourg from the 19th century

Musée du Vin – learn the secrets of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines – free entrance – audio guide available

Hers Tower from the 12th century (exterior only, private property)

L’Islon St Luc, a protected nature area and starting point for hiking trails good for all ages

The Place de la Fontaine has plenty of outdoor cafés and restaurants inviting you to sit back with a glass of wine and watch the world go by. 

Pimponette: Olivia Bouachon welcomes you to her artisanal boutique where she personalizes bags and accessories with your photos. 

PIMPONETTE
24 bis avenue du Baron le Roy
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Téléphone: 04 90 39 12 31

“A bottle of wine contains more philosophy than all the books in the world”
– Louis Pasteur

Stay and Savor 

There are wine cellars every few feet here, so enter any that tempt you!  The appellation of Châteauneu-du-Pape has strict regulations, ensuring a high-quality wine each time.  Both reds and white are full-bodied, thanks to the small stones that cover the soil, absorbing the sunshine and heating the grapes at night.   For a close-up look at the vineyards, follow the marked walking path that leaves the west side of the village. 

Château de la Nerthe

One of the appellation’s biggest vineyards with an 18th century residence is just a bit farther down. 

Domaines Mousset

“Gardiens des Grandes Traditions” – This impressive castle begs a visit!  I was simply unable to stop myself from turning in, and when I did, I was delighted to discover that I had enjoyed a wine tasting here with a group I led back in 2011!   

The caves of Château des Fines Roches welcomes groups for a variety of activities, and I can’t recommend it enough!  Even the views from the castle of the surrounding vineyards make it worth the stop!    The château belongs to the Relais & Châteaux chain of hotels, so yes, you can even stay here!

Domaine du Père Caboche

Watch your head as you walk down the stairs into the wine cave!  This is truly a wine tasting experience.  In a small cave, with bottles everywhere, you are welcomed into the family business by friendly, knowledgeable people. The passion for wine is palpable.  You taste, enjoy, and then realize how shocked you are to pay so much for a Châteauneuf wine at home when truly excellent wine is so affordable here!  (Yes, the average price for an exceptional bottle here is about $25.  May I suggest a wine suitcase?)

Restaurant La Part des Anges

“The part for angels” is the part of the alcohol that evaporates while a wine or spirit is in the barrel.  It is said to be the part that goes to the Angels.

In French:

La part des anges est la partie du volume d’un alcool qui s’évapore pendant son vieillissement en fût. (Wikipedia)

Chocolaterie Castelain

Fabrication artisanale –  This has been a favorite of mine since 2005 when we first came here as a family.   

It has every kind of chocolate confection imaginable, as well as workshops (even workshops for kids) and of course, tastings! 

There is a wine section as well (what goes better with wine than chocolate?) . I am fairly certain I could stay live here!  1745 route de Sorgues 85230 Châteauneuf-du-Pape

If staying at a chocolaterie or a winery isn’t exactly the comfort you had in mind, may we recommend the hotel de charme La Sommellerie ***? 

Nestled in the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this ancient 17th century sheep barn has been transformed into a haven of peace and tranquility.  If you want true Provençal character, this is the place.