Welcome to Dracénie Provence Verdon, the ideal getaway for an unforgettable wine tourism weekend.
In this land where wine blends harmoniously with art and history, prepare to experience unforgettable moments: tasting refined Provençal wines, cycling through the vineyards, enriching cultural discoveries, and relaxation in the region's finest wineries. Follow the guide!
2 days
Duration
60 km
Itinerary
3
Vineyards
Step 1
Draguignan
Immersion in Provençal traditions
The adventure begins in Draguignan, capital of Dracénie and second administrative city of the Var. Stroll through the cobbled streets of its historic center, passing by the Clock Tower, a true symbol of the city offering a panoramic view of all the surroundings.
Then, it's at Museum of Provençal Arts & Traditions which will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the region's cultural identity. You will discover, in particular, an exhibition on the local history of wine and olive oil production, as well as collections of traditional objects illustrating daily life in Provence through the centuries. A wonderful way to experience the heritage of the Dracénie region through its agriculture and crafts.
Continue your getaway a few kilometers away, towards the Château Sainte Roseline, A wine estate in an enchanting setting, spanning 110 hectares of vineyards. Upon arrival, you will be captivated by its majestic eponymous chapel, a historical monument where Roseline de Villeneuve, an emblematic figure of the region, is laid to rest. Legend has it that she performed numerous miracles… Also visit the adjoining cloister, itself a listed historical monument.
On the tasting side, the Château Sainte Roseline is renowned for its classified growths, particularly its rosés from Provence, celebrated for their finesse and elegance. During your visit, participate in a guided tasting where you can enjoy the different vintages while learning the secrets of their production from Aurélie Bertin's team.
Finally, if you have some time left, go and explore the Sainte Roseline walk, an interactive 3.5 km trail through the vineyards where you will be invited to scan different QR codes in order to delve into the history of the estate and test your knowledge of wine and biodiversity.
It's now time to hop on your bike and follow the route «"The Vineyard by Bike"» Heading towards Les Arcs-sur-Argens. For rental information, contact Château Sainte Roseline or the Les Arcs-sur-Argens town hall directly. This 4.5 km ride through the heart of the vineyards is ideal for admiring the vines stretching as far as the eye can see under the golden Provençal sun. Cycle to the rhythm of the birdsong, and take the time to stop wherever you like to admire the magnificent panoramas that unfold at every turn.
Upon your arrival in the charming medieval village of Arcs-sur-Argens, Stop for lunch at Château d'Argens, in the historic Parage district. This 13th-century castle, with its unique atmosphere, welcomes you to its panoramic terrace where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley. The restaurant's menu showcases local and seasonal produce, blending Provençal tradition with culinary creativity. A selection of wines sourced directly from the surrounding vineyards will also be recommended.
After your meal, take the opportunity to stroll through the pretty Parage district, with its medieval alleyways dotted with colorful facades, as well as the Wine House, Right next door, there's a shop with over 800 wines from the Côtes de Provence appellation. A must-see!
Spa, gourmet dinner & overnight stay in the castle
After a first part of the day full of discoveries, head to the Bern Castle to savor a moment of relaxation and well-being. This wine estate is a true haven of peace offering a luxurious experience of relaxation and gastronomy. In its 800 m² spa area, Enjoy an indoor pool with counter-current swimming, jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, and try their rosy scrub, a special treatment made from organic grape marc.
Once refreshed, prepare to experience a gourmet dinner at Michelin-starred restaurant "Le Jardin de Berne"«, where Chef Louis Rameau and his team will offer you inventive cuisine accompanied by a selection of the estate's finest wines. A truly memorable experience! End the day in style by retiring to one of the luxurious rooms of the castle, ...with views of the vineyards or the garden, which you'll appreciate even more the next morning at breakfast time. Life is good in Dracénie Provence Verdon...
It is 20 km from here that you will reach the Château La Martinette for a second day of tasting, in another exceptional setting. Founded in 1620, it is the’one of the oldest wine estates in Provence, now fully committed to organic farming.
You will be welcomed by a passionate team who will guide you through their superb, contemporary winery before you taste the precious wines produced with love. Each sip will be accompanied by detailed explanations of the grape varieties used, the winemaking techniques, and the characteristics of the terroir. A timeless moment, in the midst of spectacular scenery.
At lunchtime, head to Saint-Antonin-du-Var to join the Menton Table, A farm-inn with a warm and friendly atmosphere, surrounded by nature. You are here in a historic wine estate where several great families have succeeded one another.
A perfect embodiment of the Provençal art of living, The venue offers, in particular, a gourmet stopover in the former farmhouse where the seasonal menu is made primarily from the estate's own produce (wines, of course, but also vegetables from the garden, fruit from the orchards, olives from the olive grove, and eggs from the henhouse). An opportunity to taste the Organic Côtes de Provence from Château Mentone for an authentic experience with a local flavor.
This final step leads you to Sillans-la-Cascade, located 25 km further on, at the gates of Verdon Regional Natural Park. This superb site is famous for its spectacular 44-meter-high waterfall with its characteristic turquoise water, whose beauty is breathtaking.
While swimming is not permitted in the main pool due to the risk of falling rocks, feel free to venture a little further upstream: you will find numerous natural pools formed by the Bresque. This aquatic break in an enchanting setting is ideal for a refreshing end to your journey!
A weekend around Salon-de-Provence
A weekend in the heart of the Var
A weekend in the Aix-en-Provence region
A weekend in Green Provence and Verdon
A weekend in the Esterel region
A weekend in the “Vineyards of Provence & the Mediterranean”