This wine tourism weekend invites you to explore the secrets of the region through its vineyards but also its very special history, marked by the famous Nostradamus, but also its traditional soap factories and its military history.
Upon arrival, you will step back in time as you stroll through the cobbled streets of Salon-de-Provence, each telling its own story.
2 days
Duration
55 km
Itinerary
4
Vineyards
Step 1
Salon-de-Provence
Exploring the historic center
In the heart of the old town, let yourself be transported to the 16th century… The theatrical tour « Following in the footsteps of Nostradamus »" will tell you about the life and prophecies of the famous astrologer who lived in Salon-de-Provence. Dressed in period costume, the actor-guide invites you to stroll through the picturesque streets of the old town, discovering the Renaissance. A fully immersive moment in history!
Continue your morning with a visit to a traditional soap factory, Another symbol of Salon-de-Provence, which has perpetuated the art of Marseille soap making for centuries. In the soap makers' quarter, immerse yourself in a renowned olfactory world and discover the secrets of making this iconic Provençal product.
It's already lunchtime: just a stone's throw away, the L'Endroit restaurant We welcome you at the foot of the Château de l'Empéri, in a magnificent setting where you can relax on a shaded terrace. Savor refined Provençal cuisine, enhanced by a selection of carefully chosen Provençal wines.
Now head towards Pélissanne, 6 km further on, where your first immersion into the world of Provençal winemaking awaits. Upon arrival at the Vignerons de Pélissanne cooperative winery, you are greeted by the aroma of freshly pressed grapes. To begin the visit, you are given a detailed map of’a 5.5 km walking trail that winds through the vineyards at the foot of the majestic Massif des Costes. Along the rows of Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet, and Carignan vines, informative markers guide you through the walk, revealing the secrets of local viticulture. Enjoy the surrounding views in the gentle afternoon air, fragrant with thyme and rosemary.
Back in the cellar, it's your palate's turn to shine! Enjoy!’'a free tasting' to discover all the wines produced by the cooperative. The complex aromas of the Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence PDO wines will be revealed to you after exploring the lands where they originated.
Wine tasting & overnight stay in a Templar residence
Your adventure continues 10 minutes further on, in the town of Aurons. You will soon see Le Petit Sonnailler, a 12th-century castle and former Templar commandery where you will find yourself. a unique wine tourism experience. In this 85-hectare family estate, you will immediately be immersed in the history of the place, particularly thanks to its tasting room housed in the former Templar building. There, you will discover its different ranges of wines alongside...’a passionate expert.
To extend the experience, the Château du Petit Sonnailler offers three guest rooms and a large swimming pool with breathtaking views of the Luberon mountain range and the Alpilles. The perfect place for a restful night and to enjoy the beautiful light of early morning. fully immersed in the vineyard, the olive trees and the garrigue…
The next morning, continue your journey to Vernègues to discover Château Bas. More than just a wine estate, it is a place steeped in history where archaeology and viticulture meet with emotion. Here stands a remarkably well-preserved Roman temple, dating from the late 1st century BC and listed as a Historical Monument. A testament to the region's rich Gallo-Roman history, you can admire its large fluted column topped with an acanthus leaf capital.
The Château Bas wine experience notably offers a gourmet stroll punctuated by "food and wine pairing" tastings« which showcases its wines. The guided tour of the winery and vineyard will allow you to understand the winemaking processes and the unique characteristics of this rich terroir. Committed to organic viticulture since 2020, the estate produces wines crafted with a constant focus on respecting the environment. Take advantage of this morning to experience a unique experience between archaeological heritage and appreciation of the Provençal way of life.
Continue your epicurean journey to Lançon-Provence, more precisely to Château Virant, an estate of 200 hectares of vineyards and 35 hectares of olive groves, to set off on the combined discovery of viticulture and olive growing. Step into its tasting cellar for a sensory exploration of the estate's products, including wines, olive oils, and a selection of Provençal specialties for a complete and delicious experience! Don't miss a visit! Vine and Olive Museum, An unusual and educational space that retraces the history of the estate and its two main activities. A unique museum offering a better understanding of the winemaking and olive oil production processes.
Finally, a stroll through the vineyard and olive grove will offer you superb panoramic views of the surrounding landscape dominated by the rocky outcrop of Wirant (which gave its name to the estate). Awarded the "Living Heritage Company" label, Château Virant promises you a total immersion in the Provençal art of living, where wine and olive oil blend harmoniously for the greatest pleasure. pleasure of the senses.
To conclude your weekend around Salon-de-Provence, immerse yourself in the artisanal know-how Explore the region by visiting the Rampal Latour soap factory, a true local institution. Since 1828, this soap factory has perpetuated the tradition of making Marseille soap, combining ancestral know-how and ecological innovations.
During your visit, discover the meticulous stages of production, from the selection of vegetable oils to cooking in a cauldron. Observe the artisans at work, sharing their secrets and passion for a product that has become emblematic of Provence. Part of the soap factory is dedicated to an interactive museum that traces the history of soap and its importance in the local heritage.
Finally, the adjoining shop allows you to take a little bit of Provence home with you: solid or liquid soaps, essential oils, and other environmentally friendly cosmetics. An experience at a time educational and sensory which will conclude this weekend on a fragrant and unforgettable note.
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