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Explore the tourist routes of the Côtes du Rhône

The Côtes du Rhône tourist route is an unmissable adventure for wine and food lovers. This iconic route winds its way through picturesque landscapes, offering unique wine and food experiences. Immerse yourself in the history and cultural richness of this region, and discover why it is a jewel for those passionate about authentic discoveries.

History and origins

The Côtes du Rhône wine route has its origins in a rich wine-growing tradition dating back to Roman times. For centuries, this region has been renowned for the exceptional quality of its wines, grown on diverse terroirs. The tourist route was created to celebrate and share this richness with visitors from all over the world.


As you travel along the route, you will discover the fascinating history of the vineyards, the traditional winemaking techniques and the passionate winemaking families who have shaped this unique landscape. The Côtes du Rhône wine route is not just an adventure in taste, but also a journey through time, revealing the evolution and cultural importance of wine in this region.


To find out more about the history and origins of the Côtes du Rhône wine route, check out this detailed article on Wikipedia.

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The regions and their specialities


North of the Côtes du Rhône
 

The northern part of the Côtes du Rhône wine route, also known as the Northern Rhône, is renowned for its robust, elegant red wines, mainly made from the Syrah grape variety. Among the most famous appellations are Hermitage, Côte-Rôtie and Cornas. These wines are characterised by their complex aromas of black fruits, spices and sometimes floral notes.
 

Southern Côtes du Rhône
 

The south, or Southern Rhône, offers a greater diversity of wines, with grape varieties such as Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. Notable appellations include Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas and Vacqueyras. Southern wines are often richer and fruitier, with flavours of red berries, Provençal herbs and liquorice.
 

The best places to discover


The Côtes du Rhône tourist route is dotted with wineries, cellars, restaurants and hotels offering visitors unforgettable experiences. Here are some of the best places to discover on your trip.
 

Wineries and cellars
 

One of the main attractions of the Côtes du Rhône tourist route is the wineries and cellars. These establishments give you the chance to taste exceptional wines and discover the secrets of how they are made. 


For a full list and further recommendations, see the page dedicated to wine estates and cellars in the Vallée de la Gastronomie.


Restaurants and hotels
 

To complete your experience, the Côtes du Rhône tourist route also offers a selection of quality restaurants and hotels. Here are a few establishments not to be missed:

  • Restaurant Le Gourmet : Offering refined cuisine featuring local produce, this restaurant is a real treat for the taste buds.
  • Hôtel La Vigne: Set amidst vineyards, this hotel offers an idyllic setting in which to relax after a day of wine-tasting.


For more options and unique experiences, visit the Gastronomy Valley gourmet experience page.
 

Recommended Itineraries


For a complete and memorable experience on the Côtes du Rhône tourist route, here are some suggested itineraries for different lengths of stay.


One day


If you only have one day, start by exploring the vineyards of the northern Côtes du Rhône. Visit a winery for a morning wine tasting, then enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the picturesque villages of the region and finish with a visit to a prestigious winery.


A weekend


For a weekend, combine the northern and southern regions of the Côtes du Rhône. On the first day, discover the vineyards and wineries of the north, then head south for an evening in a charming hotel. On the second day, explore the appellations of the southern Rhône, with visits to wineries and tastings throughout the day. Don't miss the local markets and wine events that bring the region to life.


One week


With one week, you can really immerse yourself in the richness of the Côtes du Rhône tourist route. Start in the north and work your way south, taking time to visit each appellation and discover the local specialities. Plan visits to wineries, private tastings, cookery classes and cultural excursions for total immersion. Incorporate moments of relaxation in charming hotels and gourmet restaurants to make the most of your stay.
 

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Events and activities


The Côtes du Rhône tourist route is animated throughout the year by a multitude of wine and food events. Here are just a few of the events not to be missed:

  • Festival des Vins du Rhône: An annual event celebrating the region's wines with tastings, workshops and meetings with winemakers.
  • Marché Gourmand de la Vallée du Rhône: A market showcasing local produce, from wines and cheeses to charcuterie and pastries.

As well as events, there are plenty of tourist and cultural activities available along the way:

  • Vineyard walks: Discover the spectacular scenery of the Côtes du Rhône on foot.
  • Guided tours of wineries: Learn more about winemaking methods and the history of the vineyards.
  • Cooking classes: Take part in workshops to learn how to cook local specialities.

The Côtes du Rhône tourist route is an invitation to discover a region rich in history, culture and flavour. From picturesque vineyards to gourmet restaurants, every stage of this journey is a celebration of the senses. By following this route, you will immerse yourself in the authenticity and diversity of the wines and landscapes of the Rhône. Don't hesitate to consult Vallée de la Gastronomie to plan your trip and discover unique experiences that will make your visit unforgettable.