Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The most famous wine region and village in the Rhône Valley. The ruins of a hilltop papal castle overlook vineyards covered in round stones.
Pope John XXII, one of the Avignon popes of the 14th century, built a summer palace here and planted vineyards, which gave the town its name, “Château-Neuf-du-Pape” (the New Castle of the Pope). Today it is one of France's first appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) regions. The vineyards are blanketed with round stones that absorb heat during the day and release it at night. The village has dozens of wineries and tasting rooms, and many offer free or inexpensive tastings. Only one main tower wall remains of the hilltop castle, which overlooks the whole appellation and the direction of Avignon. It's about 18 km from Avignon. Joining a winery tour or hiring a non-drinking driver is recommended.
Opening hours
All day; winery about 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Nearby sights
- Roman Theatre of Orange
- Fort Saint-André, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon
- Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon)
- Rocher des Doms
- Palais des Papes, Avignon
- Les Halles d'Avignon
- L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence