Rhône Valley Private Wine Tour

This morning, your private chauffeur and luxury Mercedes will collect you at Lyon airport. Head into the beautiful old town, Vieux Lyon. Enjoy a Rhône wine masterclass before lunch at a quaint cellar with a famous local sommelier, tasting six flagship wines from Northern and Southern Rhône. This is an excellent introduction to the places you will be visiting and will introduce you to the variety of wine styles of this extensive region.

Enjoy a welcoming lunch at Daniel and Denise Saint-Jean, a quintessential Bouchon located in the heart of Lyon’s Renaissance UNESCO-listed quarter. This authentic Lyonnais bistro offers a true taste of the region’s culinary heritage. Chef Joseph Viola creates divine Lyonnaise dishes of very generous portions, served by the most attentive, professional waiters in the adorable dining room, which naturally features all the typical “Bouchon décor”: red-checked tablecloths, copper pots and pans, wood-paneled walls, and a striking zinc-topped bar. You will enjoy savoring Lyonnais sausage encased in brioche, Farm-raised AOC Bresse chicken with morel mushrooms, and Saint Marcellin cheese from the famed “Mère Richard.”

After lunch, your local expert guide will lead you on a walking tour of Lyon to clear your head and perk up. Lyon’s old town, or “Vieux-Lyon” as it is known locally, is one of the largest old towns in France. Although the Vieux has been threatened over the years for sanitation reasons, it has been immaculately preserved. Split into three districts named after saints, the name of whom a church or the cathedral in each district is called St Paul, St. John, and St. George.

All these are striking buildings in their own right and worth visiting. “Cathédrale Saint-Jean” St. John’s Cathedral has a beautiful, grandiose façade, although it appears somewhat “short” because its towers are unfinished. The cathedral houses the 14th-century Lyon Astronomical clock, which is genuinely remarkable. (If you happen to be visiting in December, the light festival is beautiful). The view of the city from the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière is stunning and worth the climb.

You will then settle into your immaculate and utterly delightful hotel, the 5-star Cour des Loges, and enjoy a free evening to relax or catch up on jet lag.

Hit the wine country today! At 10 am, your chauffeur will collect you for a 30-minute drive south to visit the fabulous Domaine Corps de Loup, a family-run vineyard known for its passionate approach and focus on Syrah and Viognier. You will taste elegant examples of Condrieu, Saint Joseph, and AOC Côte-Rôtie.

Then, after just a short 30-minute drive, you’ll arrive at La Pyramide for lunch, where a gourmet extravaganza awaits you. This gastronomic restaurant, led by Patrick Henriroux, proudly holds 2 Michelin stars and offers an absolutely sublime dining experience. A complete contrast to yesterday’s experience, you are greeted by a much more modern contemporary affair, from the décor to the food. Experience an intense sensory journey as you discover the infinite array of colors, aromas, tastes, and textures, all enhanced by wines from their exquisite collection.

After an outstanding lunch, head to the historic city of Vienne, stretch your legs, see the Ancient Roman theatre, and more. This city is full of Roman architecture, and probably the most impressive is the Temple in the heart of the city, almost entirely intact and dating back to the 1st Century, or the all-imposing, truly magnificent amphitheater from around 40-50 AD, which sits at the foot of Mt Pipet. It’s quite a sight and incredibly large, seating over 11,000 spectators. It is still used today during the summer Jazz festival.

Then, on to your elegant Vienne the Relais & Chateaux Maison Pic. Given the day’s lunch, you likely won’t be very hungry for dinner. A free evening to explore your captivating abode, impeccably decorated in a contemporary style, be sure to check out the enchanting gardens.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your chauffeur collects you. It’s just a 20-minute drive to your first port of call, the renowned Chapoutier. This esteemed winery has produced sensational wines for over 200 years, producing outstanding examples in Hermitage, Côte Rôtie, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Saint-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, and Luberon. Utmost importance is given to viticulture, with all their vines nurtured using organic and biodynamic practices, respecting the terroir completely. Your tasting will most likely include Le Meal (Ermitage Blanc), La Mororée (Côte Rôtie), Le Pavillo (Ermitage Rouge), and Croix-de-Bois (Châteauneuf-du-Pape).

Next up is a tantalizing wine lunch at Jaboulet Vineum. It’s a heavenly lunch venue where passionate staff, including the knowledgeable sommelier, guide you through a perfectly paired seasonal menu. Depending on when you visit, seasonal specialties may include their sensational snails or melt-in-the-mouth pigeon with thyme.

After lunch, stroll through the vineyards up to Chapelle de l’Hermitage with a local wine expert. Enjoy a vineyard walk that concludes with a private tasting at a secret gem in the Hermitage appellation.

Then, chocoholics, brace yourself because next up is a visit to the mythical Valrhona Boutique in Tain l’Hermitage, the “Rolls Royce of Chocolate.” Discover everything you ever wanted to know about chocolate, from bean to bar, and pick up some fabulous gifts before heading to your hotel for a sumptuous dinner at its 3 Michelin-star restaurant, Pic.

This restaurant has a fascinating history dating back to 1889 and has gained, lost, and regained its stars on several occasions over the years. Prepare yourself for some electrifying creations such as Gillardeua Oyster with lovage and black cardamom ice cream and various beetroot textures or Duck Liver Crème Brûlée topped with green apple sorbet; there is a generous selection of sweet delicacies to finish, including “Bitter Honey Chocolate” (just in case you didn’t sample enough this afternoon) this treat was created by Valrhona for Anne-Sophie Pic and is like a honeycomb served with Corsican bitter honey pannacotta cream and Hojicha Cubeb tea ganache – bliss!

Visit historic Vaison la Romaine this morning; this fascinating city at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail Mountains only received its full name in 1924 when the extensive Roman ruins of the town were discovered—unveiling the truly splendorous life of Roman high society. The town is split geographically by the river Ouvèze; on the left bank, the “high town,” perched on a steep hill, is well worth the climb, if only for the breathtaking panoramic view from the top. Stroll around the cobbled streets and maybe grab a coffee in one of the picturesque squares.

Your chauffeur will take you to the captivating Chateau Saint Cosme in Gigondas for a private tour and tasting. It is probably the most ancient estate in the region and is steeped in history. The terroir in the Gigondas region is unique, over 600m above sea level, at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. Big, ripe, full-bodied reds dominate here, and you will sample fantastic examples at Chateau Saint Cosme.

Lunch follows and is a characterful affair at L’Oustalet in Gigondas. It fully embraces the wine world in which it finds itself situated. This delightful restaurant in an old stone house has its own vegetable garden, and the resulting produce inspires the seasonal menu. The wine list is extensive and fascinating to peruse, but the pairings offered with the lunch menu are a superb option. A little over the 10-minute drive away, you will visit Beaumes de Venise. Next, this enchanting hilltop village, full of caves, makes for an enjoyable digestive stroll before you have a fun wine tasting paired with Provençal bites, such as tapenade and goat’s cheese, at Domaine de la Pigeade. The Muscat de Beaumes de Venise makes for an exciting change. This fortified wine, made from either Muscat á petits grains blanc or noir, can range in color from amber to rosé or even purple.

One last stop before heading to your hotel at the stunning Domaine Montirius; this delightful family-run vineyard oozes love and harmony. You will be personally welcomed and hosted by the owner, Christine, who will introduce you to their range of wines from various appellations, including Vacqueyras, Gigondas, and Côtes du Rhône. A real treat!

Then, a 30-minute drive to your overnight destination, Hotel D’Europe in Avignon. It’s been beautifully restored and renovated, a historic building dating back to 1580 and one of the country’s oldest hotels. It boasts a prime location both near the river and centrally located. Bon Soir!

This morning, you will see if some of your Michelin-starred experiences over the last few days have inspired your kitchen skills with a fun cooking workshop. Your chef will meet you and take you to the Avignon marketplace, where he will help you discover and select the best seasonal produce. Once at the La Cuisine de Valentine Cook workshop, your chef will guide you through some authentic Provençale cooking practices and top tips for seasoning, cooking, serving, and presenting the meal. Then, once ready, sit down and enjoy the fruits of your labor, bon appétit!

After lunch, you will have a VIP tour of the terrific Chateau de la Nerthe; this mythical Chateau was built in 1736 and is mentioned in documents as far back as 1560. It is not only one of the oldest estates in Châteauneuf-du-Pape but also famed for being the first in the region to export wines outside of France. The estate has changed hands several times, particularly during the 19th and 20th centuries. The current owners acquired and extensively renovated it in 1986. All 13 permitted varieties are planted, producing three red and two white wines. You will hear the fascinating viticultural and vinification practices they use, ending with a tasting of their excellent wines.

Then, before heading back to Avignon, pop into the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape itself, a pretty medieval village perched on a hill from where you can admire the luscious vineyards. Once back at your hotel, enjoy a free evening to relax or explore, guided by our recommendations.

Today, you will explore the glorious Luberon and some of its beautiful medieval hilltop villages. Your first stop is at Domaine de la Citadelle, where striking views greet you everywhere you turn, whether overlooking the vast vineyards, up to the perched village or the stunning mountain range. The wines consistently impress, thanks to the careful vineyard parcel selection, state-of-the-art winery and cellar, and cutting-edge winemaking practices. You will enjoy a VIP tour and personalized tasting hosted by charismatic guides, including a visit to the fascinating corkscrew museum, which houses over 1200 corkscrews from the 17th century to the present.

Then on to Ménerbes; narrow streets lined with cute houses and the occasional boutique or café cling to the steep slopes that lead to the 16th-century Citadelle. After admiring the most spectacular view from the top, head to the Place de l’Horloge, where one of the grand, immaculately restored stone houses is home to the Maison de la Truffe et du Vin (House of truffles and wine) for lunch.

After a delicious lunch, which naturally features these exquisite ‘fruits,’ if you are visiting in truffle season, Robert, a lively local truffle farmer, will take you truffle hunting; this is fun and the ultimate French experience.

You will then visit Gordes, breathtakingly beautiful, which is considered not only to be the most beautiful village in Provence but also in France. It is equally striking to be admired from afar as you approach it, as it is fascinating to explore. Your chauffeur will also escort you to the nearby Sénanque Abbey, renowned for its picturesque lavender fields that epitomize the quintessential Provence landscape.

One last stop before heading back to Avignon at Roussillon; in total contrast to the white stone of the other villages, Roussillon is awash with color, resembling a painter’s palette of color thanks to the neighboring ochre quarry, quite a sight off-set against the pine-covered hills and green valleys. Then, a free evening in vibrant Avignon.

To really appreciate this stunning city, you will explore with a local expert guide, who will guide you on a private walking tour of Avignon this morning. Famous for its UNESCO world heritage Palais de Papes, the Pope’s Palace was home to the Pope and the center of the Roman Catholic Church for over 70 years in the 1300s. Near the palace, the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral is also high on the list of “must-see,” with its impressive 6-meter-high gold-gilded Virgin Mary looking out from the top of the bell tower and protecting the city.

The medieval wall that surrounds the old town is a lovely sight. For a small city, it does have a lot to offer, and the picture-perfect cobbled streets are lined with boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés. Simply taking a few moments to sit and watch the hustle and bustle in the vibrant squares is an absolute pleasure.

Having ‘walked up’ an appetite by lunchtime, you can look forward to a fabulous farewell lunch on Mirande’s beautiful terrace. This is an extraordinary finale to this gastronomic trail; the setting is stunning, and each plate is a real work of art. Depending on the season, you can expect delights such as Partridge grilled and lacquered with Hokkaido pumpkin chutney, Red Scorpion Fish in a saffron broth with crispy octopus, or ‘Lemon Lightness,’ Chef Florent Pietravalle’s interpretation of Lemon Meringue Pie, which melts in your mouth!

“Then, board the fast train to Lyon and settle into your delightful hotel in the old town. You will have a free evening to make the most of this fascinating city, with plenty of tips from us.

After a last breakfast at your supremely romantic hotel, carry on to Lyon airport, or your next port of call, or spend another day in Vieux Lyon- Bon voyage!