Wineries
Red, white or rosé, the wines of Provence have a great reputation. Wine has been made here since the Romans and each terroir has its own specificity. The vineyards are facing the sea, on the slopes of the mountains, on the hillsides or near the olive groves.
Château de l’Escarelle
A 45 minute drive away from Aix en Provence, this fully renovated winery is one of the most technologically advanced in Provence. The focus here is rosé and only rosé, with a selection of 9 different ones to pick from. Don’t miss out on visiting the stunning and peaceful butterfly garden while you are there.
The Château is open daily mornings (10 AM-1 PM) and afternoons (3-7 PM).
Château du Seuil
The real gem here is the French Garden, created between 1600 and 1680 and shaded by large cedars planted in the 18th century.
Their wines are of course no less impressive, and you might even be able to try their estate olive oil.
They are open every day, just check their website for visiting hours.
Château Lacoste
Art Center, restaurants, hotel and wine production… Chateau Lacoste is one of the largest centers for oenotourism in France. You could easily spend the whole day here, starting the morning off with an art and architecture tour, having lunch at one of their 5 restaurants (you might want to make a reservation for some of them), and then spending the afternoon with a private wine workshop.
Open daily from 10AM to 7PM
Château la Nerthe
This 5 century old estate is in many ways synonymous with Châteauneuf-du-Pape and their guided visits and tastings do a wonderful job giving much needed context and history to this world famous wine region.
You will not be able to visit the estate without a prior reservation so make sure to book a tour.
Domaine Paul Autard
This stop is for wine lovers only, since, unlike other wineries on this list, there isn’t much of an estate to visit. Instead, Paul Autard’s daughter Pauline will likely be the one guiding you through their process and a very thorough tasting.
Make sure to call or email ahead to set up a time to visit.