Hidden Vineyards and Haute Cuisine: Top Curated French Experiences

During the recent grape harvest, I was honored to be one of 12 American travel specialists to attend Destination Vignobles, a professional invite-only tourism event dedicated to French wine and culinary experiences. It was INCREDIBLE!

Following an immersive 5-day visit to the Rhône Valley, we gathered in the Loire Valley with our French colleagues to collaborate on creating unforgettable travel experiences around the country. After a week of nonstop touring, tasting, eating and exploring, I have chosen 10 of the best French wine and gastronomic experiences to highlight for you. The first five are listed below; the remaining to follow in Part Two!

1. Harvest at Domaine Rémy Nodin in Saint-Péray.

My visit to this wine estate in the Northern Rhône Valley may have been the single most memorable experience I've had in any wine region around the world (sorry, Château Margaux). As if stepping into a Hallmark movie among the rolling vineyards (cue the sheep!), we enjoyed a warm and inviting visit that was both educational and entertaining. We began with an interesting and informative walk through the vines, where we encountered the winery sheepdog escorting a group of sheep as they helped manicure the vineyards. We were then led into the winery where we had the rare opportunity to taste crushed berries from the tank and hear the bubbling sound of fermentation in action. Following, we enjoyed a lovely lunch with the 7th generation owner and winemaker, Rémy Nodin. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the domaine and their family traditions, as well as the aspirations of the new generation. In addition to producing Marsanne, Roussanne and Syrah, Rémy Nodin has revived the sparkling wine that once made Saint-Péray famous, dating back to 1829 when it even outshone Champagne in popularity. Saint-Péray is a hidden gem in the Rhône Valley and not to be missed!

2. Exquisite Cuisine & Vineyard Views in Vallon-Pont-d'Arc.

Domaine Walbaum, nestled in the picturesque southern Ardèche region of France, is a luxurious retreat surrounded by rolling vineyards and stunning natural beauty. This wine estate and chateau has been in the Walbaum family since the 19th century and has been lovingly restored by 7th generation owner Ludovic Walbaum. We had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with Ludovic, who beams with passion and family pride. Domaine Walbaum offers elegant accommodations that seamlessly blend modern comfort with rustic charm, providing guests with a serene escape. Sitting at my window overlooking the vineyards with a glass of wine at sunset was perhaps the top highlight of my trip. The estate’s location, near the breathtaking Gorges de l’Ardèche and charming medieval villages, makes it an ideal base for exploring the region. The Walbaum estate produces exceptional Rhône Valley wines which can be savored during intimate tastings in the chateau, even if not staying at the hotel. Domaine Walbaum also boasts an elegant farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local flavors with innovative dishes crafted from fresh, seasonal ingredients. Whether you’re sipping wine on the terrace, strolling through the vineyards, or indulging in gourmet cuisine, Domaine Walbaum offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the essence of French wine country.

3. Ancient Vines in the Loire Valley.

Located in the heart of the Loire Valley near Saumur, Château de Parnay is a historic estate that blends centuries of winemaking heritage with modern excellence. Dating back to the 10th century, this castle once belonged to the monks of the Abbey of Fontevraud, who cultivated its vineyards. Later, in the 19th century, it became renowned under the ownership of winemaker Antoine Cristal, who created a groundbreaking technique of planting vines: through a stone wall (!), aka the Clos of Chemin des Murslike. Each vine is planted on the north side of a stone wall. The vine then crosses through a hole in the wall allowing the grapes to grow facing the southern sunshine. The vine is said to have its "foot in the cool and belly in the sun." The château is celebrated for its organic and biodynamic Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, produced from vines planted in the region’s iconic tuffeau limestone soils. Visitors can explore the stunning underground cellars carved into the cliffs, learn about the estate’s rich history, and enjoy tastings that showcase the exceptional wines crafted at this iconic Loire Valley destination. While we were visiting, we got the inside scoop on an ambitious new project to build an incredible wine resort and spa on the premises - can't wait for that to open! Château de Parnay is an absolute must-see in the Loire Valley!

4. Chocolate Bliss in Tain-l'Hermitage.

The Valrhona Chocolate Factory, located in the Rhône Valley town of Tain-l’Hermitage, is a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers and gourmands. Renowned worldwide for its premium-quality chocolate, Valrhona offers visitors an immersive experience at its Cité du Chocolat. Here, guests can explore interactive exhibits that reveal the secrets of chocolate-making, from bean to bar, and learn about the craftsmanship that goes into creating their iconic products. The on-site shop is a paradise for chocoholics, brimming with a vast selection of exquisite chocolates, including single-origin bars, pralines, and exclusive creations. Not to mention a self-serve hot chocolate machine! Whether you're a casual chocolate fan or a connoisseur, a trip to the Valrhona Chocolate Factory promises a delectable and unforgettable experience.

5. Adventure in South Ardeche.

The Southern Ardèche region of France is a treasure trove of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor adventures. Start with a visit to the breathtaking Gorges de l'Ardèche, often called the "Grand Canyon of Europe," where you can kayak along turquoise waters beneath towering limestone cliffs or hike scenic trails offering panoramic views. Explore charming medieval villages like Balazuc and Labeaume, both classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France," with their cobblestone streets and historic architecture. Trek deep into the earth to explore the ancient Saint-Marcel Grotto and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime wine tasting in a stunning setting. For history lovers, the Caverne du Pont d’Arc, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric art with its replica of ancient cave paintings. You can also visit a truffle farm to hunt for truffles and enjoy the incomparable flavors of this delicacy. There are lovely vineyards to discover in Ardèche, where you will find typical Rhône varietals as well as international grapes. The Southern Ardèche is the ultimate destination for those who wish to pair outdoor adventure with delicious wine!

Stay tuned for Part Two!

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Cheers,

Carol