Drinking wine straight from the vineyard has some unique benefits. Perhaps the history, the cultivated soil over millennia, or the scenery draped with vines are to blame. Or maybe it has to do with the personalities and histories of the vineyards themselves, especially in France, where wine-producing regions are renowned for their enormous vineyard chateaus, many of which have been lavishly transformed into hotels.
Château de Berne – Lorgues, France
This magnificent 18th-century chateau may be found at the end of a country road in the Provençal countryside. More precisely, this luxurious hotel is situated in Lorgues, the oldest wine-producing area in Provence, which is known for its dry, pale rosés and spicy, powerful red wines. You can take advantage of the expansive spa and Michelin-starred restaurant between wine tours and other activities, go for walks among the olive fields, or rent a car to explore more of the surrounding area.
Château de Valmer – La Croix-Valmer, France
Imagine palm trees, the aroma of the ocean, and a cool glass of rosé from the Côtes de Provence to visualize the setting at Château de Valmer. This beachfront castle includes a spa, a private beach, and a Michelin-starred restaurant—everything you’d want from a five-star resort. You can take a trip through ancient hilltop towns, vineyards, and vegetable gardens once you’ve finished visiting the beach and the surrounding area.
Château du Tertre – Arsac, France
Red wine enthusiasts can rejoice since Margaux produces some of Bordeaux’s best red wines on its vines. The imposing Château du Tertre looks out over magnificent scenery. With its exposed beams and French oak ceilings, it was constructed in 1865, but its architecture is still stunning. You can explore the grounds, take in the grandeur of the vineyards, and tour the wine cave while tasting some of the region’s native grape varietals.
La Chartreuse du Bignac – Saint-Nexans, France
A rolling panorama of plum trees and vines surrounds La Chartreuse du Bignac, which is located on a hill. It is situated in Bergerac, a region well-known for its robust reds and fruity whites. Visit the hotel’s on-site wine bar to savor some of the best vintages in the region. The rustic elegance is enhanced with a tiny library, a stone fireplace, and vaulted cellars from the 12th century.
Hostellerie du Château des Fines Roches – Châteauneuf-du-Pape, France
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a well-known red wine known for its ripe juiciness, and there’s no better place to enjoy it than its birthplace. The Château des Fines Roches looks out onto the local vineyards. The Marquis de Baroncelli once lived in this 19th-century castle, which was frequented by many Provençal poets. It’s now a place to unwind with a glass of wine while sunbathing, dining on the terrace, and swimming in a pool beneath turreted towers.
