The Côtes du Rhône production area stretches long and narrow along the banks of the Rhône River, covering approximately 200 km. This explains why Côtes du Rhône wines can vary significantly in color, flavor, and production method. The area is bordered to the north by Vienne and to the south by the Mediterranean Sea. Previously, the border was at Avignon, but in recent years the wine regions between Avignon and the Mediterranean Sea have also been included. A distinction is made between a northern and a southern Rhône region. The northern region, also called Rhône Septentrionale by the French, extends from Vienne to just beyond Valence. The vineyards are almost all located on the west bank, with the exception of Hermitage and Crozes-Hermitage. The Rhône Valley is narrow here, and the slopes supporting the vineyards are steep. The southern region lies south of this and extends to the Mediterranean Sea. The Côtes du Rhône includes 25 municipalities in 6 departments: Loire, Rhône, Ardèche, Drôme, Vaucluse and Gard.

You've undoubtedly seen Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages on supermarket shelves. They are the two major appellations of the southern Rhône Valley, between Montélimar and Avignon. Côtes du Rhône Villages is the better quality of the two: it features wines from communes with a better terroir, meaning a better mix of natural factors (microclimate, topography, soil composition, etc.) that results in better grapes and therefore better wine.

In the past, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Lirac distinguished themselves from other communes. Due to their superior terroir, they became separate appellations and were only allowed to use their own commune name on their labels. Gradually, new communes were also able to break away from the pack: they obtained the right to add their commune name to the generic appellation of Côtes du Rhône Villages.

Because the southern part is so extensive, several routes have been set out.
This circular route explores the southwestern part of the Côtes du Rhône. It begins and ends in Barjac in the Gard department.

Barjac
Barjac is a charming village located in the former Languedoc-Roussillon region. Due to its location, the village has always enjoyed a vibrant trade. Situated between the Gorges de la Cèze and the Gorges de l'Ardèche, Barjac certainly boasts its characteristically French streets and charming squares. Known for its renowned antique and flea market, Barjac is also an ideal base for exploring breathtaking landscapes, from millennial caves to winding rivers like the Gorges de l'Ardèche.

The Gorges de l'Ardèche run from the town of Vallon-Pont-d'Arc to Saint-Martin-d'Ardèche. The D290, a winding road with several viewpoints, runs alongside it. The Pont d'Arc near Vallon-Pont-d'Arc, a naturally created arch bridge over the river, is particularly well-known. The gorges of the Ardèche were formed by the erosion of the limestone mountains. Millions of years ago, the area was flooded several times, causing limestone to deposit on the rocky ground. Earth movements, glaciers, and rainwater have further eroded the gorges, creating beautiful scenery. Several caves have also been formed.

Pont-Saint-Esprit (coffee stop)
The Saint-Esprit Bridge is undoubtedly the town's landmark. Built between 1265 and 1344, this medieval bridge impresses with its robustness and beauty. Composed of numerous arches, it majestically spans the Rhône, offering breathtaking views of the river and the surrounding countryside. The bridge also marks the confluence of the Ardèche and Rhône rivers. The town has retained its original character over the centuries. There's plenty to see in this town, including the 12th-century Priory of Saint-Pierre and the Maison des Chevaliers, which houses the Musée d'Art Sacré du Gard. Several 15th-century mansions can also be found in the town's historic center.

Mornas
After coffee, cross the Rhône and you'll soon see Mornas and its medieval fortress perched on the cliff. The military system surrounding this citadel dates back to the 10th century and was fortified in the 12th century when it came into the hands of the Counts of Toulouse, who placed it under papal authority from the 13th century onward. After the Wars of Religion, the building was abandoned, and in 1977 the "Les amis de Mornas" association began its restoration. The entire complex is open to the public; guides in period costume will transport you back to the era of chivalry with re-enactments of scenes from medieval life in the castle. A fantastic view of the Rhône Valley awaits you at the defensive wall.

Orange
Orange has become world-famous for its distinctive Roman architecture and the magnificent statue of Emperor Augustus. As a garrison town, the city developed according to Roman knowledge and culture. This resulted in several now ancient Roman monuments in Orange, such as the Triumphal Arch and the Theater, including its unique, towering rear wall. Both structures are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Romans also built a temple, a bathhouse, and an aqueduct.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape
A little further along lies Châteauneuf-du-Pape, in the eponymous wine region of the Rhône Valley, between Avignon and Orange. This picturesque village, with a population of around 2,000, is a maze of medieval streets and steep alleyways with numerous steps. You'll find charming squares, cozy terraces under plane trees, inviting restaurants, and, of course, several wine tasting spots. While strolling through Châteauneuf-du-Pape, be sure to stop at L'église Notre-Dame de l'Assomption, an 11th-century church. Directly opposite the church is Rue de l'Eglise. This narrow street is immediately noticeable because of its gate, topped by a house. The path slopes downward, giving the street its nickname, Rompe Cul; apparently, many falls have occurred there over the centuries. On Place du Portail you will find several pleasant terraces and here you can also see the Grande Fontaine de Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the main fountain in the village, which is said to have been present at the beginning of the 17th century.

Avignon
The city is simply called the "City of the Popes" because it served as the seat of the papacy several times between 1309 and 1411. The presence of the seat of Western Christianity attracted a large number of wealthy Italian merchants. Many traces of this period remain, such as the Palais des Papes. And don't forget the famous Saint-Bénezet Bridge, immortalized in a nursery rhyme. Avignon is also home to one of France's largest theater festivals. Avignon is also notable for still retaining its ramparts. Dating back to the 1480s, they were built to protect the papal city from the "roaders" and "mercenaries" who plundered the Rhône Valley during each truce of the Hundred Years' War.

Villeneuve-lès-Avignon (lunch stop)
This charming medieval town, with its imposing Saint-André fortress, lies on the banks of the Rhône River, directly opposite Avignon. It also offers stunning natural views of Mont Ventoux and the Alpilles mountains. Lovers of old architecture will be in their element here, as several major buildings are well worth a visit. The first is the Benedictine Abbey of Saint-André, a harmonious place that combines gardens, historical heritage, and the history of Provence since the 6th century. The lush terraced gardens flourish around the remains of Romanesque churches and tombs. You'll find centuries-old olive trees, pines, and Mediterranean plants here, as well as stunning views over Avignon! There's also the impressive fortress. The abbey palace, renovated in the 17th century, still boasts elegant vaulted rooms, murals, a portal, and a monumental staircase, and it hosts numerous art and music events.

Laudun
Laudun, located in the southern Rhône Valley, is a village that occupies a remarkable position within the Côtes du Rhône Villages appellation. On the banks of the Rhône, where the Cèze and Tave rivers flow, Laudun clings to the slopes of a hill, offering stunning views over the valley. Famous for its AOC wines, Laudun is not only a typical wine-growing village but also boasts many architectural treasures: the Balouvière aqueduct, the 18-hectare Caesar's Camp (the remains of a Roman village inhabited for over a thousand years), and the Gothic church of Notre-Dame la Neuve, built on the remains of the Romanesque church of Saint-Geniès.

Bagnols-sur-Cèze (drink stop)
The city's main highlight, and also the perfect spot for a drink, is the large central square, originally Place du Marché and now Place Mallet. The town hall, built in 1675, dominates one side of the square. On both sides are arcades and several cafés. The cross in the square dates from the 18th century. A short distance from Place Mallet stands a medieval clock tower. There are plenty of terraces where you can relax and enjoy the view.

La Roque-sur-Cèze
La Roque-sur-Cèze is a medieval village perched high on a rocky outcrop, offering stunning views of the Sautadet Falls. This magnificent panoramic view gives this historic and well-preserved site its undeniable charm.

Montclus
Montclus is a beautifully preserved village on the Cèze River. Experts consider it one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. This small, restored village offers visitors charming, narrow streets lined with beautiful old buildings. Walking through the village, you'll feel transported back to the Middle Ages. The village's location is also stunning. Montclus lies at the foot of a hill, on the edge of lavender fields.

You've almost completed your tour of this Côtes du Rhône region. The last stretch to Barjac runs through the vineyards. As you enter the emblematic medieval village of Barjac, with the majestic Château de Barjac at its heart, you can visit it. This monumental fortress, with its imposing towers, sturdy ramparts, and elegant vaulted rooms, bears witness to a turbulent history. Visitors can explore the many rooms, some of which house exhibitions on local history and regional crafts. But be sure to relax on a terrace and process all your impressions with a glass of local Côtes du Rhône!