Rhône Valley's Côtes Du Rhône And Côtes du Rhône Villages AOCs Increase Focus On Wine Tourism

The Côtes du Rhône and Côtes du Rhône Villages AOCs, two significant appellations of the Rhône Valley, are concentrating on new and exciting wine tourism events and activities for consumers to explore this historic, dynamic part of the region. According to the French Ministry of Tourism, France is the world's leading tourist destination. The past few years have seen continued growth, with 2023 and 2024 seeing a record number of over 100 million visitors. The global wine tourism market is also expected to see continued growth over the next 10 years. The Côtes du Rhône, then, is poised to welcome visitors to this one-of-a-kind region: Imagine sipping wine under the sun, surrounded by medieval villages and rolling vineyards - the Côtes du Rhône is the ultimate getaway for adventure seekers, families, foodies, and culture lovers alike.

Cultural and Historical Wonders

The Côtes du Rhône is rich in history, with four UNESCO World Heritage sites, from the majestic Palais des Papes in Avignon, a 14th-century Gothic palace that once served as the residence of popes, to the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct that stands as a marvel of engineering. Stepping back even further, the Grotte Chauvet 2 cave in Ardèche, an accurate replica of the original Chauvet Caves, showcases prehistoric art that is over 30,000 years old. The stunning wine-producing villages of Séguret, Aiguèze, and La Roque-sur-Cèze truly capture the heart of the Côtes du Rhône with their beautiful scenery.

Sip, Savor, Repeat

For epicures, the Côtes du Rhône is home to a wide range of wines, from expressive reds and crisp whites to delicate rosés, paired with local delights like black truffles, creamy goat cheese, and Nyons olives for the ultimate tasting experience. Gastronomic experiences abound in the Côtes du Rhône, including chic bistros and picnics in the vineyards.

Festivals, Music, and Good Vibes

The Côtes du Rhône is known for its exciting fêtes, from lively music festivals to gourmet food events. Whether tasting through a wine festival or experiencing a traditional celebration, there is always a reason to raise a glass!

Nature, but Make It Fun

For visitors looking for outdoor adventures, the Côtes du Rhône is full of activities, from cycling through the vineyards on the scenic EuroVelo 17 (aka 'Via Rhôna'), hiking through breathtaking landscapes, to taking a guided wine walk. Sustainability is key here, and the region is dedicated to preserving its natural beauty.

Wine Tourism: A New Era

Wineries here are leaning into consumer interests - moving away from stuffy tastings and shaking things up with even more hands-on experiences, such as blending workshops, themed tastings, sensory tastings, massages in the vineyards, and overnight vineyard stays. The Côtes du Rhône region is appealing to those who are wine newbies, as well as to seasoned connoisseurs, with a wide range of unique experiences and something for everyone.

Tourists interested in planning an unforgettable trip to the Côtes du Rhône can www.vins-rhone-tourisme.fr/en for insider tips and must-visit spots.