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Village · Avignon, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Small village surrounded by vineyards between Avignon and Orange, with the ruins of the popes' summer castle on the hill and dozens of wineries that welcome visitors for tastings.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Châteauneuf-du-Pape is about 17 km north of Avignon, on a hill above the Rhône valley. The name comes from the castle that Pope John XXII had built in the 14th century as a summer residence. Today a tower and walls remain at the top of the village, with views over the vineyards, the Rhône and, in the distance, the Palais des Papes.
The village gave its name to one of France's best-known wines. Châteauneuf-du-Pape was one of the country's first appellations of origin, created in 1936, and allows up to 18 grape varieties. Most production is red. A distinctive feature of the terrain is the rolled pebbles, the galets, which retain the heat of the day.
In the streets of the centre there are wineries and producers' shops offering tastings, as well as a wine museum. In the surrounding area many domaines welcome visitors, some by reservation only. Harvest usually takes place between September and October.
The village is small and can be explored on foot in one to two hours. The climb up to the castle is short but steep. If you plan to taste wine, arrange who will drive or join an organized tour.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day, with a walk around the village, the castle and one or two tastings.
Best time
From spring to autumn. Harvest usually runs from September to October. Many wineries close or have reduced hours in winter and on Sundays; check before you go.
How to get there
By car, about 17 km from Avignon on the road via Sorgues. There are regional buses from Avignon and Orange with limited schedules. Wine tours departing from Avignon also stop in the village.
Tip
Climb to the castle ruins at sunset for views over the Rhône valley. At domaines outside the centre, book visits in advance. If you are driving, only taste—French law is strict about drinking and driving.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Do you need to reserve for a tasting?
Wineries and shops in the center usually accept visitors without a reservation. At domaines outside the village, visits are typically by appointment. Check before you go.
Is the castle visitable?
There remain a tower and walls of the 14th-century castle at the top of the village. Access to the ruins and the viewpoint is on foot via steep streets.
Can you go from Avignon without a car?
There are regional buses with limited schedules and organized wine tours that depart from Avignon. By taxi the trip is short, about 17 km.