Did you know that an increasing number of French winemakers are now offering holiday accommodation on the vineyard amongst the vines – Stay on a vineyard in France. Whilst this has come about from the need to diversify their “farms”, it is a tremendous opportunity for visitors to have a very French experience and meet winemakers and their families in what are usually tranquil surroundings (except at harvest time!)

The accommodation offered varies from a converted wine-maker’s cottage on a small family-run farm to a great Bed and Breakfast in the elegant surroundings of a fine Chateau. Some are widely-renowned wines in one of the great wine regions of France (Bordeaux, Champagne, Burgundy), others in lesser-known areas which can still offer great quality, value-for-money wines – and maybe some discoveries too! Some offer self-catering apartments and sometimes hotels with gourmet restaurants which can combine the ultimate food and wine experience. Winemakers are always keen to show visitors the wines and will often happily show visitors around the cellar and vineyards and answer any questions; no-one is expected to be an expert or knowledgeable – there is no “correct” way to describe a wine, and most vignerons will speak some English. All you need is to show some interest in the wine, wine-making process, history, grape varieties or that mysterious concept of “terroir

It’s a great way to meet some real French people, taste a couple of wines and maybe even purchase a few bottles to take home – and all at vineyard prices! There is not usually a charge, except sometimes in Champagne if you are in a larger group.

If you are unsure of trying to talk with the French, there are even some British winemakers offering accommodation, although you will find that most winemakers will speak some English – after all they would like to sell you some of their wine! One such vineyard is Clos Vieux Rochers just outside Bordeaux – where Robert Brimfield and Stephen McMahon make wine and offer self-catering gites!

We stayed in a Chateau in the south of France – an interesting and historic castle on the edge of a medieval village, where Madame spoke excellent English. We enjoyed a couple of glasses of their lovely wine on the balcony overlooking the gardens. After a very comfortable night’s sleep in a most spacious bedroom, we enjoyed an excellent breakfast served by Madame. The ensuite bathroom was superb and very modern with a powerful shower – see Chateau de Jonquieres, Hérault

Whatever you budget a stay on a vineyard promises to be a memorable experience – For more ideas see:

Self-catering (gÎtes)

B&B (Chambres d’Hôte)

Hotels

In a former life we were independent wine merchants importing wines from some of the lesser known parts of France. Our travels and discoveries gave us our passion for France and its wines, which we are keen to help others to discover. We have so many happy memories of a special bottle, great company and good days. We still travel extensively in France and we know many of the vineyards on this site.