Throughout the year, our team scatters across different destinations, travelling far and wide to connect with our partners and refine what we do. But once a year, we come together as a whole team for a journey of our own. It’s a moment we all eagerly await, and gives the perfect opportunity to understand the details needed to go into an unforgettable trip and understand for ourselves. In 2025, that long-awaited trip carried us to the Rhône Valley, with a little bit of Provence. Join me as I recount the moments, memories, and discoveries that shaped our time there…
FRIDAY: Arriving in Lyon and exploring the Beaujolais vineyards
Our journey began before dawn with an early start at London Gatwick, where we boarded a flight to Lyon — eyes heavy with sleep, but spirits lifted by the promise of the days ahead.
Touching down, we wasted no time. Straight from the runway we split into two groups: one heading north towards Beaujolais for the afternoon, the other setting off to discover Lyon on foot. Drawn to the quiet rhythm of rolling vineyards, I gladly joined the Beaujolais crew. Just fifty minutes later, we arrived to find the region alive with Beaujolais Nouveau Day signage, marking a much-anticipated celebration. For the uninitiated, Beaujolais Nouveau Day heralds the release of the first red wine from the latest harvest – a moment traditionally marked with tastings, festivities, and the occasional burst of fireworks.
With our rumbling stomachs guiding us, we began with a memorable traditional lunch at a lovely restaurant tucked into the Beaujolais mountains. A beloved local institution, part restaurant, part delicatessen, and part wine cellar, it is famed for its Lyonnais specialities.
The afternoon unfolded with visits to two strikingly different estates. The first, a grand Château and French national historic monument, was certainly very impressive, from the stately house to the cellar and tasting room, each space delivering its own sense of grandeur. The second estate told a quieter story, shaped by five centuries of family tradition and full of character as a result. Though a heavy fog lingered over the hills that day, obscuring the sweeping vineyard views, it only added a certain mystery to the experience, and I can’t wait to return!
SATURDAY: Journeying along the Rhône Valley through Tain l’Hermitage to Avignon
Our first full day in France began with an early departure from Lyon, following a delightful wine tasting in the InterContinental Lyon’s iconic bar and a late evening meal in a typical Lyonnais bistro in the city centre last night. Heading south, we traced a path through Ampuis and on to Tain l’Hermitage, before eventually arriving in Avignon. Still buoyed by the previous day’s deep dive into Gamay, I was more than ready to turn my attention to the region’s other stars: Viognier, Syrah, Marsanne, and Roussanne.
There were many memorable tastings along the way, but one moment stood out above the rest: a beautifully pure, Marsanne-only white from Saint-Joseph (2023 vintage), paired with an unforgettable chestnut soup. Had time not been pressing — and Valrhona waiting — I would happily have left with a bottle (or two) tucked under my arm, and the soup recipe firmly in hand.
And Valrhona was more than worth the dash. An afternoon spent at the museum and boutique of the so-called “Grand Cru of Chocolates” proved a fitting finale. Producing some of the world’s finest chocolate since 1922, Valrhona is a cornerstone of French pâtisserie, and the visit rewarded us with time to explore the shop. I emerged laden with advent calendars and gifts, already earmarked for the festive season back home.
Boarding the train from Valence to Avignon offered a welcome moment of rest before our arrival into the city. By pure luck, we reached Avignon just as the Christmas lights were being switched on, bathing its grand historic buildings in a warm, festive glow above the gathered crowds. After dropping off our luggage — now noticeably heavier with chocolate — we joined some of our partners in Avignon for a guided wine tasting, taking us further into the particularities of Southern Rhône wines, before enjoying one or two more glasses together over dinner.
SUNDAY: Discovering Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The day began with crisp morning air and an unforgettable guided walk through Avignon. I won’t give away too much of the tour, but a visit to the magnificent Palais des Papes was, of course, essential, followed by a stop at Les Halles d’Avignon to sample some local delicacies. Fresh orange juice and coffee flowed freely, while tapenade noire and aiolade quickly became unexpected favourites – so much so that a few tubs simply had to come home with us.
From there, we headed to the world-famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, ready to dive into its bold, powerful reds. Surprisingly, it wasn’t the classic Grenache that stole my heart, but a Roussanne-only white wine – can you sense a pattern emerging? Even better, this time I had space in my luggage (a half-empty suitcase, intentionally packed for this very purpose), which I happily filled with carefully chosen Christmas gifts for my family.
The day ended as dreamily as it began. At our second estate, we paused to watch the sun set over rolling vineyards, soaking in the moment as golden light spilled across the landscape. Back in Avignon, we gathered as a team for dinner at Restaurant SEVIN. Having worked with the team here for years, we knew we were in for something special – and they did not disappoint. The private dining room echoed with laughter all evening, and the iconic rolling cheese trolley was the perfect finale to an already fantastic day.
MONDAY: Picturesque villages and wine tasting in Provence
We woke to the bluest skies and the brightest sunshine we had seen during our time in France. Before reluctantly dragging ourselves to Marseille – and inevitably, home – we managed to squeeze in one final adventure.
Once again, the group split in two. One half spent the day olive oil tasting and exploring Saint-Rémy and Aix-en-Provence, while the other half set off to discover Gordes, Lourmarin, and enjoy a little more wine tasting… you can probably guess which group I joined. Gordes and its surrounding villages were nothing short of breathtaking.The two wine estates we visited did not disappoint, and naturally, there were a few rosé wines to taste, as well as some whites and reds. The landscape here is truly unmissable; paired with slightly warmer weather and a chilled glass of refreshing rosé, it’s hard to imagine anything better.
We reunited with the rest of the team at Marseille Airport. With bottles safely packed (I can confirm they all survived the journey), we headed home full of stories and a growing appreciation for this beautiful part of France. From unforgettable wines and characterful landscapes to shared laughter and moments that felt effortlessly joyful, this trip was the perfect reminder of why travel – especially when shared with great people – is so meaningful.
I am one of Grape Escapes’ France specialists, so if you are interested in a trip to the Rhône Valley and/or Provence, I would be delighted to help. Get in touch with me by email or by phone on +44 (0)1920 468 666 to start planning your dream trip.
What’s more, we’ve just launched a special new range of trips focused on gastronomy in the Rhône Valley and Provence. Whether you’d like to make the most of the fact this region is home to some of the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the country, or just to taste a few of the classic local dishes and get a feel for the authentic local culture, we’re certainly happy to help.
