Get ready to explore the Vineyard Trail…
For a true taste of the Sainte-Victoire wine region, in which flora and fauna cohabit in perfect harmony, get ready to explore the Sentier des Vignes (Vineyard Trail) for a better understanding of the philosophy here at Château Gassier.
Situated at the foothill of this mountain that was much loved by Paul Cézanne, Château Gassier offers so much more than just guided tours of its vineyards. Our original vineyard trail aims to increase awareness of our incredibly rich biodiversity whilst offering a 360° view of life in the vineyards. Visitors will get the chance to learn not only about the extraordinary diversity of life in the vineyards at Château Gassier but also to educate themselves on the importance of preserving biodiversity.
This almost 3 km long trail is accessible to all and interspersed with educational signposts and panels. There are twelve of these signposts that will educate you on the flora, fauna and geology of the Sainte-Victoire wine region as well as the vine’s growing cycle, organic cultivation practices, varietals and vinification techniques. They offer a global vision of life in the vineyards at Château Gassier and a closer look at its environment.
In 2014 a partnership was formed with the Grand Site de la Sainte-Victoire in order to go further in protecting and enhancing the biodiversity of this terroir which has officially been classed as a protected site since 2004. As such, a number of biodiversity reserves have been introduced along the trail such as nesting boxes hedges, a prairie, floral species and beehives. In keeping with our desire to reduce our impact on the environment, these reserves also help to bring more organic life to the soils which in turn enables us to produce higher quality wines. Organic agriculture is more respectful of the terroir and therefore gives rise to purer tasting fruit. Since 2016 all of our wines have been Organic Agriculture certified.
So why not make the most of your trip to Château Gassier to have some fun with your friends and family by taking part in this fun and educational activity? Do you like the idea of finding your way around our vineyards and getting to know what makes Château Gassier tick? This trail will fully immerse you in the lush green surroundings of our wine domaine and you’ll be given a booklet that will get your five senses working whilst you look for the right answers to questions asked along the way.
The Château Gassier Vineyard Trail was designed in order to increase awareness of the importance of preserving the Sainte-Victoire terroir. The walk promises a journey for your senses and make sure you keep your eyes peeled as you may be lucky enough to catch sight of a rare pygmy owl or a Bonelli’s eagle! Adults and children alike will be swept away by the beauty of the surroundings. Soak up the silence, enjoy being close to nature and breathe in the scents and fragrances of the Mediterranean - pure bliss!
