Between marshes and hillsides, the Royan Atlantique Vineyards offer an ideal setting for walks combining nature and discovery of the terroir. Through the paths that crisscross the territory, we enjoy a landscape that changes with the seasons while approaching the world of the vine.
2 ideas for walks in the vineyards
These marked trails through the vineyards allow you to reach wine estates. The winegrowers welcome us to share their know-how and introduce us to their vintages. From the cultivation of the vine to the winemaking, including the design of Pineau des Charentes and Cognac, each step is explained before a tasting that highlights the flavors of the terroir. These walks in the heart of the vineyards are an opportunity to bond leisure and delicacy, while meeting passionate producers.
1. Stroll through the heart of the Arvert peninsula and discover the Domaine des Claires
We set off to discoverInherited, in the north of the territory, taking the PR N°11. This 14,6 km loop starts at the Arvert village hall and takes us through a varied landscape. We cross the Alvert countryside where cultivated land, woods and wetlands coexist, witnesses to the natural wealth of this territory focused on both viticulture and oyster farming.
On one side, the marshes recall the importance of the local oyster farming tradition, with the oyster beds where the oysters are refined before being tasted. On the other, the vines announce another iconic know-how of the region: the production of Charente wines, Pineau des Charentes and Cognac.
On the way, a stop at Domaine des Claires allows you to learn more about this wine heritage. Operated by the Guillon family for six generations, this estate is the only distiller on the Arvert peninsula, with its own still for distilling Cognac.
Committed to organic farming, the winegrowers explain the winemaking process and the stages of production of the different vintages. visit of the distillery and cellars ends with a tasting allowing you to appreciate the aromas and flavors of their products.
This walking tour invites us to explore the rural and wine-growing landscapes of the banks of the Seudre while meeting those who keep its traditions alive.
Level suitable for beginners
Practical Info
- Distance: 14.6 km
- Duration: 2:54 am
- Difficulty : easy level
- Visit to the Domaine des Claires: April to December, free for the distillery and cellars (15 min), by reservation for guided tours (1 hour)
- Sale at the property : all year round
Other points of interest on the route:
- Arvert Peninsula Brewery : open all year except Sunday
- Organic market under the Arvert market hall : every Friday from 16 p.m. to 19 p.m.
- Maubay Farm : sale at the property every Friday from 16 p.m. to 17:30 p.m.
- Minis Estate: sale at the property every Friday, farm visit by reservation
2. On foot in the vineyards of Domaine Brillouet in Saint-Romain-de-Benet
Located between two estuaries, Saint-Romain-de-Benet is a charming village surrounded by green fields, woods and vineyards. From the car park south of the village church, follow the route PR N°25. This 7,3 km trail takes us through its countryside landscapes, dominated by the famous Tour de Pirelonge. This 24-metre-high Gallo-Roman structure could have served as a landmark or funerary monument.
Near the Pirelonge Tower is the Brillouet Estate and Distillery, one of the oldest craft distilleries. Since 1740, the Brillouet family has been perpetuating the winemaking tradition and distilling his own Cognacs. The owners welcome us to a place full of history. We discover the distillation room, a majestic still and authentic cellars. A true enthusiast, Mr. Brillouet shares with us all the secrets of the development of his wines, Pineaux from Charentes and Cognacs.
The tour includes the museums dedicated to stills, distillation of aromatic plants, and a lavender garden and a scent trail. A tasting of products from the family vineyards pleasantly rounds off the visit. The estate also offers a shop open all year round, where you can buy these local products.
This walking tour reveals another side of the Royan Atlantique Vineyards. An immersion in the historical heritage and wine-growing traditions of the Royan hinterland.
PR N°25 – Saint-Romain-de-Benet
Level suitable for beginners
Practical Info
- Distance: 7.3 km
- Duration: 1:31 am
- Difficulty : easy level
- Visit to the Brillouet Estate and Distillery: all year round, by reservation
- Sale at the property : all year round
Other points of interest on the route:
- The Pleasures of Taste : sale at the property every day
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for health. To consume with moderation.