Although side-by-side, Vacqueyras and Gigondas have more dissimilarities than just their wines. Gigondas is nestled within the lower folds of the Dentelles de Montmirail crests. Small, hidden, in a complex landscape, it exudes a sense of remoteness and secrecy. Vacqueyras lies on flatter land, in the shadow of the Dentelles, and is bigger. There is a sense of town, vice village, and although still partly behind old walls, has an open, friendly atmosphere.
The trail here was also a bit more friendly, user-friendly that is. So, I took my best friend along, one who hasn’t hiked in a while, but this trail is suitable for all fitness levels. We had a memorable morning hiking along a signposted trail, followed by some wine tasting, and then lunch. What could be better than that?
The trail layout helped us with this plan. It started in the center of the old town, and ended there as well, close to at least three different wineries, and a couple of restaurants. It headed northwards out of town, and into vineyards. There were lots of vineyards, which can become monotonous. But in this case, plenty of signboards described the vinicultural and viticultural practices of the area, which kept it interesting. Also, the foothills of dentelles provided a vibrant green backdrop with every gaze eastwards.
The trail reached a copse of trees (the only shaded place on the trail!) at about the halfway mark. This was by the hamlet of Fontbonne, a collection of typical homes and agricultural buildings in this area. The hike back to town does have some slight inclines, which helps the vines. The trail meandered through or by a couple of winery complexes. The old stone buildings with colorful wooden shutters were a treat to see.
The trail descends back into town by way of the Montee de Bellevue, a broad avenue which appears as if it might have formed part of a rampart at one point. Its width here provided nice views of the area. But we also detoured into the oldest and most clustered part of town, making our roundabout way up to the old church, and back down via old steps. Which happily put us at the Cours Stassart, where wine and food awaited at the end of the trail.
