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Tour of the Rasteau Massif (Vaucluse) |
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Starting in Rasteau, famous for its rich wines, the trail winds through hills of blue marl and fragrant garrigue towards Cairanne, offering breathtaking views of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The route then passes through the perched villages of Buisson and Villedieu, where shaded squares and centuries-old fountains bear witness to an enduring Provençal way of life. The trail continues to Vaison-la-Romaine, a unique town with ancient ruins, a Roman bridge, and a medieval upper town. The loop then leads to Roaix, a charming village nestled against the hillside, whose terraces overlook the Comtat Venaissin plain. Here, nature is a mosaic of vineyards, truffle oaks, and pine forests, bathed in a light that has captivated so many painters. Between silver olive trees and dry-stone walls, every kilometer reveals traces of the Knights Templar and Knights Hospitaller who shaped this land.
The Rasteau massif is known for its AOC Rasteau wines, which are sweet red wines produced from Grenache grapes. The massif is also home to many picturesque villages, such as Rasteau, Saint-Pantaléon-les-Vignes and Beaumes-de-Venise. The massif was also occupied by the Romans, who built roads and aqueducts. Roman remains were discovered on the site of the village of Rasteau. In the Middle Ages, the Rasteau massif was an important place for wine production. The monks of the nearby Sénanque Abbey played an important role in the development of viticulture in the region.
Nearby paths:
It is advisable to follow the beacons all along your hike and to bring you the 
