Rasteau radiates from the square in the centre bordered with age-old plane trees. The square was a bequest of Mlle Lapparent in the 18th century and is named after her. It is the heart of the village, where festivities and gatherings take place.

To admire the sights, go into the old village where you will see the 17th century chapel of Notre Dame des Vignerons which has been fully restored by the parishioners.

A bit further on is the Place de l’Horloge where the traditional game of real tennis was once played. As you walk up the cobbled streets, you will pass buildings in warm colours, cypresses and oleanders.

At the top is the church of Notre Dame des Vignerons built in the 12th century in the place of the mediaeval castle (Castreum). This is where Rasteau offers its best views of the landscape: the Alps, the Dentelles-de-Montmirail chain, the Mont Ventoux and the Rhone Valley.

History of Rasteau more +

• In May there is the “Gourmet escapade” organised by the Terres de Lumière society: a walk of 6kms with a glass on a string round your neck, to go and sample Provencal food and Rasteau wines. In December is the grand Christmas supper with the “Night of 13 desserts”, a night-time walk for gourmets through the illuminated village Rasteau. For more information: www.terres-de-lumiere.com



• And on August 14, Rasteau goes into party mode and resounds from 5pm to 2 in the morning for the “Wine night” when the tasting sessions are enlivened with entertainment. This is one of the greatest French wine festivals and hosts more than 10,000 visitors every year.