Top 5 Most Unique Estates

Have you been dreaming of this? We’ve made it happen! Here’s an exclusive look at the top 5 most unusual estates. You’ll be surprised by just how many there are, and who knows—maybe this article will give you some ideas for your next trip!

The vineyards of George Brassens Park

In one of the capital’s largest parks stand 700 Pinot Noir vines, tended and harvested by students from the 15th arrondissement. Thanks to these acres of vineyards, more than 300 bottles are sold each year. If you’d like to taste this gem, there’s no better way than to take a stroll through the park!

Belgian wine from Villers Abbey

After Belgian beer, it’s time for wine! Indeed, this magnificent 12th-century building is home to vineyards. Originally, the monks used the wine primarily for “Mass,” but it was left to fall into disuse for several centuries. It wasn’t until 1990 that production resumed, much to the delight of the neighborhood! Every Saturday from April through September, you have the chance to visit Villers Abbey—unless you’d rather wait until September to attend the vineyard festival, held during the grape harvest.

Lerins, the monks' wine

It’s time to head south, near Cannes, where, not far from the city, lies the Lérins Islands archipelago, home to Île Saint-Honorat. The island features 8 hectares of vineyards, originally belonging to Lérins Abbey, tended by the monks who have lived in this monastery for centuries. These monks, who are also winemakers, offer three high-quality vintages: Saint-Salonius, Saint-Césaire, and Saint-Lambert, as well as a few digestifs. If you love getting away from it all, set off on a wonderful adventure and discover the abbey, the vineyards, and the many coves that line the island!

Rangen, try your hand at being a mountaineer-winemaker

Located on a hillside, this famous vineyard has a rather unique harvesting method. In fact, the grapes are picked at a 45-degree angle! Be sure to bring a rope and a harness so you can rappel down the hill as you harvest. If you’re afraid of heights or aren’t used to mountain climbing, that gives you twice as much reason to give it a try! Every harvest takes place in a cheerful atmosphere within an exceptional setting. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, extend the fun by strolling through the vineyards on trails ranging from 3 to 5 km. All these trails are suitable for everyone, from the youngest to the oldest! Have you chosen your route? Let’s go!

An airport wine

Bordeaux wines are the most widely represented around the world. In fact, winemaking plays such an important role in the region that Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport decided to plant grapevines. The 15-hectare vineyard is located in Terminal B and consists of 60% Merlot and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon. This vineyard has been named “Croix de Guyenne,” in reference to the airport’s two intersecting runways. The vineyard is maintained by the owner of the Chevalier estate in Leognan. The grape harvest has been a great way to bring people together since 1999. It is the only airport in France to grow grapevines on its grounds.

With all these unique and off-the-beaten-path spots, you’ll have no trouble deciding where to go next!