Exploring the vineyards of the French Riviera without a car

Wineries within easy reach of the train station,

Taking the train on the French Riviera is undoubtedly the most relaxing option. The Marseille-Nice-Ventimiglia TER line, which runs along the coast, also lets you enjoy breathtaking scenery. It’s the perfect way to combine scenic beauty with wine tasting without any parking hassles.

Some stops are must-sees for wine lovers:

The Hyères train station :

This is the gateway to many vineyards in the Côtes de Provence AOC. Once you get off, several vineyards are accessible via local bus services.

The “Les Arcs – Draguignan” stop:

This is a key location. As soon as you step off the train, you’re in the heart of a dense wine-growing region where grand châteaux await you just a short distance away even within walking distance.

The charm of the Train des Pignes:

For a truly authentic experience, hop aboard the Train des Pignes. Departing from Nice, this historic train takes you through the Provençal hinterland. It stops in villages where terraced vineyards offer a breathtaking view. It’s a journey back in time that often ends with a wine tasting in a village cellar.

Our tip : Download the SNCF Connect app or the “Zou!” app for regional trains. Trains run frequently during the summer, allowing you to move from one estate to another stress-free.

Electric Bikes: Freedom Amid the Vineyards

For those who want to combine gentle exercise, fresh air, and picture-perfect scenery, the electric bike (e-bike) is the perfect solution. It lets you avoid the heavy traffic, which is particularly dense during peak season, while giving you access to trails that are inaccessible to cars.

In the Gulf of Saint-Tropez, the estates are often close to one another, but the roads can be hilly. This is where electric assistance really comes into its own: you can climb up to the hilltop villages of Gassin or Ramatuelle, enjoying the view of Pampelonne Bay.

The Immersive Experience with Beyond the Wine

If you don’t want to worry about the itinerary, we offer a package specifically designed for wine lovers without a car: the Ebike tour.

Accompanied by our cycling guide, you’ll set off on a 4-hour immersion into the heart of the wine region. What makes this package special:

Expert guidance : You don’t just pedal; your guide accompanies you safely.

Exclusive estates : The tour typically includes a private visit to two estates, with guided tastings.

No logistics : The agency handles bike reservations and the route. It’s the ideal option for exploring the vineyards in an eco-friendly and safe way.

Let’s head to the island vineyards

What could be more memorable than arriving at a vineyard by boat ? On the French Riviera, a boat isn’t just a luxury, it’s also a practical way to reach secluded, unspoiled vineyards. It’s undoubtedly the most magical way to enjoy a glass of rosé with nothing but the horizon in sight.

Porquerolles Island: A Motor-Free Paradise

Departing from the Tour Fondue in Hyères, or via seasonal shuttle boats from Le Lavandou and Cavalaire-sur-Mer, you’ll arrive on an island where cars are prohibited. Once at the port, everything is done on foot or by bike.

The Domaine de la Courtade and the Domaine de l’Île are just a few minutes from the pier. Their wines, influenced by the sea mist, are of rare elegance. At La Courtade, certain vintages are even aged for several months underwater off the coast of Porquerolles, resulting in a unique flavor.

Exclusive: Experience La Courtade with us!

To make your getaway to the island even more special, we’ve put together a custom package that includes a guided bike tour with our local guide, an exclusive wine tasting at Domaine de la Courtade, and lunch on the island. It’s the perfect opportunity to discover their organic wines and unique architecture without having to worry about the logistics.

Saint-Honorat Island: The Monks’ Wine

Off the coast of Cannes, the Lérins Islands hide a treasure: Lérins Abbey. Here, monks have been cultivating vineyards since the Middle Ages.

Take the ferry from the Old Port of Cannes for a 15-minute crossing.

On the island, there are no cars, only the silence of the vineyards and the sea. You can taste their prestigious vintages right at the abbey shop after a stroll under the umbrella pines.

Shuttles in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez

Don’t forget the Bateaux Verts, which connect Sainte-Maxime, Les Marines de Cogolin, and Saint-Tropez. They let you cross the gulf while avoiding the famous traffic jams along the coast. Once you arrive at the port of Saint-Tropez, take a stroll through this famous village or meet your guide for a wine-tasting tour with us!

Conclusion: The Art of Taking Your Time

Exploring the vineyards of the French Riviera without a car isn’t just a practical alternative, it’s a whole new way to experience Provence. By trading your car keys for a train ticket, a bike, or a boat ticket, you slow down the pace. Take the time to take in the scenery and, above all, to savor each wine in complete tranquility.

Whether you choose the gentle bike paths of the Saint-Tropez peninsula or those of Porquerolles, the reward is the same: an authentic encounter with passionate winemakers and an exceptional terroir.

Ready to take the adventure?

So, for your next wine-tasting getaway, leave the car at home and let your senses guide you!