Along the Rhône River and at the heart of its prestigious wine appellations, the Northern Rhône Valley offers a series of unique trails to discover the richness of its terroirs in a different way. From Chavanay to Cornas, passing through Tain-l’Hermitage and Saint-Désirat, set off for a full immersion in nature among terraced vineyards, landscapes shaped by human hands, and spectacular views. Here are 6 routes to explore at the pace of the vines.
1. Le Sentier des Vignes – Immersion in the Terraced Vineyards of Côte-Rôtie
Ampuis (Rhône)
7.2 km – 2h30 – Loop – Elevation gain: 256 m – Yellow and white waymarks – Approx. duration: 2h30
This walk takes you through the heart of the prestigious terraced vineyards of Côte-Rôtie, overlooking the majestic Rhône River. The trail starts near the parking area, descends into the Tartaras valley, then climbs back up to the heights, offering stunning views over the river, the hillsides, and the village of Ampuis. Along the way, you’ll follow the Fongeant and Reynard streams, pass through the historic town center, walk by the Château d’Ampuis, and spot market gardens below.
2. Le Sentier des Vignobles – Chavanay and Its Terraced Vineyards of Saint-Joseph and Condrieu
Chavanay (Loire)
12 km – Loop – Elevation gain: 220 m – Yellow and white waymarks – Duration: approx. 3h
Discover Chavanay and its sun-drenched hillsides, at the crossroads of the Saint-Joseph and Condrieu appellations. Starting from the Tour parking lot, this route winds through vineyards, hamlets, and stunning viewpoints such as the Madone d’Izeras. You'll also walk along the Rhône side canal and pass the remains of the old bridge.
A well-rounded hike, blending rural heritage, southern charm, and panoramic views over the river.
I'm setting off on the Vineyard Trail
3. La Chapelle de Verlieux – In the Heart of the Saint-Joseph Vineyards
Peyraud (Ardèche)
5.3 km – Loop – Elevation gain: 268 m – Duration: 2h
Set off to discover the Verlieux Chapel, nestled among vineyards, woods, and spectacular viewpoints overlooking the Rhône, the Drôme, and the Pilat mountains. This short but moderately challenging trail offers an immersive experience in a preserved natural setting, with beautiful panoramas of the Northern Rhône Valley landscapes.
The trail is available on the free app Les Échappées Inspirées, which offers voice guidance, audio content, photos, and quizzes to enrich your walk.
A perfect hike for nature lovers, fans of hidden heritage, and those who enjoy immersive digital tools. For photography and nature enthusiasts, this trail is a real gem.
4. La randonnée de Rochevine – Exploring the Saint-Désirat Wine Country
Saint-Désirat (Ardèche)
7.8 km – Loop – Elevation gain: 255 m – Duration: approx. 2h30
This route takes you through the vineyard-covered hills overlooking the village of Saint-Désirat. You will walk among terraced vineyards, forests, and viewpoints over the Rhône, in the heart of the Saint-Joseph appellation area. The itinerary offers a wonderful immersion into a lesser-known wine landscape, shaped by generations of winemakers.
Ideal to do in any season for its tranquility, colors, and variety of atmospheres.
5. In Gambert’s Footsteps – Conquering Hermitage Starting from Tain
Tain-l’Hermitage (Drôme)
4 km – Loop – Elevation gain: 220 m – Duration: approx. 2h
Set off on foot from the center of Tain-l’Hermitage for a fun and self-guided discovery of the famous Hermitage hillsides. This themed route follows in the footsteps of Louis Gambert de Loche, founder of the Cave de Tain, through 11 stations marked by educational panels.
Following the signage installed by the Cave de Tain, you’ll explore the terraced vineyards, learn about the site’s history, geology, and local winemaking techniques. At the end, a breathtaking panoramic view of the Rhône and the Alps awaits you at the summit.
A short loop, but rich in content, perfect for wine and landscape enthusiasts. Maps are available at the Cave de Tain and the tourist information offices of the destination.
6. Le vignoble de Cornas – Between Stone, Vine, and Viewpoints
Cornas (Ardèche)
10.76 km
This hike reveals the full complexity of the Cornas vineyard, with its steep terraces, Mediterranean forest, and rural heritage. Starting from the village center, the trail climbs to the Arlettes plateau and the Saint-Pierre chapel, then descends along a ridge offering impressive views of the Vercors mountains and the Isère confluence. At the end of the route, you can extend your experience with a wine tasting at a local winery.
A demanding but unforgettable loop for hikers curious about nature and authenticity.
Looking for a Guided Hike? The RandoWine – The Epicureans’ Walks
Combine hiking and wine tasting! The RandoWine are unique guided outings in the Northern Rhône Valley, blending vineyard walks with guided tastings of iconic wines. Held several times a year, especially in spring and autumn, these convivial strolls are the perfect opportunity to walk through legendary appellations – Hermitage, Saint-Joseph, Crozes-Hermitage, Cornas, and Saint-Péray – while chatting with passionate winemakers.
Each route is carefully chosen to showcase the vineyard landscapes, local know-how, and terroirs, culminating in an on-site tasting (or at a partner winery) to deepen your understanding of the wine you’ve just explored on foot.
An experience to enjoy solo, with friends, or family, to discover the Northern Rhône Valley differently, at the rhythm of the vines and encounters.
Find the schedule for upcoming RandoWine events in our wine tourism agenda.
And after the hike?
Take advantage of your visit to explore Vignobles & Découvertes certified wineries, local restaurants, or participate in a wine tourism event. The Northern Rhône Valley promises a sensory adventure blending nature, wine, and culture.
See all walks and vineyard activities