Jongieux combines an expansive wine-growing landscape with the Way of St James and regional history. The Cru de Jongieux wine-growing area lies between 250 and 500 metres above sea level, framed by Mont de la Charvaz and the Rhône’s meanders. Visitors choosing Jongieux for a stay can explore wine visits, trails through the landscape and cultural sites as different highlights of their trip.
Wine Country and Views
The Site viticole des crus de Jongieux et de Marestel encompasses Jongieux and covers 1,785 hectares. This classified wine-growing site is designated as picturesque and is open to the public. The Cru de Jongieux wine-growing area ranges in elevation from 250 to 500 metres. Together with the hills, valleys and geographical features shaped by Mont de la Charvaz and the Rhône’s meanders, this gives a vivid impression of the landscape. Its distinctive features include numerous panoramic views across hills and valleys. Jongieux can therefore be explored not only through individual tasting venues, but also through its wider wine-growing area.
The Way of St James and Circular Trails
The Chemin de Compostelle crosses the entire classified wine-growing site. This means that the Way of St James runs through the same landscape as the Cru de Jongieux wine-growing area. The municipality also provides the Circuit du vignoble de Jongieux and the Grand Tour de la Charvaz as downloadable circular trails. To choose between these options, it is worth consulting the route information for each one; check the conditions before setting out. This allows you to include the trails in your plans without confusing them with visits to individual wineries.
Tastings and Winery Visits
The wineries differ mainly in how they welcome visitors. Château de la Mar offers tastings and wine sales at the estate in Jongieux; check the visit arrangements in advance. At Domaine Carrel François et fils, vineyard tours are available by appointment. Domaine Carrel & Senger welcomes visitors for tours and tastings by prior reservation. Here, making a reservation is therefore part of the planning.
At Domaine Dupasquier, guided tastings offer an opportunity to discover rare grape varieties from Savoie. La Cave du Prieuré, in turn, offers tastings of wines made from the Barlet family’s own harvest. These experiences focus on different things: a vineyard tour, a guided discovery of grape varieties or wines from the family’s own harvest. Check the arrangements for each visit before scheduling an appointment.
The Chapel and Local History
Chapelle Saint Romain was rebuilt by volunteers from Jongieux with the support of local businesses and inaugurated on 20 August 1995. Excavations at the chapel uncovered, among other things, a Roman lararium slab and a stele dedicated to the Gallic god Silvanus. The chapel offers impressive views; access arrangements may vary. If you plan to visit the chapel, check access before your visit.
Another historical site is the present-day Église Saint-Maurice, built in Aimavigne in 1884. La Cave du Prieuré also brings together wine and architectural history: it is located in a former priory dating from the 10th century along the Way of St James. Jongieux therefore offers several different points of interest to choose from—from the history of the chapel and the church in Aimavigne to the historic building where wine tastings are offered.
Discover more destinations: Les Coches, Villarodin-Bourget, Chindrieux, Saint-Jean-D'arves, Montcel, Montvalezan, La Ravoire, Albens.
For the overview of the wider region: Savoie.
