The hinterland of Bandol does not look like the coast. A few kilometres from the beaches and ports, the vines take over again on slopes that look at the sea without going down to it. Le Beausset and La Cadière-d'Azur are two villages that form the historic heart of the Bandol vineyard, far from tourist bustle, close to the essential.
The Notre-Dame du Beausset-Vieux chapel
Perched at 315 metres on a rocky spur, the Notre-Dame du Beausset-Vieux chapel (11th century) is the emblematic monument of the commune. The walk up from the village rewards you with a circular view over the vines, the Sainte-Baume and, in clear weather, the sea to the south. One of the least visited and most beautiful corners of this hinterland.
La Cadière-d'Azur and the Bandol vineyard
The village of La Cadière-d'Azur overlooks the Bandol vineyard from its medieval ramparts. Not far away, at Le Plan-du-Castellet, is Domaine Tempier, a founding estate of the Bandol appellation, whose red wines aged at length in the cellar are among the greatest in Provence. Tasting on site, in a vaulted cellar below the village, is an experience in itself.
Estate tour: how to organise
Domaine Tempier, Château Pibarnon, Domaine de l'Olivette, Château Salettes: the estates open for visits and tastings are numerous and close to one another. To visit several in a day without the constraints of driving, having an MR Taxi driver at your disposal for a half-day is the obvious solution. From Marseille or Toulon, quote available on request.
Bandol AOC estate tour without driving: MR Taxi Bandol accompanies you for a half-day or a full day, available 24/7.
