Château de Varennes, Medieval castle in Quincié-en-Beaujolais, France
Château de Varennes is a medieval castle in Quincié-en-Beaujolais featuring a square tower, Renaissance courtyards, and Gothic wooden halls anchored by a prominent entrance pavilion. The property spreads across approximately 28 hectares of vineyards and combines architecture from different periods with active wine production.
The castle was built in the 11th century and initially belonged to Pierre de Varennes before passing to the Nagu family in 1395. The Nagu family retained the property until 1769, shaping its evolution over three centuries.
The estate produces Beaujolais-Villages wine from Gamay and Chardonnay grapes, maintaining a wine-growing tradition that thrives in vaulted cellars from the 16th century. The place embodies the region's deep connection to viticulture and how this practice has been passed down through generations.
Visitors can explore the interior spaces and surrounding vineyards on weekdays during regular opening hours. Tastings of the estate wines are available on-site, and the grounds are best explored on foot in comfortable walking shoes.
The property features wooden games along a Four Seasons Path through the vineyards, allowing visitors to learn about grape cultivation in a playful way. These interactive elements teach practical knowledge about vine care and harvesting in an engaging manner.
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