Beaumes de Venise

Discover the beautiful village of Beaumes-de-Venise in the Vaucluse

Beaumes-de-Venise clings to the southern slope of the Courens Plateau, facing the Comtat Venaissin plain. Behind the village, the Dentelles de Montmirail cut sharply against the sky. Further in the distance, Mont Ventoux marks the horizon. The stone houses slope gently down toward the vineyards and olive groves.

This village in the Vaucluse owes its name to the “baumes,” caves carved into the hillside. As for “Venise,” it has nothing to do with the City of the Doges: the word refers to the Comtat Venaissin. Located 9 kilometers from Carpentras and about 30 kilometers from Avignon, the town is easily accessible.

Here, it all starts with the vineyards. The Muscat de Beaumes-de-Venise, a naturally sweet wine, has made the region’s reputation. The red wines of the Beaumes-de-Venise appellation are also worth a stop at the wine cellar.

Tour of the Village

Across from Cours Jean Jaurès, the large 16th-century parish church—which was renovated in the 19th century—is adjoined by a porch leading to Rue de la République. As you pass by, you’ll notice the beautiful fountain with mascarons (18th century) on Place du 8 Mai, across from the church.

After strolling through a few flower-lined streets and charming alleyways, you’ll pass by some small staircases, then discover old houses and a few beautifully restored doorways, and continue climbing up to the ruins of the feudal castle (12th century), which are located at the highest point of the village.

The tour doesn’t end there—on the other side of the village, on the road to Vacqueyras, lies the Chapel of Notre Dame d’Aubune, whose bell tower is a gem of 9th-century Romanesque art and whose priory is designated a historic monument.
Take the time to stop there and follow the trail behind the chapel up the hill—it’s a beautiful walk.

The Prehistoric Caves and the Rocalinaud Rock

You can also visit the prehistoric caves, or “baumes,” of Ambrosi and Rocalinaud, which gave the village its name. Carved directly into the hillside, they once served as a refuge for many families. The hike to the Rocalinaud Rock is very pleasant.

The famous Muscat wine

Foodies and connoisseurs won’t linger too long in the caves or chapels on the hills, knowing that down in the village, on Avenue Raspail, the tasting and sales cellar for the famous Muscat de Beaumes de Venise wine awaits them.

Its reputation has spread far beyond the borders of the Comtat Vénaissin. Several vintages and nuances are available to you. The “Tradition” vintage pairs well with melon in the summer, while the distinctly more refined “Bois Doré” vintage is perfect for a festive meal with pan-seared foie gras. It’s up to you to taste and compare them. But be careful—the fame of the Muscat shouldn’t make you forget the excellent red Côtes du Rhône village wine from Beaumes-de-Venise!

The Olive Oil Mill

A little further on, at the entrance to the village heading toward Lafare, the Balméenne olive oil mill is open to visitors.

Its shop, filled with the scents of Provence, offers a wide range of local products, from soap to herb- and spice-flavored cookies—not to mention, of course, the star of the show: olive oil.