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Château d'Arlay: A Royal Vineyard Through the Ages

Discover a historic French chateau and vineyard, where royal legacy meets unique Jura winemaking traditions.

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Château d'Arlay, a historical landmark and vineyard in the Jura region of France, has been in the Laguiche family since the 12th century. With origins dating back to the 9th century, it was once owned by kings of France, Spain, and England. Today, visitors can explore the chateau's architecture, tour the wine cellars, and taste the estate's distinctive Jura wines.

A brief summary to Château d'Arlay

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes to explore the park and medieval fortress, as the terrain can be uneven.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they vary depending on the season.
  • Consider booking in advance, especially if you're interested in a wine tasting.
  • Explore the village of Arlay, known as the 'Capital of Vin de Paille'.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Château d'Arlay is easily accessible by car via the D5 road. From Arbois, head east on Rue de la République/D5 towards Arlay. Continue on D5 for approximately 10 kilometers until you reach Arlay. Once in Arlay, turn right onto Rte de Proby; the Château d'Arlay will be on your left. Parking is available nearby.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Château d'Arlay via public transport, take a train from Besançon or Dijon to Arbois. From Arbois train station, take local bus Line 1 towards Arlay. Disembark at the 'Rte de Proby' stop, a short walk from Château d'Arlay. Bus fare is approximately €2. Check the bus schedule in advance.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from Arbois to Château d'Arlay covers roughly 10 kilometers and takes about 15-20 minutes. Expect to pay between €15-€25, depending on traffic and the specific service.

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Discover more about Château d'Arlay

Château d'Arlay, nestled in the Jura Mountains, boasts a rich history as the 'First Royal Vineyard of France,' a title it earned in 630 AD. The estate has been passed down through the Laguiche family since the 12th century, though it was once under the ownership of French, Spanish, and English royalty. This legacy has earned it recognition as a National Monument. The chateau itself reflects architectural influences from the medieval era to the 18th and 19th centuries. Visitors can explore furnished rooms showcasing period furniture and delve into the 17th-century wine cellars. The surrounding 8-hectare park offers scenic views of the Bresse and Revermont regions. QR codes are placed throughout the grounds, offering access to stories about the chateau's history and local legends. The vineyard cultivates traditional Jura grape varieties across nearly 50 acres. Count Alain de Laguiche oversees the wine production, emphasizing traditional methods. Château d'Arlay is known for its 'Corail' (Coral) style wine, a blend of all five Jura varietals. The estate also produces Vin Jaune, a wine aged for seven years under a veil of yeast. Wine tastings are available, allowing visitors to sample the estate's unique wines. Open for visits from May to October, Château d'Arlay offers a glimpse into French history and winemaking traditions.

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