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Chapelle Saint-Christophe: A Vineyard Sanctuary

A historic chapel amidst the vineyards of Tain-l'Hermitage, offering panoramic views and a taste of local wine heritage.

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Perched atop Hermitage hill in Tain-l'Hermitage, the Chapelle Saint-Christophe offers stunning views of the Rhône Valley and the Drôme region. Rebuilt in 1864 on the site of a Roman temple and medieval chapel, it's entwined with local wine traditions, as vines were planted nearby to produce wine for pilgrims. Today, owned by Paul Jaboulet Aîné wine estate, the chapel's forecourt hosts summer bar events.

A brief summary to Chapelle Saint-Christophe

  • Tain-l'Hermitage, 26600, FR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful light for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a wine tasting at one of the nearby vineyards for a full experience of the region.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking trails around the chapel that offer stunning views of the surrounding vineyards.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Tain-l'Hermitage, the Chapelle Saint-Christophe is accessible via a scenic, but steep, walk through the vineyards. Follow signs towards the Colline de l'Hermitage. The path winds through the vineyards, offering views of the town and the Rhône Valley. The walk to the top takes approximately one hour. No costs are associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    From the Tain-l'Hermitage-Tournon train station, take local bus lines towards Tain-l'Hermitage. From there, follow the walking directions to the chapel. Bus tickets cost around €2. Alternatively, taxis are available from the train station for approximately €15-€20.

  • Driving

    From the A7 motorway, take the Tain-l'Hermitage exit and follow the D1532 road towards Tain-l'Hermitage. Once in town, follow signs to Chapelle Saint-Christophe. Limited parking is available near the chapel. Parking is often free, but some areas may require a parking disc during certain hours. Check local signs for details. Several car parks are available in Tain-l'Hermitage, including Parking du Parc and Parking Taurobole. Parking du Parc is free.

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Discover more about Chapelle Saint-Christophe

The Chapelle Saint-Christophe, a serene beacon in Tain-l'Hermitage, stands as a testament to the region's rich history and spiritual heritage. Located atop the Hermitage hill, the chapel provides panoramic views of the Drôme department and the Rhône Valley, surrounded by the area's famed vineyards. The current chapel, dating back to 1864, was constructed on the site of both a former Roman temple dedicated to Hercules and a medieval religious building. Legend suggests that Henri-Gaspard de Sterimberg, a knight, retreated to this hill in the 13th century after returning from the Albigensian Crusade. He planted vines to produce wine for pilgrims and travelers, intertwining the chapel's history with the local wine tradition. The chapel itself is relatively small, but its location and history make it a worthwhile visit. Inside, the altar features a statue of Saint Christopher carrying the infant Jesus, reflecting his role as the patron saint of travelers. Since 1919, the chapel has been owned by the renowned Paul Jaboulet Aîné wine estate. In the summer months, the estate opens the chapel's forecourt for temporary bar events, blending wine and heritage. The chapel has been listed as a historical monument since 1934.

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