Duration
1h
Distance
4,36 km
Elevation +
280 m
Max Group
12 people
Languages
EN · FR
In Castelnou, one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France, Domaine du Mascareil organically grows vines planted in 1963 on the heights of the Aspres. This short 4.4 km wine hike is self-guided, GPX track in hand: a one-hour loop between vineyards and garrigue, with the village and its castle as a backdrop, before tasting the estate's wines.
Domaine du Mascareil, old vines in the Aspres
Founded in 2018, Domaine du Mascareil extends at around 300 m altitude, in a preserved environment above Castelnou. Its old Grenache and Carignan vines, planted in 1963, are farmed organically and biodynamically, alongside Syrah, Mourvèdre, Grenache blanc and Grenache gris. The soils combine clay and rolled pebbles. Harvesting is manual and vinification is carried out with indigenous yeasts, without unnecessary inputs, before barrel ageing.
The route: a 4.4 km loop through the vineyards of Castelnou
The loop starts from the estate and winds between the plots and the garrigue of the Aspres. The path climbs steeply on part of the route, from around 230 m to nearly 450 m altitude, before descending back to the starting point. Short but steady, it takes about an hour to complete, with Castelnou and its castle in the background.
A self-guided wine hike, at your own pace
There is no guide on this hike: you walk at your own pace, with the route's GPX track on your phone. The package has no extra charge; only the estate wine tasting is to be paid for. It suits walkers used to garrigue paths, as the climb is short but steep.
Castelnou, a medieval village in the Aspres
After the walk, allow time for Castelnou. Listed among the Plus Beaux Villages de France, the village curls around its viscount's castle, which dates back to the 10th century. Cobbled lanes, stone houses and ramparts make it one of the must-see visits in the Aspres.
Practical information and best season
The departure and arrival take place at the estate, for groups of 2 to 12 people; the exact meeting point is sent to you after booking. Allow one hour of walking, excluding the village visit. Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons. In summer, the route has little shade: set off early in the morning, then enjoy the cool of Castelnou's lanes.
Adults
18+
Children
Under 18
Hike details
Distance
4 km
Elevation gain
280 m
Level
Intermediate
Type
Loop / short tour
Estimated duration
1h to 1h30
Terrain
Stony paths, vineyard tracks and coastal trails
Best season
Spring, autumn and winter
Commitment
Soft mobility
Route map
Interactive map locked
GPX track, numbered waypoints and fullscreen available after booking.
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Included
- 4.4 km hike departing from the estate, with the route's GPX track
- Self-guided hike, with no guide and no extra charge
- Tasting of the estate's wines at the end of the hike
- Conversations with the winemakers about their wines and terroir
Recommendations
- Closed hiking shoes, 1.5 litres of water per person, a hat and sunscreen: the route has little shade in summer. Avoid the hottest hours in July and August and stay on the marked trails, among the vineyard plots. Allow extra time to stroll through the streets of Castelnou.
Our approach
Another way to discover the Catalan vineyards
At Viny'aquí, we believe wine is also discovered on foot. Our oenorandos connect landscapes, terroirs and human encounters along accessible, authentic routes.
This experience in Les Aspres helps you understand how the winegrowers work a land shaped by wind, stone and sea — favouring soft mobility and support for local producers.
