A weekend in the Moselle: amongst vineyards and nature

DAY 1 – 10.00 am

A stroll through Vic-sur-Seille and a cultural break at the Georges de La Tour Museum

We start the day with a stroll through the centre of Vic-sur-Seille and its main square, where the calm, authentic atmosphere makes you want to slow down. The narrow streets and historic façades create a peaceful ambience in this village, which has been designated a ‘Petite Cité de Caractère’.

We then head to the Georges de La Tour Museum, dedicated to the famous painter born in the village and a master of the chiaroscuro style. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the artistic and spiritual world of this artist, known for his intimate scenes and his play of light of rare depth. Inside, the light and the works of art create a unique, almost timeless atmosphere. A cultural interlude that fits naturally into your exploration of the village.

2.00 pm

A deep dive into the Moselle vineyards

We head to the Rémi Gauthier estate in Vic-Sur-Seille, where our wine tourism experience begins with a tour of the cellars. We’re welcomed by Rémi and his partner Mathilde, who run the estate together. The welcome is very warm and immediately sets the tone for the visit. They share with us the history of this family-run estate, which has been working for years to breathe new life into the Moselle vineyards. We chat about their work in the cellar, particularly the winemaking process. As their vines are spread across various plots, notably along the Moselle, they are fortunate to be able to offer a fine representation of the Moselle terroir.

After the cellar, we continue our discussion in the vineyard, situated five minutes from the estate, for a wine-tasting session. Rémi explains the work involved in vineyard management, particularly the selection of grape varieties to plant according to the terroirs, as well as their responsible and eco-friendly approach to working with living organisms through biodynamic viticulture. During the tasting, he guides us through their wines, helping us to understand their philosophy. We are surprised by the lightness and freshness of their wines. It is a unique, warm and highly informative experience.

6.00 pm

Discovering the Salinensis Tiny Houses at sunset

As the day draws to a close, we settle into the Cuesta tiny house. Set in a rural setting, it is a 5-minute drive from the estate. Just as with their estate, Mathilde and Rémy wanted to create living spaces that respect the environment, combining simplicity, authenticity, well-being and self-sufficiency. Overlooking the Seille valley, we make the most of the sunset to enjoy an aperitif with friends. The sun sinks gently over the bucolic landscape and the moment is simply about savouring, watching and listening.

DAY 2 – 9.00 am

A unique railbike ride through the heart of the countryside

The morning begins with an introduction to the Spin Valley railbike, which runs along a disused railway line that once carried salt. This unique activity offers a different way to explore the area whilst having fun. We settle in on board the rail bike, get our bearings, and then the first few pedal strokes set the pace.

This idyllic ride takes us through a variety of landscapes, from agricultural plains to the cool shade of the forests.

There are two routes to choose from: 14 km (2 hours) or 24.5 km (4 hours), the latter taking you all the way to the historic Guebling tunnel. The route is travelled in a convoy, preferably by booking in advance, and the railbike can be fitted with electric assistance.

1.00 pm

Lunch at a traditional restaurant

We then head to the Bistrot des Oiseaux, a restaurant at the Maison du Pays des Étangs in Tarquimpol, about ten minutes away. A lovely gourmet break awaits us in a leafy setting near the Lindre pond.

Inside, the atmosphere is cosy, with tasteful décor and a lovely view of the lake. On the menu, the cuisine showcases local produce with refined and generous dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. We enjoyed a beef parmentier with pulled beef, featuring a melt-in-the-mouth texture and a well-seasoned sauce. A lovely break combining fine dining and the great outdoors.

2.30 pm

A break in the countryside at the Domaine de Lindre

After lunch, we’ll head to the Domaine de Lindre, on the banks of the lake. The site is perfect for a stroll and some relaxation, with landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see. The lake is a fish farm and wildlife conservation centre, home to a wide variety of fish. We’ll walk along the banks to enjoy the lush green surroundings. A large swing facing the lake is the perfect spot for contemplation. It’s an ideal place to unwind and recharge your batteries. Two nearby huts provide books and tourist information.

5.30 pm

A visit to the heart of the Domaine Les Béliers vineyard

The day draws to a close on the slopes of the Moselle, at Domaine Les Béliers in Ancy-sur-Moselle. On our arrival, Eve Maurice, the owner, welcomes us for a tour and a tasting. The vineyards surround the estate, with the plots stretching out right before us – it’s a fascinating sight.

During the tour, Eve explains the different stages of wine production and the work required throughout the year. The tasting then highlighted one of the Moselle region’s iconic grape varieties: Müller-Thurgau. The estate also offers two guest rooms in the heart of the vineyard, where we’ll be staying for the night.

Day 3 – 10.00

Final moments amongst the vineyards

Upon waking, the Domaine des Béliers appears in a whole new light. Breakfast is served overlooking the vineyards, with an unobstructed view of the Moselle hillsides. Fruit juice, bread and homemade jams grace the table, whilst the honey comes from hives situated near the estate. We take this moment to admire the vineyard stretching out before us one last time, before leaving this cosy retreat.

11.30 am

A stroll through the Laquenexy Fruit Gardens

We round off this trip at the Laquenexy Fruit Gardens, a lush green space where we’ll wander through around twenty themed gardens nestled in the heart of a heritage orchard.

Our three favourite gardens: the rose garden, where some varieties have been sponsored by celebrities; the edible flower garden; and the New Zealand and Canadian First Nations garden, where we’ll discover Māori and Native American cultures.

The visit continues at the tea room, where we take a break, then to the shop before setting off again. A final, enriching stop to round off this three-day stay in the Moselle, which has allowed us to discover another side to the region and its natural treasures.