Château de Bellet

The basics

For wine tourists visiting Nice, few experiences rival exploring the rugged Bellet appellation, where hilltop vineyards dazzle and lesser-known grape varietals provide opportunities for discovery, and the Château de Bellet is one of the region’s most celebrated destinations.

Open all year, the château offers guided tours and tastings throughout the week. It’s an accessible place to learn more about the winemaking process, as well as sample premium red, white, and rosé wines.

Its grounds are no less noteworthy. Crowned by a now-deconsecrated, 19th-century chapel, they’re worth exploring after your tour concludes. Visitors are welcome to stroll among the greenery, savor a glass of wine on the terrace, and even play a rousing game of petanque.

Things to know before you go

• Guided tours are offered most days of the year, but it’s essential to book with the winery in advance to secure your place.

• Free maps are provided for those who wish to explore the grounds and vineyards.

• There is an on-site shop where you can purchase wine.

• The winery is generally accessible to wheelchair users, although the uneven ground may make some parts tricky to traverse.

• If possible, visit in fine weather to fully enjoy the pretty grounds and dramatic setting.

• Sturdy footwear is recommended for exploring the site.

• Come prepared with warm layers as the cellars can be cold.

How to get there

The Château de Bellet is located at 482 Chemin de Saquier, 06200, Nice. It’s roughly 20 minutes by car or taxi from central Nice. Alternatively, you can travel via local bus services—take the 52 or the 62 to Le Pilon, around 10 minutes away on foot.

When to get there

The Château de Bellet is open daily throughout the May to September high season, and every day except Sunday from October to April (low season). The shop is typically open from morning until early evening, but closes at lunchtime during the low season. Tours are three times a day in the low season and six times in the high season, offering a mix of English and French options.

Bellet wineries to discover

The Château de Bellet is one among many notable wineries in the Bellet appellation, located just north of Nice proper. Others to explore include the Château de Crémat, which uses ancient Roman tunnels to store its wines; Domaine de la Source, one of the region’s most modern wineries; and the Clos Saint-Vincent, the only winery that has vineyards on all three of the appellation’s main hills.