The region of Seyssel is home to remarkable wine-growing soil. Vineyards have dotted the countryside since times immemorial: more than two thousand years ago, Romans introduced varieties of grapes known to withstand the harsh local climate. Pliny the Elder in his writings mentioned the exceptional quality of “biturica allobrogica”. Allobrogia comprised the land between the Isère and Rhône rivers and included the area of Seyssel, following Hannibal’s successful expedition over the Alps in 218 B.C.

The town of Seyssel nestling on both banks of the Rhône, one side belonging to the Ain department and the other to the Haute-Savoie, is well-known today, but in the Middle Ages, Vens and Vens-le-Haut were very important villages on the main road to Geneva, situated well above the Rhône and the Fier’s frequent and tempestuous spates. The fortress of Vens, the ruins of the Roman tower above Vens and the traditional route to Santiago de Compostela which skirts part of the estate’s vineyards bear witness to this important time in the hillside’s history.
Recommended excursions: the Fier’s spectacular gorges, the Grand Colombier and Mont des Princes mountains, etc. The tourist office in Seyssel will provide further ideas and information: 00 33 (0) 450 59 26 56.