Gaillac hosts walking banquet event

On Sunday, October 18, the Gaillac vineyard in Cestayrols will host an itinerant banquet as part of the national event Vignobles en Scène, which runs from October 16 to 18 in the vineyards of Occitanie.

Event details and structure

The event, organized by the Office de Tourisme La Toscane Occitane and the Maison des Vins de Gaillac, offers a 7 km loop with four gourmet stops: an appetizer, starter, hot meal at a barbecue, and dessert, all paired with wines from the Gaillac vineyard and accompanied by music. Reservations are required, and places are limited.

Scenic setting of the vineyard

The Gaillac vineyard in October is noted for its striking seasonal transformation, with golden and reddish hues on the hillsides and valleys bathed in low light, creating a landscape that appears suspended between summer and winter. The 2026 edition of the event is set to take place in Cestayrols, along the Oenorando "Vallon de la Caude" route, which features vineyards, sunlit hillsides, and paths bordered by foliage.

Route and food stops

The route begins with an appetizer at Château Lacroux, followed by a starter at the hamlet of Plancas, a main course at Château Les Vignals, which practices organic and biodynamic agriculture since 2013, and dessert at the church of Lincarque. At each stop, wines from the AOP Gaillac accompany the dishes, and winemakers are present to discuss their work, terroir, and wine-making choices. Music is also featured at each stage, enhancing the convivial atmosphere.

Event accessibility and cost

The event is designed for hikers in good condition who can complete a 7 km walk on hilly terrain. It is not suitable for very young children or those seeking an easy outing, but is accessible for adults and teenagers aged 12 and over. The price is a minimum of 25 euros per person, including wines at each stage. For teenagers aged 12 to 18, the same menu is offered without wine, substituting it with grape juice. Departures are in waves every 30 minutes, and participants must adhere to the booked time as the stops are designed to accommodate a specific number of people at a time.

Logistics and recommendations

Reservations are mandatory. The starting point is Château Lacroux, located at 149 chemin de Lacroux, Lincarque, 81150 Cestayrols. Travelers from Toulouse can expect a journey of approximately 50 minutes via the A68 heading towards Albi, then the D964 towards Gaillac and Cestayrols. The event is considered a worthwhile trip, with the Gaillac vineyard offering one of its most immersive experiences this Sunday. Due to limited availability, it is recommended to check availability with the Office de Tourisme La Toscane Occitane or on the Gaillac Wines website as soon as possible.