Your Provence introduction begins with a convenient pick-up at your accommodation in Avignon. It won’t take long to begin spotting some of the unmistakable symbols of Provence: the characteristic stone farmhouses with colorful shutters, vast landscapes filled with lush olive groves, and cypress trees breaking up  the skyline. 

Your expert guide will begin introducing you to the region’s history as you make your way to Gordes, the ideal initiation to a series of Provençal villages. Stopping for a moment on the outskirts of town, you will appreciate this vantage point for a first photo op of the hilltop location. From there, you will continue on to the the town center. This is an idyllic place to stop for a morning coffee, taking a moment to people-watch on one of the shaded town squares. 

Heading onwards, you will follow the winding Provençal roads to the village of Roussillon. You will notice the distinctive colors of the building façades and surrounding cliffs which contrast with the greenery below. The ochre deposits in the region were used as naturals pigments in the textile industry, and also lent their shade to the paints and patinas which color the town.

After stopping off for lunch,  you will carry on to discover more of the countrside, taking a brief stop off at the Pont Julien, a Roman stone arch bridge dating from 3 BC. When in season, you will have the opportunity to stop and appreciate one of France’s most photographable landscapes. The Provençal lavender fields bloom for a short period during June and July each year, and lucky visitors will not miss the chance to observe this unforgettable event. 

Ascending upwards to the next village, Bonnieux is an bucolic spot to admire the surrounding landscape. Stop for a moment to breathe in the country air and appreciate countryside panoramas and charming patinas of the old stone houses. Continuing on from Bonnieux, you will begin your descent towards a different style of village: the town of Lourmarin is known for its market as well as interesting shops, cafés on shaded squares and meandering cobblestone streets. Lourmarin is a wonderful final stop where you will be able to find a bit of Provence to bring home should you wish, or indulge in one final Provençal treat such as a cone of lavender ice cream or a glass of ice-cold rosé. 

Following this last stop, your guide and driver will accompany you back to your accommodation in Marseille or Aix-en-Provence. You will finish your time together with a newfound knowledge of the region and undoubtedly a lingering desire to return and discover more.  

 

The Provence lavender fields are typically in bloom from the beginning of June to end of July. In recent years, they have often been cut early due to excessive heat and drought. When in bloom, this tour will take a detour to visit some scenic and photogenic lavender fields. Lavender products are available in many shops in the villages along the way. 

This full-day tour will stop for lunch, however the cost is not included in the tour price. 

The standard vehicle for this tour can accommodate 6 passengers in addition to your expert.

Yes, absolutely. We can adjust the content to be more appropriate for younger learners.

Provence is characterized by winding cobblestone streets which are often steep or punctuated by stairs. This tour would not be well suited for wheelchair users but can be adapted for those with lower mobility. Please contact us if you are concerned about mobility and we will be happy to advise.