Cassis, Bandol and Le Castellet Wine Tour

Exploring the heart of southern France’s renowned wine country, the Cassis, Bandol, and Le Castellet Wine Tour promises an unforgettable experience. From the picturesque seaside town of Cassis to the renowned Bandol vineyards and the charming medieval village of Le Castellet, this tour offers a captivating blend of scenic beauty, culture, and, of course, exceptional wine tasting. With opportunities to savor robust reds, delicate rosés, and stunning coastal vistas, this tour is a must-consider for any oenophile or lover of French charm.

Key Points

• This customizable wine tour explores the picturesque towns of Cassis, Bandol, and Le Castellet, offering a range of activities from hiking to wine tasting.
• In Cassis, you can stroll through the charming harbor, visit the local market, and opt for a boat tour into the stunning Calanques.
• The tour focuses on the renowned Bandol wine region, allowing you to sample a variety of acclaimed wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
• Le Castellet offers stunning panoramic views, opportunities to explore medieval architecture and local shops, and an optional hiking trail.
• The tour culminates with a scenic boat tour of the Calanques, showcasing the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves of the national park.

Overview of the Tour

This wine tour offers visitors a chance to explore the picturesque regions of Cassis, Bandol, and Le Castellet in Marseille, France.

The customizable itinerary includes hiking, swimming, city walks, exploring markets, wine tasting, and a Calanques boat tour. Guests can choose between half-day or full-day options.

Explore the picturesque regions of Marseille on a customizable tour featuring hiking, swimming, markets, wine tasting, and a Calanques boat excursion.

The tour is priced from $370.22 per person, varying by group size. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from accommodations in Marseille.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and infants can sit on laps. A maximum of 8 travelers can participate.

Exploring the Charming Town of Cassis

The tour begins in the picturesque town of Cassis, nestled along the Mediterranean coast. Visitors stroll through the charming harbor, admiring the colorful fishing boats and quaint cafes.

The tour explores the narrow streets lined with pastel-hued buildings, leading to the iconic white cliffs that overlook the sparkling sea. Travelers can wander through the local market, browsing the vibrant array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties.

After, the group has the option to take a boat tour into the stunning Calanques, the dramatic limestone inlets that dot the coastline.

Cassis offers a perfect introduction to the natural beauty of this enchanting region.

Discovering the Wines of Bandol

Next, the tour explores the renowned Bandol wine region. Known for its robust red wines made primarily from Mourvèdre grapes, Bandol offers a unique tasting experience.

Visitors can:

• Discover the region’s terroir, influenced by the Mediterranean climate and proximity to the sea

• Sample a variety of Bandol’s acclaimed wines, from full-bodied reds to rosés with delicate fruit flavors

• Learn about the winemaking traditions and techniques that have made Bandol a premier wine destination in Provence

The tour provides an opportunity to take in the rich wine culture of this picturesque corner of southern France.

Hiking and Sightseeing in Le Castellet

After exploring the renowned Bandol wine region, the tour moves on to the charming village of Le Castellet.

Perched atop a hilltop, Le Castellet offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and Mediterranean coast. Visitors can stroll through the narrow, winding streets, admiring the quaint medieval architecture and stopping to browse the local shops and artisan studios.

For the more adventurous, the tour includes an optional hiking trail with spectacular vistas.

Whether wandering the picturesque streets or taking in the breathtaking scenery, Le Castellet provides a delightful contrast to the wine tastings earlier in the day.

Boat Tour of the Calanques

Following the wine tastings and exploration of Le Castellet, the tour provides an opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Calanques via a boat tour.

The boat tour allows visitors to:

• Admire the dramatic limestone cliffs and hidden coves of the Calanques National Park

• Spot local wildlife like cormorants, sea urchins, and maybe even dolphins

• Enjoy a relaxing ride along the coastline with refreshing views of the Mediterranean

This scenic boat excursion is a perfect way to cap off the day’s activities and fully take in the natural splendor of the Marseille region.

Visiting Local Markets and Shops

What better way to take in the local culture than by visiting the charming markets and shops of Cassis and Le Castellet?

Stroll through the lively Cassis market, browsing stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties.

Stroll through the lively Cassis market, browsing stalls selling fresh produce, artisanal goods, and regional specialties.

Explore the quaint boutiques of Le Castellet, where you’ll find unique fashion, home decor, and handcrafted souvenirs.

Savor the flavors of Provence by sampling local olive oils, wines, and delicacies.

These vibrant marketplaces and specialty shops offer a glimpse into the daily lives and traditions of the region, making for an authentic and memorable experience.

Customizing Your Wine Tour Experience

With a customizable itinerary, travelers can craft their perfect wine tour experience in Cassis, Bandol, and Le Castellet.

The tour offers flexibility to suit various interests:

• Embark on hiking adventures and swim in the picturesque Calanques.

• Explore local markets and charming seaside towns at your own pace.

• Indulge in wine tastings and learn about the region’s renowned viticulture.

Whether you’re seeking an active day or a leisurely exploration, this tour can be tailored to your preferences.

With a range of optional activities, you’ll create an unforgettable experience in this stunning corner of Provence.

Practical Information and Logistics

Participants can conveniently arrange to be picked up from their accommodation in Marseille for this wine tour.

The tour departs from a central meeting point at 12 Rue du Rouet, just in front of the Monoprix store. An air-conditioned vehicle will transport the group throughout the day. Bottled water is provided.

Guests can opt for additional activities like a boat tour or wine tasting, depending on their preferences. The tour ends back at the original meeting point.

While the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, infants can join by sitting on laps. The group size is capped at 8 travelers maximum.

Common Questions

What Is the Minimum/Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 8 travelers. No minimum group size is specified. Infants must sit on laps, and service animals are allowed, though the tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participation?

There are no age restrictions for participation, though infants must sit on laps. The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers and is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

Can Dietary Requirements Be Accommodated?

The tour operator can accommodate dietary requirements with advance notice. Travelers should provide any dietary needs or restrictions when booking the tour, and the operator will make the necessary arrangements to cater to those needs.

Are There Any Physical Fitness Prerequisites for the Activities?

The tour doesn’t have any strict physical fitness prerequisites. However, some activities like hiking may require a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be able to comfortably walk for short distances and navigate uneven terrain.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there are half-day and full-day options available for this tour. Travelers can customize the itinerary to include activities like hiking, swimming, or a Calanques boat tour, allowing them to extend the duration and experiences as desired.