The Best Perched Villages of the French Riviera Private Tour

Exploring the picturesque perched villages of the French Riviera offers travelers a chance to step back in time. This private tour takes visitors on a captivating 9-hour journey through enchanting medieval towns, promising an unforgettable experience. From the breathtaking views in Eze to the artistic charm of Saint Paul de Vence, each destination showcases the unique beauty and history of this stunning region. What hidden gems await as the tour continues? Discover the allure of these hilltop havens and uncover the stories they hold.

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Key Points

This private tour offers a 9-hour journey through picturesque medieval villages along the French Riviera, priced from $1,022.79 per group of up to 8 participants.
The tour highlights include the Exotic Garden in Eze, art galleries in Saint Paul de Vence, and the stunning Saut du Loup waterfalls, culminating in the highest perched village of Gourdon.
Guests can explore the artistic heritage of Saint Paul de Vence, the capital of violets in Tourrettes sur Loup, and savor authentic Provençal cuisine during the tour.
The private tour provides a personalized and flexible experience, with a live guide offering insights and historical context, and ample time for coffee breaks and scenic strolls.
The tour offers an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning vistas and French charm, showcasing the unique cultural and culinary experiences of each medieval village.

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Tour Overview

The "The Best Perched Villages of the French Riviera Private Tour" offers a captivating 9-hour journey through some of the most picturesque medieval villages along the French Riviera.

A captivating 9-hour journey through the most picturesque medieval villages along the French Riviera.

Priced from $1,022.79 per group (up to 8 participants), the tour is available in multiple languages and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Highlights include exploring the Exotic Garden in Eze, discovering art galleries in Saint Paul de Vence, and admiring the Saut du Loup waterfalls.

The tour culminates in the highest perched village, Gourdon, boasting stunning views of the Provencal countryside and Mediterranean Sea.

Prefer keeping things personal? Here are more private experiences we've reviewed in Eze

Itinerary Highlights

Starting with the medieval village of Eze, the tour allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking views from the Exotic Garden.

Next, the group explores the art galleries in Saint Paul de Vence, renowned for its artistic heritage.

The tour then ventures to Tourrettes sur Loup, the capital of violets, where guests can savor the unique violet ice cream.

Afterward, the group admires the Saut du Loup waterfalls, a natural attraction.

The tour culminates in Gourdon, the highest perched village, offering stunning panoramas of the Provencal countryside and the Mediterranean Sea.

Dining Experience

During the tour, the guide suggests local restaurants for lunch, though the dining experience is not included in the tour price. Guests can explore the charming villages and savor authentic Provençal cuisine at their own pace. The guide provides recommendations on the best places to enjoy a leisurely meal overlooking the stunning landscapes.

| Specialty | Description |

| — | — |

| Ratatouille | A classic Provençal vegetable stew |

| Bouillabaisse | A hearty seafood stew from Marseille |

| Tapenade | A savory olive and caper spread |

| Lavender honey | Sweet and fragrant local honey |

The dining options allow guests to enjoy the local culinary culture and pair their explorations with delectable regional flavors.

Tour Experience

This private group tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the enchanting perched villages of the French Riviera.

The tour experience is designed to provide an immersive exploration of these medieval gems. Highlights include:

A live tour guide who shares insights and historical context throughout the journey.
Ample time for coffee breaks and scenic strolls through the picturesque streets, allowing you to soak in the local atmosphere.
A private group setting, ensuring a personalized and flexible experience tailored to your interests.

The tour promises to be an unforgettable adventure filled with stunning vistas, artistic treasures, and authentic French charm.

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Eze: The Medieval Village

The tour begins with a visit to the medieval village of Eze, perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the glittering Mediterranean Sea.

Wandering its narrow, winding streets, visitors are transported back in time, marveling at the quaint stone houses and ancient architecture.

The highlight is the Exotic Garden, which offers stunning panoramic views of the coast. Guests can explore the garden’s diverse flora and fauna, including rare and exotic plants.

From this lofty vantage point, the group can gaze out at the shimmering azure waters and dramatic cliffs that define the French Riviera’s breathtaking landscape.

There's plenty more to explore in Eze

Saint Paul De Vence: the Artistic Heritage

After exploring the medieval charm of Eze, the tour continues to the picturesque village of Saint Paul de Vence, renowned for its rich artistic heritage.

The village is home to:

Numerous art galleries and workshops featuring works by renowned artists such as Chagall, Picasso, and Miró.
The Fondation Maeght, a modern art museum with an impressive collection of sculptures and paintings.
Narrow streets lined with charming cafes, boutiques, and studios where visitors can interact with local artists and artisans.

Saint Paul de Vence’s artistic atmosphere and stunning scenery make it a must-visit destination on the tour.

Tourrettes Sur Loup: the Violet Capital

From Saint Paul de Vence, the tour proceeds to the charming village of Tourrettes sur Loup, known as the "Capital of Violets." Visitors can indulge in the local specialty, violet ice cream, while strolling through the quaint streets lined with shops and artisan workshops showcasing the region’s signature flower.

| Feature | Description |

| — | — |

| Violets | The village’s surrounding hills are blanketed with fragrant purple blooms each spring. |

| Artisanal Products | Locals craft a variety of violet-infused goods, from jams and candies to soaps and perfumes. |

| Annual Violet Festival | Celebrated each March, featuring parades, music, and culinary demonstrations highlighting the iconic flower. |

| Scenic Overlooks | Tourrettes sur Loup offers stunning vistas of the surrounding Provençal countryside and Mediterranean coastline. |

| Charming Old Town | The village’s medieval streets and architecture evoke a timeless, picturesque ambiance.

Gourdon: The Highest Perched Village

Perched atop a limestone cliff at an altitude of over 760 meters, Gourdon stands as the highest of the French Riviera’s iconic hilltop villages.

Perched atop a limestone cliff at an altitude of over 760 meters, Gourdon stands as the highest of the French Riviera’s iconic hilltop villages.

This picturesque commune offers:

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Provencal countryside and the glistening Mediterranean Sea.
A charming old town with winding cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and independent boutiques.
Opportunities to savor local delicacies and learn about the region’s centuries-old traditions.

As the culmination of the French Riviera tour, Gourdon enchants visitors with its stunning natural setting and well-preserved cultural heritage, providing a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey through the area’s most captivating perched villages.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to suit the traveler’s interests. The private nature of the tour allows flexibility to adjust the itinerary and focus on the traveler’s preferred activities or destinations along the French Riviera.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?

Yes, larger groups may be eligible for discounts on this tour. The tour price starts at $1,022.79 for up to 8 participants, so more people in the group could lower the per-person cost. Exact discounts would depend on group size.

Can I Leave the Tour at Any Point and Rejoin Later?

Guests can’t leave the tour and rejoin later. This is a private group tour with a set itinerary, so participants are expected to remain with the group throughout the duration. Leaving and rejoining would disrupt the schedule.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are generally no restrictions on photography during the tour, allowing guests to freely capture the picturesque villages and stunning landscapes. However, visitors should be mindful of respecting private property and avoiding disruptive behavior.

Do the Tour Guides Provide Recommendations for Other Activities Nearby?

The tour guides typically provide recommendations for other nearby activities and attractions that visitors may want to explore on their own after the tour. This allows guests to make the most of their time in the area.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a captivating journey through the enchanting perched villages of the French Riviera. Enjoy the rich history, artistic charm, and stunning vistas that await. From the medieval splendor of Eze to the violet-hued streets of Tourrettes sur Loup, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience. Savor the culinary delights and witness the breathtaking panoramas atop Gourdon, the highest perched village, for an unparalleled exploration of the French Riviera’s hidden gems.