Nestled in the heart of the French Riviera, Grasse beckons visitors to explore its captivating history and vibrant fragrance culture. From the iconic Cathédrale Notre-Dame-du-Puy to the renowned Fragonard Perfume Factory, this picturesque town offers a wealth of enchanting experiences. But the journey doesn’t end there – a short drive leads to the charming hilltop village of Gourdon, where stunning vistas await. And for the true connoisseur, a delightful wine tasting in the Bellet region promises to elevate the senses.
Key Points
- Explore the historic town of Grasse, known as the world’s perfume capital, with its centuries-old perfume factories and medieval architecture.
- Discover the art of French perfumery with a guided tour of the Fragonard perfume factory, including distillation and blending demonstrations.
- Wander through the picturesque medieval town of Saint-Paul de Vence, with its galleries, artisan shops, and stunning countryside views.
- Indulge in a wine tasting experience at a traditional estate in the Bellet wine region, learning about the unique microclimate and grape varieties.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off locations in Nice and Cannes, with the option of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Exploring the Historic Grasse
After a relaxing 1-hour van ride from Nice, visitors arrive in the historic town of Grasse, known as the world’s perfume capital.
Grasse boasts centuries-old perfume factories and picturesque streets lined with medieval architecture. Visitors are free to explore the town at their own pace, wandering through the narrow alleyways, popping into local shops, and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Centuries-old perfume factories and medieval architecture await visitors as they explore Grasse’s narrow alleyways and vibrant atmosphere at their own pace.
The tour guide provides recommendations on must-see sights, including the 17th-century Cathédrale Notre-Dame-du-Puy and the scenic Cours Honoré Cresp, known for its lively markets and charming cafes.
With ample free time, travelers can enjoy the unique character of this enchanting perfume capital.
Looking for more options in Grasse? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Discovering the Fragonard Perfume Factory
From Grasse, the group boards the air-conditioned minibus for a short 1-hour drive to the famous Fragonard perfume factory.
During the guided tour, guests learn about the history and process of perfume-making. They’re shown the distillation room, where essential oils are extracted, and the laboratories, where scents are blended.
The tour culminates in the showroom, where visitors can browse and purchase a wide selection of Fragonard’s signature fragrances.
This immersive experience offers a unique glimpse into the art and tradition of French perfumery.
With the tour complete, it’s time to continue the journey to the next destination.
Wandering Through Saint-Paul De Vence
Now the group departs the Fragonard factory, heading on a 1-hour van ride to the charming medieval town of Saint-Paul de Vence.
The narrow, winding streets and stone buildings create a timeless atmosphere. Visitors can explore the galleries, artisan shops, and cafes at their own pace. The group is free to wander, taking in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Some may choose to visit the Fondation Maeght, a renowned modern art museum. After an hour of free time, it’s time to continue the journey to the Bellet wine region for a tasting.
Indulging in Bellet Hills Wine Tasting
Following the 1-hour drive from Saint-Paul de Vence, the group arrives at a traditional estate nestled in the rolling hills of the Bellet wine region.
The knowledgeable guide introduces the group to the family-owned winery, providing insights into the history and terroir of the Bellet appellation.
A knowledgeable guide introduces the family-owned winery, providing insights into the history and terroir of the Bellet appellation.
During the 1.5-hour tasting, participants sample a selection of the estate’s signature red, white, and rosé wines.
They learn about the unique microclimate and grape varieties that contribute to the wines’ distinct flavors.
The intimate setting allows for engaging discussions and a deeper appreciation of the local winemaking traditions.
More Great Tours NearbyHighlights of the French Riviera Tour
The French Riviera tour offers a captivating blend of historic landmarks, picturesque villages, and immersive cultural experiences.
Highlights include a guided tour of the renowned Fragonard perfume factory, where visitors can learn about the art of fragrance-making. Participants will also have the opportunity to explore the charming medieval village of Grasse at their leisure.
The tour culminates with a wine tasting in the Bellet hills, where guests can savor the local vintages and appreciate the region’s winemaking traditions.
With a knowledgeable guide and a small group size, this tour provides an authentic and memorable exploration of the French Riviera.
Convenient Pickup and Drop-off Locations
The tour offers convenient pickup and drop-off locations in Nice and Cannes, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s excursion. Participants can be picked up from their accommodation in either city, and dropped off at the same location after the tour.
| Pickup Locations | Duration | Drop-off Locations |
| — | — | — |
| Nice | 1 hour van ride to Grasse | Nice |
| Cannes | 30-minute van ride to wine tasting | Cannes |
This streamlined approach allows guests to focus on the tour’s highlights without the hassle of navigating transportation on their own.
Important Tour Details and Policies
Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to fully enjoy the tour.
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are essential for fully enjoying the tour.
Smoking and food/drinks are prohibited in the vehicle. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.
With a 4.7/5 customer rating, the tour is praised for its organization and the quality of the guide.
Guests can reserve now and pay later, with no upfront payment required.
There’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
How do customers rate this local wine tasting tour?
Based on 3 reviews, the tour receives an impressive 4.7/5 customer rating. Travelers praise the tour’s organization and the quality of the guide.
The wine tasting in the Bellet hills is a highlight, with customers enjoying the chance to sample local vintages at a traditional estate.
The tour’s small group size, limited to 8 participants, also receives positive feedback, allowing for a more personalized experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Join the Tour With My Pet?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour provider’s policy prohibits bringing animals for the safety and comfort of all participants. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.
Is the Tour Available in Languages Other Than English?
The tour is only offered with a live English-speaking guide. There’s no information provided about it being available in other languages. Customers should contact the tour operator to inquire about language options if needed.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has no strict dress code, but it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for the weather. Casual and practical attire is encouraged to make the most of the day’s activities.
Can I Receive a Digital Copy of the Tour Photos?
The tour company doesn’t provide digital copies of photos from the tour. However, participants are welcome to take their own photos during the excursion to capture memories of the experience.
Yes, the tour offers a private option in addition to the shared tour. Customers can book a private tour for their group, allowing for a more personalized experience. The private tour has the same itinerary as the shared tour.
The Sum Up
Grasse’s captivating alleyways, Gourdon’s stunning hilltop views, and the Bellet region’s exquisite wines create an unforgettable experience. This French Riviera tour offers a chance to take in the area’s rich history, artistry, and local traditions. With convenient pickup and drop-off locations, it’s a seamless way to discover the enchanting sights and flavors of this remarkable corner of southern France.
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