Provence Highlights Full-Day Tour From Avignon

Provence’s stunning landscapes and historic landmarks are on full display during this comprehensive day tour from Avignon. Visitors will venture into the countryside, exploring picturesque villages, iconic abbeys, and ancient Roman architecture. With a small group size and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience tailored to first-time travelers to the region. From seasonal lavender fields to the impressive Pont du Gard, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the enduring allure of Provence.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Avignon exploring the picturesque Provence region, including visits to iconic lavender fields, Senanque Abbey, and Pont du Gard.
• Small-group tour limited to 8 people for a personalized experience, with a high 96% recommendation rate from over 400 reviews.
• Discover charming villages like Roussillon, les Baux de Provence, Gordes, and Saint Remy de Provence, showcasing ancient Roman architecture and breathtaking Luberon Valley vistas.
• Opportunity to capture stunning photographs of blooming lavender fields, learn about the history and cultivation of lavender, and visit a local lavender distillery.
• Explore the harmonious Cistercian architecture of Senanque Abbey, observe the rhythmic lives of resident monks, and stand in awe before the colossal three-tiered Pont du Gard.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Avignon takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the picturesque Provence region.

With a high 96% recommendation rate from 411 reviews, it’s ideal for first-time visitors or those short on time. The small-group tour is limited to 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Priced from $136.45 per person with free cancellation, the tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a knowledgeable driver-guide, and bottled water.

Highlights include visiting lavender fields, hilltop towns, Provencal markets, the Senanque Abbey, and the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour highlights a captivating mix of Provencal landmarks and natural wonders. Visitors explore the iconic lavender fields (seasonal), picturesque hilltop towns, and vibrant Provencal markets. Key stops include the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct and the serene Senanque Abbey. The tour also ventures to several charming villages, such as Roussillon, les Baux de Provence, Gordes, and Saint Remy de Provence, showcasing the region’s ancient Roman architecture and breathtaking Luberon Valley vistas.

Attraction	Highlights
Lavender Fields	Seasonal blooms, vibrant colors
Senanque Abbey	Serene 12th-century Cistercian monastery
Pont du Gard	Impressive Roman aqueduct, UNESCO site
Roussillon	Ochre-hued town, picturesque panoramas
Gordes	Hilltop village, stunning medieval architecture

Visit to Lavender Fields (Seasonal)

Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking sea of lavender that blankets the Provencal countryside during the tour’s seasonal stop.

Guests will witness the vibrant purple hues stretching across the rolling hills, creating a mesmerizing landscape.

The tour highlights include:

• Capturing stunning photographs of the lavender fields in full bloom
• Strolling through the fragrant rows, breathing in the calming scent
• Learning about the history and cultivation of this iconic Provençal crop
• Visiting a local lavender distillery to understand the production process

This quintessential Provence experience leaves a lasting impression on all who witness the region’s natural beauty.

Exploration of Senanque Abbey and Pont Du Gard

As guests venture deeper into the heart of Provence, they discover the serene Senanque Abbey and the majestic Pont du Gard, two of the region’s most iconic landmarks. At the 12th-century Senanque Abbey, they marvel at the harmonious Cistercian architecture and the rhythmic lives of the resident monks. Later, they stand in awe before the colossal three-tiered Pont du Gard, a remarkable Roman aqueduct bridge that has endured for centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and engineering prowess.

Site	Founded	Features	Significance
Senanque Abbey	1148	Cistercian architecture, monastic life	Exemplifies Provence’s spiritual heritage
Pont du Gard	1st century AD	Three-tiered Roman aqueduct bridge	Remarkable engineering, UNESCO World Heritage

Discovering Charming Provencal Towns

After exploring the spiritual and architectural wonders of Senanque Abbey and Pont du Gard, the tour takes guests on a captivating journey through some of Provence’s most charming villages.

Stops include:

• Roussillon, a picturesque town known for its striking ochre-colored buildings
• Les Baux de Provence, a medieval hilltop town offering breathtaking views of the Alpilles mountains
• Gordes, a picturesque village with white stone houses cascading down a rocky outcrop
• Saint Remy de Provence, a historic town famous for its lively markets and connection to Van Gogh

Immersed in the region’s timeless beauty and rich history, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the essence of Provence.

Admiring the Luberon Valley and Roman Architecture

The tour then turns its attention to the captivating Luberon Valley, where the group marvels at the region’s stunning natural beauty and ancient Roman architecture.

Sweeping vistas of rolling hills and orchards fill the landscape, as the guide provides insightful commentary on the area’s rich history.

The highlight is a visit to the iconic Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved ancient Roman aqueducts. Visitors are given ample time to explore the impressive structure, learning about its engineering and role in the region’s past.

The tour then continues to other Provencal gems, leaving a lasting impression of the Luberon’s diverse charms.

Inclusions and Meeting Information

The tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as a knowledgeable driver/guide who provides transportation via an air-conditioned minivan.

Bottled water is also provided throughout the day.

The tour departs at 9:00 am from in front of the Avignon tourist office and returns to the same location.

Key meeting details include:

• Meeting point: 41 Cr Jean Jaurès, 84000 Avignon, France (in front of the tourist office)
• Start time: 09:00 am
• Ends back at the meeting point

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Based on over 400 customer reviews, the Provence Highlights Tour garners an impressive 4.8 out of 5 overall rating.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable and engaging guides, such as Anne and Natalie, who provide insightful commentary on the region’s history and landmarks.

The tour’s highlights, including the beautiful villages, iconic landmarks, and scenic beauty, leave a lasting impression on participants.

While most feedback is overwhelmingly positive, some suggest improvements to audio clarity for hearing-impaired travelers and pacing adjustments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Gratuity Included in the Tour Price?

According to the overview, the tour price includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges. Gratuity for the driver/guide is not specifically mentioned as being included in the price.

What Should I Bring on the Tour?

You’ll want to bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and a small backpack or purse. The tour includes bottled water, but you may want to pack a snack or light lunch as well.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is wheelchair accessible, as the air-conditioned minivan has space to accommodate wheelchairs. However, some historic sites and narrow streets may pose challenges for wheelchair users, so it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand.

Can I Modify the Itinerary to Include Specific Sites?

You can modify the itinerary to include specific sites, but it’ll need to be discussed with the tour operator. They aim to provide a personalized experience, so they may be able to accommodate your requests within the tour’s timeline and logistics.

How Large Are the Small Group Tours?

The small-group tours are limited to 8 people, allowing for a personalized experience. This intimate group size ensures ample opportunities to explore the highlights of the region with the knowledgeable guide.

The Sum Up

The Provence Highlights Full-Day Tour from Avignon offers an immersive experience that showcases the region’s natural beauty, historic landmarks, and charming towns. With a focus on personalized attention and seasonal highlights, the tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into the essence of Provence. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors seeking to discover the captivating sights and rich cultural heritage of this picturesque corner of France.