Aix and Marseille: the Best of Luberon: Gordes & Rousillon

Exploring the enchanting Luberon region of Provence is a must-do for any traveler seeking to enjoy the charm and beauty of southern France. The "Best of Luberon" tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the picturesque villages of Gordes and Rousillon, each with its own distinct character and captivating allure. From the striking architecture of Gordes to the vibrant ochre landscapes of Rousillon, this private 7-hour adventure promises to leave a lasting impression on those who decide to embark on this journey through the stunning countryside of Aix and Marseille.

Key Points

This private group tour explores the charming villages of Gordes and Rousillon in the Luberon region, showcasing their unique architecture, local products, and vibrant ochre colors.
The 7-hour experience is led by a knowledgeable local guide and includes transportation, hotel pick-up/drop-off, and insights into the region’s ochre production.
Visitors can discover the ancient architecture and high-quality local products in Gordes, including a visit to the renowned Airelles hotel and restaurant.
In Rousillon, the tour offers an immersive experience in the village’s vibrant ochre colors and panoramic views, with free time to explore the picturesque streets.
The tour is operated by the reputable local company Happy Day in Provence, led by the knowledgeable guide Tom, ensuring a high-quality and personalized experience.

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Overview of the Experience

What does this tour of the Luberon villages of Gordes and Rousillon entail?

It’s a 7-hour private group experience led by a live tour guide who speaks English, French, and Polish. The price starts at $989.13 per group of up to 6 people, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Guests will discover the unique styles and atmospheres of these picturesque Provençal villages, stroll through their charming streets, and learn about local specialties like ochre production.

Transportation is provided via air-conditioned van, with hotel pick-up and drop-off available in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, or upon request.

Highlights of the Tour

The tour’s highlight-packed itinerary allows guests to soak up the unique styles and atmospheres of the Luberon villages of Gordes and Rousillon.

In Gordes, visitors explore the ancient village’s protected architecture, high-quality local products, and the renowned Airelles hotel and restaurant.

Next, the tour ventures to Rousillon, renowned for its vibrant ochre colors and panoramic views. Here, guests can enjoy free time to wander the picturesque streets and indulge in the local cuisine.

Along the way, the tour provides insight into the region’s ochre production, with a visit to an open-pit ochre quarry.

Throughout the day, travelers are treated to the beautiful Provencal landscapes.

Detailed Itinerary

The tour departs from either Aix-en-Provence or Marseille, with the first stop being a boutique for lavender products, allowing guests to enjoy the aromas and textures of this iconic Provencal crop.

Next, the group visits Gordes, an ancient village known for its protected architecture, high-quality local products, and the renowned Airelles hotel and restaurant.

The final destination is Rousillon, famous for its vibrant ochre colors and panoramic views. Guests have free time to explore the town and enjoy a local lunch before the tour returns to the starting point.

Transportation and Logistics

For this experience, hotel pick-up and drop-off are available in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, or upon request.

Transportation is provided by an air-conditioned van, ensuring a comfortable journey.

The tour covers three key aspects of the transportation and logistics:

Convenient pick-up and drop-off at your hotel, making it easy to start and end your day.
Air-conditioned van transportation, providing a comfortable ride throughout the tour.
Seamless logistics that allow you to focus on enjoying the experience without worrying about the details.

With these transportation and logistical arrangements, you can sit back, relax, and learn about the beauty of the Luberon region.

Customer Feedback

Based on the customer reviews, this tour of the Luberon villages appears to be a highly enjoyable and informative experience.

With an overall rating of 5/5 from a single review, the tour seems to exceed traveler expectations.

Positive remarks specifically highlight the guide’s extensive knowledge and enthusiasm, which likely enhance the immersive exploration of the charming villages.

Reviewers also recommend the tour company, Happy Day in Provence, owned by the knowledgeable guide Tom.

Exploring Gordes

As the tour begins, visitors are immediately captivated by the ancient architectural splendor of Gordes.

This picturesque village, nestled atop a rocky outcrop, boasts three distinct highlights:

The protected historical buildings, with their characteristic stone facades and terracotta roofs, create a timeless ambiance.
The high-quality local products, ranging from artisanal cheeses to handcrafted lavender items, offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
The Airelles hotel and restaurant, a renowned destination that embodies the elegance and sophistication of Provencal hospitality.

Wandering through the winding streets, visitors are immersed in the vibrant essence of Gordes, a true gem of the Luberon region.

Visiting Rousillon

After exploring the historic charm of Gordes, the tour moves on to the vibrant village of Rousillon. Known for its striking ochre colors, Rousillon offers a visual feast for visitors.

The tour will take you through the town’s picturesque streets, where you’ll have the chance to marvel at the unique buildings and landscapes. You’ll also visit an open-pit ochre quarry to learn about the local production of this natural pigment.

With free time for lunch, you can learn about the Provencal atmosphere and savor the delicious local cuisine.

The tour’s combination of Rousillon’s ochre wonders and Gordes’ architectural splendor provides a well-rounded exploration of the Luberon region.

About the Tour Company

The tour is operated by Happy Day in Provence, a reputable local tour company based in the Luberon region.

The company is owned and led by Tom, an enthusiastic guide known for his deep knowledge of the area.

Some key benefits of booking with Happy Day in Provence include:

Private group experience with a live tour guide available in multiple languages.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility.
Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off options in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, or upon request.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Families With Young Children?

The tour appears suitable for families with young children. The 7-hour duration and free cancellation policy allow flexibility, while the guided experience and transportation by van should accommodate the needs of families.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to suit individual preferences. The private group experience allows flexibility to adjust the itinerary, pace, and activities based on the group’s interests and needs.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes Not Included in the Price?

There are no additional fees or taxes included in the tour price of $989.13 per group. The price covers the private group tour, transportation, and live guide services. Customers can expect a transparent and all-inclusive rate.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Challenges?

This tour involves walking through medieval villages and an open-air ochre quarry, which may pose challenges for those with mobility issues. The tour provider recommends discussing any accessibility needs in advance to ensure the best experience.

Can the Tour Be Booked for Dates Outside the Typical Schedule?

The tour can be booked for dates outside the typical schedule, as it’s a private group experience. Customers can contact the tour provider to inquire about availability and arrange the tour for their preferred dates.

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Sum Up

This "Best of Luberon" tour offers an exceptional opportunity to discover the enchanting villages of Gordes and Rousillon. With seamless transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and ample free time, travelers can enjoy Provencal architecture, vibrant ochre landscapes, and local cuisine. It’s an ideal way to experience the captivating beauty and cultural richness of this stunning region.