Best of Luberon in an Afternoon From Avignon

Exploring the picturesque Luberon region in just an afternoon may seem like a challenge, but this tour from Avignon makes it possible. Travelers will discover the charming villages, stunning landscapes, and historic landmarks that have made this corner of Provence so captivating. From the ochre-hued houses of Roussillon to the Renaissance architecture of Gordes, each stop offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. What’s more, the intimate group size and knowledgeable guide ensure a personalized experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Luberon’s hidden gems.

Key Points

• A 5.5-hour tour from Avignon that explores the highlights of Provence, visiting 4 top attractions in the Luberon region.
• Visits the picturesque village of Roussillon, with its ochre cliffs, conservatory, and local boutiques and galleries.
• Explores the charming village of Gordes, with its stunning Renaissance architecture, local shops, and serene atmosphere.
• Passes through the medieval village of Lacoste, known for its château once owned by the Marquis de Sade.
• Stops at the well-preserved Roman bridge of Le Pont Julien, an impressive engineering feat dating back to the 1st century BC.

Tour Overview

This 5.5-hour tour from Avignon takes visitors through the highlights of Provence, with stops at four top attractions.

Travelers will explore the picturesque village of Roussillon and its famous ochre cliffs.

Next, they’ll tour the charming shops and Renaissance castle in Gordes.

Along the way, they’ll pass by the historic village of Lacoste.

The tour wraps up with a 20-minute stop at the ancient Roman bridge of Le Pont Julien.

Throughout the journey, guests will be transported in an 8-seat, air-conditioned minivan with a knowledgeable driver/guide.

This comprehensive tour provides an excellent introduction to the natural beauty and historic sites of the Luberon region.

Visiting Roussillon

Nestled amidst the stunning ochre cliffs of Provence, Roussillon captivates visitors with its vibrant colors and charming medieval architecture. Travelers can wander through the village’s picturesque streets, exploring the local shops and artisan studios that showcase the region’s renowned ochre pigments.

Some of the top highlights in Roussillon include:

• Strolling along the ‘Ochre Trail’ for panoramic views of the famous red, yellow, and orange cliffs
• Visiting the Conservatory of Ochres and Pigments to learn about the history and production of these natural pigments
• Browsing the quaint boutiques and galleries featuring artisanal ochre-based products, from textiles to home decor

Admiring the striking contrast between the village’s colorful buildings and the surrounding natural landscape, visitors can indulge in the local cuisine and regional wines at one of Roussillon’s cozy cafes or restaurants.

Exploring Gordes

After exploring the vibrant ochre cliffs of Roussillon, the tour heads to the charming village of Gordes, where visitors can discover its stunning Renaissance architecture and quaint shops. Perched on a hillside, Gordes is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, with its white stone buildings, cobblestone streets, and impressive castle.

Highlights of Gordes
Renaissance Castle	Charming Shops	Picturesque Streets
Visitors can tour the 16th-century castle that dominates the village skyline.	Explore the many local boutiques and galleries selling handicrafts, art, and regional products.	Wander the narrow, winding lanes and soak in the picturesque atmosphere of this historic village.

Passing Through Lacoste

The tour then passes by the village of Lacoste, known for its medieval château that once belonged to the notorious Marquis de Sade. Though the group doesn’t stop here, the guide points out the hilltop fortress and shares some history about its infamous former owner. The Marquis de Sade, known for his sadistic and libertine writings, owned the château in the 18th century.

Today, the village retains its picturesque charm, with:

• Winding cobblestone streets
• Charming stone houses
• Spectacular views of the Luberon Valley
• Reminders of its medieval past
• A quieter, more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling nearby towns.

Stopping at Le Pont Julien

Next, the tour group makes a 20-minute stop at the iconic Le Pont Julien, a well-preserved Roman bridge dating back to the 1st century BC.

The guide shares insights about this impressive engineering feat as travelers take in the bridge’s striking stone arches spanning the Calavon River.

Originally constructed to carry the main road from Italy to Provence, the bridge has withstood the test of time, surviving earthquakes and floods over the centuries.

Visitors can stroll across the bridge, marveling at its intricate craftsmanship and imagining the countless travelers who’ve crossed it throughout history.

This brief stop provides a glimpse into Provence’s rich Roman heritage and the enduring architectural wonders of the ancient world.

Included in the Tour

This 5.5-hour tour through Provence from Avignon includes transportation by an 8-seat air-conditioned minivan and a knowledgeable driver/guide to accompany the group.

The tour covers some of the top attractions in the Luberon region, with stops in charming villages and natural wonders.

The included highlights are:

• Exploring the vibrant ochre cliffs of Roussillon
• Wandering through the quaint shops and Renaissance castle of Gordes
• Stopping briefly at the impressive Le Pont Julien, a Roman bridge dating back to 3 BC
• Passing by the hilltop village of Lacoste

All transportation and the services of an expert driver/guide are included.

The tour doesn’t include gratuities, but offers a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the best of Provence.

Meeting Point and Time

Travelers meet outside the Avignon Tourist Office to begin this tour, with departure times varying by season.

From April to October, the tour departs between 1:30 pm and 7:00 pm, while from November to March, the departure window is from 12:30 pm to 6:30 pm.

The meeting point is conveniently located, allowing visitors to easily find the starting point.

Regardless of the time of year, guests can expect a punctual departure, as the tour operates on a reliable schedule.

This ensures a smooth start to the journey, setting the stage for an immersive exploration of the Luberon region and its captivating sights.

Additional Information

While the tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Luberon region, there are a few important caveats to consider.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, making it inaccessible for some travelers. Plus, children under the age of 4 aren’t allowed on the tour, ensuring a more comfortable experience for all participants.

The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, maintaining an intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Lastly, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, providing flexibility for visitors’ plans.

Key considerations for this tour:

• Not wheelchair accessible
• No children under 4 allowed
• Maximum of 8 travelers
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
• Intimate, personalized experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Do We Get Any Free Time for Exploring on Our Own?

Yes, the tour provides free time for independent exploration. At each stop, travelers have around 20-30 minutes to wander on their own and discover the sights, shops, and attractions of the villages.

Can We Take Photos During the Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the tour. The driver/guide will provide opportunities for photos at each of the tour stops, allowing you to capture the highlights of Provence at your own pace.

Is There a Dress Code for This Tour?

There is no formal dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual clothing and walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves exploring villages and walking along the ochre cliffs. Layers may be useful to adjust to the weather.

Can We Request Any Dietary Accommodations?

The tour doesn’t provide dietary accommodations. Travelers with dietary requirements should plan to bring their own food. The tour focuses on sightseeing rather than meals, so it’s best to come prepared with any necessary snacks or meals.

What Language Is the Tour Conducted In?

The tour is conducted in English. The driver/guide provides commentary during the 5.5-hour excursion through Provence, visiting sites like Roussillon and Gordes. Travelers can expect an informative and engaging experience in their chosen language.

Recap

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Provence’s highlights, including the picturesque villages of Roussillon and Gordes, the medieval Lacoste, and the Roman bridge of Le Pont Julien.

Travelers will be transported in an air-conditioned minivan, allowing them to discover the region’s natural beauty and historic landmarks at a leisurely pace.

The personalized experience is perfect for up to 8 travelers seeking an intimate introduction to the best of the Luberon region.