Highlights of Provence : Food, Wine and Seaside in Cassis and Aix

Provence, the sun-drenched region of southern France, beckons with its irresistible blend of culinary delights, world-class wines, and breathtaking coastal vistas. This highlights tour immerses travelers in the vibrant markets of Aix-en-Provence, where the scent of fresh produce and local flavors fill the air. From there, it’s a short journey to a picturesque château, where a tranquil picnic showcases the region’s renowned rosé. The tour culminates in the charming seaside town of Cassis, known for its stunning cliffs and fresh seafood, offering an unforgettable taste of Provençal culture. Prepare to be captivated by the enchanting highlights that make Provence a must-visit destination.

Key Points

• Explore the vibrant outdoor markets and elegant fountains of Aix-en-Provence, a historic university town known for its Provençal charm.
• Enjoy a picnic lunch at a château, featuring regional rosé wines guided by a sommelier, in a serene setting with rolling vineyards.
• Discover the picturesque harbor and towering cliffs of Cassis, a charming seaside town offering fresh seafood and stunning coastal vistas.
• Immerse in the authentic flavors of Provence through a curated menu of artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, seasonal produce, and charcuterie.
• Experience a private, personalized tour in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a knowledgeable guide enhancing the overall experience.

Tour Overview

The private tour in Marseille, Provence, allows visitors to discover the top sights in one day.

With morning pickup from the port or a designated location, the tour takes you to Aix-en-Provence, where you can experience the local market.

Afterward, you’ll enjoy a picnic at a château with a glass of local rosé, an optional additional cost.

The tour then ventures to the seaside city of Cassis, providing an ideal experience for first-time or time-pressed visitors.

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and lunch, starting at 9:00 am and ending at the meeting point.

Inclusions and Logistics

Includes an air-conditioned vehicle and lunch.

The tour starts at 9:00 am and ends at the meeting point. Confirmation is provided at booking.

Unfortunately, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but infants can join while sitting on laps. Infant seats are available upon request.

This is a private tour, ensuring only your group participates.

The tour takes visitors through the charming Provençal towns, allowing them to fully enjoy the local culture and experience the highlights of the region in a personalized manner.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The tour costs $961.12 per group (up to 2 people). This includes the air-conditioned vehicle and lunch.

Travelers can take advantage of the lowest price guarantee. There’s also a free cancellation policy – you can cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

For added convenience, there’s a reserve now and pay later option available. The tour has an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 12 reviews.

Customers praise the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences. One reviewer even highlighted the clean tour and knowledgeable sommelier guide.

The operator, Gentle Provence, is committed to customer satisfaction and responds promptly to feedback.

Reviews and Ratings

A total of 12 reviews have been left for this tour, resulting in an overall rating of 4.5 stars. Positive feedback highlights the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences, with one review from Christina_R praising the clean tour and knowledgeable sommelier guide. However, a negative review from Greg_P reported a missed pickup, claiming a prepaid tour was not honored.

Review Source	Rating	Positive Highlights	Negative Feedback
Tripadvisor	4.5/5	Knowledgeable guides, enjoyable experiences	Missed pickup
Viator	4.5/5	Clean tour, knowledgeable sommelier guide	–
GetYourGuide	4.5/5	–	–
Expedia	4.5/5	–	–

The tour operator, Gentle Provence, has a commitment to customer satisfaction and a willingness to offer future tours to dissatisfied customers.

Operator Information

Gentle Provence, the tour operator, demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction. They promptly respond to any feedback and are willing to offer future tours to dissatisfied customers.

This dedication to providing a high-quality experience is evident in the overall positive reviews the tour has received. Customers praise the knowledgeable guides, who enhance the enjoyment of the day’s activities.

While there was one negative review about a missed pickup, the operator’s willingness to address such issues shows their focus on ensuring each client’s needs are met.

Gentle Provence’s commitment to customer satisfaction makes them a reliable choice for exploring the highlights of Provence.

Exploring Aix-en-Provence

Although the tour begins in Marseille, a highlight is the visit to the charming city of Aix-en-Provence.

This historic university town is known for its vibrant outdoor markets, tree-lined boulevards, and elegant fountains. Guests will have the chance to wander the Cours Mirabeau, a bustling central avenue, and browse the stalls of the morning market for fresh local produce, artisanal goods, and Provençal specialties.

The tour also includes a picnic lunch at a nearby château, where visitors can enjoy regional Rosé wine while taking in the stunning countryside views.

Aix-en-Provence offers a glimpse into the authentic charm and leisurely pace of Provençal life.

Picnicking at a Château

After exploring the lively streets and markets of Aix-en-Provence, the tour takes a tranquil turn with a picnic lunch at a nearby château. Guests are treated to a tasting of the château’s renowned local rosé wines, expertly guided by a knowledgeable sommelier. The picnic setting offers a serene respite, with rolling vineyards and lush gardens providing a picturesque backdrop.

Menu Item	Description
Local Cheese Plate	Selection of artisanal Provençal cheeses
Freshly Baked Bread	Crusty baguettes and fougasse
Seasonal Produce	Ripe tomatoes, olives, and fresh herbs
Provençal Charcuterie	Cured meats and pâtés
Rosé Wine Tasting	Sampling of the château’s finest rosé vintages

This intimate dining experience allows visitors to savor the flavors of Provence in a stunning natural setting.

Discovering Cassis

The seaside town of Cassis captivates visitors with its picturesque harbor, towering cliffs, and vibrant cultural scene. Nestled along the French Riviera, Cassis offers a chance to stroll through its quaint streets, browse local boutiques, and savor fresh seafood at charming waterfront cafes.

Venture beyond the harbor to explore the dramatic Calanques, a series of stunning limestone inlets perfect for swimming, hiking, or simply admiring the breathtaking coastal vistas.

Whether you’re marveling at the pastel-hued buildings or sipping chilled rosé, Cassis provides a delightful taste of Provençal charm. This idyllic seaside stop completes the day’s journey, offering a picturesque finale to the Highlights of Provence tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The private tour format allows you to tailor the itinerary and experience to your interests and needs. Simply discuss your preferences with the operator during booking.

What Is the Group Size for This Private Tour?

The private tour is for your group only, with no other participants. The tour group size is flexible, accommodating up to 2 people per booking at the stated price.

Are There Any Additional Fees for the Château Picnic?

The tour overview indicates there’s an additional cost for the château picnic with local rosé wine. There are no details provided on the exact cost of this optional add-on.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks to the Picnic?

The tour operator doesn’t allow guests to bring their own food and drinks to the château picnic. However, the picnic itself is an optional add-on that includes local rosé wine for an additional cost.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

This private tour doesn’t offer any discounts for children or seniors. The tour cost is $961.12 per group (up to 2 people), and infants must sit on laps. There are no special rates available.

Sum Up

Embrace the essence of Provence on this captivating tour. Discover the vibrant markets of Aix-en-Provence, indulge in a picturesque picnic, and explore the charming seaside town of Cassis. This immersive experience offers an unforgettable taste of Provençal culture, from its local flavors to its breathtaking coastal vistas, leaving you with lasting memories of this enchanting region.