If you’re planning a daytrip into the heart of Provence, this Luberon villages tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s scenic charm and authentic character. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a carefully curated experience suitable for travelers who love picturesque villages, local markets, and stunning landscapes.
Two things that stand out about this tour are the expert guidance from knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to explore a diverse range of villages, each with its own unique personality and story. The scenic views, especially from the Gordes viewpoint, are consistently praised, offering perfect photo ops of Provence’s rolling hills and stone-built villages.
One potential consideration is the duration of the tour—a full 8 hours means a packed schedule, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a busy day on the road. This tour is an excellent fit for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to the region without the hassle of independent planning.
If your ideal Provence day involves a mix of scenic drives, charming markets, and authentic village strolls, this trip is likely to satisfy. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate good guides and value the chance to see many destinations in one day.
Key Points
- Expert guides enhance the experience with deep local knowledge
- Diverse villages showcase the full spectrum of Provencal charm
- Stunning viewpoints offer memorable photo opportunities
- Market visits provide authentic local flavor and shopping
- Long, full-day itinerary maximizes your Provence exposure
- Flexible options for special markets on different days
An in-depth look at what you can expect from this tour
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lourmarin.
Starting Point and Daily Variations
The tour begins in front of a friendly café called Les Artistes in Aix-en-Provence, where a guide with a signboard will meet you. The exact villages visited depend on the day—each day starts from a different village, aligned with the local market schedule. This means you’ll often visit bustling markets that add a lively, authentic touch to the experience, whether it’s the Tuesday market in Lourmarin or the Thursday market in Roussillon.
Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and the Sorgue River
One of the tour’s highlights is the stop at Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a village famous for its dramatic natural spring—the source of the Sorgue River. We loved the way the tour allows us to walk along the river and admire the water’s source, an impressive natural phenomenon that’s both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The river’s clear waters and the surrounding lush greenery make for a peaceful break from the busy villages.
Gordes Viewpoint and Village Time
Next, the viewpoint near Gordes provides an iconic shot of the village’s stone houses perched on the hillside, with rolling hills stretching into the distance. This spot is a favorite for photographers, offering a postcard-perfect view of Provence.
On Tuesdays, travelers get free time in Gordes to explore the village’s narrow streets, stop at cafes, or browse local shops. The added market experience on this day makes the visit extra lively, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed wandering through the stalls, discovering local products and crafts.
More Great Tours NearbyRoussillon and Its Ochre-Colored Houses
Roussillon is another highlight, famous for its houses painted in shades of red and orange due to historic ochre production. We found that walking through Roussillon’s narrow streets and viewing the colorful facades is like stepping into an artist’s palette. The shops here sell local souvenirs and ochre-based products, which many travelers appreciate as authentic keepsakes of Provence.
Lourmarin and Its Charm
Lourmarin completes the circuit with its beautiful village square, lined with cafes, boutiques, and art galleries. The walk through Lourmarin is relaxed, and it’s a perfect place to enjoy a coffee or browse local crafts. The reviews consistently mention the charm of the village and the quality of local products.
Special Sunday Extension: L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Market
On Sundays, the tour extends about an hour to include L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known as the region’s antique capital. This market is reputed as the biggest antique market in Provence, offering vintage furniture, jewelry, and collectibles. Our sources say that the extra time spent here is well worth it for lovers of antiques and unique finds.
Transportation and Group Size
The entire day is spent traveling in air-conditioned vehicles, which is a welcome relief in Provence’s summer heat. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personalized attention from guides, who are praised for their professionalism, deep knowledge, and friendly demeanor.
Guides and Reviews
According to reviews, guides like Jenny, Nicholas, and Clément make a significant difference. Grace appreciated Jenny’s warmth and professionalism, describing her as “incredibly kind, patient, and thoughtful,” which made the experience memorable. Pat highlighted Nicholas’s helpfulness and knowledge, while Guy praised Clément’s friendliness and patience, noting how much they fit into the limited time.
Value for Money
At $154 per person, this tour strikes a good balance between cost and experience, especially considering it covers multiple villages, includes transportation, and offers guided insights. While food and drinks are not included, travelers often find that the stops for market browsing and village exploration are enough to make the day worthwhile.
Practical Tips
- Start early to maximize your day, especially if you want to enjoy markets and free time in villages.
- Bring a camera — views from the Gordes viewpoint are not to be missed.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the villages have cobblestone streets.
- Check the schedule for market days if you want to plan around local markets, and be aware that the Sunday tour extends into the evening.
Who Is This Tour Best For?
This full-day tour is perfect for day-trippers who want a comprehensive taste of Provence without the hassle of renting a car. It is especially appealing to those who value expert guides and want to learn about local history, culture, and crafts. The scenic viewpoints and market visits make it a hit for photographers and shopaholics alike.
Travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of free time in charming villages will appreciate the optional strolls and market hours. The tour suits those comfortable with a full itinerary and a day spent mostly on the road, with some walking and exploring.
It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or very young children, given the walking involved and the full-day schedule.
The Sum Up
This Luberon villages full-day tour offers an authentic slice of Provençal life, stunning scenery, and expert guidance—all for a reasonable price. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see some of the region’s most photogenic villages, enjoy lively markets, and learn from guides who really know their stuff.
The combination of scenic viewpoints, historical villages, and local markets ensures you’ll walk away with memorable images and stories to tell. Whether it’s your first time in Provence or a return visit, this tour provides a balanced and enriching experience that captures the essence of the Luberon.
If you value comfort, convenience, and authentic local flavor, this is an experience you’ll want to consider in your Provence itinerary.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour uses full air-conditioned vehicles to take you between all the stops.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying based on availability. On Sundays, it extends a little longer to include the L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue market.
What is the price?
The tour costs $154 per person.
Do I need to pay for food and drinks?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to buy at markets or in villages.
Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Italian, and Spanish.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years old. The full-day schedule and walking distances might be tiring for very young children.
What makes this tour special compared to others?
The combination of diverse villages, expert guides, and scenic viewpoints makes it stand out. Plus, the market visits add an authentic local touch.
Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and some cash for local purchases are advisable.
This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Provence’s most charming spots, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of sightseeing, culture, and scenic beauty—all in one manageable day.
You can check availability for your dates here: