Private tour of the Gorges du Verdon and the lavenders of Valensole

If you’re dreaming of a day exploring some of France’s most iconic sights, this private tour from Marseille might be just what you need. It promises a full day of stunning vistas, charming villages, and the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte Croix, all wrapped into one carefully curated experience. While the itinerary is packed, what truly stands out is the chance to see the best lavender fields in the world (during June and July), along with jaw-dropping canyon views.

What we love about this tour: firstly, the personalized attention that comes with a private guide, and secondly, the variety of destinations—ranging from fragrant lavender fields to dramatic gorges. A potential consideration? If you’re visiting outside the lavender season, you’ll miss the flowers but still get a satisfying mix of natural beauty and quaint village charm. This tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, scenic photography, and authentic Provençal villages without the hassle of organizing transport themselves.

Key Points

• Private transport in a Mercedes-Benz van offers comfort and flexibility.
• Lavender fields are only visible in June and July, but the other stops remain impressive year-round.
• Moustiers Sainte-Marie is a picture-perfect village with fountains, waterfalls, and mountain views.
• The Gorges du Verdon provide some of Europe’s most striking canyon scenery.
• Optional boat rides in the gorge are available but at extra cost.
• The tour is designed for groups up to 8, making it intimate and flexible.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

A Comfortable Start – Pickup and Transport

This private tour kicks off at 9:00 a.m., with the convenience of pickup from your Marseille accommodation. The use of a Mercedes-Benz air-conditioned van ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, especially important given the approximately 7 to 8-hour duration. Traveling in a small group means you’ll avoid the bus crowds and enjoy a more tailored experience. Plus, bottled water is included—an appreciated touch after walking through fields or exploring villages.

First Stop: The Plateau de Valensole

Any visitor to Provence must consider a visit to at least one lavender field, and this tour offers a prime opportunity. We loved the way the guide takes you into the fields themselves, letting you walk among the fragrant rows of purple. Your camera will thank you, as you’ll be able to take unforgettable photos of the stunning landscape stretching as far as the eye can see.

While the lavender is only in bloom during June and July, the tour’s flexibility means you can enjoy the endless fields of flowers or, outside that window, revel in the scenic beauty of the plateau’s landscape and local flora. The one-hour stop is ample for photos and a breath of fresh Provençal air.

Charm and Character in Moustiers Sainte-Marie

The next highlight is the gorgeous village of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, often called one of France’s most picturesque villages. It’s famed for its fountains, waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views. Visitors report that this village is simply incredible, with many opting to have lunch at one of its charming restaurants. It’s a place that invites wandering through narrow lanes, browsing local crafts, and soaking in the ambiance.

Travelers have raved about the village, noting the fountains and waterfalls add to its fairy-tale feel. The two-hour stop allows plenty of time to explore, eat, and take photos.

Lake Sainte Croix and Its Surprising Beauty

A short drive brings you to Lac de Sainte Croix, a striking artificial lake with waters so vibrant they seem unreal. The turquoise hue makes it ideal for a quick photo session, and if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a dip at one of the beaches. While swimming isn’t included in the tour, the opportunity to relax on the lake’s shores is a delightful way to refresh before heading into the canyon.

The Gorges du Verdon: Europe’s Grand Canyon

The tour’s pièce de résistance is the Gorges du Verdon, often called the “Grand Canyon of Europe.” We loved the way the cliffs seem to plunge into the turquoise waters below—truly a breathtaking sight. You can opt to take an electric boat or pedal boat ride at the entrance of the gorge, though these activities come at an additional cost.

The one-hour stop at the Gorges is enough for sightseeing and photos, but you might find yourself wishing for more time to fully absorb the vastness of the landscape. The views are mesmerizing and provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Final Touch: Optional Boat Rides and Extra Activities

While boat rides are not included, they are available for an extra fee and are highly recommended if you want to get closer to the water and experience the gorge from a different perspective. The electric or pedal boats provide a fun, relaxing way to enjoy the turquoise waters without leaving the entry point of the gorge.

Analyzing the Value

At a cost of around $1,185 for up to eight people, this is a premium experience—yet it packs in a lot of value. The private transportation in a comfortable vehicle means no worries about navigation or bus schedules. The inclusion of bottled water helps you stay refreshed, and the stops are carefully curated to show off Provence’s stunning landscapes.

The biggest value is the flexibility and intimacy. Unlike large group tours, you won’t be rushing from site to site; instead, you get tailored insights, relaxed pacing, and the chance to ask questions. Plus, the tour provider’s focus on authentic experiences—such as walking into lavender fields and exploring charming villages—adds depth to the day.

What the Reviews Say

The sole review available is glowing: the visitor called it “an unforgettable day,” praising the opportunity to walk into lavender fields and take superb photos. They also appreciated the visit to Moustiers Sainte-Marie, describing it as “simply incredible,” and enjoyed the lunch and scenic views. Another reviewer highlighted the stunning vistas, emphasizing that the experience delivers on its promise of breathtaking scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for travelers who want an all-in-one Provençal experience with a private touch. It suits those who are eager to see the famous lavender fields (if visiting June-July), explore picturesque villages, and marvel at dramatic canyon scenery—all within a manageable, well-organized day. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a luxurious, comfortable transport and personalized attention.

However, if you’re visiting outside the lavender season, the tour still offers an excellent way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Gorges du Verdon and the village of Moustiers Sainte-Marie. It’s less suitable for travelers on a tight budget, given the cost, but offers good value for a private, curated experience.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to the Gorges du Verdon and Valensole’s lavender fields offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, charming villages, and outdoor adventure. The comfort of private transport, combined with stops at proven highlights, makes it a fantastic way to see Provence without the stress of planning.

You’ll love the views—whether it’s the endless lavender fields, the towering cliffs of the canyon, or the tranquil waters of Lake Sainte Croix. The opportunity to walk into the lavender and take photos makes it especially appealing during summer. Even outside lavender season, the rugged canyon and picturesque villages provide unforgettable scenery.

For travelers seeking a day that combines nature, culture, and a little adventure, this tour provides a well-rounded, satisfying experience that captures the spirit of Provence beautifully.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable outside of June and July?
Yes, but during those months you won’t see the lavender in bloom. The other stops—Moustiers Sainte-Marie, Lake Sainte Croix, and the Gorges du Verdon—are still stunning year-round.

What’s included in the tour?
Private transportation in a Mercedes-Benz van, air conditioning, bottled water, and all the stops listed in the itinerary.

Can I take a boat ride in the Gorges du Verdon?
Yes, boat rides in an electric or pedal boat are available at the entrance of the gorge but are at extra cost.

How long is each stop?
The lavender fields for about 1 hour, Moustiers Sainte-Marie for 2 hours, Lake Sainte Croix for 30 minutes, and the Gorges du Verdon for 1 hour.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is paid separately at a restaurant in Moustiers Sainte-Marie.

How many people can join this tour?
Up to 8 people, making it a private experience.

What time does the tour start and end?
It begins at 9:00 a.m. and ends back at the starting point after roughly 7 to 8 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the vehicle’s comfort makes it suitable for a wide age range.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice means no refund.

This tour is an excellent choice for those eager to experience Provence’s iconic landscapes with personalized attention. Whether you’re a photo enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a beautiful day out, it promises memorable views and genuine charm.