Nestled in the heart of southern France, Avignon serves as the perfect starting point for an enchanting half-day exploration of three picturesque Provençal villages. With a small group size and insightful commentary, this tour offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the vibrant ochre cliffs of Roussillon to the historic streets of Gordes and the stunning Fontaine de Vaucluse, each destination promises to captivate the senses. What secrets and surprises await as you venture forth on this captivating journey?
Key Points
- Explore three picturesque villages in Provence on a half-day tour starting from Avignon, including Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse.
- Experience the vibrant ochre colors of Roussillon, a former mining town atop a stunning cliff.
- Visit the historic village of Gordes, known for its charming stone houses and medieval castle.
- Witness the impressive Fontaine de Vaucluse, one of the largest springs in the world, emerging from under the mountain.
- Enjoy a personalized small-group experience with a live guide providing commentary in English and Chinese.
Tour Overview
The half-day tour begins in Avignon, where participants can join a small group limited to 8 people.
A live guide leads the tour, providing commentary in English and Chinese.
Over the next 3 hours, the group will visit three picturesque villages of Provence: Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse.
Roussillon is known for its vibrant colors from local quarries, while Gordes is a historic village perched on a rocky base, dating back to the 10th century.
The tour also includes a stop at the famous Fontaine de Vaucluse, a fountain emerging from under the mountain.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Roussillon.
Pricing and Booking
This half-day tour costs from $81.57 per person.
Visitors can opt for the "reserve now & pay later" option. Booking is flexible, as there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The small group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour is available in both English and Chinese, catering to a diverse audience.
With convenient meeting at the Avignon Tourist Office, this Provence tour offers an accessible and hassle-free way to explore three charming villages – Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse.
Roussillon: The Vibrant Colors of Provence
Vibrant hues of ochre, red, and yellow paint the quaint village of Roussillon, a testament to the region’s rich mineral deposits.
This former mining town sits atop a picturesque ocher cliff, its buildings and roads infused with the vivid pigments. Visitors can explore the charming streets, browse local artisanal shops, and marvel at the dramatic landscape.
The vibrant colors are a striking contrast to the surrounding greenery, making Roussillon a visual delight. This unique village is a highlight of the Provence tour, offering a glimpse into the area’s geological and cultural heritage.
Gordes: A Historic Village on a Rocky Base
Perched atop a rugged, rocky base, Gordes is a historic village that has captivated visitors for centuries. Established in the 10th century, the village’s charming stone houses and winding streets have earned it a reputation as one of the most beautiful in Provence.
Visitors can wander through the quaint alleys, admire the stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and visit the impressive Château de Gordes, a medieval castle that dominates the skyline.
With its vibrant history and stunning natural setting, Gordes is a must-see destination for anyone exploring the villages of Provence.
More Great Tours NearbyFontaine De Vaucluse: the Fountain Emerging From the Mountain
After exploring the historic village of Gordes, the tour continues to the captivating Fontaine de Vaucluse.
This natural wonder features a stunning fountain that emerges from under the towering mountain. Visitors can marvel at the sheer power and magnitude of the spring, which is one of the largest in the world.
The surrounding area is lush and picturesque, with hiking trails leading up to the fountain’s source. Guests have the opportunity to take in the serene atmosphere and snap photos of this natural treasure before moving on to the final village on the itinerary.
Inclusions
The tour includes several key components to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The price covers the journey, fuel, and tolls if necessary, so there are no hidden costs. Lunch and entrance fees to the sites are also included, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the Provençal atmosphere without worrying about additional expenses.
The small group size, limited to 8 participants, ensures personalized attention from the live tour guide available in English and Chinese.
With these inclusions, the half-day tour in 3 villages of Provence offers great value for money.
Important Information
As the meeting point, the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon is easily accessible and can be conveniently located on Google Maps.
However, there are some important rules to keep in mind. Pets, except assistance dogs, aren’t allowed. Plus, smoking, vaping, alcohol, drugs, bare feet, and outside food and drinks are prohibited in the vehicle.
While the tour has an overall rating of 3/5 based on 2 reviews, it’s important for participants to be aware of these guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience exploring the three charming villages of Provence.
Customer Reviews
Customers have provided a limited number of 2 reviews for this half-day tour, resulting in an overall rating of 3 out of 5 stars.
One reviewer praised the knowledgeable guide and unique sights, but felt the tour was too rushed.
Another complained about the crowded minibus and lack of free time at each village.
While the tour offers an efficient way to visit three picturesque Provençal towns, some customers found the experience lacking in depth and flexibility.
The tour offers an efficient way to visit Provençal towns, but some customers found the experience lacking in depth and flexibility.
With only a handful of reviews, the tour’s overall satisfaction level remains uncertain.
Ask Away
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Unfortunately, the tour itinerary cannot be customized. It’s a pre-set half-day tour visiting the 3 specified villages of Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse. The tour size and duration are fixed as well.
Can the Tour Be Extended to a Full-Day Excursion?
Yes, the tour can be extended to a full-day excursion. The tour provider offers an option to visit additional villages in Provence, increasing the duration and price accordingly. Travelers should inquire about customizing the itinerary to suit their preferences.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
There don’t appear to be any student or senior discounts listed for this tour. However, the company may offer such discounts upon request, so it’s worth inquiring when booking the tour.
What Type of Transportation Is Used During the Tour?
The tour uses small group transportation such as a minivan or shuttle bus. No specific details about the vehicle type are provided, but it likely accommodates up to 8 participants comfortably during the 3-hour journey.
Are Audio Guides or Self-Guided Options Available for the Villages?
No, the tour does not offer audio guides or self-guided options for the villages. It’s a guided tour with a live tour guide available in English and Chinese to provide commentary and lead the group through the featured Provence villages.
Final Words
This enchanting half-day tour from Avignon offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage in three picturesque Provençal villages. From the vibrant ochre cliffs of Roussillon to the historic streets of Gordes and the stunning Fontaine de Vaucluse, this small-group experience promises personalized attention and insightful commentary in English and Chinese. It’s an ideal way to explore the charm and essence of Provence in just three hours.
You can check availability for your dates here: