Aix-en-Provence: Verdon Canyon & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Aix-en-Provence provides the perfect starting point for an unforgettable journey through the stunning natural landscapes of Verdon Canyon and the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Visitors can enjoy the dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and verdant foliage of the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ before exploring the enchanting lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau. The tour culminates in the picturesque medieval town, where one can uncover the secrets of its narrow streets, artisanal workshops, and the iconic Notre-Dame de Beauvoir church. What awaits beyond this captivating introduction may just surprise and delight even the most seasoned traveler.

Key Points

• Explore the dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and verdant landscapes of Verdon Canyon, dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’.
• Wander through the enchanting lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau and discover the cultural heritage of Provence.
• Enjoy the serene ambiance of Sainte-Croix Lake, nestled amidst the Verdon Gorge, for a rejuvenating break.
• Discover the charming medieval architecture and local artisanal workshops in the picturesque village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, English/French-speaking driver-guide, and necessary entrance fees.

Exploring Verdon Canyon’s Scenic Landscapes

Verdon Canyon, often referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ is a breathtaking natural wonder that captivates visitors with its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise waters, and verdant landscapes.

As part of the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to explore this magnificent gorge, winding their way along the famous Corniche Sublime road, which offers panoramic vistas of the canyon’s rugged terrain.

Along the journey, guests can admire the striking contrast between the vibrant blue-green hues of the Verdon River and the towering, sun-kissed rock formations that rise up on either side.

With ample opportunities for photography, this section of the tour promises to be a highlight for nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers alike.

Discovering Valensole Plateau’s Lavender Fields

The tour then continues on to the enchanting Valensole Plateau, where visitors are treated to a captivating display of vibrant purple lavender fields that stretch out as far as the eye can see. Guests can wander through the fragrant rows, admiring the mesmerizing colors and taking in the calming scent of the blooms. Lavender has long been an integral part of the Provence region’s cultural heritage, and these fields are a true testament to the area’s enduring natural beauty. Visitors can also explore the charming villages that dot the landscape, where they can learn more about the local traditions and customs associated with this iconic plant.

Lavender Cultivation in Valensole Plateau
Attribute	Description
Climate	Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters
Soil	Well-drained, alkaline soil that is ideal for lavender growth
Harvesting	Typically harvested in July and August, when the flowers are in full bloom
Uses	Essential oils, culinary applications, aromatherapy, and more

Relaxing by Sainte-Croix Lake

After exploring the captivating lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau, the tour heads to the serene Sainte-Croix Lake, where visitors can unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the region.

Nestled amidst the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Verdon Gorge, the lake offers a peaceful respite, with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding lush vegetation and towering peaks. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shore, rent a boat, or simply relax on the sandy beaches, taking in the breathtaking vistas.

The tranquil ambiance of Sainte-Croix Lake provides a perfect contrast to the earlier exploration of the Verdon Canyon’s dramatic landscapes, allowing guests to fully recharge and rejuvenate before continuing their journey.

Visiting Moustiers-Sainte-Marie’s Charming Village

From the serene shores of Sainte-Croix Lake, the tour now ventures into the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, nestled amidst the dramatic cliffs of the Verdon region.

Visitors are captivated by the village’s quaint medieval architecture, with its narrow streets, stone buildings, and the iconic Notre-Dame de Beauvoir church.

The highlight is the striking five-pointed star suspended between the cliffs, a symbol of faith that has adorned the village for centuries.

Strolling through the picturesque alleys, one discovers local artisanal workshops, boutiques selling Provençal ceramics, and cafés offering regional delicacies.

The tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural setting make Moustiers-Sainte-Marie a truly enchanting stop on the Verdon Canyon tour.

Transportation and Tour Inclusions

This comprehensive tour from Aix-en-Provence ensures a seamless and comfortable experience, with transportation by air-conditioned minibus and an English/French-speaking driver-guide to lead the way.

The tour includes all necessary entrance fees, so you won’t have to worry about additional costs during your adventure.

Whether you’re exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Verdon Canyon or wandering through the charming streets of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

The only exclusions are food, drinks, personal expenses, and gratuities, leaving you free to focus on creating unforgettable memories.

With this hassle-free tour, you can fully learn about the beauty of the Provence region.

Recommended Attire and Equipment

Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as you’ll be exploring scenic landscapes and potentially uneven terrain throughout the day.

A swimsuit is also recommended, as you may have the chance to relax by Sainte-Croix Lake during the tour.

Dress in layers to accommodate the changing weather conditions, and don’t forget to bring sun protection like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

Plus, you may want to pack a small backpack or bag to carry any personal items or snacks you might need.

Tour Operation and Policies

The tour operates with a minimum of 2 passengers, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for all participants. Solo travelers are also welcome to book the tour, which will proceed as scheduled as long as the minimum requirement is met.

In the rare event that the minimum number of passengers isn’t reached, a full refund will be provided.

Transportation is by air-conditioned minibus, with an English/French-speaking driver/guide leading the way.

While food, drinks, and personal expenses aren’t included, all entrance fees are covered, allowing guests to focus on exploring the stunning landscapes of Verdon Canyon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie without worrying about additional costs.

The tour is designed to provide a hassle-free and memorable day for visitors to the Aix-en-Provence region.

Pricing and Booking Information

The full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence to Verdon Canyon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is priced from $160.21 per person. Travelers can book and pay for the tour later, which offers flexibility.

The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minibus and an English/French-speaking driver/guide. Entrance fees are also covered, but food, drinks, personal expenses, and gratuities are excluded.

Comfortable walking shoes and a swimsuit are recommended, as the tour involves exploring scenic landscapes and potentially relaxing by Sainte-Croix Lake.

The tour operates with a minimum of 2 passengers, and solo travelers are welcome. If the minimum number of passengers isn’t met, a refund is offered.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Pickup and Drop-Off Locations for the Tour?

The tour’s pickup and drop-off locations are not specified in the given information. The tour departs from Aix-en-Provence, but the exact starting and ending points are not mentioned.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. Clients can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who will try to personalize the itinerary to match their interests within the overall tour framework and duration.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Hidden Costs?

The tour doesn’t have any hidden fees or additional costs beyond the listed price. The inclusions cover all major expenses, and travelers only need to pay for their own food, drinks, and tips.

What Is the Group Size for the Tour?

The tour operates for a minimum of 2 passengers. Solo traveler bookings are accepted, though the tour requires at least 2 people to run. The group size can vary depending on the number of bookings.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour allows travelers to bring their own food and drinks. However, any meals or beverages consumed during the tour are not included in the price and are considered personal expenses.

Recap

This captivating tour allows visitors to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of southern France.

From the dramatic landscapes of Verdon Canyon to the charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, each destination offers a unique experience.

Visitors can marvel at the turquoise waters, explore lavender fields, and stroll through the narrow streets of a picturesque medieval town, creating lasting memories of this remarkable journey.