Avignon serves as the perfect starting point for an immersive exploration of Provence’s enchanting villages. Departing from this historic city, visitors embark on a half-day journey to uncover the region’s rich heritage and natural wonders. From the ochre-hued landscapes of Roussillon to the picturesque perched village of Gordes and the captivating Fontaine de Vaucluse spring, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the Provençal way of life. With a small group size and flexible policies, this tour promises a personalized experience that showcases the essence of this captivating corner of France.
Key Points
- Explore the vibrant villages of Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse, known for their stunning ochre quarries, perched architecture, and natural wonders.
- Discover the captivating ochre-infused character of Roussillon, where the region’s extensive quarries have transformed the landscape into a striking visual feast.
- Marvel at the well-preserved architecture and breathtaking views of the historic perched village of Gordes, dating back to the 10th century.
- Experience the awe-inspiring natural wonder of Fontaine de Vaucluse, the largest karst spring in France, gushing forth an average of 200,000 cubic meters of water per day.
- Benefit from the personalized and intimate tour experience, with a maximum group size of 8 participants and flexible cancellation and payment policies.
Exploring Provence’s Vibrant Villages
At the Departure Avignon: Half-Day in 3 Villages of Provence
Exploring Provence’s Vibrant Villages
Visitors to Provence can explore a tapestry of vibrant villages steeped in history and natural beauty, from the colorful ochre-hued buildings of Roussillon to the ancient fortress-like structures of Gordes.
On this half-day tour, guests will discover the charming Provençal town of Roussillon, known for its stunning quarries and vibrant hues.
Next, they’ll visit the perched village of Gordes, which dates back to the 10th century and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The final stop is Fontaine de Vaucluse, where a powerful spring emerges from beneath the mountain, creating a stunning natural wonder.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Roussillon
Village of Vibrant Ochre Quarries
Nestled amidst a tapestry of vibrant ochre hues, the village of Roussillon stands as a captivating testament to Provence’s rich geological heritage.
The region’s extensive ochre quarries have transformed the landscape into a striking visual feast, with the village’s buildings and streets reflecting the earthy, vibrant tones. Visitors can explore the former quarries, marveling at the natural wonder of the vivid mineral deposits.
As they wander the charming streets, they’ll discover quaint shops, cafes, and art galleries that celebrate the village’s unique ochre-infused character. It’s a place where the earth’s palette has been woven into the very fabric of the community, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Historic Perched Village of Gordes
Gordes, a historic perched village, dates back to the 10th century and clings dramatically to the slopes of the Vaucluse mountains.
Its picturesque houses, winding streets, and ancient stone buildings captivate visitors, who can explore the village’s rich heritage and admire the breathtaking vistas that surround it.
The village’s strategic location atop a rocky outcrop made it an important defensive position throughout its history.
Today, Gordes is a popular destination for its well-preserved architecture, charming ambiance, and stunning views overlooking the valley below.
Tourists can wander the narrow lanes, visit the 12th-century castle, and browse the local boutiques and art galleries that add to Gordes’ timeless allure.
Fountain Emerging From the Mountain
One of the most captivating natural wonders in the Provence region is the Fontaine de Vaucluse, a remarkable spring that emerges from the base of a towering limestone cliff.
This mystical fountain, whose name means ‘Fountain of the Closed Valley,’ is the largest karst spring in France, gushing forth an average of 200,000 cubic meters of water per day.
Visitors are mesmerized by the sheer power and volume of the water as it surges from the mountain, creating a stunning natural display.
The spring’s source remains a mystery, as it flows from an underground river whose origins have never been fully traced.
Exploring this captivating natural landmark is a must-do for any visit to Provence.
More Great Thing To Do NearbySmall Group Size and Inclusions
The tour limits the group size to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience for visitors.
The tour also includes round-trip transportation, fuel, and tolls, as well as entrance fees to the featured sites, providing a comprehensive package for the half-day excursion. This allows guests to fully enjoy the charm of the Provençal villages without worrying about logistics.
The small group size facilitates better interaction with the guide, who can provide more detailed information and personalized attention to each participant.
Flexible Cancellation and Payment Policies
To accommodate the needs of travelers, this tour offers flexible cancellation and payment policies. Guests can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance without incurring any fees, providing them with the option to reschedule or receive a full refund if their plans change. Plus, the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option allows customers to secure their spot on the tour while delaying the final payment until closer to the departure date.
| Cancellation Policy | Refund Amount | Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Full Refund | 100% | 24 hours |
| No Refund | 0% | < 24 hours |
| Rescheduling | 100% | 24 hours |
Restrictions and Prohibited Items
At the Departure Avignon: Half-Day in 3 Villages of Provence
Restrictions and Prohibited Items
This tour has a few restrictions in place to ensure a comfortable and safe experience for all participants. No pets, smoking, alcohol, or outside food and drinks are permitted inside the tour vehicle. These rules help maintain the cleanliness and ambiance of the shared space.
Guests are asked to refrain from bringing items that could distract the driver or disturb fellow travelers. The tour company prioritizes the safety and enjoyment of the group, so these guidelines must be followed.
Tour Duration and Departure Location
At the Departure Avignon: Half-Day in 3 Villages of Provence
This half-day tour departs from Avignon, a historic city in the heart of Provence. The 3-hour experience takes visitors through three picturesque villages, showcasing the region’s renowned natural beauty and architectural wonders.
| Tour Details | |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 hours |
| Departure | Avignon |
| Small Group | Limited to 8 participants |
| Language | English, Chinese |
The tour begins in Avignon, allowing guests to easily access the experience. Over the course of the 3-hour journey, travelers will be immersed in the charm and tranquility of Roussillon, Gordes, and Fontaine de Vaucluse, three of Provence’s most captivating destinations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Tour Available on Weekends?
The tour is available on weekends. The tour operator offers this half-day Provence village tour seven days a week, so visitors can book it for either a weekday or weekend excursion.
Can We Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour duration can be extended, but this would incur additional costs. Customers should check with the tour operator about options for extending the tour and any associated fees.
Is the Guide Able to Provide Private Tour Options?
The tour guide is able to provide private tour options for customers. Private tours allow for a more personalized experience and flexible itinerary compared to the standard group tour. Guests can request a private tour by contacting the tour company.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 8 participants. According to the tour details, the small group size is capped at 8 people to provide a more intimate and personalized experience.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Snacks?
The tour does not include any snacks, so there are no dietary restrictions. The tour only includes transportation, guide services, and entrance fees to the sites visited.
Recap
This half-day tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the enchanting Provençal landscape.
Visitors will explore the ochre-hued village of Roussillon, the historic perched village of Gordes, and the natural spectacle of the Fontaine de Vaucluse spring.
With a small-group size and flexible policies, this personalized experience allows guests to savor the rich heritage and stunning beauty of these three vibrant Provençal villages.
You can check if your dates are available here: