Calanques Of Cassis, the Village and Wine Tasting

The Calanques of Cassis are a true marvel of nature. Towering limestone cliffs plunge into the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean, creating a breathtaking landscape that has captivated visitors for centuries. Beyond the natural beauty, the charming village of Cassis beckons with its winding streets, historic architecture, and inviting cafés serving up traditional Provençal cuisine. But the real gem of this region lies in its rich viticultural heritage, showcased through exclusive wine tastings that allow guests to savor the complex flavors of renowned local vintages like Château La Clarière Rosé and Domaine de Beaupré Rouge. Discover the perfect blend of natural splendor and culture in this enchanting corner of France.

Quick Points

• Explore the dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters of the Calanques National Park, including boat excursions and guided tours.
• Wander through the charming streets and historic architecture of the picturesque village of Cassis, with opportunities to sample local cuisine and wine.
• Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting experience at a renowned local winery, showcasing the unique terroir and winemaking traditions of the Provence region.
• Visit the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, featuring lush gardens and a stunning collection of art and antiques.
• Set out on a scenic drive along the stunning coastline of Cap Ferrat and Villefranche Bay, taking in the breathtaking views and architecture of the French Riviera.

Exploring the Calanques of Cassis

As the tour begins, visitors are whisked away to the picturesque coastal town of Cassis, nestled in the heart of the Calanques National Park.

Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, the Calanques are a must-see natural wonder. Guests embark on a boat excursion, gliding through the serene inlets and absorbing the stunning panoramic views.

The tour guide provides insightful commentary, highlighting the unique geology and diverse wildlife of this protected landscape.

Visitors have ample time to explore the charming town center, wandering through the quaint streets and admiring the colorful buildings before returning to their accommodation.

Discovering the Charming Village

The tour then ventures into the charming village of Cassis, where visitors are captivated by the quaint streets and colorful buildings.

Wandering through the picturesque town, guests admire the historic architecture, browsing local shops and cafes. The guide highlights the region’s rich cultural heritage, sharing insights into the area’s traditions and cuisine.

Visitors soak in the relaxed Mediterranean ambiance, stopping to sample regional delicacies and indulge in the local wines.

The tour then takes guests to a renowned winery, where they embark on an exclusive tasting experience, learning about the distinct flavors and terroir of the Cassis appellation.

This immersive exploration of the charming village and its renowned wines provides a well-rounded experience of the Provençal lifestyle.

Indulging in Provence’s Wine Tasting

After exploring the charming streets of Cassis, the tour takes guests to a renowned local winery for an exclusive tasting experience. Here, visitors can indulge in the rich flavors of Provence’s renowned wines. The tasting includes a selection of the winery’s finest offerings, showcasing the region’s unique terroir and winemaking traditions.

Wine	Description	Tasting Notes
Château La Clarière Rosé	Blend of Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah	Crisp, refreshing, with notes of red berries
Domaine de Beaupré Rouge	100% Mourvèdre	Full-bodied, with earthy and spicy undertones
Commanderie de Peyrassol Blanc	Predominantly Rolle (Vermentino)	Aromatic, with citrus and mineral flavors

This immersive wine tasting allows guests to appreciate the passion and expertise behind Provence’s celebrated vintages.

Marveling at Villa Ephrussi De Rothschild

Following the exploration of Cassis’ charming streets, the tour makes its way to the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.

This magnificent mansion, built in the early 20th century, was once the summer residence of the influential Baroness Béatrice de Rothschild.

Visitors are granted free time to wander the villa’s lush gardens, which feature stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

The ornate interiors, adorned with priceless art and antiques, offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Rothschild family.

Guests can stroll through the themed gardens, from the Spanish Garden to the Florentine Garden, marveling at the attention to detail that went into creating this architectural and horticultural masterpiece.

Scenic Drive Along Cap Ferrat

From the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, the tour winds its way along the scenic roads of Cap Ferrat, offering glimpses of the luxurious chateaus and villas that dot the peninsula.

Passing by the exclusive neighborhoods, the guide points out the grand estates belonging to wealthy industrialists and celebrities.

Sweeping views of the sparkling Mediterranean unfold as the vehicle navigates the winding coastal drive.

Guests have the opportunity to admire the opulent architecture and manicured landscapes that characterize this elite enclave.

The drive provides a picturesque transition to the next stop on the itinerary, where the group will indulge in a wine tasting experience.

Breathtaking Views of Villefranche Bay

The drive along the coastal roads offers a breathtaking panorama of Villefranche Bay.

As the tour winds through the winding streets, stunning vistas of the sparkling azure waters and the picturesque village come into view. Nestled in a sheltered bay, Villefranche-sur-Mer boasts a charming Old Town with colorful houses cascading down the hillsides.

The guided tour provides ample opportunities to admire the striking scenery, from the sweeping bay to the historical architecture.

With the Mediterranean sunshine reflecting off the tranquil waters, guests are treated to a truly picturesque experience that showcases the natural beauty of the French Riviera.

Personalized Service and Comfort

One of the hallmarks of this private small-group tour is the personalized service and comfort provided to guests.

Travelers are picked up directly from their accommodation, ensuring a seamless start to the day. The tour is conducted in a recent and comfortable vehicle, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenic drive.

The private driver-guide is on hand throughout the experience, catering to the needs and preferences of the group. This level of attention extends to the inclusion of food and drinks, as well as the availability of infant seats for families.

With these thoughtful touches, the tour aims to deliver an exceptional and tailored experience for all participants.

Flexibility and Convenience

This tour offers guests exceptional flexibility and convenience throughout their experience. Riviera Star Tours allows travelers to reserve now and pay later, providing the freedom to plan ahead without the immediate financial commitment. Plus, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, ensuring peace of mind in case plans change. The tour also provides pickup from the guest’s accommodation, eliminating the need for additional transportation arrangements. On top of that, the tour is accessible by public transit, making it convenient for those without personal vehicles.

Meeting and Pickup	Inclusions	Cancellation Policy
Pickup from accommodation	Private driver/guide	Free cancellation up to 24 hours
Start time: 8:00 AM	Transport in comfortable vehicle	Confirmation received at booking
Near public transportation	Food and drinks included	Reserve now, pay later
Infant seats available

Since You Asked

Is the Tour Suitable for Individuals With Limited Mobility?

The tour may not be suitable for individuals with limited mobility, as it’s noted that the tour is not wheelchair accessible. However, stroller accessibility is available, suggesting it may accommodate some mobility needs.

What Types of Wines Are Typically Included in the Tasting?

The tour typically includes a wine tasting that features a selection of local Provençal wines, such as Côtes de Provence, Bandol, and Cassis. The specific wines sampled may vary depending on the tour operator’s partnerships and the availability of regional specialties.

Can the Tour Schedule Be Adjusted to Accommodate Personal Preferences?

The tour schedule can generally be adjusted to accommodate personal preferences. The private small-group nature of the tour allows for flexibility, and the provider encourages guests to communicate any special requests or needs prior to the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Additional Activities?

The tour operator offers flexibility to extend the tour duration or add additional activities for a customized experience. Guests can discuss their preferences with the provider to tailor the itinerary to their needs.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Larger Group Sizes or Private Events?

Yes, this tour can likely be customized for larger group sizes or private events. The provider, Riviera Star Tours, offers private small-group tours and may be able to accommodate special requests with advance notice and additional fees.

The Final Verdict

The Calanques of Cassis offer a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. Visitors can explore the quaint village, savor Provence’s renowned wines, and marvel at the stunning coastal scenery. With personalized service and flexibility, this experience provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in the rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes of this enchanting region.