Exploring the French countryside and indulging in the region’s renowned wines – that’s the promise of the "Countryside and Wine Tasting Day Tour." This excursion offers a chance to take in the charming medieval villages, uncover the secrets of perfume-making, and savor the exquisite flavors of locally produced vintages. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply appreciate the beauty of the natural landscape, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But what makes this particular tour stand out from the rest? Let’s take a closer look.
Key Points
- A day tour from Cannes, Nice, or Villefranche-sur-Mer that includes a visit to the perfume capital of Grasse, a medieval village of Valbonne, and a local winery for wine tasting.
- The tour lasts 8-8.5 hours and is limited to 8 participants, available in English and French.
- Highlights include a guided tour of the Fragonard perfume factory, free time to explore Grasse and Valbonne, and a wine tasting experience with a sommelier.
- The tour is priced at $130.51 per person and offers a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Scenic views and picturesque settings throughout the countryside adventure, enhancing the overall tour experience.
Tour Overview
The "Countryside and Wine Tasting Day Tour" is a comprehensive excursion that takes travelers on a journey through the picturesque countryside surrounding Cannes, Nice, and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
A comprehensive excursion through the picturesque countryside surrounding Cannes, Nice, and Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Priced from $130.51 per person, this 8-8.5 hour tour is limited to 8 participants and available in English and French.
Pickup and drop-off locations include the mentioned cities. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour includes stops in Grasse, Valbonne, Gourdon, and a winery, allowing guests to explore historic sights, enjoy panoramic views, and sample local wines.
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Highlights of the Itinerary
The tour’s first stop is in Grasse, the renowned center of French perfume production.
Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the famous Fragonard perfume factory, followed by 45 minutes of free time to explore the charming town.
Next, the group will head to the medieval village of Valbonne, where they’ll have 30 minutes to wander the streets, grab lunch, and soak up the atmosphere.
The tour then climbs to the peak of Gourdon, known as the "Eagles Nest," offering stunning views from 760 meters above.
The day concludes with a wine tasting at a local winery.
Grasse: Perfume Factory and Sightseeing
First stop on the tour is Grasse, the renowned center of French perfume production. Guests visit the Fragonard perfume factory for a guided tour, learning about the art of perfume-making.
They’ll marvel at the fragrant ingredients and intricate processes involved in crafting signature scents. After the tour, there’s free time to explore the charming old town of Grasse.
Visitors can wander the narrow streets, browse local shops, and soak up the town’s picturesque atmosphere. With its historic architecture and captivating perfume history, Grasse offers a delightful start to the countryside adventure.
Valbonne: Exploring the Medieval Village
Next, the tour heads to the medieval village of Valbonne. Here, the group has 30 minutes of free time to explore the historic streets and charming squares.
Visitors can:
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Wander the narrow alleyways lined with medieval buildings
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Browse local shops and boutiques for souvenirs
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Stop for a leisurely lunch at one of the cafes or restaurants
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Visit the 16th-century Church of St. Bernard, known for its distinctive bell tower
With its well-preserved architecture and tranquil atmosphere, Valbonne offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to savor the local culture.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyGourdon: The Eagles Nest and the Castle
After exploring the medieval village of Valbonne, the tour then heads to the picturesque town of Gourdon, known as the "Eagles Nest" for its stunning views from an impressive peak of 760 meters.
Visitors will spend around 1.5 hours taking in the sights, including the town’s historical castle with its rich collections and beautiful gardens.
The castle’s elevated position offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside, making it a must-see stop on the tour. Guests can wander the castle grounds and capture memorable photos of the breathtaking scenery.
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Winery Visit and Wine Tasting
After exploring the historical castle and scenic views of Gourdon, the tour then takes guests to a local winery for a wine tasting experience.
The winery visit offers the opportunity to sample a variety of local red, rosé, and white wines. The tasting lasts approximately 1 hour and includes:
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Guidance from a knowledgeable sommelier
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Explanations of the winemaking process and regional varietals
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Tastings of 4-5 different wines
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Insights into the distinct flavors and aromas of each wine
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Time to purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs.
Transportation and Logistics
The tour provides air-conditioned minivan transportation (8-seater) for guests.
Pickup locations include Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cannes, and Nice. Guests should be ready 5 minutes in advance with their voucher, as pickup times may vary. Check emails or cell phones for any updates.
Pickup locations include Villefranche-sur-Mer, Cannes, and Nice. Be ready 5 minutes early with your voucher, as pickup times may vary. Check for updates.
Travelers are advised to bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and pack a camera. Accessibility is available upon request, and baby seats can be provided if needed.
Pets aren’t allowed on the tour. The efficient transportation ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience for all participants.
Important Information
The tour offers wheelchair access upon request at the time of booking.
Infants are welcome but require a baby seat, which must be requested during booking.
Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.
The tour is designed to accommodate a variety of travelers:
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Wheelchair access available upon request
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Baby seats required for infants
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Pets not permitted on the tour
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Comfortable shoes recommended for walking
This important information ensures the tour is accessible and suitable for a range of participants, creating an enjoyable experience for all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Guests are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s best to check with the tour provider beforehand to confirm their policy and any restrictions.
Is There an Option to Visit Additional Sights During the Tour?
The tour itinerary appears fixed, but you could inquire about adding extra sights during booking. Keep in mind this may incur additional costs or require adjustments to the schedule. The tour operator can best advise what’s possible to accommodate your interests.
Do We Have Free Time to Explore the Towns Independently?
The tour includes free time in Grasse and Valbonne, allowing travelers to explore the medieval villages independently and at their own pace. This provides an opportunity to discover local sights, shops, and restaurants during the tour.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Wine Tasting Experience?
The wine tasting experience is an hour-long and includes samples of local red, rosé, and white wines. There are no reported restrictions, and travelers can enjoy the tastings at their own pace.
How Are Guests Accommodated With Dietary Requirements or Allergies?
The tour operator accommodates guests with dietary requirements or allergies. They’ll make arrangements for alternative food or drink options during the wine tasting upon request. Guests should inform the operator of any needs when booking.
Recap
The Countryside and Wine Tasting Day Tour offers a captivating blend of cultural exploration and oenological delights. Travelers will enjoy the picturesque French countryside, discover the art of perfume-making, and savor the region’s renowned wines. With an intimate group size and experienced guides, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to escape the city and indulge in the charms of rural France.
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