From Aix-en-Provence: Sault Lavender and Gordes Day Trip

Explore the stunning Luberon region on a captivating day trip from Aix-en-Provence. Enjoy the vibrant lavender fields of Sault, the ‘capital of lavender,’ and uncover the charming hilltop village of Gordes, renowned as one of France’s most picturesque. Along the way, enjoy a scenic drive through the Luberon Natural Regional Park, discover the historic village of Saignon, and gain insights into the region’s rich history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide. This well-rounded tour promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this enchanting corner of Provence.

Key Points

• This full-day tour takes visitors from Aix-en-Provence to explore the picturesque Luberon region, including the lavender fields of Pays de Sault and charming hilltop villages.
• Highlights include the panoramic views from the hilltop village of Saignon, the ‘capital of lavender’ in Sault, and the stunning medieval village of Gordes.
• Visitors can climb to the top of Saignon’s old windmill, stroll through the tranquil village square, and visit the 12th-century Church of Saint-Pierre.
• In Sault, visitors can enjoy the fragrant lavender fields, explore the lavender-themed shops and cafes, and witness the lavender harvesting process.
• Gordes offers the opportunity to explore the imposing Château de Gordes, the 12th-century Église Saint-Firmin, and the traditional Provençal market.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour transports visitors from Aix-en-Provence to the picturesque Luberon region, where they’ll discover the lavender fields of Pays de Sault and explore charming hilltop villages.

Over the course of 9 hours, the tour takes guests through the stunning Luberon Natural Regional Park, with stops at the hilltop village of Saignon, the ‘capital of lavender’ in Sault, and the gorgeous village of Gordes, widely considered one of the most beautiful in France.

An air-conditioned minibus and knowledgeable driver-guide ensure a comfortable and informative experience, though food, drinks, and entrance fees aren’t included.

Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a camera are recommended to make the most of this immersive Provençal adventure.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive through the captivating Luberon Natural Regional Park, immersing visitors in the region’s stunning natural landscapes. The first stop is the picturesque hilltop village of Saignon, where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Next, the group ventures to the town of Sault, known as the ‘capital of lavender,’ where they can explore the charming streets and soak in the fragrant atmosphere. The final highlight of the itinerary is the stunning village of Gordes, consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful in France, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and architecture.

Destination	Highlights
Luberon Natural Regional Park	Scenic drive through captivating landscapes
Saignon	Picturesque hilltop village, panoramic views
Sault	‘Capital of lavender,’ charming streets, fragrant atmosphere
Gordes	One of the most beautiful villages in France, rich history and architecture

Visiting Saignon

After exploring the captivating Luberon Natural Regional Park, the tour heads to the picturesque hilltop village of Saignon, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

This quaint village offers a charming respite from the bustling city, with its winding streets, medieval architecture, and stunning vistas.

Visitors can:

• Climb to the top of the old windmill for sweeping views of the Luberon mountains
• Stroll through the tranquil village square and admire the historic fountain
• Visit the 12th-century Church of Saint-Pierre and marvel at its Romanesque architecture
• Explore the remnants of the ancient castle walls and imagine life in a bygone era
• Indulge in a refreshing beverage or local delicacy at one of the charming cafes.

Lavender Capital: Sault

Nestled in the heart of the Pays de Sault, the quaint town of Sault proudly dons the mantle of the ‘Lavender Capital,’ a distinction earned through its deep-rooted connection to the iconic purple blooms that have become synonymous with the region.

As the tour winds its way through the lush lavender fields surrounding Sault, visitors are transported to a world of fragrant enchantment.

The town’s narrow streets and charming squares are lined with lavender-themed shops, cafes, and distilleries, offering a wealth of opportunities to take in the local lavender culture.

From witnessing the meticulous harvesting process to sampling the region’s finest lavender-infused products, a visit to Sault promises an unforgettable celebration of this quintessential Provençal treasure.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Exploring Gordes

From the lavender-centric town of Sault, the tour now journeys to the picturesque hilltop village of Gordes, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful in all of France.

Perched atop a rocky outcrop, Gordes offers breathtaking vistas of the surrounding Luberon valley. Visitors can wander the charming streets, lined with stone houses and ancient buildings.

Highlights include:

• The imposing Château de Gordes, a medieval castle that dominates the village
• The 12th-century Église Saint-Firmin, with its striking Romanesque architecture
• The traditional Provençal market, held weekly and brimming with local produce and handicrafts
• The narrow alleys and staircases that wind through the village, perfect for leisurely exploration
• The numerous art galleries and studios showcasing the works of talented local artists.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour’s inclusions cover the essentials, providing transportation in an air-conditioned minibus and a knowledgeable driver-guide to lead the way. However, the tour’s exclusions mean travelers must cover their own food, drinks, and any entrance fees at the various stops along the journey.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Transportation in air-conditioned minibus	Food and drinks
Driver-guide	Entrance fees
	Optional tips

While the tour takes care of the logistics, allowing visitors to sit back and enjoy the scenic drive, the exclusions give travelers the flexibility to explore the region at their own pace and budget.

Recommended Attire

Comfort and practicality are essential when embarking on this day trip, as the tour involves navigating uneven terrain and spending extended periods outdoors.

The recommended attire includes:

• Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes with good traction to navigate the hilly landscapes
• Lightweight, breathable clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate changes in weather
• Sun protection, such as a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to shield against the Mediterranean sun
• A light jacket or sweater for cooler temperatures, especially in the morning and evening
• A small backpack or day bag to carry personal items, water, and any necessary medications

Important Considerations

Group size constraints warrant advance booking, as the tour requires a minimum of 2 passengers to operate. While solo travelers are accepted, participants should be mindful of the potential for tour cancellation due to insufficient group size.

Plus, the tour program may be subject to modification based on the stage of lavender blooming, ensuring visitors can optimize their experience.

To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey, it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat. Pets, oversized luggage, and smoking aren’t permitted on the tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour is flexible. Customers can cancel or modify their reservation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time without incurring any fees. Last-minute cancellations may result in a partial or full refund, at the tour operator’s discretion.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Personal Preferences?

The tour can be customized to personal preferences. The driver-guide is flexible and can adjust the itinerary based on customers’ interests, such as spending more time in certain villages or adding short stops. Customization is subject to availability and logistics.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there are group discounts available for this tour. Groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount on the total booking cost. Larger groups may be able to negotiate additional savings, so it’s best to inquire directly with the tour operator.

Are There Any Special Considerations for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour company accommodates travelers with disabilities. They recommend visitors contact them in advance to discuss any special needs or assistance required. The tour’s itinerary and transportation can be adapted to ensure an enjoyable and accessible experience for all participants.

Can the Tour Pick up From Locations Other Than Aix-En-Provence?

The tour can’t pick up from locations other than Aix-en-Provence. The tour departs from and returns to Aix-en-Provence, and doesn’t offer pickups from other locations. Travelers must make their own way to the starting point in Aix-en-Provence.

Recap

This Luberon region day trip from Aix-en-Provence offers a captivating blend of natural beauty, picturesque villages, and rich history.

Guests can enjoy the lavender fields of Sault, the charming hilltop town of Gordes, and the historic village of Saignon, all while gaining insights from a knowledgeable guide.

With comfortable transportation and an itinerary showcasing the region’s highlights, it’s an excellent way to explore the enchanting Luberon.

You can check if your dates are available here: