From Aix: Exploring the Grand Canyon: Boat Picnic & Villages

Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence serves as an enchanting gateway to the grandeur of the Gorges du Verdon. This day trip promises a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural delights, inviting travelers to enjoy the stunning landscapes and charming villages that dot the region. From a scenic boat ride on the serene lake to a Provençal picnic featuring local delicacies, this experience offers a tantalizing taste of the region’s beauty and flavors. As the journey unfolds, visitors will be swept away by the sheer scale of Europe’s largest canyon, setting the stage for an unforgettable adventure that promises to leave a lasting impression.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Trets.

Key Points

• 7-hour tour exploring the Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, with a boat ride and Provencal picnic on the lake.
• Visits the charming villages of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, offering stunning views and cultural experiences.
• Includes transportation by air-conditioned van from Aix-en-Provence and multilingual live guides for a personalized experience.
• Tour priced at $213.17 per person with no upfront payment and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Highlights include wine tasting, boat rental, and a Provencal picnic surrounded by the natural beauty of Gorges du Verdon.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The tour explores Gorges du Verdon, the largest canyon in Europe, over a 7-hour duration with a small group limited to 6 participants.

Live tour guides are available in English, French, and Polish, providing a personalized experience.

Guests will embark on a boat ride and enjoy a Provencal picnic on the serene lake within the Gorges du Verdon.

The tour also includes a visit to the unique village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, offering stunning views of the Sainte Croix lake, and a stroll through the charming hilltop village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

With its comprehensive itinerary and small group size, this tour offers an immersive exploration of this magnificent natural wonder in Provence.

Pricing and Reservation

Priced from $213.17 per person, the tour offers a reserve now and pay later option with no upfront payment required. Guests also benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The pricing structure provides flexibility and peace of mind for travelers:

1. No need to pay the full amount upfront, allowing for better budget planning.

2. The ability to cancel with a full refund if plans change, minimizing financial risks.

3. An attractive price point that makes the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon expedition accessible to a wider audience.

With these hassle-free booking options, guests can focus on embarking on an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most stunning natural wonders.

Itinerary Highlights

A captivating boat ride and Provencal picnic on the lake await visitors exploring the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon. They’ll also discover the unique village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, which offers stunning views of Sainte Croix lake, and have the opportunity to stroll through the charming hilltop village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

This diverse itinerary provides a well-rounded experience, allowing guests to enjoy the natural beauty and cultural richness of the region. From the serene waters of the lake to the picturesque streets of the villages, this tour offers a chance to truly appreciate the grandeur of the Gorges du Verdon, one of Europe’s most impressive natural wonders.

Included Features

This tour’s included features provide a well-rounded and immersive experience for participants.

A wine tasting allows guests to savor the local flavors, while a picnic during the tour offers a taste of Provencal cuisine.

On top of that, transportation is seamlessly handled, with air-conditioned van service from Aix-en-Provence and convenient pick-up and drop-off at the meeting point.

The tour’s highlights include:

1. Indulging in a delightful wine tasting to appreciate the region’s renowned vintages.

2. Savoring a picnic lunch amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Gorges du Verdon.

3. Enjoying the ease and comfort of reliable transportation, ensuring a stress-free exploration of this magnificent natural wonder.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Meeting Point and Logistics

Participants meet at the designated spot next to the Paul Cezanne statue, where a gray car with a red umbrella serves as the meeting landmark. From there, the tour departs on an air-conditioned van that provides convenient transportation from Aix-en-Provence. For the boat picnic, the group can decide on the number of boats to rent, with each boat accommodating up to 6 people for approximately €120 per boat. The 3-hour boat trip allows the group to enjoy a Provencal picnic on the lake in the heart of the Gorges du Verdon. With the meeting point and logistics clearly outlined, explorers can look forward to an immersive and seamless experience.

Meeting Point	Location
Next to Paul Cézanne statue	Gray car with red umbrella

Transportation	Duration
Air-conditioned van from Aix-en-Provence	7 hours

Boat Rental	Capacity
3-hour boat trip	Up to 6 people per boat

Boat Rental Cost
Approximately €120 per boat

Boat Rental and Picnic

One of the highlights of the tour is the 3-hour boat rental, which allows groups of up to 6 people to enjoy a Provençal picnic on the tranquil waters of the lake nestled within the Gorges du Verdon.

As the boat gently glides across the dazzling turquoise lake, surrounded by the towering limestone cliffs, visitors can relish in the serene ambiance and indulge in a delectable spread of local delicacies, such as:

1. Freshly baked baguettes and artisanal cheeses.

2. Vibrant salads bursting with the flavors of the Provence region.

3. A selection of chilled rosé wine to complement the picturesque setting.

This unique experience allows travelers to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Gorges du Verdon while savoring the flavors of the local Provence cuisine.

Tour Duration and Group Size

The tour duration lasts 7 hours, allowing ample time for participants to thoroughly explore the grandeur of the Gorges du Verdon.

The group size is kept small, limited to a maximum of 6 individuals, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience amid the natural wonders of the region.

This intimate group setting allows the live tour guide to provide detailed insights and tailored attention to each guest, whether they’re seeking to learn in English, French, or Polish.

The relatively short duration and small group size make this excursion an ideal day trip for visitors looking to discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Gorges du Verdon without feeling rushed or overwhelmed by large crowds.

Live Tour Guide Languages

While exploring the Gorges du Verdon, travelers can benefit from the expertise of live tour guides fluent in English, French, and Polish, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience regardless of their native language.

These knowledgeable guides bring the canyon’s history, geology, and natural wonders to life, captivating audiences with their engaging storytelling.

The tour’s multilingual approach allows:

1. Participants to fully enjoy the experience, absorbing the guide’s insights and cultural perspectives in their preferred tongue.

2. Diverse groups to come together and share this incredible adventure, fostering cross-cultural connections and understanding.

3. Travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for the Gorges du Verdon, leaving with lasting memories and a newfound respect for this natural marvel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Participants of all ages can join the small group exploration of Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon. The tour is suitable for families and individuals alike.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

The tour provides a picnic lunch, but participants can also bring their own food and drinks for the boat trip. However, any outside food and beverages should be kept to a minimum to avoid interfering with the provided picnic.

Is the Boat Ride Suitable for Non-Swimmers?

The boat ride is suitable for non-swimmers as it’s a peaceful, guided trip on the lake. Life jackets are provided, and the boats are stable and secure. Non-swimmers can enjoy the scenic boat tour with confidence.

Are There Any Hiking or Walking Involved During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes some light hiking and walking. Guests will stroll through the charming hilltop village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and explore the unique village of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, both offering stunning views of the Gorges du Verdon canyon.

What Should We Bring to Make the Most of the Experience?

To make the most of the experience, visitors should bring comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, a swimsuit, and a light jacket or sweater. Bringing a camera is also recommended to capture the stunning canyon and picturesque villages.

Recap

This captivating day trip from Aix-en-Provence promises a truly unforgettable experience exploring the breathtaking Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon.

Guests will enjoy a scenic boat ride on the stunning lake, a delightful Provençal picnic, and visits to the charming villages of Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

All this is complemented by personalized insights from experienced guides fluent in multiple languages.

You can check if your dates are available here: