From Avignon: Châteauneuf Du Pape and Luberon Tour With Wine

Enjoy the renowned winemaking region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the picturesque Luberon on this day trip from Avignon. Savor the flavors of local wines during tastings, admire the stunning Rhône Valley views, and explore charming hilltop villages. This captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural heritage makes for an unforgettable experience that every wine enthusiast and sightseer won’t want to miss. Discover the delights that await as you embark on this immersive journey.

This experience made our list of the 23 Best Wine Tours In Avignon.

Key Points

• This day trip from Avignon explores the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region and charming hilltop villages of the Luberon over 10 hours.
• The tour includes wine tastings at two wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, providing an immersive experience in the region’s unique terroir and winemaking processes.
• Scenic drives through the vineyards and panoramic views from the ruins of the Popes’ summer residence offer breathtaking scenery.
• Visits to picturesque villages like Roussillon, Lacoste, and Gordes showcase the vibrant colors, medieval architecture, and stunning vistas of the Luberon.
• The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, hotel pickup and drop-off, and the opportunity to capture photos at the iconic Pont Julien.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Day Trip From Avignon

This 10-hour day trip from Avignon takes visitors on a scenic drive through the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region and the charming hilltop villages of the Luberon.

The tour includes wine tastings at two wineries in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where guests can enjoy panoramic views over the Rhône River valley from the ruins of the Popes’ summer residence.

The itinerary also features visits to picturesque villages like Roussillon, Lacoste, and Gordes, allowing travelers to explore the region’s colorful houses, historic landmarks, and scenic landscapes.

Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned mini-bus, and hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making this tour a convenient and immersive way to experience the best of the Provence region.

Wine Tastings in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

The guided tour takes visitors to two distinct wineries in the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape region, where they can sample the area’s renowned vintages. The scenic drive through the vineyards sets the stage for an immersive experience. At each winery, guests participate in private tastings, learning about the unique terroir and winemaking processes that contribute to the complexity and character of these celebrated wines.

Winery 1	Winery 2
Picturesque estate with panoramic views	Historic family-run operation
Tasting of 5 different Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines	Sampling of 4 award-winning red and white blends
Knowledgeable staff provide insight into the region’s rich winemaking heritage	Opportunity to purchase favorite bottles directly from the source

Scenic Drive Through Vineyards

As the tour departs from Avignon, the scenic drive through the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape begins, offering a captivating glimpse into the heart of this renowned wine region.

Rows of gnarled vines stretch out across the landscape, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. The tour guide points out the unique terroir that gives the region’s wines their distinctive character, with its sun-baked soils and ancient cobblestones.

Passing by centuries-old farmhouses and stone walls, the group takes in the picturesque scenery, eager to reach the first winery and sample the acclaimed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines.

The drive sets the stage for an immersive exploration of this enchanting corner of southern France.

Panoramic View Over Rhône Valley

Perched atop the ruins of the Popes’ summer residence, the tour group gazes out over the vast expanse of the Rhône River valley, marveling at the breathtaking panorama.

The sweeping views elicit a range of emotions:

1. Awe, as the lush vineyards and rolling hills stretch out before them, a testament to the region’s rich winemaking heritage.
2. Tranquility, as the gentle flow of the Rhône River winds its way through the landscape, creating a sense of peace and serenity.
3. Appreciation, as the group takes in the sheer natural beauty of the Châteauneuf-du-Pape appellation, a true gem in the heart of Provence.

This panoramic overlook offers a captivating finale to the winery visits, leaving the group with a deeper understanding and connection to the land.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Visiting Colorful Roussillon

After gazing out over the Rhône River valley, the tour group heads to the charming hilltop village of Roussillon, known for its vibrant, ochre-colored houses that dot the landscape.

As they walk through the narrow streets, visitors are captivated by the stunning hues that adorn the buildings, ranging from deep reds to brilliant yellows.

The town’s history is on full display, with reminders of its past as a center of ochre production visible throughout.

Wandering through Roussillon’s picturesque neighborhoods, the group takes in the breathtaking views and snaps photos to commemorate their visit to this delightful Luberon village.

Lacoste and Marquis De Sade

The tour then winds its way to the hilltop village of Lacoste, where visitors can see the remains of the Marquis de Sade’s former castle perched atop the hill. This notorious 18th-century French nobleman is infamous for his sadistic writings and scandalous behavior, which led to his imprisonment.

As you wander the village, you’ll get a sense of the Marquis’ turbulent life and the legacy he left behind.

Some key highlights in Lacoste include:

1. The crumbling ruins of the Marquis’ castle, a reminder of his troubled past.
2. The charming medieval streets and architecture that transport you back in time.
3. The stunning vistas overlooking the Luberon valley, a picturesque setting that contrasts with the Marquis’ dark history.

Exploring Gordes Hilltop Village

From Lacoste, the tour winds its way to the hilltop village of Gordes, where visitors can explore its charming cobblestone streets and white stone buildings that seem to cascade down the hillside. Gordes is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, and it’s easy to see why. As you wander through the town, you’ll come across quaint shops, art galleries, and cafes offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Highlights of Gordes
Panoramic Vistas	Admire the breathtaking views over the Luberon Valley from the hilltop village.
Historic Architecture	Marvel at the medieval buildings and winding streets that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Charming Ambiance	Soak in the relaxed, picturesque atmosphere of this quintessential Provençal town.
Free Time	Explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way.

Transportation and Inclusions

This tour includes a driver/guide and transportation via an air-conditioned mini-bus, ensuring a comfortable and convenient experience for guests. The package also provides two wine tastings at local wineries, allowing visitors to sample the renowned wines of the region. Hotel pickup and drop-off are additionally included, further enhancing the seamless nature of the tour.

Enjoy the scenic drive through the Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards and take in the panoramic views from the ruins of the Popes’ summer residence.

Explore the charming hilltop villages of the Luberon region, including the colorful houses of Roussillon and the remains of the Marquis de Sade’s castle in Lacoste.

Capture the perfect photo at the iconic Pont Julien, a well-preserved Roman bridge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Limit on the Number of Wine Tastings?

The tour includes two wine tastings at different wineries in the Châteauneuf-du-Pape region. There doesn’t appear to be a specified limit on the number of tastings during these visits.

Can We Purchase Wine at the Wineries?

Yes, participants can purchase wine at the wineries visited during the tour. The tour includes two wine tastings, and visitors will have the opportunity to buy any wines they sample or discover at the wineries.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes several stops where passengers can use restroom facilities. Restroom breaks are provided at the wineries and during the visits to the Luberon villages, allowing participants to refresh themselves throughout the day.

Can Participants With Dietary Restrictions Be Accommodated?

While the tour doesn’t include meals, participants with dietary restrictions can likely be accommodated during the wine tastings. Guests should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss any special needs.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour operator doesn’t offer an option to extend the standard 10-hour tour duration. However, they may be able to accommodate special requests for longer tours if arranged in advance, subject to availability and additional fees.

Recap

This day trip from Avignon offers an immersive experience in the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region and the charming hilltop villages of the Luberon.

Participants can indulge in wine tastings, marvel at panoramic views, and explore picturesque towns, making this tour a must-do for wine enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: