Nestled in the heart of Provence, the Luberon region boasts a trifecta of charming hilltop villages that captivate visitors from around the world. This guided tour offers a seamless way to explore Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes, each with its unique architectural allure and stunning vistas. Whether you’re seeking a culture or simply admiring the scenic beauty, this day-long adventure promises an unforgettable experience. With convenient pickup, refreshments, and insider insights, you’ll be well-equipped to uncover the timeless charms that have made these villages beloved destinations. What secrets and delights await as you venture into these picturesque Provençal gems?

Key Points

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Key Points

  • This private full-day tour takes visitors to the top three Luberon hilltop villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Menerbes from Marseille or Aix-en-Provence.
  • The tour includes complimentary bottled water and locally-sourced sweets, with a focus on enhancing the overall experience in the Luberon region.
  • Visitors can explore the medieval village of Gordes, the vibrant ochre-colored buildings of Roussillon, and the artistic history of Menerbes.
  • The tour operates daily from April to October, with extended hours on Fridays, and provides a hassle-free experience with convenient meeting arrangements.
  • The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate, and infant seats are available for families with young children.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour takes visitors to three of the top Luberon hilltop villages from Marseille or Aix-en-Provence.

It’s a private tour, so only your group will participate. The price starts at $643.46 per person, varying by group size.

You’ll be picked up and dropped off at a meeting point of your choice, so remember to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance.

This tour operates from April 2nd to October 31st, running Monday through Sunday, 9 AM to 5:30 PM, except on Fridays when it goes until 6 PM.

Bottled water and sweets are included, but no other drinks, food, or snacks are provided.

Meeting and Pickup

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Meeting and Pickup

Tourists can choose from various meeting points to kick off this tour.

Whether you prefer to start from Marseille or Aix-en-Provence, the tour provider will work with you to determine the most convenient location.

Once the meeting point is set, the tour will end right back where it began, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Be sure to confirm the start time with the local provider in advance, as the tour operates within specific hours during the peak season from April 2 to October 31.

Tour Schedule

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Tour Schedule

The Luberon Hilltop Villages tour operates during the peak tourist season, running from April 2 to October 31.

The tour runs daily, with the exception of Fridays when it runs until 6:00 PM, and Saturdays which wrap up at 5:30 PM.

On all other days, the tour starts at 9:00 AM and ends at 5:30 PM.

This full-day tour allows visitors to explore the charming hilltop villages of the Luberon region at a comfortable pace.

Participants can expect to be back at the designated meeting point by the end of the day’s activities.

Included Amenities

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Included Amenities

As part of the Luberon Hilltop Villages tour, travelers receive a few complimentary amenities to enhance their experience.

Bottled water is provided throughout the day to keep visitors hydrated. Plus, the tour includes a selection of locally-sourced sweets, offering a taste of the region’s culinary delights.

However, no other drinks, food, or snacks are included in the tour price. This allows participants to explore and sample the charming village cafes and restaurants at their own pace and preference.

With these thoughtful inclusions, the tour ensures travelers stay refreshed and energized as they enjoy the beauty of the Luberon hilltop villages.

Accessibility and Additional Information

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Accessibility and Additional Information

Beyond the delightful inclusions, the Luberon Hilltop Villages tour also caters to travelers’ accessibility needs. Infant seats are available, making it suitable for families with young children.

The tour’s proximity to public transportation ensures easy access for those relying on buses or trains. Strollers can also be accommodated, allowing parents to explore the villages with convenience.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, ensuring a diverse group can enjoy the experience. Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, and the non-refundable policy means travelers should plan their schedule carefully.

Exploring the Luberon Villages

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Exploring the Luberon Villages

Embarking on the Luberon Hilltop Villages tour, visitors can expect a captivating exploration of three charming destinations nestled in the picturesque Luberon region.

The first stop is typically Gordes, a stunning medieval village perched atop a rocky outcrop.

Next, the tour ventures to Roussillon, renowned for its vibrant ochre-colored buildings.

The final highlight is Menerbes, a quaint village that has inspired many artists and writers over the centuries.

Throughout the day, guests will have the opportunity to wander the narrow cobblestone streets, browse local artisan shops, and enjoy the authentic Provençal atmosphere that defines these Luberon treasures.

Highlights of Gordes

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Highlights of Gordes

The picturesque village of Gordes sits atop a rocky outcrop, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into Provence’s medieval past. Wander through its winding cobblestone streets, admiring the carefully restored stone buildings that exemplify the region’s architectural heritage. Stop to explore the Castle of Gordes, a 12th-century fortress that now houses a museum showcasing the village’s history. Don’t miss the striking Romanesque church, whose distinctive bell tower dominates the skyline. To fully learn about the charm of Gordes, check out the local market on Tuesdays, where you can find an array of artisanal products and regional specialties.

Feature Description
Castle of Gordes 12th-century fortress housing a history museum
Romanesque Church Iconic bell tower overlooking the village
Local Market Tuesdays, featuring artisanal goods and regional fare
Winding Streets Cobblestone paths lined with restored stone buildings
Hilltop Setting Perched atop a rocky outcrop, offering panoramic views

Discovering Roussillon and Ménerbes

Full Day of the Top 3 Luberon Hilltop Villages From Marseille / Aix-En-Provence - Discovering Roussillon and Ménerbes

Continuing the journey, visitors will discover the charming hilltop villages of Roussillon and Ménerbes.

Roussillon is renowned for its striking red-ochre cliffs and buildings, a result of the region’s mineral-rich soil. Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the vibrant hues and exploring the Ochre Trail, which offers stunning panoramic views.

Ménerbes, on the other hand, is a picturesque village that has inspired many artists, including the renowned author Peter Mayle. Visitors can wander through the narrow alleyways, visit the Renaissance-style château, and enjoy the breathtaking vistas overlooking the Luberon Valley.

These two villages offer a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, providing a memorable experience for visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size varies, but it’s a private tour where only your group will participate. The price per person changes depending on the group size, making it a flexible option.

Are Guided Tours Available at the Hilltop Villages?

The tour does not include guided tours at the hilltop villages. Visitors explore the villages on their own. However, the tour guide provides commentary and assistance throughout the day to ensure an enjoyable and informative experience.

Can We Make Stops at Local Markets or Shops?

The tour does not include stops at local markets or shops. The focus is on visiting the top 3 hilltop villages in the Luberon region. Participants can explore these villages independently during the tour.

Is the Tour Wheelchair-Friendly Throughout?

The tour is not wheelchair-friendly throughout, as it’s stated that it’s "not wheelchair accessible." However, it does offer stroller accessibility and infant seats, indicating it may be suitable for some with limited mobility.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Our Preferences?

Customizing the itinerary is not possible for this private tour. The provider offers a set tour of the top 3 Luberon hilltop villages, and the schedule and inclusions are fixed. Travelers must follow the provider’s predetermined program.

Recap

This private tour offers an immersive experience exploring the picturesque hilltop villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Menerbes in the Luberon region. With convenient transportation, complimentary amenities, and expert guidance, visitors can wander through medieval streets, admire vibrant architecture, and take in stunning panoramic views, truly seeing the rich history and artistic charm of these charming destinations.