Grasse, Gourdon, Valbonne and Wine Tasting Full-Day From Cannes

Exploring the picturesque French Riviera is a must for any traveler. This full-day excursion from Cannes promises an unforgettable experience, transporting visitors through the charming towns of Grasse, Gourdon, and Valbonne. From discovering the secrets of perfume-making to admiring breathtaking vistas, the tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the region’s renowned beauty and cultural heritage. However, the real highlight may just be the opportunity to savor local vintages at a scenic hilltop estate, leaving participants with a newfound appreciation for the area’s winemaking traditions. With so much to explore, this guided adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A full-day shore excursion from Cannes visiting the perfume capital of Grasse, the picturesque villages of Gourdon and Valbonne, and concluding with a wine tasting near Nice.
• Small-group tour with a professional guide, providing insightful commentary and historical context, ensuring a personalized and immersive experience.
• Highlights include a guided tour of the Fragonard perfumery in Grasse, exploring the cobbled streets and boutiques of Valbonne, and taking in the stunning Mediterranean views from Gourdon.
• Wine tasting at a hilltop estate overlooking Nice, featuring a selection of local wines showcasing the region’s renowned vintages.
• Convenient pickup and drop-off at the Cannes cruise port, with transportation in an air-conditioned minivan included.

Tour Overview

This full-day shore excursion from Cannes takes visitors to the picturesque towns of Grasse, Gourdon, Valbonne, and Nice, offering a diverse blend of history, culture, and wine tasting.

The tour begins with a visit to Grasse, France’s perfume capital, where you will enjoy a guided tour of the renowned Fragonard perfumery.

Next, the group will explore the charming 16th-century village of Valbonne, with its cobbled streets and boutiques.

The tour then moves on to the ancient village of Gourdon, perched above the Loup river, providing stunning Mediterranean views.

The excursion concludes with a wine tasting at a hilltop estate overlooking Nice, allowing visitors to savor the region’s renowned vintages.

Group Size and Experience

Offering a personalized experience, the small-group tour limits participation to no more than eight travelers.

A professional guide provides insightful commentary and historical context throughout the excursion, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of the region.

With a minimum of two people required per booking, the tour allows for an intimate and engaging experience.

Guests can look forward to the guide’s expertise as they visit the charming towns of Grasse, Gourdon, and Valbonne, as well as the hilltop estate in Nice for wine tasting.

The small group size allows for a more tailored and attentive tour, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive and personalized day trip from Cannes.

What’s Included

The tour includes a guided visit to the renowned Fragonard perfumery in Grasse, France’s perfume capital, where participants can learn about the art of perfume making.

Plus, port pickup and drop-off, as well as transportation in an air-conditioned minivan, are provided.

Wine tastings are also included as part of the experience at a hilltop estate above Nice.

The tour covers several picturesque destinations, including the 16th-century village of Valbonne with its charming cobbled streets and boutiques, and the ancient village of Gourdon, which offers stunning Mediterranean views above the Loup river.

With a small group size limited to eight participants, this experience ensures a personalized and worry-free shore excursion.

Perfume Capital Grasse

Why does Grasse hold the title of France’s perfume capital?

The city’s long history of perfume production, dating back to the 16th century, has earned it this prestigious designation.

Grasse’s ideal climate, with its mild temperatures and abundant flower fields, provides the perfect conditions for cultivating the raw materials used in the intricate art of perfume making.

Today, the city is home to many renowned perfume houses, including Fragonard, whose perfumery offers a captivating tour that immerses visitors in the fascinating process of transforming natural essences into exquisite fragrances.

From learning about the history of perfumery to witnessing the meticulous blending techniques, the Grasse perfumery tour is a highlight of this Cannes shore excursion.

Picturesque Valbonne Village

Beyond the perfume capital of Grasse, the quaint village of Valbonne beckons visitors with its charming 16th-century ambiance and picturesque cobblestone streets lined with boutiques and cafés.

Wandering through Valbonne’s historic center, you’ll discover a unique blend of Provençal architecture and modern flair. The village square, framed by pastel-hued buildings and a 14th-century church, offers a peaceful respite from the day’s adventures.

Browse the artisanal shops, sample local delicacies, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere that makes Valbonne a beloved destination.

With its well-preserved historical character and vibrant cultural scene, this 16th-century gem provides a delightful contrast to the day’s other stops along the French Riviera.

Historic Gourdon Viewpoint

Perched atop a rugged limestone outcrop, the ancient village of Gourdon commands breathtaking vistas over the Loup River valley and the distant Mediterranean coastline.

Visitors can wander Gourdon’s winding streets, lined with charming stone buildings and occasional glimpses of the sweeping panorama below. Towering over the surrounding landscape, this picturesque hilltop settlement offers a captivating glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural splendor.

Highlights of exploring Gourdon include:

• Admiring the village’s medieval architecture and fortifications

• Stopping for a coffee or lunch at a cozy cafe with panoramic views

• Browsing the local artisan shops and galleries

• Visiting the 11th-century Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame

• Hiking up to the ruined Château de Gourdon for 360-degree vistas

Wine Tasting Near Nice

The tour’s final stop takes visitors to a hilltop estate above Nice, where they’ll indulge in a guided wine tasting experience showcasing the region’s renowned vintages. Nestled among the scenic rolling hills, the estate offers a picturesque setting for exploring the diverse flavors of the Côte d’Azur. During the tasting, guests will sample a selection of carefully curated local wines, learning about their unique characteristics and the winemaking process that brings them to life.

Wine	Varietal	Notes
Château de Bellet	Rolle, Chardonnay	Crisp, mineral-driven white with citrus and stone fruit notes
Clos Saint Vincent	Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon	Bold, full-bodied red with hints of black cherry and spice
Domaine de la Source	Rosé	Delicate, refreshing rosé with delicate floral and red berry aromas

This memorable wine tasting perfectly caps off a day of exploring the charming villages and breathtaking landscapes of the French Riviera.

Departure and Accessibility

The tour departs from the Cannes cruise port at 9:30 AM, ensuring a prompt start to the day’s activities.

While the itinerary isn’t wheelchair accessible, guests travelling with strollers can participate in the excursion. Confirmation of the booking is provided at the time of reservation, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

The tour experience includes:

• Pickup and drop-off at the Cannes cruise port

• Transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan

• Guided visits to the charming towns of Grasse, Gourdon, and Valbonne

• A tour of the renowned Fragonard perfumery in Grasse

• Concluding with a wine tasting at a picturesque hilltop estate near Nice

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour overview, food and drinks not specified are not included in the tour. Guests are welcome to bring their own snacks and beverages, but the tour does not provide these items.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour operator doesn’t offer any discounts for seniors or children. The price is the same for all participants regardless of age. However, children under a certain age may be able to join for free or at a reduced cost.

How Long Does Each Stop Last During the Tour?

The duration of each stop on the tour varies but visitors typically spend 1-2 hours exploring the sights and attractions at each location. The guide ensures there’s ample time to fully experience the highlights of each destination.

Can I Book Private Transportation Instead of a Shared Minivan?

Yes, you can book private transportation instead of a shared minivan for this tour. The tour operator offers the option to upgrade to a private vehicle, providing a more exclusive and personalized experience for an additional fee.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour or Add Additional Activities?

The tour doesn’t offer an extension option, but you can ask the tour provider about adding additional activities or sites to customize the experience to your preferences. The core tour experience is fixed, but there may be flexibility for personalization.

Recap

This full-day excursion from Cannes provides an enchanting exploration of the French Riviera’s charming villages and renowned wine region.

Discover the perfume capital of Grasse, wander the cobblestone streets of Valbonne, and take in panoramic views from historic Gourdon.

The day culminates with a delightful wine tasting at a scenic hilltop estate, allowing you to savor the local vintages amidst stunning landscapes.