Discover the charming perfume capital of Grasse, the enchanting medieval village of Valbonne, and the breathtaking fortress of Gourdon on this day tour through the French Riviera. Enjoy the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the region as you explore these captivating destinations. Indulge in a wine tasting at the renowned Bellet vineyards, where you’ll savor the finest local offerings and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions. With a small group size and personalized experience, this tour promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you eager to uncover more of the hidden gems along the picturesque Côte d’Azur.
Key Points
- This day tour offers a comprehensive experience, visiting the perfume capital of Grasse, the medieval village of Valbonne, the Gourdon fortress, and a wine tasting at the Bellet vineyards.
- The tour departs from Villefranche-sur-Mer, Nice, or Cannes, and lasts 8-8.5 hours with a small group size of up to 8 participants for a personalized experience.
- Highlights include a visit to the Fragonard perfume factory, free time to explore Grasse, a tour of the Gourdon fortress, and a wine tasting at the Bellet vineyards.
- The tour provides transportation, a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, wine tasting, and entrance fees, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- The tour offers the opportunity to discover the region’s rich history, architecture, and winemaking traditions, while immersing in the charming and picturesque atmosphere of the towns visited.
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Tour Information
The day tour departs from Villefranche-sur-Mer, Nice, or Cannes, and lasts 8-8.5 hours.
It’s a small group tour limited to 8 participants, providing a personalized experience.
Guests will visit the Fragonard perfume factory in Grasse, spend free time in the city, and explore the medieval village of Valbonne.
They’ll also tour the Gourdon fortress and enjoy a wine tasting at the Bellet vineyards.
Throughout the tour, transportation is provided in an air-conditioned minivan, and a professional guide is on hand to share insights.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve and pay later, this day trip offers flexibility and convenience for travelers.
Itinerary Highlights
Guests kick off the day with a visit to the renowned Fragonard perfume factory in Grasse, where they’ll learn about the art of perfume-making. After, they’ll have free time to explore the charming city of Grasse at their own pace. Next, the tour whisks them to the medieval village of Valbonne, where they can enjoy lunch at a local café. The highlight of the day is the visit to the Gourdon fortress, offering stunning views of the French Riviera. The tour concludes with a wine tasting at the Bellet vineyards, allowing guests to sample classic French wines.
| Itinerary Highlights | Duration |
|---|---|
| Fragonard Perfume Factory | 45 min |
| Free Time in Grasse | 45 min |
| Valbonne Medieval Village | 30 min |
| Gourdon Fortress | 1.5 hour |
Explore Grasse
After arriving at the Fragonard perfume factory, guests explore the world’s perfume capital, Grasse.
The city’s old town features charming cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, boutiques, and cafés. Visitors can wander through the picturesque streets, popping into local shops and stopping for a bite to eat before the next leg of the tour.
Grasse is renowned for its long history in the perfume industry, with many of the world’s most famous fragrance houses calling the city home. During the free time in Grasse, guests can enjoy the city’s aromatic ambiance and soak up the lively atmosphere of this vibrant French town.
Valbonne Medieval Village
Next, the tour heads to the medieval village of Valbonne, where visitors can explore its charming streets and stop for a bite to eat at a local café. Valbonne’s historic center is a well-preserved example of 16th-century architecture, with its narrow passageways, stone buildings, and central square. Visitors can stroll through the market, browse the quaint boutiques, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.
| Key Features | Description |
|---|---|
| Architecture | 16th-century stone buildings, narrow passageways |
| Market | Traditional outdoor market in the central square |
| Boutiques | Charming local shops and artisan studios |
| Ambiance | Peaceful, historic, and picturesque |
| Dining | Cozy cafés and restaurants serving local cuisine |
The 30-minute stop in Valbonne provides a delightful taste of traditional French village life on the tour.
Gourdon Fortress
From Valbonne, the tour continues to the hilltop fortress of Gourdon, offering visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the French Riviera.
The 1.5-hour stop at Gourdon allows ample time to explore the historic military structure and its surrounding medieval village.
Perched atop a rocky outcrop, the Gourdon fortress dates back to the 11th century and was once an important defensive position.
Today, visitors can wander the ramparts, admire the stunning scenery, and learn about the fortress’ storied past.
The guided tour provides insights into the strategic importance of Gourdon’s location and the architectural features that made it a formidable stronghold.
With its picturesque setting and rich history, the Gourdon fortress is a highlight of the day tour.
Bellet Vineyards
The tour now heads to the renowned Bellet vineyards, where visitors can sample classic French wines and learn about the region’s winemaking traditions.
The one-hour stop at the vineyards allows guests to explore the unique terroir and production methods that give Bellet wines their distinctive character.
Located just a stone’s throw from the French Riviera, the Bellet appellation produces exceptional red, white, and rosé wines that showcase the area’s Mediterranean climate and diverse soil types.
Guests can expect to taste a selection of the vineyards’ finest offerings, guided by knowledgeable staff who provide insights into the history and craftsmanship behind each bottle.
This wine tasting experience is a highlight of the day tour, offering a unique glimpse into the local wine culture.
Tour Inclusions
What does the tour include? The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, a wine tasting, and all necessary entrance fees. The key inclusions are:
| Inclusions | Details |
|---|---|
| Transportation | Air-conditioned minivan |
| Guide | Professional guide |
| Pickup/Drop-off | Hotel pickup and drop-off |
| Tasting | Wine tasting |
| Fees | Entrance fees |
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enriching experience as you explore the picturesque towns of Grasse, Valbonne, and Gourdon, while also indulging in the region’s renowned wines. Everything is taken care of, allowing you to sit back, relax, and fully learn about the beauty and charm of the French Riviera.
Booking Details
Travelers can book the tour with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and they’ve the option to reserve now and pay later.
Tour pickup occurs 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time from the selected location. This flexibility ensures that travelers can easily fit the tour into their schedules.
The small group size, limited to 8 participants, guarantees a personalized experience. Booking the tour is simple and straightforward, allowing guests to focus on enjoying the highlights of Grasse, Valbonne, and Gourdon, as well as the wine tasting at the Bellet vineyards.
With the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off, travelers can sit back and relax while exploring the picturesque French Riviera.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Passport for This Tour?
A passport is generally not required for this day tour, as it’s within France. However, it’s always a good idea to have valid identification on hand when traveling. The tour guide can advise on any specific documentation needed.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants on guided tours typically can’t bring their own food and drinks. The tour likely provides refreshments and a lunch stop. Bringing outside items may not be allowed, as it could disrupt the group experience. Checking with the tour operator is recommended.
Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?
The tour guides on this small-group tour are fluent in English, ensuring clear communication throughout the day’s activities. Participants can expect an informative and engaging experience from the knowledgeable guides.
Can I Customize the Itinerary?
The tour offers a standard itinerary, but some flexibility may be possible. Customers can discuss customization options with the tour provider, such as adjusting visit durations or substituting alternate stops, though additional fees may apply.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for Groups?
The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This gives groups flexibility to adjust their plans as needed without penalty, providing a practical and hassle-free booking experience.
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Recap
This captivating day tour offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of the French Riviera.
Explore the perfume capital of Grasse, wander through the charming medieval village of Valbonne, and admire the breathtaking views from the Gourdon fortress.
Indulge in a wine tasting at the Bellet vineyards, sampling the region’s finest offerings and learning about the local winemaking traditions.
With a small group size and personalized experience, this tour provides an immersive and unforgettable journey.
