Montpellier, the vibrant university city in southern France, serves as an ideal starting point to explore the region’s natural and cultural wonders. This personalized day-tour immerses visitors in the diverse landscapes, from the Camargue wetlands teeming with wildlife to the charming Provençal and Occitan villages that showcase the area’s rich heritage. Highlights include the iconic Pont du Gard aqueduct, the medieval stronghold of Les Baux de Provence, and the UNESCO Biosphere of Causses-Cévennes. With a customized itinerary and flexible scheduling, this comprehensive tour offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the authentic essence of the South of France. What awaits those who embark on this journey?
Just The Basics
• Explore the diverse wildlife and conservation efforts of the Camargue Regional Natural Park, including the iconic Camargue horse and bull.
• Discover the rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes of Provence and Occitania villages, immersing in the local traditions.
• Marvel at the impressive engineering feat of the ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Wander through the captivating medieval stronghold of Les Baux de Provence, with its historic stone buildings and Citadel.
• Experience the UNESCO Biosphere of Causses-Cévennes, appreciating the harmonious coexistence of nature and human activity.
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Exploring Camargue Regional Natural Park
As the tour begins, visitors will explore the Camargue Regional Natural Park, a remarkable wetland area known for its diverse wildlife and unique landscapes.
The Camargue is home to an array of iconic species, including the Camargue horse, the Camargue bull, and countless bird species that thrive in the park’s intricate network of marshes, lagoons, and salt flats. Visitors will have the opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, learning about the park’s rich ecology and the conservation efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem.
The tour guide will share insights into the region’s cultural heritage and the importance of the Camargue to the local communities that call this remarkable place home.
Visiting Provence and Occitania Villages
After exploring the captivating Camargue Regional Natural Park, the tour continues its journey through the charming villages of Provence and Occitania.
Visitors will have the opportunity to enjoy the rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes of these renowned regions, where the influences of Mediterranean and French traditions seamlessly intertwine.
The tour will showcase typical Provençal and Occitanian villages, each with its own distinctive architectural style, local cuisine, and artisanal crafts.
From quaint cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses to bustling town squares adorned with fountains and shaded by plane trees, this part of the tour provides a delightful glimpse into the authentic charm of Southern France.
Crossing the Iconic Pont Du Gard
The tour then leads visitors across the iconic Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that has stood as a remarkable engineering feat for nearly 2,000 years. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the ingenuity of Roman construction, as the three-tiered bridge stands over 160 feet tall and stretches nearly 900 feet across the Gard River. Guests can marvel at the precision of the structure, which was built without mortar, and explore the nearby museum to learn more about its history and importance.
| Pont du Gard Facts | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Height | 160 feet | Length | 900 feet |
| Tiers | 3 | Construction | Mortar-less |
| Completion | 1st century AD | Designation | UNESCO World Heritage |
Discovering Les Baux De Provence
Next, the tour explores the picturesque village of Les Baux de Provence, a former medieval stronghold perched atop a rocky outcrop in the Alpilles mountains.
Visitors can wander through the narrow, winding streets lined with historic stone buildings, stopping to admire the spectacular views overlooking the surrounding countryside.
The town’s impressive Citadel, dating back to the 10th century, stands as a testament to its strategic importance throughout history, and guided tours allow guests to explore its rich past.
Beyond the Citadel, the village boasts a variety of art galleries, boutiques, and cafes, offering a glimpse into the local culture and craftsmanship.
With its enchanting atmosphere and stunning natural setting, Les Baux de Provence is a must-see destination on the tour.
UNESCO Biosphere of Causses-Cévennes
Alongside the captivating villages and historic sites, the tour also immerses visitors in the UNESCO Biosphere of the Causses-Cévennes, a breathtaking landscape of limestone plateaus and rugged mountain ranges.
This unique region features a harmonious coexistence of nature and human activity, with traditional pastoral practices and remarkable biodiversity. Visitors can explore the dramatic gorges, hidden valleys, and ancient transhumance routes that characterize this UNESCO-protected area.
The tour provides an opportunity to appreciate the remarkable geological formations, diverse flora and fauna, and the cultural heritage that has shaped this remarkable corner of the South of France. It’s a chance to take in the natural wonders and storied past of this exceptional destination.
Exploring Historic Towns and Sites
Along With seeing the UNESCO Biosphere, the tour also explores a wealth of historic towns and sites that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can wander through charming Provençal and Occitan villages, uncovering the stories and traditions that have shaped these picturesque communities over the centuries. The tour includes stops at the iconic Le Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that has stood the test of time, and the fascinating medieval village of Les Baux de Provence, known for its spectacular hilltop setting and impressive castle ruins.
| Historic Towns | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Le Pont du Gard | Roman aqueduct |
| Les Baux de Provence | Hilltop medieval village, castle ruins |
| Charming Provençal and Occitan villages | Unique stories and traditions |
Discovering Exceptional Destinations in France
Beyond the historic towns and picturesque villages, the tour also showcases several exceptional destinations that highlight France’s diverse natural and cultural treasures.
The Camargue Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offers visitors a glimpse into the unique flora and fauna of the Rhône River delta, where wild white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos roam the marshlands.
The tour also includes a visit to the Great Sites of France, such as the iconic Pont du Gard aqueduct, a remarkably well-preserved Roman engineering marvel.
Plus, the UNESCO Biosphere of the Causses-Cévennes showcases the rugged landscapes and traditional pastoral practices that have shaped the region for centuries.
Tour Duration, Pricing, and Booking
This personalized day-tour from Montpellier lasts 12 hours, providing ample time to explore the highlights of the South of France.
The tour is priced at $1,059.75 per group of up to 8 people, making it an accessible option for small parties.
Booking is available through a reserve now, pay later policy, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can easily secure their spot without the upfront commitment, and have the flexibility to adjust their plans if needed.
The tour’s duration and pricing make it an appealing choice for those seeking a comprehensive, customized experience in the region without breaking the bank.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, customers can generally customize the tour itinerary to their preferences. The tour operator typically offers flexibility to accommodate individual interests and requests within the overall tour structure and duration.
Are Professional Guides Available Who Speak Other Languages Besides French?
Yes, the tour offers professional guides who speak languages besides French. The tour description states that live guides are available, indicating that guides proficient in other languages can be arranged upon request.
What Type of Transportation Will Be Used During the Tour?
The tour utilizes private transportation, allowing the group to explore the South of France’s highlights comfortably. The guide handles all the driving, giving participants the freedom to enjoy the scenery and sights during the 12-hour excursion.
Is There an Option to Include a Lunch Stop at a Local Restaurant?
The tour details do not explicitly mention a lunch stop at a local restaurant. However, guests may be able to request this option when booking the tour, as it could provide an opportunity to experience the local cuisine during the excursion.
Can the Tour Be Extended or Shortened Based on My Requirements?
The tour’s duration can be customized based on the client’s requirements. The tour provider offers flexibility to extend or shorten the tour to accommodate the client’s preferences and schedule within the given tour details.
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Sum Up
This personalized day-tour from Montpellier offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the authentic essence of Southern France.
Visitors will be immersed in the region’s diverse landscapes, from the Camargue wetlands to the charming Provençal and Occitan villages, while exploring iconic landmarks like the Pont du Gard aqueduct and the medieval stronghold of Les Baux de Provence.
With a customized itinerary and flexible scheduling, this comprehensive tour showcases the natural and cultural wonders that make the South of France so exceptional.
