Spectacular Luberon Villages – Gordes to Lourmarin Private Tour

Tucked away in the heart of Provence, the Luberon region captivates visitors with its enchanting hilltop villages, rich history, and breathtaking scenery. On this private tour, you’ll have the chance to learn about the charming towns of Gordes, Menerbes, Lacoste, and Lourmarin, each boasting its own unique character and allure. From the striking architecture of Gordes to the vibrant market of Menerbes, this journey promises to ignite your senses and leave you with a deeper appreciation for the enduring traditions and natural beauty that define this picturesque corner of Provence. Prepare to be captivated as you explore the heart of this remarkable region.

Key Points

• This private tour explores the picturesque hilltop villages of the Luberon region, including Gordes, Menerbes, Lacoste, and Lourmarin.
• The tour features guided walking tours, visits to medieval architecture and historic châteaux, and opportunities to browse local artisanal shops and markets.
• Inclusions cover round-trip transportation from select hotels, admission to Château de Lourmarin, and an English-speaking guide, while lunch and gratuities are excluded.
• Pickup and drop-off services are available from hotels in Marseille, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, with a surcharge for locations outside the specified radii.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed, with cancellation allowed up to 24 hours before the tour.

Tour Overview

Offering a private, comprehensive exploration of the Luberon region’s picturesque hilltop villages, this guided tour showcases the charming markets, medieval architecture, and historic châteaux that define the area’s unique character.

Guests will visit the quaint towns of Gordes, Menerbes, Lacoste, and Lourmarin, with a guided walking tour through the lively market in Menerbes. They’ll have the opportunity to admire the impressive Château de Lourmarin, while enjoying ample leisure time to browse local shops and galleries.

Traveling in air-conditioned comfort with an English-speaking guide, you will gain insider knowledge and personalized attention throughout the day’s immersive cultural experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour whisks guests to a series of picturesque hilltop villages, where they can explore the charming markets, admire the medieval architecture, and visit historic châteaux that embody the region’s unique character.

In the charming village of Gordes, visitors can wander through the winding streets, popping into quaint shops and galleries showcasing local artwork and crafts.

The tour then moves on to the hilltop town of Lacoste, where guests can view the impressive Château de Lacoste, the former residence of the notorious Marquis de Sade.

Inclusions and Exclusions

In ‘Spectacular Luberon Villages – Gordes to Lourmarin Private Tour‘, this private tour includes round-trip transportation from select hotels in Marseille, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, as well as admission to the Château de Lourmarin.

However, lunch isn’t covered, though recommendations are available. Plus, gratuities for the guide aren’t included in the tour price.

The tour provides a private, air-conditioned vehicle and an English-speaking guide to lead you through the picturesque hilltop villages of Gordes, Menerbes, Lacoste, and Lourmarin.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore the charming markets, shops, and galleries of these Provencal gems. While lunch is at your own expense, the tour offers a well-curated experience of the region’s highlights.

Pickup Information

Pickup and drop-off services are available from hotels in Marseille, Avignon, and Aix-en-Provence, with a flexible radius of 15km for Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, and 10km for Avignon.

A surcharge of €75 each way applies for pickups outside these radii, payable in advance or in cash.

Travelers can conveniently board the air-conditioned vehicle at their hotel, enjoying a seamless transfer to the Luberon region.

For those arriving by cruise ship, shore excursions from the Marseille port can be booked directly through the tour website.

The private tour ensures personalized attention from the English-speaking guide throughout the day’s engaging exploration of the charming Luberon villages.

Booking Details

Booking this private tour of Luberon villages begins at 9:00 am, with confirmation provided at the time of booking.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate, as this is a private group experience. Guests can cancel their reservation free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour starts.

Prices for this immersive exploration start from $436.73, with a lowest price guarantee. Pickup locations are flexible, with a 15km radius from Marseille and Aix-en-Provence, and a 10km radius from Avignon. A surcharge of €75 each way applies for pickups outside the specified radius, payable in advance or in cash.

Shore excursions from the Marseille port can only be booked through the website.

Exploring Gordes

The private tour of Luberon villages kicks off with a captivating exploration of Gordes, one of the region’s most picturesque hilltop towns.

Visitors can wander through the charming cobblestone streets, admiring the sun-drenched stone buildings and stopping to peruse the artisanal shops and galleries that line the narrow lanes.

The village’s historical architecture is simply breathtaking, from the 12th-century castle perched atop the hill to the Romanesque church that dominates the skyline.

Travelers can meander through the local market, sampling regional delicacies and chatting with friendly vendors, or climb to the ramparts for sweeping vistas over the surrounding countryside.

With its quaint beauty and rich cultural heritage, Gordes truly embodies the allure of Provence.

Visiting Menerbes

Next, the tour takes visitors to the charming market village of Menerbes, where they embark on a guided walking exploration. Wandering the picturesque streets, guests discover a quaint array of shops and galleries showcasing the region’s renowned artisanal crafts and local produce.

The guide provides insights into the village’s storied history, including its strategic importance during the French Wars of Religion and its literary association with authors such as Peter Mayle. Travelers have ample time to peruse the bustling market, conversing with friendly vendors and sampling delectable regional specialties.

Key highlights of Menerbes include:

1. Exploring the village’s 16th-century ramparts and medieval architecture

2. Visiting the former home and studio of renowned painter Nicolas de Staël

3. Savoring the flavors of the local olive oil, cheese, and lavender products

Touring Lacoste and Lourmarin

After exploring the quaint market town of Menerbes, the tour heads to the village of Lacoste, where travelers marvel at the imposing Château de Lacoste, the former residence of the notorious Marquis de Sade. This medieval château, perched atop a hilltop, offers stunning views of the surrounding Luberon countryside.

Next, the tour makes its way to the picturesque village of Lourmarin, known for its charming streets, vibrant market, and the impressive Château de Lourmarin. Visitors can choose to visit the château at their own expense, exploring its grand halls and gardens.

With ample time for lunch and independent exploration, Lourmarin provides a delightful culmination to the day’s Luberon adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Private Tour?

This is a private tour, so the group size is limited to just the customer and their party. The tour is not open to the general public, providing a personalized experience for the individual or small group.

Does the Tour Have Any Age Restrictions?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. It’s a private tour open to travelers of all ages, as long as most can participate in the walking and exploration activities across the picturesque hilltop villages.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Our Preferences?

The private tour can be customized to suit travelers’ preferences. The guide works closely with guests to tailor the itinerary, pace, and activities based on their interests and needs. Flexibility ensures an optimal experience for all participants.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour provider offers flexibility to extend the tour duration upon request. Customers can discuss their preferences with the guide to tailor the experience and allocate more time for exploring the Luberon villages or visiting additional sites.

What Payment Methods Are Accepted for This Tour?

The tour accepts various payment methods, including credit cards and cash. Prepayment is required, and a surcharge may apply for pickups outside the specified radius. Gratuities are not included in the tour price.

Recap

This private tour provides a captivating journey through the enchanting Luberon region.

Visitors will explore the picturesque hilltop villages of Gordes, Menerbes, Lacoste, and Lourmarin, each steeped in history and charm.

They’ll marvel at the stunning architecture, scenic vistas, and vibrant local markets, while savoring delectable regional delicacies.

This immersive experience offers a chance to fully take in the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage of this captivating corner of Provence.