The Grand Canyon of Europe and Its Lavender Fields Small Group

Exploring the natural wonders of southern France, the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’ and Provence’s famous lavender fields make for an unforgettable small group adventure. Visitors can enjoy the dramatic scenery of the Verdon Gorge, wander the medieval streets of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, and witness the vibrant purple hues of the lavender blooms during peak season. With comfortable transport and a local guide, this tour offers a personalized experience to discover the region’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage. But there’s more to uncover about this unique journey through one of Europe’s most breathtaking destinations.

Key Points

• Explore the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, often referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ on a small-group tour departing from Nice.
• Visit the charming medieval town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, known for its stunning architecture and renowned pottery tradition.
• Witness the famous lavender fields of Provence during the peak blooming season (late June to late July).
• Enjoy a comfortable and personalized experience with air-conditioned transportation and a professional driver/guide.
• This tour is family-friendly, accommodating strollers and infant seats, but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

The tour provides the opportunity to discover southern France’s spectacular scenery, including the Verdon Gorge, often referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe‘.

Travelers will journey in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan with pickup from their Nice hotel, ensuring a personal and hassle-free experience. This small-group tour allows for an intimate and tailored exploration of the region.

Key highlights include visiting the dramatic Verdon Gorge, exploring the medieval town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, and seeing the famous lavender fields of Provence during the peak season from late June to late July.

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and entrance to waterfalls.

Key Highlights

Visitors on this tour will witness the dramatic Verdon Gorge, a stunning river-carved canyon often referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’.

They’ll then explore the medieval town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie, known for its charming architecture and quaint streets.

Lastly, travelers can enjoy the famous lavender fields of Provence, which bloom in vibrant shades of purple during the peak season from late June to late July.

The tour guide will lead guests through these breathtaking natural landscapes and historic sites, providing insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

With comfortable transportation and a small group size, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience of southern France’s most captivating destinations.

Included

This tour includes several key features to enhance the overall experience. It provides a professional driver/guide who’ll lead guests through the tour, offering insights into the region’s history and culture.

Hotel pickup and drop-off services are included, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day. Comfortable air-conditioned transportation is provided throughout the tour, and entrance fees to the Verdon Gorge waterfalls are covered.

The tour also accommodates families, with stroller and infant seats available. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and charming towns without worrying about logistics.

Duration and Logistics

Totaling approximately 8 hours, the tour departs from Nice around 30 minutes before the scheduled start time, ensuring a timely arrival at the first destination.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but stroller and infant seats are available, accommodating families with young children.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

The tour offers a personal experience in a comfortable air-conditioned minivan.

Additional Details

Confirmation is provided at the time of booking, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details before embarking on the tour.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with serious medical conditions, prioritizing the safety and comfort of all participants.

Lavender season typically runs from the end of June to the end of July, though the exact timing depends on weather conditions.

Visitors are encouraged to bring a camera and wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the scenic landscapes.

The tour is only available for pickup from Nice and not for cruise travelers.

With these additional details in mind, travelers can look forward to a memorable and seamless exploration of southern France’s natural wonders.

Verdon Gorge

The Verdon Gorge, a dramatic river-carved chasm, stretches for over 15 miles through the heart of the Provence region in southern France. Often dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ this natural wonder is a must-see for any visitor to the area.

Highlights of the Verdon Gorge include:

• Breathtaking views from the rim, which tower up to 2,300 feet above the turquoise waters below
• Opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities along the gorge’s scenic trails and waterways
• The charming village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, perched on the edge of the gorge and known for its renowned pottery.

Whether you’re seeking stunning landscapes or a chance to learn about the natural beauty of Provence, the Verdon Gorge is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Moustiers Sainte-Marie

Nestled along the edge of the Verdon Gorge, the medieval town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie captivates visitors with its charming stone buildings, winding alleyways, and renowned pottery tradition.

Perched atop a cliff, the town’s centerpiece is the 13th-century Collegiate Church, which features a golden star suspended between two rocky peaks – a symbol of the town’s religious heritage.

Wander through the quaint streets, stopping to admire the intricate ceramic creations at the local workshops, or take in panoramic views of the breathtaking gorge from the surrounding hills.

With its picturesque setting and rich cultural history, Moustiers Sainte-Marie offers a delightful respite amidst the dramatic natural beauty of the Verdon region.

Lavender Fields

Amidst the dramatic landscapes of the Verdon region, the famed lavender fields of Provence burst into bloom, painting the countryside in a mesmerizing sea of purple hues. Visitors can expect to witness this stunning natural display during the peak season from late June to late July, when the plants are in full flower.

The tour offers the chance to stroll through these captivating fields, breathe in the calming aroma, and capture the beauty with unforgettable photographs.

The lavender fields bloom in shades ranging from soft lilac to deep indigo, creating a stunning visual tapestry.

The fragrance of the lavender blossoms fills the air, offering a truly sensory experience for visitors.

Exploring the lavender fields provides a peaceful respite from the bustle of everyday life, immersing guests in the tranquil beauty of the Provençal countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

Pets are generally not allowed on the tour. The tour operator does not permit pets in the minivan for safety and comfort reasons. However, service animals may be accommodated with prior notice.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on small-group tours. However, they should check with the tour operator beforehand for any specific policies or recommendations regarding food and drink consumption during the tour.

Is There Wifi Available in the Minivan?

The small group tour does not provide Wi-Fi in the minivan. Travelers should plan to rely on their own mobile data or offline maps and guides during the tour, as connectivity may be limited in the remote areas visited.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Customers can request customizations to the itinerary, though the tour operator may not be able to accommodate all preferences. The provider aims to offer a pre-designed experience, but may consider minor changes if feasible and within the tour’s scope.

Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, they may consider providing special pricing for larger groups or offer package deals that could result in savings. It’s best to inquire directly about any available discounts.

Recap

The Grand Canyon of Europe and Its Lavender Fields Small Group tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the captivating natural and cultural landscapes of southern France.

From the awe-inspiring Verdon Gorge to the picturesque lavender fields, this small-group experience provides a personalized and comprehensive exploration of the region’s renowned attractions, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to discover the charm and beauty of Provence.