Verdon Gorge and Moustiers Ste-Marie Tour From Aix-En-Provence

The Verdon Gorge and Moustiers Ste-Marie Tour from Aix-en-Provence promises a captivating exploration of the region’s natural wonders and historic charm. Guests will be mesmerized by the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, often dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ before seeing the serene waters of Lake Ste-Croix. The tour also unveils the quaint village of Moustiers Ste-Marie, renowned for its historic architecture, and the picturesque lavender fields of the Plateau de Valensole, where visitors can gain unique insights into the area’s agricultural heritage. With a range of activities and experiences, this tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the region’s natural and cultural treasures.

Key Points

• A full-day tour from Aix-en-Provence to the Verdon Gorge, Lake of Ste-Croix, and the charming village of Moustiers Ste-Marie.
• Explore the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’, and visit a local lavender producer in Valensole.
• Enjoy a 30-minute stop at the serene Lake of Ste-Croix for swimming and scenic views.
• Discover the historic architecture and charms of the village of Moustiers Ste-Marie during a 1.5-hour exploration.
• The tour includes professional driver/guide, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off for a hassle-free experience.

Tour Overview

This 9.5-hour tour from Aix-en-Provence takes visitors to the picturesque town of Moustiers Ste-Marie, with highlights including the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, the serene Lake of Ste-Croix, and a stop at a local producer in Valensole.

The tour includes a professional driver/guide and transportation by air-conditioned minivan, with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Guests will have the opportunity to explore the stunning Verdon Gorge, spend time at the tranquil Lake of Ste-Croix, and visit the charming village of Moustiers Ste-Marie.

Plus, the tour includes a stop at the Plateau de Valensole, where visitors can enjoy the lavender fields and meet a local producer.

Highlights of the Tour

Exploring the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, often dubbed the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe,’ is a mesmerizing highlight of the tour, as visitors marvel at the dramatic limestone cliffs and crystal-clear turquoise waters.

Guests can also visit the serene Lake of Ste-Croix, which offers opportunities for swimming, relaxing, and taking in the picturesque scenery.

The charming village of Moustiers Ste-Marie, known for its stunning sandstone buildings and medieval charm, provides a delightful stop to explore local shops and restaurants.

A visit to the Plateau de Valensole, famous for its expansive lavender fields, allows guests to witness the region’s natural beauty and rich agricultural heritage.

Pickup and Drop-off Locations

The tour begins at the main entrance of the Aix-en-Provence Tourist Information Center, where the air-conditioned minivan will pick up participants and transport them to the various destinations throughout the day.

At the end of the tour, visitors are dropped off right back at the original meeting point, ensuring a seamless and convenient start and finish to the excursion.

This pickup and drop-off arrangement provides several benefits:

• Hassle-free transportation from a central, easy-to-find location
• No need to worry about driving or parking during the tour
• Consistent start and end points for a smooth, organized experience
• Convenient for those staying in Aix-en-Provence or the surrounding area
• Eliminates the need for additional transportation arrangements

Key Stops Along the Way

The tour makes several notable stops throughout the day, allowing participants to fully experience the scenic wonders of the region.

First, visitors will be awestruck by the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, one of the deepest limestone canyons in Europe.

Next, they’ll spend 30 minutes exploring the tranquil Lake of Ste-Croix, with its stunning turquoise waters.

The tour then heads to the charming village of Moustiers Ste-Marie, where guests can wander the quaint streets and admire the historic architecture for an hour and a half.

Duration and Inclusions

This comprehensive tour from Aix-en-Provence lasts 9.5 hours and includes a professional driver/guide, air-conditioned transportation, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

The tour’s key features include:

• Exploring the stunning Verdon Gorge
• Spending 30 minutes at the picturesque Lake of Ste-Croix
• Discovering the charming village of Moustiers Ste-Marie for 1.5 hours
• Stopping at the Plateau de Valensole for 20 minutes
• Visiting a local producer in Valensole for 1 hour

With a maximum of 8 travelers, this tour ensures a personalized experience.

Guests are advised to bring swimwear and a towel if they plan to swim in the Lake of Ste-Croix, and note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Recommended Attire and Accessibility

Guests are advised to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and sturdy footwear for the tour, as it involves walking on uneven terrain.

Plus, swimwear and a towel are recommended if visitors plan to swim in the picturesque Lake of Ste-Croix.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible due to the nature of the sights and activities.

The tour is restricted to children under 4 years old, as it may not be suitable for young participants.

Guests can expect a maximum group size of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience.

The tour operator emphasizes the importance of checking the confirmation details upon booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Group Size and Age Restriction

With a maximum group size of 8 travelers, the tour operator ensures an intimate and personalized experience for guests. Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 4 years old, as it may pose safety concerns for young participants.

This size limit allows the guide to provide focused attention and tailored recommendations to each traveler, enhancing the overall experience.

Some key considerations regarding the group size and age restriction include:

• Smaller group size enables more flexibility and customization during the tour
• Ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants
• Helps maintain safety and security, especially in challenging terrain
• Caters to adult travelers seeking a more immersive and exclusive tour
• Allows the guide to provide personalized attention and share in-depth knowledge

Confirmation and Additional Details

Travelers typically receive confirmation of their booking at the time of purchase, ensuring their reservation is secured for the Verdon Gorge and Moustiers Ste-Marie tour from Aix-en-Provence.

The tour company recommends packing a swimsuit and towel if travelers plan to swim in the stunning Lake of Ste-Croix.

However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and children under 4 years old aren’t allowed to participate.

With a maximum of 8 travelers, the small group size allows for a more personalized experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator has a strict policy prohibiting animals, likely due to safety and logistical concerns. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets during the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t seem to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 9.5 hours and includes specific stops and activities. Extending the tour would likely require booking a private or customized tour option.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Other Sites?

While the tour’s itinerary is pre-determined, customers can often customize their experience by requesting additional stops or adjusting the duration at each location. The tour operator may be willing to accommodate such requests, though they may incur an extra fee.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour operator doesn’t seem to offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, it’s worth checking if there are any promotional offers or package deals that could provide savings. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for the Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy typically allows for full refunds up to 24 hours before the tour’s start time. Closer to the tour date, a partial refund or tour credit may be offered, so it’s best to check the policy details.

Recap

This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Verdon Gorge and Moustiers Ste-Marie, showcasing the region’s natural wonders and historic charm.

Guests will marvel at the breathtaking Verdon Gorge, relax by the Lake of Ste-Croix, and discover the charming village of Moustiers Ste-Marie, complete with a visit to the Plateau de Valensole to witness the picturesque lavender fields and meet a local producer.