The picturesque Luberon villages of Lourmarin, Lauris & Cucuron

Explore the Picturesque Luberon Villages in Comfort and Style

This private tour offers a seamless way to visit the beautiful Luberon villages of Lourmarin, Lauris, and Cucuron without the hassle of planning transportation or research. Priced at $568.72 per person, it spans around 7 to 8 hours and is ideal for those who want an intimate, guided experience through some of Provence’s most charming spots. The tour includes private transportation and features several highlights such as visits to local artisans, scenic photo stops, and authentic regional tastings. It is suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness and is not recommended for port-side excursions arriving and departing from the Marseille port on the same day.

The tour begins at 9:00 am, with a pickup service that ensures a smooth start from your location in Aix-en-Provence. A private driver transports your group comfortably between stops, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenery. While lunch is not included, plenty of opportunities for local food and wine shopping await at various stops, especially during visits to a winemaker and olive oil producer. This tour appeals to those who appreciate a personalized touch, smaller crowds, and the chance to learn about regional products firsthand.

Key Points

• Private guided experience in the Luberon villages of Lourmarin, Lauris, and Cucuron
• Includes visits to a winemaker and olive oil producer with tastings
• Duration of 7-8 hours, leaving ample time for sightseeing and photo opportunities
• Pickup included from Aix-en-Provence, with no group crowds
• Stops at iconic villages, including Lourmarin, Lauris, Cucuron, and Bonnieux
• Not suitable for port excursions arriving and departing from Marseille on the same day

Discovering Lourmarin: A Village of Charm and History

The tour kicks off in Lourmarin, known for its medieval castle and narrow streets lined with shops and cafes. This village exudes Provençal charm, and you’ll have about an hour to explore its historic streets and enjoy the atmosphere. The Lourmarin Castle, which dominates the village, offers an impressive backdrop for photos, even though admission is free during the visit.

This stop provides a glimpse into local life and architecture, with some free time to browse shops or relax in a cafe. Lourmarin’s popularity partly comes from its feature in Peter Mayle’s “A Year in Provence”, making it a well-loved destination for visitors seeking an authentic Provençal experience.

Lauris: The Hilltop Village and Its Gardens

Next, the tour visits Lauris, a hilltop village that offers splendid views of the surrounding countryside. Here, the walk includes a visit to the gardens of the old castle, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll amid lush greenery. The stop lasts around 45 minutes, with an optional light lunch available, making it a good chance to relax and soak in the scenic surroundings.

Lauris provides a quieter atmosphere compared to Lourmarin, with a focus on local history and garden beauty. The village’s elevated position offers spectacular views that are perfect for photography and appreciating the Provençal landscape.

Cucuron: Village Life and the Iconic Pond

The third stop is Cucuron, famed for its village shops and the lively central pond, which is a favorite spot for photos. This stop lasts about 45 minutes, giving visitors time to explore the local shops and experience everyday village life. Cucuron’s narrow streets and traditional architecture make it a charming place to wander and pick up local crafts or souvenirs.

This stop captures the essence of Provence’s small village charm, offering authentic glimpses into local traditions and community life.

Olive Oil and Wine Tasting at Bastide du Laval

A highlight of the tour is the visit to Bastide du Laval, where you explore an olive oil mill. The visit includes tastings of freshly produced olive oil and, optionally, a walk through the olive groves. The admission fee is included, and this stop is about an hour long.

Following the olive oil tasting, there is an opportunity to visit a local winery for wine tasting and to purchase regional products such as local food and wine. This visit provides an authentic look into Provence’s agricultural traditions and the chance to enjoy tastings directly from local producers.

Final Stop in Bonnieux: The Old Village

The tour concludes in Bonnieux, a village within the Luberon national park, where you spend about 45 minutes exploring its historic streets and cliffside views. Bonnieux’s old village is renowned for its medieval architecture and panoramic vistas over the countryside. Visitors can appreciate the atmosphere of this picturesque village, with opportunities for more photos and local shopping.

This stop offers a fitting end to the tour, showcasing a quintessential Provençal village with both cultural and scenic appeal.

Practical Details: Transportation and Timing

This private tour begins at 9:00 am with a pickup from your accommodation or a designated meeting point in Aix-en-Provence. The entire experience lasts around 7 to 8 hours, allowing a relaxed pace for sightseeing, tasting, and exploring each village.

Transportation is included, providing a comfortable ride between all stops, which makes it easier to enjoy the sights without worrying about navigation or parking. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking is involved at each village, but no strenuous activities are required.

What Sets This Tour Apart: Private Experience and Regional Tastings

Unlike group bus tours, this experience offers a private, personalized journey with just your group and a dedicated driver. This allows for a more flexible and intimate exploration of the Luberon villages.

The inclusion of olive oil and wine tastings adds a tasting dimension that many similar tours omit. Visiting local artisans and learning how olive oil is made from scratch provides an authentic connection to the Provençal lifestyle. The spectacular photo opportunities, including views of a castle and olive groves, appeal to those wanting to capture memorable images.

Limitations and Considerations

While this tour offers a comprehensive view of the region, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan for meals during the stops. It is not suitable for those arriving and departing from Marseille port on the same day, as the tour’s timings and logistics are centered around Aix-en-Provence.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some walking and exploring are involved at each location. The tour is also exclusively for private groups, providing a more tailored experience but at a higher price point compared to larger group options.

Why This Tour Works for Provençal Enthusiasts

This 7-8 hour private experience is perfect for visitors who want a personalized, relaxed day exploring the iconic villages of Lourmarin, Lauris, Cucuron, and Bonnieux. The regional tastings and scenic stops make it especially appealing to those interested in local food, wine, and culture.

The focus on authentic Provençal villages combined with professional guiding ensures visitors gain both insight and beautiful memories, all while enjoying the comfort of private transportation. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who values flexibility, culture, and scenic beauty in their Provence experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, as long as participants have moderate physical fitness and are comfortable walking around the villages, this tour can work for families.

What is included in the price?
The price covers private transportation and admission to the olive oil mill with tastings. Lunch and additional purchases are not included.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Being a private tour, it offers flexibility to some extent, but the itinerary is generally fixed. Contact OohProvence for specific requests.

How far in advance should I book?
This tour is typically booked around 61 days in advance, so early planning is recommended to secure your preferred date.

Is there any age restriction?
There are no specific age restrictions, but travelers should be able to walk comfortably and handle the walking involved at each village.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option should plans change.

This private tour of the Luberon villages offers a well-rounded experience, emphasizing local culture, scenic beauty, and regional specialties. It suits travelers seeking a more intimate connection with Provence’s most charming spots, making it a worthwhile choice for a memorable day in the South of France.