Wine, Olive Oil and Scenic Villages of Provence

Exploring Provence becomes truly special with this Wine, Olive Oil and Scenic Villages of Provence tour. For $186.14 per person, the 7.5-hour experience takes you through some of the region’s most picturesque spots, including Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. With an English-speaking guide, you get a deep dive into the local traditions of olive oil production and wine making, and the tour is perfect for those seeking a balance of cultural discovery and tasting experiences. The tour’s intimate group size — with a maximum of 8 travelers — ensures a relaxed pace and personalized attention, making it ideal for small groups or couples.

The full-day itinerary is thoughtfully arranged, with stops that showcase stunning villages, artisan olive oil mills, and prestigious vineyards. The journey begins in Aix-en-Provence, with convenient meeting arrangements. While the tour does not include lunch or snacks, it covers all tasting fees and entry costs, providing excellent value for anyone interested in Provençal culinary arts and scenic landscapes. A real strength of this experience is the expert guide, who explains the significance of each site and helps you appreciate the region’s unique flavors and sights.

Key Points

• Includes visits to Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, two of Provence’s most charming villages
• Olive oil mill visit with insights into traditional production methods
• Vineyard tour and wine tasting at Domaine De Métifiot, renowned for its high-quality wines
• All tasting and entrance fees included, with air-conditioned transportation
• Small group size ensures a relaxed, personalized experience
• Tour duration is about 7.5 hours, departing at 9:00am from Aix-en-Provence

The Charm of Les Baux-de-Provence

The tour starts with a scenic drive of about an hour from Aix-en-Provence to the village of Les Baux-de-Provence. Known for its dramatic ruins and narrow cobblestone streets, Les Baux looks like a scene straight out of a film. The local driver/guide shares stories about its history and architecture, creating a vivid picture of its past. Visitors get around an hour to explore, enjoy its stunning views, and browse local shops and eateries. This stop balances sightseeing with free time, allowing a personal appreciation of the village’s beauty.

Olive Oil Experience at Moulin Castelas

Next, the tour shifts to an authentic olive oil mill, Moulin Castelas. This one-hour visit offers a close-up look at the olive oil production process, from harvesting olives to pressing. You get to see the traditional methods used in Provence, which contribute to the delicate aromas and flavors of the oils. The mill’s setting emphasizes the region’s agricultural heritage, and tasting sessions are included, highlighting the best oils Provence has to offer. This stop is a must for food lovers eager to understand local culinary traditions.

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence’s Weekly Market

Later, the tour arrives in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, famous for its weekly market. This two-hour stop is your chance to stroll through a lively space filled with colorful stalls offering fresh produce, local crafts, and regional specialties. The market’s aromas and sights create a vibrant atmosphere, embodying the authentic Provençal spirit. Visitors can enjoy free time to purchase souvenirs, sample local foods, or simply admire the charming streets surrounding the market square.

Wine Tasting at Domaine De Métifiot

In the afternoon, the highlight for wine enthusiasts is a guided tour of Domaine De Métifiot, a well-regarded vineyard. This 1 hour 15 minutes experience covers the terroir, climate, and grape varieties that shape the Alpilles wines. The estate’s knowledgeable guide shares insights into winemaking techniques and the region’s vintage quality. The visit concludes with a wine tasting, allowing guests to sample some of Provence’s finest wines. The included tasting fees ensure a relaxed, educational experience in a stunning setting.

Practical Details for the Day

The tour starts at 9:00am from Aix-en-Provence’s meeting point at 300 Av. Giuseppe Verdi. An air-conditioned vehicle transports the group between stops, making the day comfortable regardless of weather. The group size is a maximum of 8 travelers, fostering a more personalized experience. While lunch and snacks are not included, the tour provides all tasting fees and entry tickets, offering excellent value. Travelers should dress appropriately for outdoor walking, wear good shoes, and bring sun protection and a water bottle.

Unique Features and Highlights of the Tour

What sets this Provençal tour apart is the combination of cultural, gastronomic, and scenic experiences in a compact full-day format. The visits to Les Baux and Saint-Rémy showcase historic villages with stunning views and an authentic local atmosphere. The inclusion of an olive oil mill demonstrates regional artisanal practices, while the vineyard tour and tasting provide an insider look at Provence’s acclaimed wines. The expert guide enhances the journey with engaging stories and insights, making each stop more meaningful.

Considerations and Tips for Participants

This tour is suitable for most travelers, but children under 10 may find the pace challenging. Participants should be prepared for outdoor walking and weather conditions, as the tour operates in all weather. Since lunch is not provided, guests might want to plan for a meal either before or after the tour. The small group size means a more intimate experience, but it also requires timely arrivals and advanced booking, as the tour is often booked 81 days in advance.

The Value of This Provence Experience

With a fixed price of $186.14, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Provence’s villages, gastronomy, and vineyards. The inclusion of tastings and entrance fees makes it a comprehensive option for those wanting to sample local specialties without extra costs. The expert guidance and small-group format ensure an engaging and personalized day, ideal for food lovers, history buffs, and scenery seekers alike.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience suits adults and older children (over 10) who appreciate history, culture, and local food and drink. It’s a good choice for small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed day in Provence. While it doesn’t include lunch, the tastings and beautiful locations compensate for that, making it a rich and satisfying way to see Provence’s highlights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transportation between all stops.

What is the tour duration?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours 30 minutes, starting at 9:00am.

Are meals included?
No, lunch, snacks, and bottled water are not included, so plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old.

What does the wine tasting involve?
Guests visit Domaine De Métifiot for a guided tour and tasting of high-quality wines.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is often booked 81 days in advance; early booking is recommended.

What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable shoes suitable for walking and bring sun protection like sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 300 Av. Giuseppe Verdi, Aix-en-Provence.

Can I bring luggage?
If you need to bring luggage, please inform the provider about the quantity and size in advance.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for outdoor activities.

Who is the provider?
The experience is offered by Provence Wine Tours.

This Wine, Olive Oil, and Scenic Villages of Provence tour offers a thoughtful, well-paced way to experience the best of Provence’s villages, culinary traditions, and vineyard excellence—a perfect choice for those eager to enjoy authentic Provençal culture in a comfortable, small-group setting.