Provence and Lavender – private & Guided Full Day Tour

Exploring Provence with a private guide offers an intimate look at some of the region’s most iconic sights, all in one day. This full-day tour from Nice, priced at $1,520.06 per group for up to 8 people, is designed for travelers who want a personalized experience of Provence’s natural beauty and charming villages. The tour includes visits to Lac de Sainte Croix, the Plateau de Valensole lavender fields, and the picturesque village of Moustiers Sainte-Marie. With a duration of approximately 9 hours, it balances scenic stops with manageable pacing, making it suitable for most travelers.

One of the key strengths of this tour is the private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring comfort while exploring. The tour starts at 8:15 am and includes all fees and taxes, with no hidden costs. It’s a flexible option for those who want a full day of sightseeing with the convenience of a dedicated guide. However, lunch is not included, which allows travelers to choose their preferred dining options along the way.

This experience is especially popular, often booked 115 days in advance, reflecting its appeal among visitors seeking an efficient yet comprehensive Provence adventure. The tour’s five-star reviews highlight its well-planned itinerary, expert guide, and stunning highlights, making it a reliable choice for a memorable day trip.

Key Points

• Private full-day tour from Nice lasting around 9 hours
• Visits to Lac de Sainte Croix, Valensole lavender fields, and Moustiers Sainte-Marie
• Includes private transport, air-conditioned vehicle, and all taxes
• Guided tour led by a qualified driver and guide
• Booking well in advance is recommended, with availability confirmed within 48 hours
• Lunch not included, giving flexibility for personal dining choices

Luxurious Private Transport and Flexible Timing

The tour starts promptly at 8:15 am, with private pickup offered to your group, ensuring a smooth start. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, the guide takes care of navigation, letting you relax and enjoy the scenery. This private approach means personalized attention and the flexibility to customize certain parts of the day if desired.

While the duration is about 9 hours, the schedule allows for a leisurely pace at each stop. The early start helps maximize your time in Provence without feeling rushed. The full transparency of included fees and taxes means no surprises at checkout, and the mobile ticket offers added convenience.

Exploring Lac de Sainte Croix: A Jewel at the Gorges du Verdon

The first stop, Lac de Sainte Croix, is a picturesque reservoir located at the foot of the Gorges du Verdon. Known for its crystal-clear water and wooded setting, this lake is considered one of the most beautiful in Provence. Visitors can enjoy the serenity of the natural landscape and snap photos of the stunning scenery.

Spending 30 minutes here provides enough time for sightseeing and photos, but it remains a brief stop that allows for the next adventures. The lake’s jealously guarded water quality makes it a highlight, especially for those appreciating unspoiled natural beauty. No admission fees are required for this stop.

The Lavender Fields of Valensole: A World-Renowned Floral Panorama

The Plateau de Valensole is famous worldwide for its vast lavender fields that bloom during the summer months, typically from mid-June to mid-July. The tour includes a guided walk through these fragrant, purple fields, where the atmosphere is filled with the scent of lavender.

A visit to a lavender processing plant allows for a closer look at how the flowers are turned into oils and other products. This is a 30-minute stop with free admission, providing an opportunity for photos and learning about the region’s lavender industry. The views here are a favorite for many, offering iconic Provence scenery perfect for memorable pictures.

Moustiers Sainte-Marie: The Village with the Star and Blue Earthenware

The journey continues to Moustiers Sainte-Marie, recognized among France’s most beautiful villages. Its ramparts, fountains, and famous blue monochrome earthenware decorating homes and shops make it a charming stop. The village is set at the foot of the Gorges du Verdon, offering a wooded backdrop that adds to its allure.

Spending about 2 hours here, visitors can stroll through narrow lanes and explore local shops. The highlight is the star suspended in the void, a distinctive monument visible from many vantage points. This stop provides a perfect blend of cultural charm and scenic vistas, making it a favorite among travelers seeking authentic Provençal experiences.

Discovering the Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Saint-Maximin

The tour also features a visit to the Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Saint-Maximin la Sainte-Baume, widely regarded as the most beautiful Gothic building in Provence. This historic church impresses with its architectural grandeur and spiritual significance.

While the exact duration of this stop isn’t specified, it allows visitors to admire the stunning Gothic details and possibly explore the surrounding town. This addition enriches the tour by combining natural beauty with architectural and religious history.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Booking, and Accessibility

The tour begins with pickup services, making logistics straightforward for travelers staying in or near Nice. The group size is limited to 8 people, providing a more personalized experience compared to larger group tours.

The tour’s bookings average 115 days in advance, indicating high demand, especially during lavender season. The full refund policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, adding peace of mind for planning.

Most travelers find this tour accessible, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation. The private nature of the tour ensures that your group is the only participants, enhancing comfort and flexibility.

Final Thoughts on the Provence and Lavender Tour

This private guided tour from Nice offers an excellent way to see Provence’s most celebrated sights within a single day. Its personalized approach, combined with visits to iconic lavender fields, charming villages, and a stunning lake, makes it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet relaxed experience.

The expert guide and comfortable transportation receive praise for making the day both enjoyable and efficient. While lunch is not included, this allows for personal meal choices along the route, making the tour adaptable to individual preferences.

The tour provides stunning scenery, cultural highlights, and a smooth logistical setup, making it a highly recommended option for visitors eager to explore Provence’s essence without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 9 hours, starting at 8:15 am.

What is included in the price?
Private transportation, air-conditioned vehicle, and all fees and taxes are included. Lunch is not included.

How many stops are there?
There are at least three main stops: Lac de Sainte Croix, Valensole lavender fields, and Moustiers Sainte-Marie, plus a visit to the Basilica in Saint-Maximin.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The physical activity is minimal but includes walking through villages and outdoor sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

Is booking necessary in advance?
Yes, this tour is often booked 115 days in advance, especially during lavender season.

Are there any additional costs?
No, all fees and taxes are included. However, meals and personal souvenirs are extra.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private guide, personalized attention, and the chance to visit multiple iconic sites in one day are the key highlights.

Can I customize the stops?
The tour is private, allowing some flexibility, but the itinerary mainly follows the described stops.

What is the best time to see the lavender fields?
The lavender is in bloom from mid-June to mid-July, making this the ideal period for the most stunning views.

This Provence and Lavender private tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural discovery, and comfortable logistics, making it a top choice for travelers eager to experience the best of Provence in a single day.