From Avignon: Lavender Villages Full-Day Tour

Explore Provence’s Iconic Lavender Fields and Charming Villages

The From Avignon: Lavender Villages Full-Day Tour offers a detailed look at the landscapes and towns that define Provence’s lavender season. Priced to include a full 8.5-hour experience, this tour is perfect for those eager to witness vibrant lavender fields in full bloom, visit historic sites, and stroll through lively open-air markets. Departing from Avignon, the tour takes small groups of up to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and comfortable journey.

The tour’s highlights include picturesque views of lavender in full bloom, visits to Gordes, a stunning hilltop village renowned for its dry-stone architecture, and an opportunity to admire the Sénanque Abbey, an iconic abbey surrounded by lavender fields. The tour also features time in Sault, a town famous for its enchanting streets and local shops, and the chance to explore a vibrant open-air market showcasing regional produce and crafts.

While the full-day itinerary offers a rich experience, it’s important to note that the program may shift depending on the lavender’s blooming stage. The tour is suitable for those with comfortable footwear and a love for scenic drives, but it is not designed for children under 4 or those with mobility issues.

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Key Points

• Departs from Avignon’s tourist info center at 41 Cours Jean Jaurès
• Duration: 8.5 hours, with flexible start times
• Led by experienced guides who speak English and French
• Small group size ensures personalized attention
• Includes visits to Sénanque Abbey, Gordes, and Sault
• Seasonal stops may include sunflower fields during peak bloom
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the tour

The Tour Starts at Avignon’s Tourist Information Center

The journey begins in front of the tourist information center at 41 Cours Jean Jaurès in Avignon, with precise coordinates 43.944984436035156, 4.805769443511963. This central meeting point makes it easy to join the group, and the tour operates with live guides who switch between English and French. The group size is limited to 8 people, fostering a relaxed environment for questions and personalized commentary.

Scenic Drives Through Lavender Fields in Full Bloom

Travel along scenic roads through wild lavender fields to reach key stops like Roussillon, where the landscape is dotted with purple blooms during peak season. If traveling between 06/06 and 10/07, this route includes a visit to Roussillon, while from 11/07 to 31/07, the focus shifts to Sault. The coach makes many photo stops so visitors can capture the vibrant lavender, and the guide offers insights about the plants and their cultural significance.

Visiting Sénanque Abbey Surrounded by Lavender

A highlight of this tour is the Sénanque Abbey, a medieval monastery surrounded by lavender fields, providing a classic Provence photo opportunity. The abbey’s exterior is admired, though access inside may depend on schedule and availability. This stop offers a glimpse into monastic life and the region’s history, complemented by the stunning natural setting. The tour notes that the abbey may only be viewed from outside if time is limited.

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Discover the Hilltop Village of Gordes

The tour includes a stop in Gordes, a renowned hilltop village characterized by its dry-stone architecture. Visitors have the chance to wander through its narrow streets, admire the stone houses, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. This village stands out for its picturesque setting and historical charm, making it a favorite for photographs and leisurely exploration.

Experience the Enchanting Streets of Sault

Sault features cobblestone streets lined with local shops and cafes, perfect for a gentle stroll. During the lavender season, the town’s scenery is especially colorful, and the open-air market offers regional produce, fruits, vegetables, and handcrafted items. This stop allows for a relaxed exploration, giving a taste of local life in Provence.

Seasonal Photo Opportunities with Sunflowers

Depending on the blooming stage of lavender, the itinerary may include an additional photo stop in sunflower fields during the peak blooming period. This is a spontaneous opportunity to capture the bright yellow flowers, adding variety to the landscape photos and enhancing the overall visual experience.

Practical Details: What to Bring and What to Avoid

To make the most of the tour, travelers should wear comfortable shoes, bring sunglasses, a sun hat, and a camera for photos. Since the tour involves some walking and outdoor stops, practical clothing is recommended. Be aware that pets, oversize luggage, smoking, and large bags are not permitted on the vehicle. The tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or individuals with mobility impairments.

Flexibility and Booking Options

The tour offers pay later reservation options, allowing travelers to secure their spot without immediate payment. Cancellations are free if made up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility to adjust plans. The live guides are bilingual, delivering engaging commentary in English and French throughout the day.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Similar Experiences

Compared to other lavender tours, this small-group experience guarantees personalized attention and the chance to visit several notable villages and landmarks in a single day. Its flexible itinerary, subject to lavender blooming conditions, enhances the chance to see flowers at their peak. The inclusion of local markets and scenic drives contributes to an authentic Provence experience.

Potential Limitations to Consider

The tour’s schedule can be tight, with some stops lasting less than an hour. The abbey is viewed mainly from outside, which may disappoint those hoping for interior access. Plus, the driving time can be significant, so travelers looking for a more leisurely pace might find this aspect challenging.

Why This Tour Will Appeal to You

If you value expert guides, stunning landscapes, and visiting multiple charming villages in one day, this tour offers strong value. Its small group size ensures a more intimate experience, ideal for those seeking personalized insights and fewer crowds. The focus on lavender during its peak makes it perfect for photography enthusiasts and those wanting to enjoy Provence’s most iconic scenery.

The Sum Up: A Balanced and Personal Provence Experience

The From Avignon: Lavender Villages Full-Day Tour combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and vibrant landscapes into a well-rounded day in Provence. Its small group setting and professional guides provide a more engaging experience, especially when the lavender is in full bloom.

While the schedule may feel rushed at some stops, the opportunity to see Gordes, Sénanque Abbey, and Sault makes this a compelling choice for visitors eager to explore Provence’s lavender country. It’s particularly suited for those who want a structured yet flexible day of sightseeing, with the chance for plenty of photos and local flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts 8.5 hours, starting and ending in Avignon, with various stops along the way.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from 41 Cours Jean Jaurès, in front of the tourist info center in Avignon.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, a camera, and water.

Are there any restrictions for participants?
Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 4 years or those with mobility impairments. Pets, oversize luggage, smoking, and large bags are not allowed.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour bilingual?
The guides speak English and French, switching between both languages during the day.

Will we see lavender in full bloom?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to coincide with peak blooming periods, though the exact timing may vary depending on weather and flowering stages.

What other stops are included?
Notable stops include Gordes, Sénanque Abbey, and Sault. There’s also an opportunity to visit local markets and, seasonally, sunflower fields.

How personalized is the experience?
With a small group of up to 8 participants, the tour offers a more intimate and flexible experience compared to larger group excursions.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with full flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its small group size, expert guides, and the chance to explore several key locations in a single day make it a well-rounded choice for Provence visitors seeking a comprehensive lavender experience.

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