From Avignon: Luberon Villages Day Tour

Key Points

• Explore four iconic hilltop villages in the Luberon region, including Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes.
• Visit Fontaine de Vaucluse to see its famous spring and emerald waters, with free time to explore.
• Enjoy a scenic photo stop at Gordes’ overlook to admire stunning views of vineyards and olive groves.
• Spend ample time in Roussillon to stroll through colorful streets and walk the Ochre Trail, with a flexible 2-hour visit.
• Visit Ménerbes, a peaceful fortified village known for inspiring Peter Mayle’s novel One Year in Provence.
• Small group size limited to 8 participants, with live commentary in multiple languages.
• Price of $123 per person for an 8.5-hour guided tour, with included transportation and insights.
• Tour departs from Avignon’s Tourism Office and offers a comprehensive look at the Luberon’s villages and landscapes.

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Fontaine de Vaucluse: The Spring and the River Sorgue

The tour begins with a 45-minute drive from Avignon to Fontaine de Vaucluse, a charming town along the river Sorgue. Here, free time is provided to marvel at the famous spring where water emerges from a mysterious chasm, creating a vivid emerald green flow that draws many visitors.

Walking along shaded pedestrian roads, visitors can explore an ancient watermill still producing traditional paper and visit an 11th-century Romanesque church. The setting offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a gentle introduction to the region’s natural beauty. This stop is often highlighted as a showstopper in the tour.

Overlook at Gordes: A Panoramic View of the Luberon

Next, the guide leads you to a photo stop at Gordes’ famed overlook, which provides a sweeping view of the vineyards and olive groves spanning the valley. This spot showcases the gentle green mountains and the lush landscape that defines the area.

A short walk from the overlook brings visitors into Gordes’ cobbled streets and the castle from the 16th century. Here, you find plenty of shopping opportunities and cozy cafes. The walk allows for stunning views of the hills, making it a favorite for photography and relaxing strolls.

Free Exploration of Gordes’ Historic Heart

After the photo stop, about an hour of free time in Gordes gives visitors the chance to explore at their own pace. The village’s narrow streets are lined with stone houses and quaint shops, perfect for browsing or enjoying a coffee or ice cream. The views from the town are particularly captivating, with rolling hills and terraced vineyards visible from many vantage points.

Lunch and Walking in Roussillon’s Colorful Streets

At around 1 pm, the tour takes you to Roussillon, known for its vivid ochre-colored buildings. The village’s streets are painted in shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating an almost artistic backdrop for an exploration and a relaxed lunch break.

In the longer stay here, visitors can choose a café or snack bar for lunch, with ample time to walk the streets and admire the colorful facades. Roussillon’s Ochre Trail—a pathway through former ochre mines—is a highlight if you opt to walk it, with an entrance fee of €3.50 per adult (not included). This trail reveals the striking red cliffs and the history behind ochre extraction.

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Ménerbes: The Tranquil Hilltop Village

Following lunch, the tour moves to Ménerbes, a listed most beautiful village of France. This fortified village offers a peaceful walk along its quiet streets, where traditional stone buildings and scenic views of the surrounding countryside invite relaxation.

Peter Mayle drew inspiration from Ménerbes for his novel One Year in Provence, adding literary charm to the visit. The village’s calm atmosphere and stunning landscapes make it a perfect spot for photos and leisurely exploration.

Summary of the Tour’s Logistics and Experience

The entire day lasts approximately 8.5 hours, with a small group limit of 8 participants to ensure personalized attention. The tour departs from the Avignon Tourism Office and features live commentary in French, English, and Italian, making it accessible to a diverse group.

Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, with all parking, tolls, and gas fees included. The tour does not include food, drinks, or entry fees to attractions like the Ochre Trail, but ample free time allows for meal options and exploration.

Why This Tour Offers Value and Authenticity

The price of $123 per person covers a full day of guided sightseeing, scenic drives, and comfortable transportation. Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for their friendly demeanor and informative commentary.

The tour’s pacing balances structured stops with free time for independent discovery, making it suitable for those who want to explore at their own pace. The highlighted stops—Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes, Roussillon, and Ménerbes—collectively showcase the region’s diverse landscapes, colorful architecture, and cultural sites.

Limitations and Considerations

This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to the cobbled streets and walking involved in some stops. Visitors should bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for some walking. The tour does not include hotel pickup, so planning transportation to the meeting point is necessary.

Plus, while lunch is flexible, no organized meal is provided, so travelers should plan accordingly. The Ochre Trail walk requires a small entrance fee, which is not included in the ticket price.

Perfect For History and Nature Enthusiasts

This tour attracts those eager to experience multiple villages in one day, combining natural wonders, colorful towns, and scenic vistas. It’s ideal for first-time visitors to the region who want an overview without the hassle of self-driving.

The small group size and live multilingual guides enhance the experience, making it engaging and intimate. The stunning views, off-the-beaten-path charm, and local insights ensure a memorable day exploring Provence’s best-known villages.

Final Thoughts on the From Avignon: Luberon Villages Day Tour

With a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 68 reviews, this tour consistently delivers on its promises of scenic beauty, charming villages, and expert guiding. The $123 price point offers good value for an 8.5-hour experience, especially considering the included transportation and personalized attention.

While it’s not suited for travelers with mobility issues, those who enjoy walking, photography, and local culture will find this tour rich in highlights. The diverse stops and flexible schedule make it a fabulous way to see the essence of the Luberon in a single day.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts about 8.5 hours.
• Where does the tour start? It departs from the Avignon Tourism Office.
• Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, but there is ample time for a meal in Roussillon.
• How many people are in each group? The tour is limited to 8 participants for a more personalized experience.
• What languages are the guides available in? Guides lead in French, English, and Italian.
• Is transportation included? Yes, air-conditioned vehicle and all parking, tolls, and gas are included.
• Can I walk the Ochre Trail? Yes, the Ochre Trail is optional; entrance fee €3.50 not included.
• Are there any accessibility issues? The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
• What should I bring? Comfortable shoes are recommended.
• Is hotel pickup provided? No, guests need to meet at the Avignon Tourism Office.