From Marseille: Aix en Provence Wine and Cheese Tour – An In-Depth Look

This 7.5-hour guided journey explores the South of France’s renowned Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire wine region. For $176 per person, you’ll visit two small, family-run wineries, learn about French wine classification and winemaking, and enjoy tastings of rosés, reds, and whites. Plus, the tour features a visit to a traditional goat farm, where goat cheese tasting complements the wine experience. The tour concludes with free time in Aix-en-Provence, an elegant city famed for its art, architecture, and markets.

This tour offers a balanced mix of wine education, local production insights, and leisure time. It suits those interested in provence wines, local cheese, and cultural exploration, but might feel long for visitors seeking a more relaxed pace or specific city tours. Its small group size, limited to eight participants, enhances the personalized feel, guided by an English-speaking wine expert.

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Key Points

Full-day experience exploring Provence wines and goat cheese
Visits to two family-owned wineries with tastings of rosé, red, and white wines
Guided tour of a goat farm, learning cheese-making processes
Free time in Aix-en-Provence for sightseeing and shopping
Transportation in an air-conditioned minivan from central Marseille
Expert guidance with insights on French wine classification and regional grape varieties

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Departure Point and Transportation Details in Marseille

The tour departs from Place du Mazeau, centrally located in Marseille. A bus stop (Bus 49) on the street makes it easy to access. The air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort throughout the day’s travels as the group moves between the stops. The pick-up and drop-off arrangements at this location simplify logistics, especially for travelers staying nearby.

Exploring the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire Wine Region

The region’s landscape provides a stunning backdrop for wine production. The tour takes you to two wineries that are small, family-run estates, emphasizing authenticity and local tradition. These visits include guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, where the guide explains winemaking techniques and regional grape varieties. Tasting sessions showcase rosé wines, known for their delicate and aromatic profiles, along with more robust reds and fresh whites.

The first winery’s outdoor area is described as fantastic, offering a scenic setting for tasting. The second winery features a broader variety of wines, including oak-matured reds. The guided wine tastings provide insight into French wine classification systems and winemaking styles typical of Provence.

Visiting a Traditional Goat Farm and Cheese Tasting

The goat farm visit highlights Provence’s rural charm and traditional cheese-making methods. Visitors learn all about cheese production on foot along a small dirt path. The goat cheese tasting complements the wine experience, allowing guests to savor tangy, creamy cheeses paired with local wines.

In case of bad weather, the goat farm visit may be cancelled and replaced by a third vineyard visit, ensuring the day remains engaging. The small dirt path and the outdoor nature of the farm mean comfortable footwear, like suitable shoes, is recommended.

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Cultural Stop in Aix-en-Provence

After the morning wine and cheese visits, the tour grants you over an hour and a half of free time in Aix-en-Provence. Known for elegant architecture, lively markets, and art scenes, Aix-en-Provence offers a chance for leisure, shopping, or exploring independently. Although some reviews mention that the visit to the city could be more focused on local highlights, the free time allows visitors to tailor their experience.

Guests have the option to explore the city’s key points, visit marketplaces, or relax at a café. The tour’s timing ensures you can enjoy your own pace without feeling rushed before heading back to Marseille.

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Afternoon at the Second Winery and Tasting Experience

The second family-owned winery provides a more extensive tasting experience. You’ll taste several wines, including aromatic whites and oak-matured reds, in an outdoor area. The guided tasting session offers a deeper understanding of winemaking techniques and regional flavor profiles. The guide’s insights enhance appreciation of Provence’s wine diversity.

The 75-minute duration allows for ample exploration of the wines produced here, giving a well-rounded view of local wine craftsmanship.

Logistics: Pacing and Group Size

The entire 7.5-hour tour is designed for a small group of up to 8 participants, fostering an intimate atmosphere. The itinerary includes timed visits with guides and free time in Aix-en-Provence. The pacing balances structured visits with leisure, making it suitable for those who enjoy learning about wine and cheese at a comfortable tempo.

The transportation between stops is managed efficiently, with round-trip transfers from Place du Mazeau. The timing allows for lunch during free time, although lunch and snacks are not included in the tour price.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $176 per person covers all visit and tasting fees at two wineries and the goat farm. It also includes transportation in an air-conditioned minivan and an English-speaking guide.

Excluded expenses are lunch, snacks, personal purchases, and hotel transfers. Travelers should plan for lunch during free time in Aix-en-Provence or bring their own snacks for the day.

Review Highlights: Strengths and Considerations

This tour consistently earns a high rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 30 reviews, with common praise for the knowledgeable guide and the quality of wines. Reviewers highlight Eric’s expertise and friendly manner, making the experience personal and engaging. The enchanting setting at the first winery and the delicious goat cheese stand out as highlights.

However, some reviews mention that the city visit could be more focused on local highlights, and the long time spent in Aix-en-Provence may feel excessive for those only interested in wine and cheese. Plus, the outdoor goat farm visit requires appropriate footwear and may be cancelled in bad weather.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Aix en Provence Wine and Cheese Tour is ideal for wine lovers, foodies, and those eager to explore Provence’s rural charm. The small group size and expert guide make it a good choice for travelers seeking personalized attention and in-depth knowledge.

It suits visitors who appreciate local production, scenic countryside, and cultural exploration. Those wanting a relaxing day out with a focus on wine tasting and cheese will find this tour offers great value.

Final Thoughts on the Provence Wine and Cheese Experience

This tour provides a well-rounded introduction to the wines of Provence and cheese-making traditions. The guided visits to family-run wineries and the goat farm deliver authentic insights into regional local production. The inclusion of free time in Aix-en-Provence adds a touch of cultural exploration, making for a balanced day.

While it may feel long for some, the small group size and expert guidance make it an educational and enjoyable experience. It suits those eager to explore Provence’s wine and cheese scene while also having time to soak up the city’s elegance.

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From Marseille: Aix en Provence Wine and Cheese Tour

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan from Place du Mazeau in Marseille is included.

Can I customize my lunch during the free time in Aix-en-Provence?
Lunch is not included, but there is ample free time for visitors to explore local restaurants, cafes, or markets.

What should I wear for the goat farm visit?
Because the farm visit is on foot via a small dirt path, comfortable shoes are recommended. The visit may be cancelled in case of rain, replaced by a third vineyard visit.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility issues, due to the outdoor farm visit and alcohol consumption during tastings.

How long is the free time in Aix-en-Provence?
You receive about 105 minutes of free time, enough for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing in the city.