From Marseille : Sidecar Wine Tour to Cassis and Bandol

Explore the Charm of Marseille and Its Coastal Roads on a Sidecar Wine Adventure

The Sidecar Wine Tour from Marseille offers a unique way to experience the region’s stunning coastline and exquisite vineyards in just 7 hours. Priced at $277.15 per person, this private tour is a perfect blend of scenic rides, cultural highlights, and wine tasting. The experience is highly recommended, with a flawless 5.0 out of 5 rating based on 10 reviews, and is often booked around 32 days in advance.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy adventure, scenic views, and wine. Participants will ride in a vintage sidecar motorcycle, which adds a sense of thrill and nostalgia. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, and features visits to local wineries, charming villages, and spectacular viewpoints. A key highlight is the opportunity to explore Cassis and La Ciotat, famous for their laid-back atmospheres and breathtaking landscapes.

Key Points

• Private tour with a vintage sidecar motorcycle in Marseille, France
• 7-hour journey through the region’s most scenic coastal roads and vineyards
• Visits to 2 to 4 wineries (depending on chosen option) with tastings included
• Stops at Cassis, a charming village between Calanques
• Scenic drive along Route des Crêtes with views of Cap Canaille and the Mediterranean Sea
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included for convenience

Starting Point: The Old Port of Marseille

The tour begins at the historic Old Port of Marseille, where the vintage sidecar motorcycle awaits. From this lively harbor, the adventure kicks off with a ride through the city’s vibrant Panier district and along the scenic Corniche John Fitzgerald Kennedy. The guide leads you through the city’s iconic sights, providing insightful commentary and making sure the experience feels personalized and relaxed.

The pickup service makes this tour especially comfortable, especially for those staying nearby. Once mounted in the sidecar, the journey takes you along the coast, offering spectacular views and fresh sea air. This setup is praised for its fun and memorable nature, turning heads everywhere you go.

Discovering Marseille’s Historic Heart and Vibrant Districts

The first stop takes you through Marseille’s historic center, highlighting its lively Old Port and colorful Panier district. These areas are full of narrow streets, local artisans, and cafes, giving a taste of the city’s authentic charm. The guide shares stories about Marseille’s history, adding depth to the scenic ride.

Afterward, the tour proceeds along the coastline to Les Goudes, a small traditional port known for its laid-back atmosphere and fishermen’s cottages. This stop offers an authentic glimpse into local life and a chance to enjoy the sea breeze and views of the rugged coast.

Breathtaking Drives Along Col de la Gineste

One of the most thrilling parts of the tour is the ride along Col de la Gineste, a spectacular mountain road that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. This winding route is famous for its unbeatable vistas and leads directly toward Cassis.

Traveling along this scenic stretch, participants can enjoy picturesque landscapes of cliffs, pine forests, and the shimmering sea below. The route is often praised for its visual impact, making it one of the tour’s highlights.

Visiting Cassis: Coastal Village and Wine Haven

The tour makes a 20-minute stop in Cassis, a charming village set between cliffs and calanques. Known for its laid-back vibe and wine production, Cassis offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and local craftsmanship.

This stop allows time to walk through the village, enjoy the views, and experience the local ambiance. It’s a favorite among those who appreciate small, authentic spots. Depending on the chosen option, you’ll visit two to four wineries here, sampling local wines and learning about the region’s viticulture.

Wine Tasting and Vineyard Visits

The wine tastings are a central part of this tour, with visits to provencal wineries where you can sample regional wines directly from the producers. On the half-day tour, visitors typically enjoy two winery visits, while the full-day option extends this to three or four visits, providing more opportunities to savor local flavors.

The wineries showcase the diversity and quality of Cassis and Bandol wines, with knowledgeable staff guiding the tastings. The experience is designed to deepen appreciation for the local wine culture amid stunning vineyard settings.

Scenic Drive through the Calanques and La Ciotat

For those choosing the full-day adventure, the tour continues into the Calanques National Park, renowned for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. The guide takes extra time to explore the landscapes, allowing guests to take in the breathtaking scenery.

The journey concludes in La Ciotat, a historic port town famous for its wild creeks of Figuerolles. Here, visitors can explore the rugged coastline, enjoy the sea air, and appreciate the area’s authentic maritime charm. The stop is about 20 minutes long but leaves a lasting impression.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package includes bottled water, helmet and gloves, and the driver — who is praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and well-prepared. The pickup and drop-off at your hotel adds convenience, making the day hassle-free.

One key consideration is that lunch is not included, so guests should plan accordingly if they wish to dine during the day. The tour operates in good weather conditions; poor weather may lead to cancellations or rescheduling, with options for full refund or alternative dates.

The Experience and Guide: Engaging and Knowledgeable

Several reviews highlight Eric, the guide and driver, as a knowledgeable, kind, and engaging host. He is praised for his excellent English, vigilance, and ability to make personalized stops. His professionalism and friendliness make the experience memorable for many.

Guests appreciate how Eric spreads out the stops to include local wineries, scenic viewpoints, and authentic villages, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Providing warm jackets and ponchos during unexpected rain shows attention to detail and care.

The Thrill of Riding in a Vintage Sidecar

The sidecar motorcycle itself is a major highlight, praised for being fun, eye-catching, and turning heads everywhere. The thrill of riding in a vintage vehicle adds a sense of adventure that many describe as exciting and memorable.

The no motorcycle experience is necessary, which makes the tour accessible for most participants. The drivers are experienced, and safety gear is provided, ensuring a secure yet exhilarating ride.

Flexibility and Booking Details

This is a private tour, meaning only your group participates, allowing for a personalized pace and customized stops. The tour is generally booked 32 days in advance, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience, offering flexibility.

The price point of $277.15 per person reflects the unique experience, personalized service, and included tastings. While the tour is a full-day affair, the half-day option offers a more condensed but equally enjoyable experience.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This sidecar wine tour appeals to those looking for something different from typical wine tastings or city tours. The adventure in a vintage sidecar, combined with spectacular scenery and wine discoveries, makes it ideal for romantic couples, adventure lovers, or wine enthusiasts eager for an authentic local experience.

Participants should be comfortable with winding roads and outdoor activities but do not need prior motorcycle experience. The tour’s private nature ensures a relaxed and flexible environment suited for small groups or couples.

Final Thoughts on the Marseille Coastal Sidecar Wine Adventure

This tour stands out for its combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and wine tastings, all delivered in a fun vintage sidecar. The expert guide, Eric, and beautiful landscapes make it a memorable way to explore the Marseille region.

While lunch is not included, the wine tastings and stunning viewpoints make up for the small omission. The ability to customize the experience and the personalized service ensure a special day that many travelers will cherish.

This tour offers a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and flavor, making it a highly recommended option for visitors seeking a unique exploration of Provence’s coastline and vineyards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or non-riders?
It’s primarily designed for those comfortable with outdoor rides and in good health. No prior motorcycle experience is required, but participants should be able to sit comfortably in the sidecar.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes bottled water, helmet and gloves, a driver, and hotel pickup and drop-off. Wine tastings at 2 to 4 wineries are part of the experience, depending on the option selected.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is poor?
Yes, full refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to bad weather. The tour requires good weather to operate.

How far in advance should I book?
Most people book about 32 days ahead, to secure their preferred date and time.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or enjoy options during the day.

How long is the full tour?
The full-day version lasts approximately 7 hours, covering the coastline, vineyards, and scenic stops.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include riding along Col de la Gineste, visiting Cassis and La Ciotat, wine tastings, and enjoying stunning views of Cap Canaille and the Calanques.

Is this experience suitable for all physical levels?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s recommended to be comfortable outdoors and able to sit in the sidecar for extended periods.

How many wineries will I visit?
Depending on the selected option, 2 to 4 wineries are visited with tastings included.

What makes this tour unique compared to other Marseille excursions?
The vintage sidecar ride combined with wine tasting and scenic coastal routes offers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends adventure with cultural discovery.