Gordes, Roussillon(+ Ochre Trail) & Fontaine de Vaucluse

Explore the Charm of Provence with a Full-Day Tour from Avignon

This 6.5-hour guided tour offers an in-depth look at some of the most picturesque spots in the Luberon region, starting from Avignon. Priced at $115.12 per person, it includes all entry fees, private transportation, and the company of a knowledgeable guide. The tour features visits to Gordes, often called the “most beautiful village in France,” along with the colorful Roussillon and its iconic ochre cliffs, and the refreshing waters of Fontaine de Vaucluse.

Perfect for those who want a relaxed yet comprehensive day exploring Provence’s highlights, this tour is limited to a maximum of 4 travelers, ensuring personalized attention. With a reputation for excellent guides, flexible pacing, and rich scenery, it appeals to anyone wanting a curated experience of the region’s most celebrated sites.

Key Points

• Visit Gordes, crowned as the “most beautiful village in France,” with free time to explore its alleys and market
• See the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque, famous for its lavender and scenic setting (photo stop only)
• Walk the Le Sentier des Ocres, a self-guided trail through stunning ochre cliffs (ticket included)
• Enjoy Roussillon’s vibrant colors, with free time to stroll and visit the local market if in season
• Experience Fontaine de Vaucluse, walking along the river and viewing the famous gouffre (access temporarily closed)
• All transportation and entrance fees are included, with the tour departing from Avignon at 9:00am

Departure and Meeting Details in Avignon

The tour begins at Office de Tourisme d’Avignon, 41 Cr Jean Jaurès, at 9:00am. A private vehicle transports guests comfortably between stops, and the guide manages timing to maximize sightseeing. The tour concludes back at the starting point, making logistics simple and straightforward.

The small group size—up to 4 travelers—means personalized attention and a flexible, relaxed pace. Pickup from your hotel can be arranged, and the tour runs rain or shine, with options for different dates or refunds if weather conditions cancel the activity.

Visiting Gordes: A Village Perched in the Hills

Gordes is the first stop, with a designated photo stop at the viewpoint, offering sweeping views of one of France’s most beautiful villages. The tour includes a one-hour visit, giving ample time to stroll through narrow alleys, admire stone architecture, and soak in the hilltop views.

On Tuesdays, a local market takes place, giving an extra flavor of local life if aligned with the schedule. The admission to Gordes itself is free, allowing visitors to wander at their own pace and discover hidden corners. The guide provides insights into the village’s history and architecture, enriching the experience.

Visiting Abbey Notre-Dame de Sénanque

A quick 20-minute stop at Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque features a scenic photo opportunity of the ancient abbey set amid lavender fields, if in bloom. While the abbey’s shop is open, visiting the interior is not included, but the location’s visual appeal makes it a favorite for many.

This site is renowned for its picturesque setting and ties to lavender farming, although the stop is brief, focused on capturing the iconic views. The entry is free, and the guide shares background stories about this historic Cistercian monastery.

Walking the Ochre Trail at Le Sentier des Ocres

The self-guided walk along Le Sentier des Ocres takes roughly 35 minutes through striking orange and red cliffs, formed by natural and human activity. The ticket is included in the tour price, and visitors can explore at their own pace.

The trail reveals the vibrant colors of Provence’s earth and offers excellent photo opportunities. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, with uneven paths that require moderate walking. The guide provides tips and highlights the geological and cultural significance of the ochre deposits.

Exploring Roussillon: Village of Color

Roussillon is the highlight for many visitors, often called the most beautiful village in France. Free time of around 45 minutes allows strolling through its colorful streets and exploring local shops.

If your visit aligns with Thursday mornings, a local market adds extra charm, featuring regional produce and crafts. The lunch break is included in the time, allowing for a quick meal at one of the village’s cafes or restaurants. The admission is free, and the guide offers suggestions on the best spots to photograph the vividly painted facades.

Fontaine de Vaucluse: The Source of the Sorgue River

The final stop is Fontaine de Vaucluse, where the walk along the river takes guests toward the famous gouffre — a large spring that feeds the river. While access to the gouffre is temporarily closed due to safety concerns, the walk along the river remains a peaceful and scenic experience lasting about 45 minutes.

Guests enjoy the cool, refreshing atmosphere of the waterway, with plenty of photo opportunities of the lush surroundings. The free access to the site makes it a relaxing end to the tour, and the guide shares insights into the history and geology of the area.

Practicalities: Transport, Pacing, and Group Size

This tour features private transportation from Avignon, making transfers comfortable and direct. Due to the limited group size—a maximum of 4 travelers—the experience feels personalized, with flexibility in timing and stops.

The start time of 9:00am offers a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The duration of approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes balances thorough exploration with a relaxed pace, perfect for those wanting to enjoy each location without tight schedules.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The combination of key villages, scenic walks, and cultural sites makes this tour appealing. The inclusion of all entrance fees and the personalized attention from guides like Florine, praised for her friendliness and knowledge, set it apart from larger group excursions.

While the tour does not include lunch, guests have ample time to enjoy local eateries in Roussillon or bring snacks. The easy logistics, flexible stops, and excellent reviews highlight this tour as a well-organized option for visitors seeking a taste of Provence’s most photogenic and iconic locations.

Fontaine de Vaucluse: The End of the Day in Water and Nature

The Fontaine de Vaucluse offers a tranquil conclusion to the day, with its legendary spring and lush river scenery. Though the gouffre’s closure is a temporary limitation, walking along the river and viewing the landscape remains a memorable experience.

Guests appreciate the less crowded atmosphere compared to busier tourist spots, and the accessible location makes it a convenient and peaceful finale to the full-day itinerary.

Final Thoughts on the Gordes, Roussillon, and Fontaine de Vaucluse Tour

This well-paced, comprehensive tour delivers a curated experience of Provence’s most celebrated villages, scenic landscapes, and historical sites. The small-group format ensures personalized attention and flexibility, making it suitable for those who value comfort and depth in their sightseeing.

The price of $115.12 includes all fees and transportation, offering good value for a day filled with stunning views, cultural insights, and memorable walks. The high ratings and glowing reviews confirm its appeal, especially for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed exploration of the region’s highlights.

While the limited group size might mean early booking is recommended, this tour suits visitors who want a personalized, insightful, and visually spectacular day in Provence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. Guests have time in Roussillon to enjoy a meal at local cafes or bring snacks.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 4 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Are all sites accessible?
Most sites are accessible, but walking at Le Sentier des Ocres involves uneven paths and moderate walking. The gouffre at Fontaine de Vaucluse is temporarily closed, but the walk along the river remains accessible.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable. The tour operates rain or shine, with options for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to weather.

Is pickup available from my hotel?
Pickup is offered from accommodations, simplifying the logistics for guests. The tour starts at the Tourist Office in Avignon at 9:00am.

What makes this tour a good choice?
The combination of beautiful villages, scenic walks, expert guides, and all fees included makes this tour a strong option for those wanting a relaxed yet thorough Provence experience.