Private Vineyard Tour of Provence from Nice

A private vineyard tour of Provence from Nice offers an intimate and flexible way to explore some of France’s best wine regions. Priced at $1,077.51 per group (up to 8 people), this 8-hour journey includes visits to three distinguished wineries and a chance to sample a selection of top French wines. The tour starts with hotel pickup in Nice and features a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan, making it a convenient way to enjoy the Provençal countryside without the hassle of planning.

This tour is ideal for those interested in wine tasting, cultural exploration, and experiencing the scenic beauty of Provence. While lunch is not included, there is an opportunity to dine in the medieval town of Les Arcs, adding a local flavor to the day. The experience is private, allowing for a personalized approach, and booking in advance—typically about 12 days ahead—ensures you secure a spot on this popular excursion.

Key Points

• Private, guided half-day tour from Nice to Provence’s vineyards
• Visit three wineries: Chateau Font du Broc, Chateau de St. Martin, and Chateau St. Roseline
• Wine tastings included at each location, with options to purchase bottles
• Tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Nice for convenience
• Stops at notable sites, including the Sainte Roseline chapel and medieval Les Arcs for lunch (own expense)
• Suitable for adults 18+, with a maximum group size of 8

Exploring the Wineries of Provence: An Overview

The tour delivers a comprehensive visit to three renowned wineries: Chateau Font du Broc, Chateau de St. Martin, and Chateau St. Roseline. Each offers a distinct experience, from underground cellars to beautiful architectural settings.

Chateau Font du Broc is the first stop, where visitors tour the grounds and underground cellar. Here, some of France’s most exclusive wines are sampled, giving a taste of luxury. The estate’s peaceful setting away from urban noise enhances the experience of discovering Provençal wine-making traditions.

Next, the journey continues to the medieval town of Les Arcs for a lunch break (own expense). This allows time to enjoy local cuisine amid a historic backdrop, enriching your culture before visiting the next wineries.

The family-owned Chateau de Saint-Martin, established since the 18th century, is the third stop. Its reputation stems from deep, characterful wines and classic bourgeois architecture. The cellar and estate exemplify Provençal elegance and tradition, with tastings that highlight the estate’s distinctive style.

Finally, a visit to Chateau Sainte-Roseline includes viewing its chapel, famous for housing the remains of Sainte Roseline since 1329. The chapel’s connection to notable artists like Chagall and Giacometti adds an artistic dimension to the site. While the chapel may not always be open, the domain’s wines are highly regarded, making it a meaningful conclusion to the day.

Logistics and Transportation in Detail

This private tour departs from centrally located hotels in Nice at 9:00 am. The entire experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, winery visits, and time for lunch. The air-conditioned minivan ensures comfort during the scenic drive through Provence’s countryside.

The tour is designed for a group size of up to 8 people, making it intimate yet social enough for shared enjoyment. The pickup and drop-off service simplifies logistics, avoiding the need for public transport or additional planning. The journey allows ample time at each stop for sightseeing, tasting, and photo opportunities.

Physical activity involves a little walking, with some steep or cobbled surfaces. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially if exploring winery grounds or the chapel area. Near public transportation options make access straightforward from central Nice.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The personalized nature of this private experience is a major highlight, with the guide leading you through the wineries and sharing insights about Provençal wine-making. The focus on quality is evident, with tastings of some of France’s finest wines, and the opportunity to purchase bottles directly from the wineries.

Another strength is the balance of wine and cultural visits: from historic chapels to medieval towns, the tour combines history, architecture, and gastronomy seamlessly. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off enhances convenience, especially for visitors unfamiliar with the area.

Although lunch is not included, the opportunity to explore Les Arcs allows for a tailored experience—whether you prefer casual cafes, local delicacies, or simply a scenic stroll.

The Experience at Each Winery: What You Can Expect

Chateau Font du Broc: The first stop offers a chance to tour the estate grounds and underground cellar. Here, the guide explains the wine-making process and showcases some of the most exclusive wines in France. Tasting sessions highlight the estate’s top selections, perfect for those wanting a taste of Provençal luxury.

Chateau de St. Martin: Established in the 18th century, this family-owned winery features deep, characterful wines. The architecture of the estate reflects classic bourgeois design, with a cellar that’s both historic and functional. The tastings focus on showcasing the estate’s signature styles, and visitors often enjoy learning about the family’s dedication to quality.

Chateau Sainte-Roseline: The final stop includes viewing the chapel housing Sainte Roseline’s remains, a site of pilgrimage since 1329. The chapel, though not always open, is decorated with works by notable artists like Chagall. The domain’s wines are highly praised, making it a fitting conclusion to a day of wine discovery.

The Lunch Break in Les Arcs: An Opportunity for Local Flavors

Although lunch is at your own expense, the medieval town of Les Arcs offers plenty of options for experiencing Provençal cuisine. This stop provides a scenic setting for a relaxed meal, whether in a traditional bistro or a local café. It’s a chance to soak in the historic atmosphere and perhaps enjoy local specialties as part of your day.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

While the tour is designed for most adults, a small amount of walking is involved, including some steep and cobbled surfaces. Comfortable shoes are advised. The tour is accessible for most travelers and does not specify any particular mobility limitations, but the uneven surfaces require a reasonable level of mobility.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This private vineyard experience is best suited for adults over 18 who enjoy wine, history, and scenic drives. It is ideal for groups seeking a personalized, relaxed day away from busy public tours. The private nature allows for more flexible timing and tailored visits, perfect for those interested in a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts on the Provence Vineyard Tour from Nice

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Provence’s wine culture, combining quality wine tastings, historic sites, and stunning scenery. The private format ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds convenience.

While lunch is not included, the opportunity to explore Les Arcs provides a chance to enjoy local cuisine at your leisure. The scenic drive and visits to notable wineries make this a memorable way to spend a day outside Nice.

For those looking for a comfortable, educational, and scenic wine tour with a small group or private setting, this experience offers excellent value and a taste of some of Provence’s finest wines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour involves wine tastings at each winery, so it is best suited for adults over 18 who are interested in wine. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic drives and cultural stops, but tastings are part of the experience.

How long is the drive from Nice to Provence?
The tour includes transportation by air-conditioned minivan from Nice to the wineries, with the total experience lasting about 8 hours. The exact drive time isn’t specified, but it’s comfortably accommodated within the schedule.

Can I purchase wines at the wineries?
Yes, visitors can buy bottles of the wines they enjoy at each winery, though this is not included in the tour price. It’s a great way to take home a taste of Provence.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Changes less than 24 hours before the start are not accepted, so early planning is recommended.

Is there an option to include lunch?
Lunch is not included in the package, but there is time during the stop in Les Arcs to find local dining options, allowing you to choose your preferred cuisine and experience the town’s atmosphere.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised due to some walking and cobbled surfaces around the wineries and chapel. Casual attire suitable for a day outdoors is recommended.