Saint Remy, Les Baux and Pont du Gard Small Group Day Trip

The Saint Remy, Les Baux, and Pont du Gard Small Group Day Trip offers an engaging way to explore some of Provence’s most iconic sites in just half a day. Priced at $103.34 per person, this 5-hour journey departs from Avignon, with a small group size that ensures a more personalized experience. The tour includes visits to the charming Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the medieval Les Baux de Provence, and the UNESCO-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct. It is best suited for those who want an efficient overview of Provence’s Roman and medieval monuments, with the convenience of transport and guided commentary. The tour’s highlights include expert guides, well-paced stops, and spectacular scenery, although the itinerary involves some driving time and limited time at each site.

While most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the quality of sites visited, there are notes about crowds at certain locations and timing constraints. This tour provides a cost-effective, informative snapshot of Provence’s history and architecture—ideal for visitors with limited time or those eager for a comfortable, guided experience outside of self-driving.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 5 hours from Avignon, including transportation and site visits.
• Price: Around $103.34 per person, with admission tickets included for Pont du Gard.
• Stops: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux de Provence, and Pont du Gard.
• Small group size: Ensures more personalized attention and better interaction with guides.
• Guide expertise: Guides are generally knowledgeable and can share local insights.
• Timing considerations: Expect some driving time and limited stops at each site; longer stays are not possible.
• Crowd levels: Les Baux and Saint-Rémy can be busier, especially during peak seasons.
• Suitability: Perfect for those wanting a guided overview of Provence’s highlights without the hassle of driving or planning.

Starting Point and Group Size

The tour begins at 41 Cr Jean Jaurès, Avignon, where an air-conditioned minivan awaits. The group is limited to 8 travelers, fostering a more intimate atmosphere. The driver and guide work together to ensure smooth pickups and timely departures, although some reviews mention slightly late starts. The small group size allows for more direct interaction and a comfortable experience throughout.

Visiting Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is the first stop on the itinerary. Known for its cozy city center, it offers a glimpse into provincial life and local charm. The stop lasts about one hour, giving plenty of time to walk around the historic streets and admire the medieval architecture. Some visitors note that the town can be busy, especially during peak times, limiting how much can be seen in the available window. There is no specific mention of entrance fees at Saint-Rémy, so exploration outside the main streets is free.

Exploring Les Baux de Provence

Les Baux de Provence is a highlight of this tour, perched on a rocky hilltop with spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. The medieval village features narrow stone streets, 16th-century houses, and notable sites such as the Hôtel des Porcelets and St Vincent Church. Visitors are encouraged to wander at their own pace during the one-hour stop, with the option to visit the remains of the medieval castle. The museum of Santons is also available, though admission is free. The crowds at Les Baux can be intense, especially in summer, which might mean less time for browsing.

Viewing the Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct

The Pont du Gard is the final stop, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 1st century. It features the highest of Roman aqueducts, with three tiers of arches that demonstrate ancient engineering brilliance. The admission ticket is included, and visitors generally spend around one hour exploring the site. The well-preserved structure offers great photo opportunities, and some reviews highlight the awe-inspiring scale of the monument. Note that no guided tour inside is included; visitors can walk around and appreciate the spectacular views independently.

Pacing and Timing

The tour balances site visits with transportation. Each stop is allocated roughly an hour, which is enough to see the highlights but not to deeply explore each location. Traffic delays may affect the schedule, as some reviews mention late pickups or shortened visits. The van provides comfortable seating and microphone systems for easy listening, making the experience more engaging despite the tight schedule.

The Guide and Commentary

Guides are generally praised for their knowledgeability and friendly demeanor. Names like Ghislain, Emile, François, Jocelyn, and Rémy appear frequently, with high ratings across reviews. They share stories, historical facts, and local insights, making the tour more enriching. Some reviews note that guides might talk quite a lot during transit, which can be a distraction for those seeking a more relaxed visit. One reviewer suggests that more insight and historical context could improve the experience.

Practicalities: Food, Drinks, and Accessibility

The tour does not include food or drinks, so visitors may want to bring water and plan for a lunch break if desired outside the tour. The meeting point is fixed, and hotel pickup is not included. The group size and short stops mean the tour is most suitable for people with moderate mobility who can walk around the sites comfortably. Children under 4 years old are not allowed.

Comparing Similar Tours

This tour is a convenient option for those who want a quick overview of Provence’s Roman and medieval sites. Other options include longer or more specialized tours focusing on wine, lavender, or deeper historical insights. The small group size and expert guides distinguish this trip, offering better interaction and more personalized attention than larger tours.

Final Thoughts on the Tour’s Value

For a cost of around $103, this 5-hour tour packs in three major sites with admission tickets included. It is a budget-friendly choice for visitors who want a guided experience without the stress of driving or organizing logistics. The spectacular scenery and expert guides make it a worthwhile option, especially for those short on time. However, crowd levels and limited time at each stop mean it’s best suited for those eager to see highlights rather than explore in depth.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This small group trip is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who appreciate guided commentary and comfortable transport. It suits those interested in Roman engineering and medieval architecture, and who don’t mind some rush to see multiple sites in one morning or afternoon. Visitors looking for longer visits or more in-depth exploration might prefer other options, but for a quick taste of Provence’s most famous landmarks, this tour delivers great value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation in a minivan, a driver/guide, and admission tickets to Pont du Gard.

How long do the stops last?
Each major site—Saint-Rémy, Les Baux, and Pont du Gard—receives about one hour for sightseeing and exploration.

Is food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so visitors should plan to bring water or have options outside the tour.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Are children allowed?
Children under 4 years old are not permitted on this tour.

Can I customize the itinerary?
No, the itinerary is fixed, with stops at Saint-Rémy, Les Baux, and Pont du Gard.

What if I want more time at Saint-Rémy?
The tour allocates about an hour in Saint-Rémy, but traffic delays or schedule constraints may limit this. Longer visits would require a longer, more flexible tour.

Is the guide multilingual?
The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, ensuring clear explanations for diverse groups.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and camera are recommended to enjoy the scenic views and photo opportunities.

How do I book this tour?
The tour can be booked online through the provider, with most bookings made 37 days in advance.

What if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather. In case of cancellation due to bad weather, a full refund or alternative date is offered.