Wild Alps, Verdon Canyon, Moustiers village, Lavender fields

Discover the Wild Alps and Iconic Gorges of the South of France

This 8.5-hour private tour from the South of France offers an engaging exploration of some of the most stunning landscapes and historic sites in the region. Priced at $1,276 per group of up to 8, the experience combines scenic drives, cultural visits, and natural beauty, making it ideal for travelers seeking an in-depth look at the area’s highlights. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off options from multiple locations, providing convenience and flexibility for small groups.

With a focus on gorge exploration, medieval villages, lavender fields, and wine tasting, this journey caters to those who enjoy a mix of nature, history, and local culture. While the pace is full, the stops are designed to give ample time to appreciate each site. Its private group setting ensures a personalized experience, emphasizing comfort and tailored attention.

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Key Points

• Private group experience with up to 8 participants ensures a personalized feel.
• Duration of 8.5 hours balances sightseeing, travel, and leisure.
• Scenic drive through the wild Alpes offers breathtaking views.
• Visit to the Verdon Gorge, Europe’s deepest canyon, with multiple photo stops.
• Explore Moustiers Sainte Marie, a charming medieval village famous for ceramics and the iconic star.
• Enjoy free time in lavender fields (available in June and July) and Lake Sainte Croix.
• Optional wine tasting in a local vineyard adds a flavor of regional tradition.

The Scenic Drive Through the Wild Alpes

The tour begins with a panoramic drive into the Alpes, revealing rugged mountain landscapes and expansive vistas. This drive sets the tone for the day, showcasing the rugged terrain that characterizes this part of the South of France. The route includes several stops where the deep gorges of Verdon are visible, offering perfect photo opportunities of the 700-meter deep canyons formed by the Verdon River.

Relax as the guide leads you along roads that wind past lush natural scenery, making several brief stops to admire the landscape. The drive itself becomes a highlight, with sweeping views that demonstrate the raw beauty of the region.

Exploring the Verdon Gorge: Europe’s Deepest Gorges

The Verdon Gorge is a central feature of this tour, known for its dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters. The 25 km long gorge is a magnet for travelers and outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering opportunities for boating, white water activities, climbing, and hiking. The tour includes two stops at strategic points within the gorge, each lasting around 10 minutes, where visitors can take photographs and soak in the impressive vistas.

The Verdon regional natural park protects the flora and fauna in this area, making it a destination for nature lovers. The tour emphasizes the natural beauty of the gorges, with the guide pointing out notable formations and scenic spots.

Lake Sainte Croix: A Perfect Photo Moment

Following the gorges, the journey continues to Lake Sainte Croix, the fourth-largest reservoir in France, covering approximately 2,200 hectares. Known for its turquoise waters, the lake becomes a hub of activity during the summer months with pedal boats and boat rentals from June to September. The one-hour stop here provides plenty of time for photos and a quick walk along the lakeside.

The clear waters and surrounding landscape create a peaceful environment, perfect for a moment of relaxation or capturing memorable images of the region’s aquatic scenery.

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Visiting Moustiers Sainte Marie: A Medieval Village of Charm

The tour’s highlight is the visit to Moustiers Sainte Marie, a village dating back to the 5th century. Recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages, it boasts a famous ceramic tradition dating to the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors have two hours to explore, including a lunch break, a guided tour, and free time for shopping and sightseeing.

Moustiers is renowned for the star suspended by a chain stretching between two mountains, which many legends explain. The Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church, built between 1336 and 1361, is a notable historic monument, while the Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir chapel offers spectacular views over the Valensole plateau and the lavender fields.

Admiring Lavender Fields in Bloom (June-July)

The tour includes a stop at the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir, perched atop the village, where travelers can enjoy strolling amidst the lavender fields. The lavandin crop blooms in June and July, depending on climatic conditions, filling the air with fragrance. The fields are a classic image of Provence, and the stop offers the chance to take photos and witness the iconic landscape.

Lavender from this region is used for soap, honey, perfume, and scents. The fields are particularly vibrant during the summer months, although weather and rainfall can influence the flowering season.

Scenic Drive Around Sainte Croix Lake and Vineyard Stop

After exploring Moustiers and lavender fields, the journey continues around Lake Sainte Croix for more photo opportunities. The route showcases the blue waters against the surrounding mountains. If timing permits, the tour makes an optional stop at a local vineyard in the Var region for a 30-minute wine tasting. This adds a regional taste to the experience, highlighting the area’s viticultural traditions.

The drive back to the starting point is about one hour, giving travelers time to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic countryside.

Convenience and Practical Details

The tour starts with pickups from five locations: Antibes, Nice, Cap-d’Ail, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, and Cannes. The private group arrangement ensures a comfortable and tailored experience, with guides who have university degrees providing insightful commentary throughout the day. The total duration runs 8.5 hours, making it a full but manageable day trip.

Travelers should bring camera, sports shoes, and binoculars to maximize enjoyment of the vistas and wildlife. The tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

Flexibility and Booking Details

The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. Travelers can reserve now and pay later, ensuring flexibility in planning. Since food and drinks are not included, guests can bring snacks or plan for lunch during the scheduled stop in Moustiers.

This private tour is perfect for small groups seeking a personalized exploration of the Alps, Verdon Gorge, and Provençal landscapes.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Provence Day Trip

This 8.5-hour private tour from the South of France delivers a blend of stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and regional flavor. The scenic drives through the wild Alpes and the imposing Verdon Gorge are truly impressive, offering plenty of opportunities for photography and outdoor activities.

The medieval village of Moustiers Sainte Marie provides a charming glimpse into Provençal history and craftsmanship, while the lavender fields evoke classic images of Provence, especially in bloom during summer. The optional wine tasting adds a relaxing touch to the day.

While the itinerary is packed, each stop is designed to give ample time to enjoy the scenery or explore at leisure. The private group setting ensures a more intimate experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a more personalized approach.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate nature, history, and small-group experiences. It’s particularly appealing during the lavender season or when seeking a comprehensive day trip from the Côte d’Azur or surrounding areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for guests with mobility needs to participate fully.

What should I bring for the day?
Travelers should bring a camera, sports shoes, and binoculars for better viewing of landscapes and wildlife.

Can I join this tour outside the lavender flowering season?
Yes, but lavender fields only flower in June and July, so the most colorful scenery is during those months; outside this period, the fields may be less vibrant.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a two-hour stop in Moustiers Sainte Marie for dining, shopping, and sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The tour is designed for up to 8 people, ensuring a private, relaxed experience with personalized attention.

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