Book online - full day tour
The most fascinating, magical and culturally intriguing hilltop villages of the Luberon from Gordes, Menerbes & Lacoste to Lourmarin
Tour summary
Named after the mountain range between Cavaillon & Manosque, the Luberon a Provençal patchwork of hilltop villages, vineyards, ancient abbeys & mile after mile of fragrant lavender fields. A rural region that makes time for the good things in life – especially food & wine. Nearly every village hosts its own weekly market, packed with stalls selling local specialities, olive oil, honey and lavender. Visit Roussillon, Menerbes, Lacoste, village of the Marque de Sade’s 11th century château, impressive public artworks & quaint tiny houses. In 1771 the Marquis fled Paris to escape the scandals created by his erotic writing. Today the château belongs to Pierre Cardin. Our journey takes us through Bonnieux to Gordes, the ancient beehive-shaped village des Bories passing through the Luberon massif & cliff-lined Combe de Lourmarin into the village of Lourmarin itself. Once a quiet farming town, now its streets are lined with upmarket design shops, galleries & boutiques. Apart from walking around town, you can't miss the Renaissance Château de Lourmarin.
Tour itinerary & highlights
We will arrive to collect you from your hotel or guest house. (If you are staying in a rented apartment or villa, we can arrange that too) We will also be at the Cruise Ship terminal in Marseille if you're arriving by ship. This tour is available from Aix-en-Provence, Marseille or Avignon.
We leave by car driving first to the village of Gordes where we spend a good hour exploring narrow streets in search of antique shops, galleries, cafes & boutiques. Time here for a snack & morning coffee.
Next head towards Roussillon, Menerbes, Lacoste time to explore each village and the castle at Lacoste - drive through Bonnieux onto Lourmarin with ample time to visit both the village and castle. Each village offers something special to highlight your visit. At the end of the tour, returning via Cavailon to Avignon or Aix-en-Provence & Marseille.
Language: English or French
Tour duration & schedule
The total duration of the tour is 8 hours, assuming pick-up in Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Marseille. The order for the tour is flexible enough to take into account the starting point changing depending on your location. There is a scheduled lunch break, at leisure, not included. (we can also organise a picnic lunch if preferred)
What's included
Pick-up & drop-off at either the Cruise Terminal in Marseille or your hotel in Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Marseille. If your staying elsewhere we can coordinate a pick-up from your address. (There may be a suppliment payable) We can also coordinate pick up at either TGV station (high speed train) Aix-en-Provence or Avignon.
Travel to all sites & destinations with dedicated guide/driver & return to your hotel, address or cruise terminal. Admission to the sites & museums listed is not included - you have the choice to pre-book or pay on site. Refreshments, snacks & lunch is extra.
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