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Outdoor Cheese market
Cute and rustic coffeshop inside the old town and rustic buildings - Provence walking tour
Lavander
Astonishing path through the old town and rustic buildings
Beautiful scenery of the sunset behind the lavender fields
Beautiful view of a church and a small town of Provence
Sunflower field in Provence by FRANCE OFF THE BEATEN PATH™
Girl running through lavander fields, enjoying her Provence walking tour
Bridge in Provence, Provence walking tour
authentic buildings, Provence walking tour with FRANCE OFF THE BEATEN PATH™ tours
Lavender on the wooden chair

Provence Tour Itinerary : 6-Day Tour

Best Adventures in Provence

Detailed Day-by-Day Provence Tour Itinerary

 

 

RATED EXCELLENT WITH 500+ REVIEWS

2019 WINNER!! 3RD CONSECUTIVE YEAR!

RECOMMENDED BY FROMMER’S FRANCE!

PROVENCE TOUR ITINERARY – 6 DAYS/5 NIGHTS

Tours That Feel Like Traveling With Friends!


Ari Levine Grammy Award Winning song writer for Bruno Mars, CeeLo Green and Snoop Dogg during France Off the Beaten Path Provence Tour.The Highlights:

•  Award-Winning Provence Tour
•  2 Guided Provence walks (designed for our guests interested in the walking aspect and options of the tour)
•  Guided cultural options daily (for both walkers & non-walkers).
•  Discover the Provence lavender route during lavender season (for both walkers & non-walkers).
•  Saint Remy-de-Provence artisan & craft market – No forced shopping.
•  Visit St. Remy-de-Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gordes, Roussillon, Sault, Cassis, Arles.
•  Guided Van Gogh tour at Saint Paul de Mausole by our very own Van Gogh expert.
•  Experience the art festivities of “Les Carrieres de Lumieres” show in Les Baux-de-Provence.
•  Wine tasting experiences in the Luberon and Chateauneuf-du-Pape, olive oil discovery at a local friend’s orchard and artisan production facility.
•  Gourmet meals featuring a privately hosted lunch at a friend’s winery in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Dinner at home with a dear friend and one of our favorite Chefs, a gourmet picnic amidst the lavender during the lavender flowering season, and our signature restaurants, some of Provence’s best kept secrets.
•  Stay in 1 exceptional, Conde Nast recommended boutique hotel in Saint Remy-de-Provence (NO Hotel Hopping – Unpack once for the entire tour).
•  True Small Groups – Maximum 16 Guests per tour date.

Our Provence Tour Itinerary Offers DAILY OPTIONS For BOTH WALKERS AND NON-WALKERS Alike On Every PROVENCE TOUR Date!

Please note that due to the nature of the activities and excursions of each of our Provence Tour itineraries, our tours are not suitable for anyone with serious mobility issues. Even if opting out of scheduled walks to participate in our proposed cultural options, guests need to be able to walk a minimum of short distances, i.e. leisure walking in villages and towns, as well as through historic sites and monuments.


Day 1—A Warm Welcome to Provence!

Provence tour guests enjoying a privately hosted dinner at friend, Chef Catherine's Provencal farmhouse.

The Provence tour itinerary begins with a meet-and-greet by our team, a transfer to the hotel as a group, welcome cocktails, a privately hosted gourmet dinner at a friend, and master chef Catherine’s Provencal home—D

As you arrive in the sun-kissed land of poppies, lavender, sunflowers, and vineyards, your adventure begins with a heartfelt meet-and-greet by our welcoming guides. Choose your arrival option: a complimentary transfer from Marseille airport at 1 PM or Avignon TGV rail station at 4 PM.

Once we arrive at our exquisite boutique hotel—an intimate gem owned by our dear friend Karine—you’ll settle in and unpack your bags. This charming retreat, celebrated by Conde Nast, is your home for the next six blissful days, allowing you to immerse yourself in the magic of Provence without the hassle of hotel hopping.

EVENING & DINNER: As the sun sets, join us for a delightful Welcome Cocktail Hour, where laughter and stories mingle like the aromas of fresh herbs from the garden during our welcome orientation of the week’s activities. The evening culminates in a privately hosted gourmet dinner at the enchanting Mas (Provencal farmhouse) of our dear friend, Chef Catherine. Here, you’ll savor a Provencal feast that dances on your palate, setting the perfect tone for the journey ahead.

  • TOUR BEGINS: On Day 1, you have a choice between a 1:00 PM scheduled transfer from Marseille airport to our hotel and a 4:00 PM scheduled transfer from Avignon TGV Rail Station to our hotel.
  • TOUR ENDS: On Day 6, choose between a 10 AM transfer arrival to the Avignon TGV rail station and a noon transfer arrival to Marseille airport.
  • The tour information package we send you 30 days before the tour will include specific details on where to meet your guides at the rail station and airport on Day 1.
  • Dietary Requests & Food Allergies—We accommodate ALL dietary requests and preferences (including vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, etc.) and ALL food allergies (gluten, shellfish, etc.) while ensuring a fantastic foodie experience for all tour guests with restrictions and/or allergies.

France tour guests first full day on tour in Provence, France

Day 2 – The Artistry of Les Alpilles

St. Remy-de-Provence artisan, arts & crafts market, gourmet lunch in the countryside, Afternoon:  Olive oil discovery in Valley of Les Baux-de-Provence, Expert guided tour of St. Paul-de-Mausole learning about Van Gogh in Provence – B, L

 

BREAKFAST. After a restful night, awaken to the gentle sounds of Provence and enjoy a leisurely breakfast. 

MORNING: Our first adventure begins in St. Remy-de-Provence, where the lively artisan market awaits—bursting with vibrant colors and the spirit of local craftsmanship. Stroll through the charming streets, guided by our expert team, and soak in the rich history of this picturesque town.

For those seeking a deeper connection to the history of the area, opt for a visit to the ancient Roman site of Glanum, where stories of the past whisper through the ruins. 

LUNCH: We relish a gourmet lunch together in the countryside at a celebrity hideaway owned by our local friends, adored by foodies, and made famous by Patricia Wells.

AFTERNOON: We embark on an Olive Oil Discovery experience in the breathtaking Valley of Les Baux-de-Provence. Here, you’ll learn about the art of olive oil production from local artisan friends and savor their exquisite creations. Our journey continues with a private Van Gogh tour at St. Paul de Mausole, guided by our knowledgeable head guide, Philippe, a Van Gogh expert whose passion will bring the artist’s story to life.

DINNER: As the sun sets, the evening is yours to explore St. Remy’s culinary scene, with our guides ready to share their favorite recommendations and make reservations just for you.

Breakfast and Lunch are Included Today.


Lavender season tour guests walking through lavender fields of Provence

DAY 3 Art & Lavender Dreams in the Luberon

April, May, 1st week of June, September, October: The Luberon: Gordes & Roussillon village-to-village walk (Designed for guests interested in the walking aspect of the tour), gourmet lunch at one of our favorite gems of a restaurant in the Luberon, cultural visits in Gordes & Roussillon, wine tasting at celebrity winery – B, L

2nd week of June through July, August: Lavender season – Valensole plateau: Visit lavender capital Sault, Artist village of Roussillon – walk lavender fields featured in national geographic (Designed for guests interested in the walking aspect of the tour), gourmet picnic amidst the lavender, essential oil distillery tour, cultural visit in Roussillon, optional wine tasting tour – B, L

 

BREAKFAST.

After breakfast, prepare for a day that will captivate your senses. Depending on the season, we will either wander through the Luberon’s golden hues and ochre landscapes or be enveloped by the intoxicating scent of lavender fields on the Valensole plateau.

MORNING: Select An Option: For Both Walkers & Non-Walkers Alike…

SPRING & FALL (April, May, 1st week of June, September, and October tours)

  • FOR WALKERS: embark on a guided “LUBERON VALLEY VILLAGE TO VILLAGE WALK” through the stunning landscapes of Gordes and Roussillon, where every step reveals a postcard-worthy view. This walk is designed for our guests interested in the walking aspect and options of the tour – with time for walkers to also explore each village – Gordes and Roussillon. 
  • FOR NON-WALKERS – Shuttle from village to village and enjoy guided cultural tours of hilltop villages of the “Golden Stone Village” of Gordes and “Artist Ochre Cliff Village” of Roussillon … Enjoy guided cultural tours of these historic and charming hilltop villages.
  • Both walkers and non-walkers will have time to visit both villages.

DURING LAVENDER SEASON (2nd week of June through July, August)

  • During lavender season, prepare for a magical Lavender Trail Walk, where endless purple fields stretch as far as the eye can see. We’ll also visit our friends’ local lavender farm and distillery to learn about the delicate process of lavender production and essential oil distillation.
  • FOR WALKERS: Our Luberon village-to-village walk is replaced by our morning “LAVENDER TRAIL WALK”—designed for our guests interested in the walking aspect and options of the tour. This walk takes guests through picturesque lavender fields and villages near the Valensole plateau!
  • FOR NON-WALKERS: Shuttle to lavender fields to experience and photograph the endless fields of lavender and enjoy non-walking cultural experiences.

Read my blog post about the Magic of Lavender in Provence (opens in a new window)

LUNCH (April, May, 1st week of June, September, October tours): Gourmet lunch at one of our favorite hideaways in the Luberon Valley.

LUNCH (2nd week of June through July, August): Gourmet French Picnic amidst spectacular landscapes of lavender fields during the flowering season.

AFTERNOON: In the afternoon, we explore the ochre cliffs of Roussillon, a village steeped in beauty and stories of love and loss. If time permits, indulge in a wine tasting at a celebrity winery, where the flavors of Provence will linger in your memory long after you leave.

DINNER: Dinner on your own. As the day winds down, enjoy another evening in St. Remy, where culinary delights await your discovery. Your guides will provide recommendations and make reservations.

Breakfast & Lunch Included Today.

 

Walking Rating for PROVENCE Walk #1 (April, May, first week of June, September, October) …

  • WALKERS — Our guided “Luberon Valley Village to Village” walk in the Luberon is rated EASY to MODERATE. It involves walking on vineyards and country trails through picturesque landscapes, French country architecture, lavender and sunflower fields with various beautiful villages in the background. It is ideal for those who walk regularly in the morning or afternoon. The walk lasts approximately 2 hours, depending on stops made for photo-ops.
  • NON-WALKERS — EASY: Shuttle to each of our beautiful hilltop villages and gourmet hosted lunch.

Walking Rating for PROVENCE Walk #1 during the lavender season (2nd Week of June through July, August) …

  • FOR WALKERS — Our “Lavender Trail Walk” and is rated EASY to MODERATE. Enjoy spectacular, guided walking amidst some of the most beautiful landscapes of Provence, walking through magical fields of lavender. The countryside is gorgeous with incredible color and aromas and offers the perfect setting for a walking experience. This walk is ideal for those who regularly walk in the morning or afternoon. Walk length – approximately 1.5-2 hrs. depending on stops made for photo-ops.
  • FOR NON-WALKERS — EASY: Take our shuttle to lavender fields to experience and photograph the endless fields of lavender and enjoy non-walking cultural experiences with your guide.

Provence tour guests enjoying dinner at an exclusive venueDay 4 – Seaside Serenity in Cassis

A Day Along the Mediterranean Sea coast in Cassis’s terraced, wine-producing village. Enjoy a one-hour Calanques cruise (Roman fjords), Partake in an optional visit to an artisan perfumery and weekly market, Try pastis and Cassis wines with us, swim in the Med, Enjoy a Gourmet dinner together – B, D

 

BREAKFAST.

MORNING:  We set off for the Mediterranean village of Cassis. Here, the terraced vineyards cascade down to the azure sea, creating a breathtaking backdrop for our day’s adventures.

Begin with a guided walking tour of Cassis, exploring its charming port and the vibrant weekly market filled with local treasures. 

Next, embark on a one-hour cruise through the stunning Calanques, where dramatic cliffs meet the shimmering Mediterranean sea. 

LUNCH: For those who wish, join your guides to partake in a tasting of the region’s iconic Pastis and Cassis wines, before savoring an independent lunch along the picturesque port.

AFTERNOON: Artisan Option for interested guests:  Meet and visit our artisan friends at their local perfumery, where the fragrance of Provence envelops you in aromas reflective of the region. Learn about the family’s perfume-making trade and history, tour the workshop, and sample perfumes and hand-made soaps made exclusively at their Artisan “Perfumery”.

AFTERNOON: As the afternoon unfolds, relish leisure time to explore or simply soak up the sun on the beach before our return to St. Remy.

Time permitting: We stop at our favorite local “Savon de Marseille” soap artisan.

DINNER: Indulge in a gourmet dinner together, where the flavors of Provence will dance on your palate once more.

Breakfast and Dinner are Included Today.


Provence tour guests enjoying another exclusive experience in Chateauneuf-du-Pape

Day 5 – A Toast to Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Guided walk of the vineyards and spectacular countryside of Chateauneuf-du-Pape (Designed for guests interested in the walking aspect of the tour), a Winery Tour and VIP Wine Tasting, Privately Hosted Lunch at friend’s Winery, Afternoon Options: Experience the Magic of Art through the Sound & Light Show at Les Carrieres de Lumieres in Les Baux-de-Provence, A cultural walk of Arles & its Roman ruins, or Leisure time in St. Remy, Farewell dinner – B, L, D

BREAKFAST.

MORNING: After breakfast, we journey to the famous vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Here, you can choose between a guided walk through the sun-drenched vineyards or indulge in cultural experiences tailored to your interests.

Join us for a VIP winery tour and wine tasting, where you’ll sip some of the finest wines that this celebrated region has to offer. 

LUNCH: Enjoy a privately hosted lunch at our friend’s winery, where every bite is crafted with love and passion by our friend, retired 2-star Michelin Chef, Jean-Claude.

AFTERNOON OPTIONS (Choose one)… In the afternoon, choose your adventure: 

  • Afternoon Option #1: Experience “Les Carrieres de Lumieres” in Les Baux-de-Provence.
  • Afternoon Option #2: Visit Roman Ruins & more Van Gogh in Arles.
  • Afternoon Option #3: Remainder of the afternoon free to explore more of St. Remy-de-Provence, its sites & museums, and finish last-minute souvenir shopping.

DINNER: As the sun sets, we gather for a farewell dinner at our best-kept secret, a culinary hideaway cherished by locals.

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are Included Today.

 

Walking Rating for PROVENCE Walk #2 …

  • FOR WALKERS: “CHATEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE – Amidst the Vineyards Walk”- is rated EASY (optional: designed for interested guests). Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Walking on vineyards and country trails with riverbed rock, large gravel stones, occasional easy ascents, and uneven terrain. The trail offers spectacular views of the Chateauneuf-du-Pape vineyards – The walk is ideal for those who walk regularly. Walk length – approximately 1.5 hrs. of walking depending on number of stops made for photo-ops. You decide how much walking you want.
  • FOR NON-WALKERS: It’s easy: Take our shuttle to enjoy cultural experiences tailored to your interests with one of our cultural team guides.

 

Read my blog post about Exploring the Enchanting Allure of Provence, France: A Tapestry of Culture and Culinary Delights (opens in a new window)


Jackie Barry, wife Sue and friends on France Off the Beaten Path Provence Tour.

Day 6 – Fond Farewells and Lasting Memories!

Provence tour itinerary concludes – B

 

BREAKFAST.

As your Provence journey comes to a close, enjoy your final breakfast amidst the beauty of your surroundings. Choose between a transfer to Avignon TGV rail station or a transfer to Marseille airport, details below.

This isn’t just a tour; it’s an invitation to savor the essence of Provence, a land where every moment is painted with beauty, every flavor tells a story, and you carry home memories of a lifetime. Book your escape now, and let the magic of Provence transform you.

Complimentary scheduled group transfers as follows…

  • 10 AM transfer arrival at AVIGNON TGV Rail Station.
  • NOON transfer arrival at Marseille airport.

(B) = Breakfast Included, (L) = Lunch Included, (D) = Dinner Included

Our Provence tour itinerary is designed for the interests of and to appeal to BOTH WALKERS & NON-WALKERS alike including the active and occasional walker and travelers of all ability levels, but is not suitable for anyone with extreme mobility issues that would prevent a guest from enjoying daily leisure walking. NON-WALKERS: Throughout the tour, you are shuttled to/from all activities, excursions, meals, and visits.

 

 


Tours that Feel Like Traveling with Friends

Immerse yourself in local Provencal culture as we share time with our local French friends in combination with visiting quaint and charming villages and renowned wineries, walking beautiful country trails, exploring the art, artisan and craft markets, learning about the artists who called Provence home, celebrating birthdays, graduations, and anniversaries together, and savoring local wines and exquisite cuisine while staying in one exceptional hotel for our 6 days together in southern France…

 

 

  • Have a group of friends or family, and want to make this tour a private departure? Email us at christy@traveloffthebeatenpath.com .
  • True Small Groups – Maximum 16 Guests Per Tour Date.
  • Dietary Requests & Food Allergies — We accommodate ALL dietary requests (including vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, etc) and ALL food allergies (gluten, shellfish, etc) while ensuring an amazing foodie experience for all tour guests with restrictions and/or allergies.
  • WALKERS – Van support is provided for walks to offer maximum flexibility to all guests. You decide how much walking you’d like to do, if participating in our walks. Walker rating = Easy to Moderate.
  • NON-WALKERS: Shuttle to/from all activities, excursions, meals and visits. NON-Walker rating = 100% Easy.

RATED 5 STARS BY HUNDREDS OF HAPPY TOUR GUESTS

OVER 500 VERIFIED FIVE-STAR REVIEWS ON TRUSTPILOT

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RATED 5 STARS BY HUNDREDS OF HAPPY TOUR GUESTS

OVER 500 VERIFIED FIVE-STAR REVIEWS ON TRUSTPILOT

A WORD FROM Our Guests:

Exceeded Our Expectations!

“This trip to the Loire Valley exceeded our expectations! Christy planned unique and interesting excursions and activities that highlighted the beauty of the area and provided in-depth background knowledge about the various chateaux we visited. The cooking classes with renowned chefs, held in their restaurants and homes, were never-to-be forgotten experiences, and the visit to the winery was a highlight. The hotel was delightful and charming, and staying in one location for the entire time was a treat. Every meal or cocktail hour was planned to highlight the delicious specialties of the region. Christy is extremely knowledgeable about the various places we visited and imparted that knowledge in an interesting and entertaining manner. She and Remi took great care to ensure that we were always comfortable and well-looked after. We could not have asked for a better trip!” — Ron Rose & Sharon Matsumoto (Have done Provence tour and Loire Valley tour)

This was my third trip in the same number of years

“This was my third trip in the same number of years with Christy and Off the Beaten Path. While on her trips you can tell how much effort there is on the off season to make every single week perfect. From the pick up at the train station to the teary goodbye at the airport, everything is perfectly planned and executed. The hotel in St. Remy is magical, and the tour guides Philippe and David are exceptional. If you are considering a trip with OTBP, go for it and come home with new friends, a love of Provence and a longing to return as soon as you can!” — Beth Bower (Has done Provence tour twice and Loire Valley tour)

The Best Tour Company!

“I have done two tours – Provence and Loire Valley – and I am already looking forward to booking another. The tours are all perfectly curated and Christy is a wealth of knowledge. She is so kind and takes all of your needs and wants into consideration. I cannot recommend Off the Beaten Path enough!” — Madison Carl (Has done Provence and Loire Valley tours)

“We did the Provence tour. 8/2019. I had taken the tour 2017 & this time my husband came with me. It was just as fabulous this time as it was in 2017. Restaurants, picnic, sights, wine, all of it just delightful, but the frosting on the cake is a the knowledge, insight, humor, & attention to detail from David & Philippe. To us, they make a great trip soooo much fun. (also, 3 of our neighbors joined us this tour). Don’t hesitate, take this tour & enjoy!!!!!” — Jim & Carol Dean (Carol has done Provence tour twice)

Returning to Provence with France Off the Beaten Path

“I wanted to return to Provence as soon as it was open. I had toured with Christy in Loire Valley in 2019 and knew I wanted to travel with her again. For the second time, everything was well organized, personal and definitely off the beaten path. Christy and Phillippe have a wealth of knowledge and are eager to share. The hotel was perfectly located in St Remy, the tours to the lavender and sunflower fields are my favorite memory. The lunches and dinners were like visiting friends. The boat tour in Cassis was another highlight. Even though I had visited Provence, this trip with France Off the Beaten Path brought a new appreciation for the area.” — Susan Gage (Has done Loire Valley tour, Provence tour, Champagne tour)

“We had an excellent tour with Christie and her crew in the Loire valley. We did things that only a true insider would have access to-dinner at a Michelin chefs house, helping/learning to cook at a highly rated restaurant in their kitchen. This was in addition to seeing the sights and touring the castles. A truly unique experience that is off the beaten path. We will use her again when going back to France.” — Karen Berner (Has done Loire Valley tour)

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