Aix-en-Provence: Full Day Wine Tour in Luberon with Tasting

If you’ve been dreaming of exploring Provence’s wine country, this full-day tour in Luberon might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally done this exact trip, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded experience that appeals to wine lovers and curious travelers alike. The tour combines stunning scenery, insightful wine education, and delicious tastings—all wrapped into a manageable 7.5-hour day.

What really catches my eye about this experience are two things: first, the chance to visit award-winning, family-run wineries—which often means more authentic, heartfelt wines—and second, the opportunity to wander through the picturesque village of Lourmarin, one of France’s most charming spots. A potential downside? The tour packs a lot into one day, which means you’ll be on the move quite a bit. It’s not ideal for those craving a slow, relaxed pace or looking to linger longer at each stop.

This tour suits those who want to combine wine, scenery, and a taste of Provencal village life in a single day. If you have a passion for wine or simply want to see a beautiful part of France with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll likely find it rewarding. Just be prepared for a full schedule and some bus time between stops.

Key Points

• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more intimate experience.
• Visit three different wineries with guided tours and tastings, providing a comprehensive look at the local wines.
• Learn about French wine classification and local grape varieties, making tastings more meaningful.
• Enjoy free time in Lourmarin, one of the prettiest villages in France, for lunch and shopping.
• All-weather operation means you should dress appropriately, regardless of the forecast.
• Ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a blend of education, scenic views, and cultural exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Luberon Wine Region

This tour offers a fantastic opportunity to see how the Mediterranean climate influences the terroir—the unique combination of soil, climate, and grape varieties that make Provençal wines special. The guide, a local wine expert, is known for sharing insightful details about French wine classification and how local grape varieties differ from other regions like the Rhône Valley.

You’ll visit two family-owned wineries, both award-winning, which hints at a dedication to quality and tradition. The guided tours of the cellars and vineyards are designed to be engaging, so expect to see how wines are made and stored, and hear stories about the winemakers’ passion. We loved the way the guides made the technical details accessible, making the tastings even more enjoyable.

What to Expect at Each Winery

Expect to be taken on a private tour of the vineyards, where the owners often share their personal stories—something that adds a lot of warmth and authenticity to the experience. The tastings are quite generous, offering reds, rosés, and whites, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to compare and contrast flavors. One review mentioned the “excellent wines”, highlighting the quality of the selections, which ranged from robust reds to gastronomic rosés.

The wineries are situated in stunning rural settings, with views that make the tours memorable even before you start tasting. The fact that they are award-winning hints at a level of quality that’s worth the trip for wine aficionados.

The Village of Lourmarin

After visiting the wineries, you’ll have about an hour and a half in Lourmarin, a village famous for its beautiful architecture and vibrant local shops. It’s a great spot to grab lunch, whether you want a relaxed café or a more formal meal. The free time also allows for some shopping or just wandering the narrow streets, soaking in the Provençal atmosphere.

The Itinerary: How the Day Unfolds

The day kicks off at the Aix en Provence Tourism Office, where your guide will be waiting with a “Provence Wine Tours” sign. From there, it’s about half an hour in a comfortable van to the first vineyard, which sets a relaxed tone for the day.

Each winery visit is about 75 minutes—long enough to explore the cellars, learn about the process, and enjoy tastings. After each visit, you’ll hop back into the van for a short drive to the next stop or the village.

The lunch break in Lourmarin is timed to give you a break from the bus and a chance to enjoy the village’s charm. With 1.5 hours there, you can sit down for some local cuisine or just stroll through the shops.

The final vineyard visit is followed by a 40-minute drive back to Aix. The tour concludes at the same starting point, making logistics straightforward.

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Transportation and Group Size

Travel is by van, which provides a cozy and flexible way to move between stops. Limited to 8 people, the small group size fosters more personalized attention and conversation, making the experience feel more like a private tour rather than a crowded bus trip.

The timing is well-structured, with just enough time at each stop to enjoy the wine and scenery without feeling rushed. However, with several winery visits and a village stroll, expect a full, active day.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the inclusion of three winery visits, guided tours, tastings, and a free visit to Lourmarin suggests this is a solid value for wine lovers who want a comprehensive experience. The small group size and expert guidance further enhance the feeling that you’re getting personalized, insider knowledge.

Considering the scenery, education, and tastings, many find this tour more than worth the price—though, of course, it depends on your budget and how much you value guided wine experiences.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking through vineyards and cellars.
• Bring sunglasses, sun hat, and sunscreen to stay comfortable under the Provençal sun.
• Carry a reusable water bottle—stay hydrated during the busy day.
• Dress appropriately for weather, as the tour operates rain or shine.
• If you’re planning to take your luggage, inform the provider about the size and quantity, since luggage isn’t insured if lost or stolen.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts, couples, or travelers eager to see the scenic countryside of Provence. If you enjoy learning about wine classification and local varieties, you’ll find the guide’s explanations helpful. It’s also suitable for those who want to combine wine, culture, and beautiful villages in one well-structured day.

However, it’s worth noting that children under 10 are not suited for this tour, mainly due to the focus on wine tastings and the bus schedule. It’s best for adults who are genuinely interested in wine and the Provencal landscape.

Final Words

This full-day tour offers a balanced mix of education, scenery, and tasting, making it a good choice for travelers wanting a deeper dive into Provence’s wine scene. The visits to award-winning family wineries and the chance to wander through Lourmarin give it a rich, authentic feel.

If you’re after a well-organized, small-group experience that combines scenic views with tastings of excellent wines, this tour is likely to satisfy. Just prepare for a full day of travel and exploration—it’s a concentrated dose of Provence’s best.

FAQ

• What is the starting point for the tour?
  Your guide will meet you in front of the Aix en Provence Tourism Office, opposite La Cure Gourmande, holding a “Provence Wine Tours” sign.

• How long is the total duration?
  The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, from the meeting point to the return.

• How many wineries do we visit?
  You visit three family-owned, award-winning wineries, each with guided tours and tastings.

• Is there free time during the day?
  Yes, after the winery visits, you’ll have 1.5 hours in Lourmarin to eat, shop, or explore.

• Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
  While drinking is part of the experience, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenery and learn about wine. However, tastings are only for those 18 and older.

• What should I wear?
  Comfortable shoes, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and weather-appropriate clothing.

• Is this tour suitable for families?
  It’s primarily designed for adults; children under 10 aren’t recommended because of the wine tastings and schedule.

• What is included in the price?
  Guided tours at each winery, tastings of reds, rosés, and whites, and the guided visit to Lourmarin.

• What if I want to cancel?
  You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

• Can I bring luggage on the tour?
  If you need to bring luggage, inform the provider with details; note that lost or stolen items aren’t insured.

If you’re craving a day of wine, scenery, and Provençal charm in a manageable, intimate setting, this tour might just be the highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: