Private tour of the Gorges du Verdon and the lavenders of Valensole

Exploring Provence: A Deep Dive into the Gorges du Verdon and Valensole Lavender Fields

If you’re dreaming of a day immersed in some of France’s most iconic sights—the shimmering lavender fields, charming villages, and dramatic canyons—this private tour from Marseille might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a carefully curated experience that hits many highlights of Provence’s natural and cultural beauty.

What I really like about this tour is how it balances nature with small-town charm. First, the lavender fields of Valensole are truly a photographer’s dream—imagine walking amidst endless waves of purple, feeling like you’ve stepped into a postcard. Second, the visit to Moustiers Sainte-Marie offers a chance to explore a quintessential Provençal village, full of fountains, waterfalls, and mountain views that make for memorable strolls and photo ops.

A potential drawback to keep in mind: lavender blooms are seasonal—visible only in June and July—so if you’re visiting outside that window, you’ll miss out on the main attraction and spend more time discovering the Gorges instead. Also, as a private tour, it comes with a price tag around $1,185, which may seem steep for some, but considering the personalized experience and transportation included, it could be worth it if you’re looking for a relaxed, all-in-one day.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive Provençal day trip with a touch of luxury and personalized attention. It’s a solid choice if you love scenic beauty, small villages, and outdoor adventures, especially if you’re visiting Marseille and want to escape the city for a day.

Key Points

• Seasonal Lavender: Only visible during June and July, so plan accordingly.
• Private, Comfortable Transport: Mercedes-Benz van with air conditioning makes for a smooth ride.
• Flexible Activities: Options to swim or rent boats at Lake Sainte Croix, with activities at extra cost.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines nature, village exploration, and scenic vistas all in one day.
• Exclusive Experience: Only your group participates, making it more personalized.
• Cost Consideration: At over $1,100 for up to 8 people, it’s a premium experience—think about the value of private transport and tailored itinerary.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

The Lavender Fields of Valensole

The journey begins with a stop at the Plateau de Valensole, where you’ll be surrounded by what many consider the world’s best lavender fields. The description promises an incredible experience—walking through the fields, capturing photos of endless purple blooms, and enjoying the fresh Provençal air. The tour dedicates about an hour here, which should give you enough time to wander and snap some memorable shots.

This part of the trip is particularly popular, and one reviewer called it “an unforgettable day,” emphasizing the chance to enter the fields and take superb photos. Keep in mind, the admission is free, but the real value comes from being led to the best spots and having the freedom to explore the fields up close.

Moustiers Sainte-Marie

Next, you’ll visit Moustiers Sainte-Marie, often called one of the most beautiful villages in Provence. With two hours on the clock, there’s plenty of time to stroll through narrow streets, admire fountains and waterfalls, and soak in panoramic mountain views. One reviewer described it as “simply incredible,” highlighting the village’s charm and scenic backdrop.

Here, you can have lunch at one of the local restaurants, which provides a chance to enjoy Provençal cuisine in a setting that feels like stepping back in time. The village’s quaint atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely break.

Lake Sainte Croix

The next stop is the Lac de Sainte Croix, known for its striking turquoise waters. It’s a great place to relax, take photos, or dip your toes into the water. The tour allocates around 30 minutes here, so it’s a quick visit but enough to appreciate the lake’s beauty or have a short swim if you’re up for it.

This spot is particularly praised for its visual appeal, offering a postcard-perfect backdrop. If you’re into outdoor recreation, there’s also the option to rent boats like electric or pedal boats to explore the lake further—though these activities are at extra cost.

The Gorges du Verdon

Finally, the Gorges du Verdon—one of Europe’s largest and most impressive canyon systems. You’ll spend about an hour taking in the stunning turquoise waters and sheer cliffs. The scenery here is truly awe-inspiring; it’s easy to see why this place is considered one of France’s natural treasures.

For those seeking a bit more adventure, there’s the option to rent an electric boat or pedalo at the entrance of the gorge. These activities aren’t included in the base price, but they add a fun element to finish your day with a splash of activity and scenic views.

The Practical Side: Transportation and Timing

The tour uses a Mercedes-Benz air-conditioned van, making the roughly 7-8 hour trip comfortable, especially on warm days. Starting at 9:00 am, it’s a full-day experience that balances sightseeing with some downtime, like lunch or quick swims.

Since this is a private tour, it offers flexibility that larger group excursions cannot provide. You’ll be traveling with just your group, which tends to make the experience more relaxed and tailored. The meeting point is convenient, and the end time is back at the starting location, making planning your day easier.

Is it Worth the Price?

At just over $1,185 for up to 8 people, this tour isn’t cheap, but it packs a lot into a single day. The cost covers private transportation, bottled water, and the convenience of a planned route with a knowledgeable guide. When you consider how much you’d pay for individual taxi rides, rentals, or multiple tickets, the overall value starts to make sense—especially if you want a hassle-free way to see Provence’s highlights without the stress of planning each stop.

One reviewer mentioned it was “an unforgettable day,” suggesting the experience delivers on its promise of special memories and beautiful photos. For travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a curated itinerary, this could be well worth the investment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who prefer a personalized, guided day out rather than self-driving. It’s ideal if you’re visiting Marseille and want to escape the city to see Provence’s iconic sights in one go. Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and small groups who want a comfortable, scenic adventure will find plenty to love here.

However, if you’re visiting outside June/July, don’t expect to see the lavender fields—they’re seasonal. Also, those on a tighter budget might want to consider other options since this is a premium, private experience.

FAQ

Are the lavender fields accessible in June and July only?
Yes, the lavender blooms are only visible during those months. Outside this window, the tour will focus more on the Gorges du Verdon and other scenic stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, this tour involves walking and outdoor exploration, so it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can comfortably engage with the stops.

What is included in the price?
Your price covers private transportation in a Mercedes-Benz air-conditioned van, bottled water, and the guided itinerary. Lunch and boat rentals are not included.

Can I swim at Lake Sainte Croix?
Yes, there are beaches where you can take a quick swim, and the tour recommends some free time here for relaxing or enjoying the water.

How long are the stops at each location?
You’ll have about an hour at Valensole, two hours in Moustiers Sainte-Marie, 30 minutes at Lake Sainte Croix, and an hour at the Gorges du Verdon.

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it runs approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and ending back at your meeting point.

If Provence’s stunning landscapes and charming villages sound appealing, this private tour offers a balanced, scenic, and comfortable way to experience it all. Just remember to check the lavender season if that’s your main goal, and be prepared for a day packed with some of France’s most picturesque views.