provence wine tasting

If you’re thinking about exploring Provence’s legendary wines from Nice, this private wine-tasting tour might be just what you’re after. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve spent enough time in the region and studied various options to give you a clear, honest overview. It’s a full-day experience—about 8 hours—that promises a relaxed yet enriching peek into the Côtes de Provence wine world, all while enjoying some of the best scenery the French Riviera has to offer.

What immediately caught our eye are a couple of standout features: first, the private setup means you’ll enjoy a comfortable, intimate experience, free from the hustle of crowded tours. Second, the visit to two renowned wineries offers a good balance—enough to give you variety without feeling rushed. That said, a possible consideration is the cost, which at around $919 for a group up to 8, is on the premium side, but it’s reflective of the personalized service and exclusive visits.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who love wine, enjoy scenic drives, and appreciate a touch of luxury. It’s ideal if you want a seamless, hassle-free day that combines sightseeing, tasting, and a picnic—perfect for couples, friends, or small groups with a taste for the finer things in the south of France.

Key Points

• Private tour offers a personalized, comfortable experience.
• Visit to two top wineries with guided tours and tastings.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you logistical headaches.
• Enjoy a Provencal picnic in the scenic garden or a covered room.
• Transport is in a full options, air-conditioned minibus—great for comfort.
• Pricing reflects exclusivity, with options to add extra services or transportation from nearby locations.

A Detailed Look at the Provence Wine Tasting Tour

Starting the Day: Convenience and Comfort

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Nice or nearby spots, which is a real plus. No need to worry about navigating or parking—your driver-guide takes care of everything. With air-conditioned transportation, the journey from Nice out into the vineyards is smooth and pleasant, giving you space to relax or enjoy the scenic views along the way. The total duration is around 8 hours, which offers enough time for two winery visits, tastings, and a leisurely picnic, without feeling rushed.

The First Stop: Château de Saint-Martin

The first destination is the Château de Saint-Martin, a Cru Classé de Provence that has been producing wine since antiquity. What makes this stop appealing is the combination of history and high-quality wine. You’ll tour the castle and its underground cellar, known as “les Vinoscénies,” which is a highlight for those interested in how wine is made in a traditional setting.

We loved the way the guided tour is complemented by tasting six different wines—an impressive showcase of the winery’s offerings. Alongside the wines, you’ll enjoy accompaniments like tapenades and anchoïades, which add an authentic Provencal touch. The picnic, which is an optional extra (~€80 per person), can be enjoyed either in the garden or in a dedicated room depending on the weather, making for a relaxed, picturesque lunch. The picnic isn’t included in the base price, so keep that in mind if you’re craving a sit-down meal amid vineyards.

The Second Stop: Château Sainte Roseline

Next, you’ll head to Château Sainte Roseline, located in the Var hinterland. This estate is also classified as Cru Classé, and it’s situated on millennia-old soil, adding a sense of timelessness to the visit. The guided tour here can include the chapel, the cloister (though under reserve), and the wine cellar. Afterward, you’ll taste three wines from the Côtes de Provence appellation, giving you a nice variety to compare and savor.

Unlike the first stop, this one doesn’t include wine tasting or the picnic in the price, but you’ll pay €90 per person directly to your driver for the tasting and tour. The focus here is more on the experience of the estate itself, which many find charming and full of character.

What We Loved About the Tour

One of the rave reviews highlights how the guides are knowledgeable and make the experience enjoyable and engaging. The driver, Victor, received specific praise for being courteous and speaking English fluently, which can make a big difference if you’re not comfortable with French. The comfortable vehicle and seamless logistics mean you can focus on enjoying the day rather than worrying about directions or timing.

The scenery along the drive is another highlight—expect rolling vineyards, lush landscapes, and views that make every photo worth capturing. The wineries themselves offer a glimpse into Provençal winemaking traditions mixed with modern touches, making each visit worthwhile for wine enthusiasts.

The Price and What You Get

At roughly $919 for up to 8 people, this tour offers a luxurious, all-inclusive vibe. The cost covers transport, the private guide, and the winery visits with tastings, which are typically valued higher than the price suggests. The additional €80 for a picnic may seem steep, but if you’re after a full Provençal experience, it’s worth considering as part of the overall value.

Remember, the wine tastings at each winery include about 3-6 wines total, so you’ll get a solid sampling of the region’s best offerings. The mention of “most travelers can participate” and the fact that children are only allowed if they are of drinking age (18+) indicates the tour is primarily geared toward adult wine lovers.

Practical Tips

• Book at least 5 days in advance, especially if you want a weekend slot.
• The tour is private, so only your group will participate, making it more flexible.
• If you’re arriving from places like Antibes, Cannes, or Monaco, there is an additional charge (~€70) for pickup.
• Be prepared to pay for wine tastings and the picnic separately, so budget accordingly.
• The tour is suitable for those who enjoy learning about wine, scenery, and a relaxed pace—not ideal if you’re looking for a quick, budget-friendly experience.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This wine tasting experience is best suited for small groups or couples who want a curated, laid-back day filled with wine, history, and beautiful landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a private, guided experience over crowded tours, and those willing to invest a bit more for comfort and exclusivity. If you’re a wine lover or just someone looking to enjoy a day out in Provence with friends, this could be a memorable highlight of your trip.

It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget or if wine tastings and private tours are not your cup of tea. The extra costs for the picnic and tastings mean you should see this as an all-in package rather than a basic experience.

Final Thoughts

This Provençal wine tasting tour offers a taste of the region’s best vineyards, guided by knowledgeable hosts and set against stunning scenery. The private aspect ensures an intimate experience, ideal for those who appreciate comfort and personalized attention. The visits to Château de Saint-Martin and Château Sainte Roseline give you a good sense of the area’s wine-making tradition, with tastings that highlight the unique flavors of Provence.

While the price might seem high, it’s reflective of the quality and exclusivity you’re paying for. The tour is especially valuable if you want a stress-free, well-organized day that combines learning, tasting, and scenery into one seamless package.

If you enjoy wine, scenic drives, and a touch of luxury, this could be a highlight of your trip to the French Riviera—and an excellent way to see Provence from a different perspective.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Nice or designated meeting points, making logistics straightforward.

Can I book this tour from Antibes or other nearby cities? Yes, pickup from Antibes, Cannes, or Monaco is available for an additional €70.

What’s included in the price? The tour price covers driver/guide, live commentary, air-conditioned transport, hotel pickup/drop-off, and tolls. Wine tastings at two wineries are additional and paid directly to the driver.

How much are the wine tastings and picnic? Expect to pay €80 per person for the tastings at both wineries and €90 if you choose to include the picnic, paid directly to your driver.

Is this tour suitable for children? The minimum drinking age is 18, so it’s mainly for adults. If traveling with young wine enthusiasts, they might not be able to participate fully.

How long are the winery visits? Each winery visit includes a guided tour and tastings, with the first offering six wines and the second three wines. The total duration allows for a leisurely experience without feeling rushed.

Can I customize the experience? Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility to adjust the schedule or focus, but all specifics should be confirmed with the provider beforehand.

This Provence wine tasting tour combines comfort, knowledgeable guidance, beautiful scenery, and a taste of one of France’s most celebrated wine regions. Perfect for small groups seeking a refined, memorable day—just be sure to budget for the extras and plan ahead.