Aix-en-Provence: Verdon Canyon & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Day

Exploring Provence’s Best: A Look at the Aix-en-Provence: Verdon Canyon & Moustiers-Sainte-Marie Day Tour

If you’re dreaming of lush landscapes, striking gorges, and charming villages, a day trip exploring the Verdon Canyon and surrounding areas from Aix-en-Provence is a solid choice. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but from what we’ve read and heard from travelers, it offers a rewarding peek into some of Provence’s most captivating sights.

What really catches our eye are the views of the turquoise Verdon River and the chance to wander through Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, famous for its pottery. Plus, the drive through the Valensole Plateau—known for its lavender fields—sounds like a highlight for anyone who loves natural beauty. However, a potential downside is the full-day commitment—nine and a half hours is quite a long stretch, especially if you’re not used to extensive bus trips. Still, this tour tends to suit those who are eager to see multiple sights without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

This experience seems perfect for travelers craving a well-rounded, scenic day that showcases the best of Provence’s landscapes and small-town charm. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate breathtaking views and want to learn about the local culture through stops like a pottery workshop.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: The tour emphasizes the stunning landscapes of Verdon and the Plateau de Valensole.
• Variety of stops: From natural wonders to local producers and picturesque villages, it offers diverse experiences.
• Small group size: Limited to 8 people, providing a more intimate and flexible experience.
• Guided experience: Live guides in English and French help bring each stop to life.
• Timing and duration: A full 9.5-hour day, with some free time for lunch and exploration.
• Weather considerations: The itinerary may change based on weather, so flexibility is key.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Journey through Provence’s Hidden Treasures

This tour promises a day filled with stunning vistas and scenic drives. Starting from the Tourist Information Center in Aix-en-Provence, you’ll board a comfortable air-conditioned minibus that whisks you away through some of the most picturesque parts of southern France. The journey itself is part of the appeal—You’ll love the way the landscapes shift from rolling hills to dramatic canyon views.

Exploring the Verdon Gorge

The Verdon is often called Europe’s Grand Canyon for good reason. The guide will take you along the edge of this massive canyon, where the turquoise waters of the Verdon River carve their way through limestone cliffs. Stop at points like Pont de Galetas for jaw-dropping views that you’ll want to capture and revisit.

Travelers often mention how “the region is beautiful”—a sentiment that’s easy to share when you’re surrounded by towering cliffs and clear blue water. However, keep in mind that some stops are about appreciating the view rather than extensive hiking. Comfortable shoes are recommended, but don’t expect long walks—this isn’t a strenuous trek but more about soaking in the scenery.

The Valensole Plateau and a Local Producer

Driving across the Valensole Plateau is like stepping into a postcard—vast fields of lavender if you’re visiting at the right time, or golden crops depending on the season. The tour includes a visit to a local producer, which gives you an authentic taste of regional craftsmanship. According to reviews, this stop is quite enjoyable, especially if you’re interested in learning how local products are made or simply want to pick up a unique souvenir.

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie: The Charm of a Village

The highlight for many is Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, often described as a picture-perfect Provençal village. Known for its earthenware workshops and pottery, the village is a treasure trove for art lovers and those wanting picture-perfect streets. You’ll have free time to explore, enjoy a self-organized lunch, or browse the shops.

One reviewer mentioned, “First of all, our guide Pascal was incredible! Not only was he engaging and informative, but he also had a fun personality,” which suggests that the guides help make the free time more enjoyable.

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The Lakeside & Additional Views

The tour also includes a stop at a typical village around Sainte Croix’s lake, giving you a chance to experience tranquil waters and maybe even enjoy a quick swim if you’ve brought your swimsuit (an optional item). The drive and stops are spaced out to balance sightseeing with some leisure, but be prepared for a full day of activity.

Transportation, Timing, and Practicalities

This tour runs for approximately 9.5 hours, with the bus departing early in the morning and returning around 6:30 pm. It’s operated with a small group—limited to 8 participants—which makes for a more intimate experience. The transport is air-conditioned, which is a relief on warm days.

The meeting point is conveniently located outside the Aix-en-Provence Tourist Information Center, making it easy to find. The tour is designed to be flexible, with options like bringing a swimsuit or sun protection.

Cost and Value

While the price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that it’s a good value considering the multiple stops, transportation, and guided commentary. You’re paying for a comprehensive, stress-free day that hits many of Provence’s highlights, which would otherwise require a lot of planning and driving.

Considerations and Limitations

• This tour isn’t available from June 10th to July 20th and in October, so plan accordingly.
• It’s not suitable for very young children (under 4) or those with mobility issues.
• Remember that food, drinks, and entrance fees aren’t included, so budget accordingly if you want to purchase souvenirs or enjoy meals.

What Travelers Say

Reviews paint a picture of largely positive experiences. One reviewer from Brazil said, “The region is beautiful! If I had to pick just one trip, this would be it,” which speaks to the visual impact of the scenery. Another from the US emphasized the guide’s personality, calling Pascal “incredible,” and highlighting how engaging and fun he was.

Most reviews agree that the tour offers stunning views and a good mix of nature, culture, and local flavor. Some mention that the long day is worth it for the variety of sights and the opportunity to relax and enjoy Provence without the hassle of driving or organizing multiple stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love scenery and small-town charm and don’t mind spending a full day on the road. It’s perfect if you want to see a variety of sights without the stress of planning each stop yourself. If you’re after a relaxed but rundown of Provence, this tour delivers.

However, if you prefer shorter outings, or aren’t comfortable with long bus rides, you might want to look for something more localized. It’s also not suited for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the walking and outdoor stops.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9.5 hours, departing early morning and returning around 6:30 pm, making it a full-day experience.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in an air-conditioned minibus, designed for comfort on long drives through scenic areas.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have some free time in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for lunch, so bringing snacks or planning ahead is advisable.

Can I bring my swimsuit?
Yes, bringing a swimsuit is optional if you plan to take a dip at Sainte Croix’s lake or elsewhere.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s not suitable for children under 4 or those with mobility impairments, but older children who are comfortable in outdoor settings may enjoy it.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with sun protection like sunglasses and a sun hat, especially on sunny days.

What if the weather is bad?
The company reserves the right to modify the program based on weather conditions, so be flexible. Keep an eye on the forecast and dress appropriately.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a beautiful and diverse day trip from Aix-en-Provence, this tour offers an excellent balance of natural beauty, cultural charm, and relaxed sightseeing. The stunning views of Verdon Gorge alone make it worth considering, and the stops in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie are truly picture-perfect. With small group sizes and a knowledgeable guide, you’ll find the experience both personal and enriching.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor discovery, and authentic local stops. Just be prepared for a long day, and pack your essentials to maximize comfort and enjoyment. Overall, it’s a strong choice for anyone wanting to see some of Provence’s finest without the hassle of navigating on their own.

Happy travels, and I hope your visit to Provence is packed with stunning landscapes and memorable moments!

You can check availability for your dates here: