Countryside Immersion With Horseback Riding in Sainte Victoire

If you’re dreaming of a day spent exploring the stunning landscapes of Provence while enjoying a mix of horseback riding, local gastronomy, and charming villages, this private tour might catch your eye. Designed for small groups, it promises a personalized experience that balances riding, sightseeing, and tasting some of the region’s best offerings.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines active outdoor fun with cultural discoveries—you get to feel the wind in your hair riding through vineyards, then relax with local appetizers and rosé. Plus, the visit to the historic Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume basilica adds a meaningful cultural touch. However, one consideration is that the price is on the higher side, especially if you’re traveling solo or in a smaller group, given the overall cost.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate a well-rounded day in Provence—those interested in horseback riding, enjoying authentic village atmospheres, and discovering local wines and boutiques. It’s especially appealing for those who want a more personal, less touristy experience with direct contact with nature and history.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour exclusive to your group, ensuring flexibility and tailored attention.
• Authentic Provence: Visits to local villages, wineries, and Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume avoid mass tourism.
• Active and Relaxing Mix: 2 hours horseback riding combined with cultural sightseeing and leisurely tastings.
• Well-Structured Day: Clear itinerary with diverse stops—scenery, food, history—delivered in around 7 hours.
• High-Quality Guide: Based on reviews, guides seem knowledgeable and accommodating.
• Cost Consideration: At over $1,100 for up to 6 people, it’s an investment, but one that promises a memorable, curated experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Introduction to the Experience

This tour offers a chance to explore the Provence countryside in a way that many travelers dream of—by horseback, amid rolling vineyards and scenic mountain views. The experience is quite comprehensive, combining a scenic horseback ride with visits to quaint villages, wine tastings, and a historical basilica visit.

What makes this tour stand out is its attention to creating a genuine Provence experience—away from crowded tourist traps and into authentic local settings. The fact that it’s private means your group can move at your own pace and enjoy a more personalized touch.

The Scenic Horseback Ride

Your day begins early, with pickup in Aix-en-Provence, and heads straight into the heart of Sainte Victoire’s stunning landscape. You’ll spend about two hours on horseback, guided by a local expert who will help you feel comfortable whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider. The ride takes you along the roads of Sainte Victoire mountain and through vineyards, offering some truly stunning views.

Multiple reviewers describe the ride as a highlight, with one noting that the guide was flexible and attentive, making the ride enjoyable even for newcomers. The sensation of wind, sun, and the aroma of Provence’s herbs makes the ride more than just a sightseeing activity—it’s a full sensory experience.

Visiting Montagne Sainte Victoire and Puyloubier

After your riding session, you’ll visit Montagne Sainte Victoire—a symbol of the region immortalized by Cézanne. The stop includes a walk through vines and a charming perched village, where you can enjoy a game of pétanque, a leisurely local pastime. One reviewer mentioned that the stops here felt very authentic and away from mass tourism, which is increasingly rare in popular regions like Provence.

The wine tasting at a local winery is another highlight, allowing you to sample regional varieties and appreciate the craftsmanship behind Provence’s acclaimed wines. These stops offer a great chance to slow down and really connect with the land and its traditions.

Exploring Puyloubier and Aix-en-Provence

Next, the tour takes you to Puyloubier, another authentic village where you can stroll, sip wine, and soak in Provencal charm. No pressure, just enjoying local life at a relaxed pace. Then, you’ll head into Aix-en-Provence, a city renowned for its elegant streets, boutique shops, and sophisticated atmosphere.

Here, the guide offers suggestions for top shopping addresses—think cheeses, biscuits, and perfumes—that showcase the region’s culinary and artisanal talents. One reviewer shared that Aix is like a “local bourgeoisie,” full of character and elegance, making it a wonderful place for a gentle exploration.

Finishing with Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume

The trip concludes in Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, a small town with a big history, thanks to its basilica and relics of Mary Magdalene. Visitors can walk around, do some shopping, and enjoy lunch before visiting the basilica, which houses what is believed to be Mary Magdalene’s skull.

The basilica, with its ancient charm, adds a historical and spiritual layer to the day. If you’re interested in history and religious art, this stop will be quite meaningful.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The tour costs about $1,152 per group, which covers private transportation, a 2-hour horseback riding session, local appetizers with rosé, and pick-up/drop-off service. The ride itself is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes for your group, with some prep time included.

The experience is quite flexible—most travelers can participate, and it’s perfect for those looking for a personal, all-inclusive day out. Lunch isn’t included, so you should plan for that at the end of the day, but the guide will provide recommendations for quiet, authentic restaurants away from busy tourist spots.

What’s Not Included

If you’re planning the day, keep in mind that lunch isn’t part of the package, and additional costs for the horses apply if your group exceeds two people (a €60 supplement per extra rider). Also, as with all outdoor activities, the tour is weather-dependent—poor weather might lead to rescheduling or a full refund.

Authenticity, Value, and Suitability

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Provence—combining physical activity, scenic beauty, and cultural richness. The horseback riding is at the core, but the stops at villages, wineries, and the basilica give it substance. The reviews highlight how knowledgeable and flexible the guides are, making the experience feel more like a personalized adventure rather than a canned tour.

The cost may seem steep, but considering private transportation, a full day of activities, wine tastings, and the personalized nature of the experience, many will find it worth the investment—especially if you’re traveling with a small group or as a couple.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, and good food and wine. It’s not designed for those seeking a quick sightseeing stop or a purely relaxing day, but rather those wanting an active, immersive experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a unique way to experience the essence of Provence—riding through vineyards, tasting local wines, exploring charming villages, and soaking in history—this private horseback tour offers all that in a carefully curated package. It’s perfect for those who want to step off the beaten path and enjoy a day tailored to their interests, with the added bonus of professional, friendly guides.

The overall experience seems to strike a good balance between activity and relaxation, making it ideal for travelers seeking a memorable, authentic day out in this beautiful part of France. Just remember to factor in the cost and weather considerations, and you’re likely to come away with some wonderful memories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for most travelers, but horseback riding might be more suitable for older children or teens comfortable on horseback. Check with the provider for specific age restrictions.

What is included in the price?
Price includes private transportation, a 2-hour horseback ride for your group, local appetizers with rosé wine, and pick-up/drop-off at your accommodation.

How long is the horseback ride?
The ride lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, with some prep time included, led by a knowledgeable guide.

Can I cancel the tour if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private experience, with only your group participating, ensuring a more personalized and flexible day.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Additional charges apply if there are more than two people riding—€60 per extra rider. Lunch is not included, so plan for that separately.

How much walking is involved?
Apart from the horseback ride, there’s walking through villages and basilica visits, but these are generally relaxed and optional.

What languages does the guide speak?
While not explicitly stated, most guides are likely to communicate fluently in English and French.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the vehicle provided is air-conditioned for your comfort during transfers.

What makes this experience different from other Provence tours?
The combination of horseback riding, authentic village visits, and historical sites—plus the private, tailored approach—sets it apart from typical group sightseeing trips.

If you’re craving a day that blends adventure, culture, and relaxation in stunning Provence surroundings, this tour could be your perfect escape. Just keep in mind the price point, weather, and your comfort level with riding, and you’ll be set for a memorable experience.