From Aix-en-Provence : Half-day Sidecar Wine Tour

If you’re considering how to see the beautiful landscapes around Aix-en-Provence, this half-day sidecar wine tour might just be the adventure you’re looking for. It promises a blend of scenic rides, cultural insights, and visits to local wineries, all from the back of a vintage sidecar.

What we really like about this tour is how it offers an unusual perspective on Provence — not just through the sights but also via the thrill of a sidecar ride. Plus, the stops at two different wineries mean you get a taste of regional wines without the crowded bus vibe. One thing to keep in mind: this experience is quite focused on the ride and scenery, so if you’re after a leisurely tasting experience with lots of free time, it might feel a bit brisk.

This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of adventure, love scenic drives, and want to include wine tasting in their itinerary. It’s definitely a memorable way to see the countryside, especially if you’re okay with a bit of wind in your hair and the occasional bump along the way.

Key Points

• Unique Experience: Riding in a vintage sidecar offers a memorable way to explore Provence’s landscapes.
• Scenic Views & Stops: The tour features breathtaking panoramas, including Sainte-Victoire mountain and views from Bimont Dam.
• Cultural & Culinary Stops: Visits to two wineries for tastings provide insight into regional wines, plus a stop at Picasso’s final resting place.
• Comfort & Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the experience hassle-free.
• Good Value: At around $285 per person, it includes guides, water, helmets, gloves, and wine tastings, making it a well-rounded package.
• Highly Rated: With a perfect 5.0 rating from 26 reviews, travelers report it as a highlight of their trip.

What to Expect From the Tour

This half-day adventure runs approximately four hours, starting from the iconic Paul Cezanne statue in Aix-en-Provence. From there, you’ll hop into your sidecar setup — yes, that vintage, open-air motorcycle sidecar — and get ready for some memorable riding.

The Route & Stops

First stop: Sainte-Victoire Mountain
Your journey begins with a scenic ride toward the majestic Sainte-Victoire mountain, a familiar sight for anyone who loves Provence. The landscape here is truly stunning, and you’ll get plenty of chances to snap photos along the way. We loved the reviews praising the views, with one traveler noting “the overall experience of cycling through the countryside was a lot of fun,” and others mentioning how safe and smooth the ride felt, thanks to guides like Kevin and Eric.

Bimont Dam
Your first official stop is at the Bimont Dam, which offers a striking vista of the mountain and the dam itself. The photos taken here seem to be a highlight for many, with reviews describing the views as breathtaking. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, giving you just enough time to soak in the scenery and capture some great shots.

Vauvenargues & Picasso’s Tomb
Next, you’ll visit the charming village of Vauvenargues, famous for its Provençal architecture and peaceful atmosphere. Here, you get a peek at the Château de Vauvenargues, where Picasso is buried — a quiet spot that adds a cultural touch to the day. This stop isn’t just about the scenery; it’s a meaningful cultural site, especially if you’re a fan of the artist.

Wineries & Wine Tastings
The centerpiece of this tour is the two winery visits. The first is located south of Sainte-Victoire, where you’ll get to taste regional wines in an enchanting setting. The second is on the way back, north of Aix, offering another chance to sample local varieties. Reviews rave about the wineries, with several mentioning the organic practices of these vineyards, like the one reviewer who said, “really loved that both wineries as well as the lavender field were doing it all organically.”

The Experience & Guides

Guide Kevin and Eric are consistently praised for their friendliness, safety, and local knowledge. One reviewer exclaims, “Kevin was absolutely perfect! He was safe, kind, and brought us through some amazing views as we tasted wines.” The guides seem to strike a great balance between informative commentary and relaxed friendliness, making the entire experience feel personalized.

What’s Included & What to Expect

The tour costs around $285 per person, which, considering the inclusions, offers good value. It includes wine tastings at two wineries, bottled water, helmets, gloves, and hotel pickup/drop-off. It’s designed as a private experience, so your group will be the only ones on the ride, adding a sense of exclusivity and comfort.

Practical Details

• Duration: About 4 hours
• Meeting Point: Paul Cezanne Statue in Aix-en-Provence
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent — if conditions are poor, it will be canceled and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.
• Booking: The tour is usually booked about 47 days in advance, so plan accordingly if you’re set on a specific date.
• Suitability: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. Just keep in mind that the open-air nature means you should dress appropriately for the weather.

The Real Experience: What Travelers Are Saying

The reviews paint a pretty consistent picture of satisfaction. Many rave about how this is the best way to see Provence’s countryside, with comments like “the scenery is stunning,” and “the views from the ride and stops are unforgettable.” The mix of a fun ride, beautiful scenery, and excellent wine seems to hit the right notes.

One reviewer shared, “This was one of the highlights of our stay in France,” highlighting how much they enjoyed the organic wineries and the friendliness of guides like Kevin. Another praised the safety and comfort, saying, “the drive was smooth and very safe,” which is reassuring given the open nature of the sidecar.

A few reviews mention minor issues, like unclear conditions of cancellation or refunds, but overall, the experience is described as “super enjoyable” and “truly the highlight of the trip.”

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for travelers who crave something different from the usual wine tour. If you enjoy scenic drives, open-air fun, and a bit of adventure, you’ll probably love it. It’s especially suited for those who aren’t just after tasting wines but also want to experience the beauty of Provence from a fresh perspective.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the high praise for guides and safety suggests it’s suitable for most age groups, as long as you’re comfortable on a motorcycle ride. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or even solo travelers looking for a memorable outing.

The Sum Up

This half-day sidecar tour around Aix-en-Provence offers more than just a wine tasting — it’s an immersive experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and a dash of adventure. The guides’ friendliness and the carefully curated stops make it a memorable way to see Provence’s landscapes. The inclusion of organic wineries and the chance to ride in a vintage sidecar make it stand out from standard tours, providing a personalized and fun experience.

It’s best suited for curious travelers who want a dash of excitement and beautiful views, paired with quality wine tastings. If you love scenic rides, picturesque villages, and learning about local wines in a relaxed setting, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Just remember, it’s weather-dependent, so check the forecast, and book in advance to secure your spot on this highly-rated adventure.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it a hassle-free experience.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately four hours, giving ample time for scenic stops, wine tastings, and riding.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor riding. Helmets and gloves are provided, but dress for the weather.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
Yes, you get tastings at two wineries, with the price covering these experiences.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is generally open to most travelers, but check with the provider if you have young children or specific needs.

What’s the main highlight of this tour?
The combination of scenic rides, stunning viewpoints, and visits to organic, regional wineries.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is canceled in poor weather, and you can choose another date or get a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 47 days ahead, so plan early if you want your preferred date.

What makes this tour different from other wine tours?
The vintage sidecar ride provides a unique, fun perspective on Provence’s countryside, blending adventure with cultural exploration.