Full day lavender tour Luberon and Sault

If you’re dreaming of those classic Provence images—lush lavender fields stretching to the horizon, hilltop villages with breathtaking views—this full-day lavender tour from Avignon might be just what you need. While we haven’t taken this tour ourselves, the reviews and details paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone eager to experience the region’s fragrant beauty.

What really catches our eye are the plenty of photo stops—perfect for snapping those iconic shots—and the chance to visit a lavender distillery and sample lavender ice cream, which sounds both charming and delicious. Plus, with a small-group format capped at just eight travelers, it promises a more personal, relaxed experience.

That said, a potential consideration for some travelers is the seasonality: the lavender fields bloom in July and August, so timing is key if you want to see those vibrant purple landscapes at their best. Keep in mind, the tour lasts about 8.5 hours, so it’s a full day of sightseeing.

This tour generally suits those who appreciate scenic drives, picturesque villages, and the sensory delights of Provence’s lavender fields. It’s ideal if you’re after an intimate, well-guided day out rather than a rushed, large-group bus experience.

Key Points

• Beautiful photo opportunities: The tour visits iconic hilltop villages and lavender fields.
• Seasonal appeal: Best in July and August when the lavender blooms.
• Expert guidance: Guides like Gordana receive praise for their knowledge.
• Flexible itinerary: The tour adapts to bloom timing, with options to stay longer at certain stops.
• Small-group experience: Max 8 travelers for a more personalized vibe.
• Value for the price: Includes transportation, guide, bottled water, and multiple scenic stops.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting bright and early at 9:00 am from Avignon, this full-day tour whisks you through some of Provence’s most stunning sights. The first stop is Gordes, renowned as one of the most panoramic spots in the region. From this lookout point, you’ll get a sweeping view of the Provençal landscape—think rolling hills, stone houses, and the distant shimmer of lavender fields if you’re lucky with timing. We love the way these stops set the tone, giving you a taste of the region’s tranquility and beauty right from the outset.

Next, you’ll visit the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque, a 12th-century monastery surrounded by lavender fields. This is one of the most photographed spots in Provence, especially during the summer when the blooms are at their peak. The view of the ancient monastery sitting amid rows of violet is almost surreal, and many travelers find it to be a highlight.

After that, the tour takes you to Roussillon, a village famous for its vibrant ochre-colored buildings. Walking through Roussillon feels like stepping into a natural paint palette, with deep reds, oranges, and yellows under a clear blue sky. Here, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for a leisurely lunch and exploration, giving you time to soak in the village’s unique charm.

The final major stop is Sault, the lavender capital of France. Perched on a rocky outcrop, Sault offers sweeping views over the valley where lavender and wheat fields meet. This is a great spot for picture-taking, and you’ll also visit a local lavender distillery, learning how the aromatic plants are processed. The tour’s review mentions the guide’s quick adaptability when the lavender wasn’t fully in bloom—something to keep in mind if you’re traveling early or late in the season.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Gordes provides the perfect vista point to get your bearings and take some stunning photos. The short 30-minute stop is free, but don’t forget your camera—these views are postcard-worthy.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque offers a glimpse into history and spirituality, framed against the lavender fields. Although only 15 minutes are allocated, it’s enough time to marvel at the monochrome blending of monastery and lavender.

Roussillon is a highlight for its colorful architecture and natural beauty. The 1.5-hour window allows room for a relaxed lunch, some wandering, and perhaps picking up souvenirs like ochre pigments or local crafts.

Sault is where the lavender magic really happens. Expect multiple photo stops along the rocky slopes and a chance to see a traditional distillery process. The 2-hour visit gives you plenty of time to breathe in the fragrant air, snap photos, and soak up the scenery.

The Experience and Tour Dynamics

The small-group format of up to 8 people is a definite plus, ensuring you’re not just another face in a crowd. From reviews, guides like Gordana receive praise for their knowledge and friendly approach, making the day informative and enjoyable. The transportation is by air-conditioned minivan, which adds comfort during the roughly 8.5-hour journey.

Bottled water is included, which is a small but appreciated detail, especially on warm summer days. The tour is seasonal, primarily in July and August, so if you’re visiting during this window, you’ll see the lavender in full bloom. If you choose to go outside these months, the fields may be less vibrant, but the scenic villages and landscape still make it worthwhile.

The price, around $140 per person, offers a fair value considering the transportation, guide, and multiple scenic stops. However, it doesn’t include lunch, which you should budget for separately—Roussillon offers several options, and you might want to try some regional specialties.

Real Traveler Insights

One reviewer sums it up well: “We had the most perfect day with our tour guide, Gordana!! Because of the cooler spring, we were a little early to see full blooming lavender south of Avignon, but our guide quickly shifted and gave us the option to stay on the original course.” This highlights the flexibility and attentiveness of the guide, which can make or break a tour experience.

Another traveler appreciated the stunning views and the guide’s knowledge, emphasizing how the stops felt curated and meaningful. The small group size seems to foster a more personalized vibe, allowing for easier questions and a relaxed pace.

Potential Downsides

Since the tour is seasonal, if you’re visiting outside July or August, you might miss the peak lavender bloom, which could impact the overall experience. Also, as a full-day outing, it requires a decent level of energy and patience for long drives and walking around.

Some travelers may find the 1.5-hour lunch break in Roussillon a bit tight if they want to explore more or dine leisurely, but overall, it offers enough time to enjoy the village and grab a meal.

If you’re someone who loves scenic drives, picturesque villages, and fragrant landscapes, this tour is a good pick. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate experience with knowledgeable guides showing the highlights of Provence’s lavender region. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a scheduled, organized day rather than navigating on their own.

However, if visiting during the lavender’s peak is your goal, plan your trip around July or August for the best bloom. For travelers who want flexibility or are visiting outside the season, consider whether the beautiful villages alone are enough to justify the cost.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Avignon.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation by air-conditioned minivan, a professional guide, bottled water, and multiple scenic stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of options in Roussillon where you can choose to dine.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

When is the best time to do this tour?
The ideal months are July and August, when the lavender fields are in full bloom, creating those classic purple panoramas.

Are the stops free?
Yes, the visits to Gordes, Senanque Abbey, Roussillon, and Sault are free of charge; the tour fee mainly covers transportation and guide.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly specified, the focus on scenic sights and walking suggests it’s suitable for most ages, but consider individual stamina and interest levels.

This full-day lavender tour offers a genuinely enjoyable way to see some of Provence’s most iconic sights. With its thoughtfully curated stops, flexible approach to blooming seasons, and small-group intimacy, it’s suited for travelers who want to relax, take photos, and learn a bit about the region from knowledgeable guides.

While it may not be ideal if you’re visiting outside the lavender season, in summer months, you’ll likely find the vibrant fields and charming villages well worth the journey. Just remember to plan your timing carefully and come prepared for a full day of exploration.

If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and immersive Provençal experience, this tour could very well be a highlight of your trip.