Gorges du Verdon : Lavender fields, Picnic boat ride & Villages

If you’re looking for a day that combines natural beauty, charming villages, and a touch of adventure, this tour of the Gorges du Verdon could be just what you need. We haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, but based on the reviews and detailed itinerary, it offers a pretty well-rounded taste of Provence’s highlights.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the way it balances different elements: a relaxed boat ride in Europe’s largest canyon, picturesque stops in lavender-filled fields, and a chance to wander through fairy-tale villages like Sainte-Croix and Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. One of the best parts? The inclusion of a picnic with local wines—an authentic Provence touch—and the intimate group size, with a maximum of six travelers, which should make for a more personal experience.

One thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary might not cover the entire Gorges du Verdon as some expect. One review points out that instead of the grand gorge, you’ll visit Esparron-de-Verdon and Sainte Croix Lake, which are still beautiful but might be slightly different from the iconic images some travelers hope for. Also, weather can impact the experience—if it’s stormy or rainy, the boat ride might be replaced with a visit to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie instead.

This tour is ideal for those who want a curated, scenic day out without the hassle of planning each detail themselves. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy gentle boat trips, picturesque villages, and a taste of local Provence life. If you’re after an active adventure or a full exploration of every nook, you might find this a bit limited. But for a memorable, well-organized day, it offers plenty.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines a boat ride, village visits, and scenic drives.
• Personalized Group: Small groups (up to 6) promise a more intimate and flexible tour.
• Authentic Flavors: Picnic with local wines adds an authentic Provence touch.
• Flexible Stops: Includes lavender fields, villages, and countryside—each with unique appeal.
• Weather-Dependent: The boat ride is weather sensitive, with a backup plan for poor conditions.
• Good Value: At around $223.55, it offers a full-day experience with several highlights, but consider the boat rental cost if you want to go on the water yourself.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Gorges du Verdon and Boat Ride

The core attraction is the boat ride in the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon, which makes up the highlight for many travelers. You’ll be driving a private electric boat—think of it as a peaceful, two-hour cruise—allowing you to unwind and soak in the spectacular scenery. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even jump into the water or just relax on the boat deck, enjoying a picnic and some local wines.

From what reviewers say, the water is very calm, making it accessible even for those who aren’t seasoned sailors. The boat rental costs about 38 euros per hour if you want to take over for a bit longer, up to six people, so it’s worth considering if you’re craving a bit more water-based fun.

One reviewer mentioned, “The canyon is gorgeous. The picnic lunch a taste of Provence and the swim off the boat refreshing,” which captures the vibe well. You’ll likely feel a sense of peace, surrounded by towering cliffs and clear water, a perfect setting for photos or just unwinding.

Lavender Fields and Scenic Stops

After the boat, the tour stops at lavender fields off the beaten path. These fields are described as magical, especially if you visit during or just after the blooming season. The best part? If you’re lucky, you’ll be the only one there, capturing stunning photos without crowds. Even after the peak blooming period, the fields maintain a special charm, and the lavender’s scent often lingers in memory.

One participant shared, “The beauty is really indescribable, even after the blooming period,” so this stop is more about the atmosphere and views than just peak flowers.

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon and Lake Views

Next, you’ll visit the perched village of Sainte-Croix, offering incredible views over the Sainte Croix Lake. The village’s setting is quintessential Provence—colorful houses, narrow streets, panoramic vistas. There’s some free time here to stroll, perhaps grab a coffee, or just enjoy the scenery from the lakeside. If the weather’s warm, relaxing at the beach or by the lake can be a great way to unwind before heading to the next stop.

The Countryside of Provence and Moustiers Sainte-Marie

The drive will take you through the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Var regions, showcasing the beautiful countryside and rolling hills that make Provence so distinctive. These scenic drives are a chance to appreciate the landscape from the comfort of your vehicle.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to Moustiers Sainte-Marie, a village famed for its pottery and old-world charm. You’ll have an hour to walk through its narrow streets, browse artisan shops, and soak in the authentic Provencal atmosphere. If the weather turns bad, the tour’s backup plan is a visit to the charming Moustiers instead of the boat.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

The cost for the whole experience is $223.55 per person, which seems quite reasonable given the length and variety of stops. The price covers transportation, a picnic lunch with local wines, and entry to the boat ride (if weather permits). The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the travel segments.

However, the boat rental costs 38 euros per hour if you want to rent your own boat, which is an optional extra. Keep this in mind if you’re hoping to extend your time on the water or want a more hands-on experience.

The tour departs from the Aix-en-Provence Tourism Office at 9:00 am, with pick-up and drop-off included. Group size is limited to six travelers, providing a more personalized experience, but this also means booking in advance is highly recommended—most people book about 66 days ahead.

The Overall Experience: What We Think

Based on the reviews, this tour offers a beautiful day filled with memorable sights and relaxing moments. One traveler called it “a beautiful day” that included stunning views, a delicious picnic, and a dream-like village visit. They appreciated the mix of activities that didn’t feel rushed or overly commercial.

On the other hand, a review pointed out that the gorge aspect isn’t always as grand as some expect—since the tour visits Esparron-de-Verdon instead of the main Verdon Gorge, some may feel slightly underwhelmed if they’re seeking the iconic canyon experience. Still, the lakes and canyon views are very attractive, and the boat ride itself is often praised for its calm waters and peaceful setting.

Another reviewer highlighted that “the canyon is gorgeous,” and the swim and picnic made for a truly memorable day. The lavender fields, especially when uncrowded, add a magical touch that many find worth the trip.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience will suit travelers who enjoy scenic drives, gentle boat rides, and charming villages. It’s ideal if you prefer a relaxed pace and want to see some of Provence’s most beautiful spots without the stress of planning or driving yourself.

It might not be perfect if you’re looking for a high-adventure day or want to explore every corner of the Gorges du Verdon—but if your goal is a well-organized, picturesque, and enjoyable day, this tour hits many of those marks.

FAQs About the Tour

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour isn’t specifically labeled as family-focused, the gentle boat ride and scenic stops could appeal to older children and teenagers. However, the small group size means it’s more suited for travelers comfortable with a relaxed pace and outdoor activities.

What if the weather is bad?
If the weather turns poor, the boat ride will be replaced with a visit to Moustiers Sainte-Marie instead. The tour provider offers the option of rescheduling or full refund if the experience is canceled due to bad weather.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride lasts approximately 2 hours, with the possibility to jump into the water or just enjoy the scenery. If you rent the boat yourself, it costs about 38 euros per hour.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers transportation from and to Aix-en-Provence, a picnic lunch with local wines, and access to the boat ride if conditions are good. The actual boat rental is an optional extra.

Can I book this tour last-minute?
Most travelers book about 66 days in advance, so last-minute bookings might be difficult. Confirmations are sent within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
The boat ride uses electric boats, which are more environmentally friendly than traditional motorboats, adding a sustainable touch.

Are there any hidden costs?
Aside from the optional boat rental, no hidden costs are mentioned. Remember the boat rental is paid separately if you choose to rent your own boat.

How much free time will I have?
You’ll have about an hour in Sainte-Croix and Moustiers Sainte-Marie, giving you time to walk around, take photos, or relax.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day filled with unforgettable views, this tour offers a solid way to experience some of Provence’s best spots without too much hassle. The combination of a gentle boat cruise, lavender fields, and charming villages makes it a well-rounded day out. The small group size and inclusive picnic with local wines add to the personal, authentic vibe.

While it may not be a deep dive into the entire Gorges du Verdon—the focus is more on the lakes and surrounding villages—you’ll leave with lasting memories of beautiful landscapes and peaceful moments. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer a calm, picturesque experience over adrenaline-filled adventures.

If you’re okay with some minor limitations like weather dependency or the slightly different gorge experience, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Provence trip. It’s a good pick for lovers of scenic drives, water views, and authentic village charm.

Happy exploring!