Private tour of the Alpilles, wine tastings, and local restaurant

Exploring the Best of the Alpilles: A Private Wine Tour Worth Considering

If you’re thinking about a taste of France’s south, this private tour of the Alpilles—complete with wine tastings and a delicious local lunch—might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a well-rounded experience that balances scenic beauty with culinary and wine delights.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines stunning vineyard landscapes with passionate winemakers’ stories. Plus, including a quality lunch at a renowned restaurant adds a satisfying culinary layer. On the flip side, since this is a full-day experience with two vineyard visits, it’s worth noting that it’s quite structured—you’ll want to be ready for a day packed with active tasting and scenic stops.

This tour seems to suit those who want to soak up the Provençal vibe, enjoy some excellent wines, and taste regional dishes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. It’s particularly appealing if you prefer a private, guided experience, especially with the option of private transportation—making it ideal for small groups or couples craving a more intimate day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Beautiful landscapes: You’ll get to admire the vineyards around Saint-Rémy de Provence and Les Baux.
• Passionate wine producers: Tasting wines from France’s first 100% organic AOC Baux de Provence gives you a taste of local dedication.
• Delicious local cuisine: The included lunch pairs regional dishes with good wines, enhancing the overall experience.
• Flexible options: The tour offers both independent self-drive arrangements and private guided transportation.
• Time commitment: Spanning about 7 hours, it’s a full but manageable day trip.
• Authentic experience: Two vineyard visits provide insight into local winemaking, plus a chance to taste wines directly from passionate growers.

What to Expect on Your Day in the Alpilles

This private tour kicks off in the picturesque village of Les Baux-de-Provence, a spot where history and natural beauty blend seamlessly. From there, the day is divided between two vineyard visits, each offering roughly an hour of tasting and exploration. The emphasis here is on quality—these visits are curated to give you real insight into the winemaking process and to allow you to sample wines produced with genuine care.

Vineyard Visits and Tastings

The first vineyard visit sets the tone. Located in the heart of the Alpilles, you’ll likely find this estate has a story to tell, with wines crafted through organic methods—France’s first 100% organic AOC. The winemakers here tend to be passionate and eager to share their craft. Expect to sample several wines, each with its own character, while enjoying the scenic vineyard views. The reviews note that the tastings are interesting and well-organized, with one customer mentioning, “Good organization and good follow-up.”

The second vineyard visit continues this exploration, giving you more opportunities to taste diverse wines. The focus on local, passionate producers means you’ll probably sample some excellent Bordeaux-style reds, rosés, or whites typical of the Provence region.

Lunch at a Bistronomic Restaurant

Between the two vineyard sessions, a two-hour lunch at a well-regarded local restaurant awaits. The setting is described as warm and inviting, with a menu that highlights regional ingredients. Food and wine pairings are part of this experience, elevating your meal from just sustenance to a memorable culinary moment. The quality of the restaurant and its atmosphere is generally praised, giving you a real taste of Provençal hospitality.

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Final Vineyard Visit

After lunch, the tour concludes with another visit and tasting. This second stop lets you compare different styles of wine and see how diverse the local terroir can be. It’s a well-paced day, allowing enough time to savor each experience without feeling rushed.

The Practicalities: Price, Duration, and Options

At $233 per person, this tour offers good value considering the inclusion of two vineyard visits, a full meal, and private transportation if selected. The total duration is about 7 hours, meaning you’ll spend a comfortable amount of time exploring without it being overly long or exhausting.

The tour can be enjoyed independently if you prefer to drive yourself—with a detailed guide provided in advance—or with a private guide who handles transportation. The private driver option is especially suited for groups of 6 to 8 people, making the experience more relaxed and personalized.

What We Love and What to Keep in Mind

Based on reviews and descriptions, the things that stand out are the stunning vineyard scenery and excellent wine selection. One reviewer, Gilles from France, called it a “very nice activity,” praising the organization and the interesting vineyard visits. Having the chance to taste wines from passionate producers truly adds depth to the experience.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a structured day. If you’re not a fan of rigid schedules or long tasting sessions, this might feel a bit intense. Also, since the tour involves multiple stops, be prepared for a fair amount of walking and standing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re a wine enthusiast wanting to explore Provençal wines in a relaxed setting. It’s also suitable for those interested in scenic drives and regional cuisine. Those traveling with a small group or as a couple will appreciate the private aspect, making it more intimate and flexible.

If you’re after a low-key, unstructured day, or if you’re traveling with very young children, this might not be the best fit. But for anyone eager to combine wine, scenery, and good food, it’s a solid choice.

An Honest Look at the Experience

The most praised aspect is definitely the stunning views and the interesting wine tastings, which give you a real taste of local craftsmanship. The inclusion of a quality regional lunch adds a satisfying culinary element, making the day a well-rounded experience. The fact that it’s a private tour adds a layer of comfort and personalization, with reviews indicating that the organization is smooth and follow-up is good.

That said, it is a fairly full schedule—so if your idea of a relaxing day involves less structure or more free time, you might find this too busy. Also, at the price point, you’re paying for a curated experience with thoughtful touches, but it’s always good to weigh whether this format suits your travel style.

FAQ

Can I choose to do the tour independently?
Yes, you can opt for the self-drive version, where you’ll receive a detailed guide in advance to explore at your own pace.

Is food included?
Yes, a two-hour lunch at a renowned local restaurant with food and wine pairings is included in the package.

How long does each vineyard visit last?
Each visit and tasting session lasts approximately one hour, giving enough time to enjoy the wines and scenery without feeling rushed.

What is the group size?
The private guide option is for small groups of 6 to 8 people. If you choose to go independently, you can set your own pace.

Is this experience suitable for non-French speakers?
Yes, the tour is offered in both English and French, making it accessible for most travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, especially since there will be some walking around vineyards.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a thoughtfully curated Provençal experience combining scenic vineyards, passionate winemakers, and regional cuisine, this private tour ticks many boxes. It offers a genuine glimpse into the local wine scene, with the added pleasure of sampling some of the best wines the region produces.

It’s particularly well-suited for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed yet comprehensive day trip. The combination of beautiful landscapes, well-selected wine estates, and a warm lunch makes it a memorable way to enjoy the South of France’s renowned terroir.

Whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or simply eager to enjoy some of Provence’s finest scenery with a glass in hand, this tour is a balanced choice that delivers on both flavor and atmosphere. Just be ready for a full, engaging day that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the region’s wine and culinary traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: