Tour of the Bandol and Côtes de Provence vineyards + Lunch

Exploring the Vineyards of Bandol and Côtes de Provence: A Detailed Look at the Wine & Lunch Tour

If you’re dreaming of sipping some of France’s finest wines while soaking in the spectacular scenery of Provence, this tour might just be what you’re after. Promising visits to two top-tier estates—one in Bandol known for its bold reds, and another in Côtes de Provence famous for its delicate rosés—this experience combines wine tasting, educational insights, and a leisurely lunch to round out the day.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the fact that it’s led by a former three-Michelin-starred head sommelier who clearly knows his stuff and has a knack for sharing that knowledge without sounding pretentious. Second, the blend of stunning landscapes, quality wines, and a top-notch meal gives it a well-rounded feel.

On the flip side, this experience lasts only four hours, so if you’re someone looking for an all-day deep dive into the region’s vineyards, it might feel a bit brisk. Also, it’s not suitable for children or travelers with mobility issues, so it’s best suited for adults who appreciate good wine and a relaxed pace.

Overall, if you’re eager to learn about Provençal wines with expert guidance and enjoy a beautiful setting over good food, this tour could be a highlight of your trip to the South of France.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by a seasoned, Michelin-starred sommelier who shares insightful stories and tasting tips.
• Stunning Vistas: The vineyards sit between sun-drenched hills and the Mediterranean, offering fantastic scenery.
• Quality Tastings: Visit two distinguished estates representing Bandol and Côtes de Provence, each with unique wines.
• Gourmet Lunch: A leisurely meal at a well-chosen Var restaurant complements the wine experience beautifully.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is included, starting right from the cruise ports of Toulon or La Seyne-sur-Mer.
• Limited Group Size: The private group setting makes the experience more personal and relaxed.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This four-hour adventure hits all the right notes for wine lovers seeking an authentic taste of Provence’s viniculture. From the moment you’re picked up in an air-conditioned vehicle at either Toulon or La Seyne-sur-Mer, the journey begins with a scenic drive along the coast, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see. You might find yourself admiring sweeping views of the hills and the shimmering Mediterranean in the background—perfect for snapping a few photos or just soaking in the atmosphere.

First Stop: The Heart of Bandol

Your first vineyard visit takes you to a family-run estate or a historic property in the Bandol region. Known for its powerful and elegant reds, mainly made from Mourvèdre grapes, Bandol has a reputation for wines that age beautifully and show layers of complexity. The guide will tell you about the distinctive terroir—the soil, climate, and tradition—that make Bandol wines so special.

You’ll get an inside look at how the estate operates, from vine cultivation to winemaking techniques. Visiting the winery facilities, you’ll see the equipment and process that craft these wines, adding context to what you’ll taste later. The highlight here? The tasting session, led by your knowledgeable guide, where you will sample a selection of red, rosé, and white wines. Expect to savor some of the estate’s best, gaining a better understanding of what makes these wines stand out.

Midday: A Delicious Var Lunch

After the first vineyard experience, you’ll enjoy a magnificent lunch at a carefully selected restaurant. The meal is designed to complement the wines you’ve just sampled, and the setting offers stunning views—think sun-drenched terraces or charming village settings. The lunch is a chance to relax, reflect on what you’ve learned so far, and dive into local flavors.

More Great Tours Nearby

Second Vineyard: The Charm of Côtes de Provence

Post-lunch, the journey continues to another estate, this time in the Côtes de Provence appellation. This region is celebrated for its delicate rosé wines and expressive reds. Here, you’ll explore a different terroir — perhaps with different soil types or microclimates — and learn about the cultivation and winemaking techniques that give these wines their character.

The tasting here will highlight the character of Provençal rosés, known for their light, crisp qualities, as well as reds that offer a different profile from Bandol’s more robust style. Your guide’s stories and anecdotes will deepen your appreciation for how geography influences the wine.

Final Moments & Return

The tour wraps up with your driver returning you to the original pick-up point. The entire experience, from vineyard visits to the meal, is designed to be enjoyable and educational without feeling rushed.

What’s Included & What You Might Consider

The price of $233 per person covers transportation, visits to two prestigious vineyards, tastings, and a substantial lunch. This makes for a pretty good value considering the quality of the estates involved and the expertise guiding you through each step. Plus, the convenience of being picked up and dropped off from the cruise ports means no fuss—just relax and focus on the experience.

However, the tour does not include additional meals or extra wines outside those tasted at the estates. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you might find yourself wishing for more tasting time or a chance to purchase bottles directly from the vineyards.

The tour is offered in English and French, with a private group format making it more personalized. It’s accessible for most travelers, but not suitable for children or those with mobility challenges. Also, comfortable shoes are recommended since there will be some walking at the estates.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One traveler from Canada shared, “Romain was fantastic. He was very knowledgeable and friendly. Great wineries and fabulous lunch. Romain went out of his way to accommodate us. Highly recommend.” This highlights the importance of a guide who’s personable and insightful, adding to the overall enjoyment.

Another guest from the U.S. mentioned, “The entire tour was top notch. Both vineyards were excellent, and the people there were fantastic.” Their praise underscores the quality of the estates visited and the genuine hospitality you can expect.

Few aspects are overlooked here. Attendees especially appreciated the stunning views and the expert guidance—elements that elevate the experience beyond just wine tasting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for those who are genuinely interested in wine, especially Provence’s signature varieties. If you appreciate learning about wine in a relaxed setting with a knowledgeable guide, you’ll find this tour very rewarding.

It’s also a good fit if you want a taste of local culture, scenery, and cuisine rolled into one outing. Because the tour is private and well-organized, it suits travelers who prefer a more intimate, personalized experience rather than large group excursions.

Not ideal for children or anyone with limited mobility, but if that’s not a concern, you’ll enjoy the blend of education, scenery, and great food.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation of Provençal wines while enjoying the region’s stunning landscapes, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, tasting, and gastronomy. Led by a guide with serious expertise, you’ll visit two esteemed vineyards, each showcasing a different facet of the area’s viticulture. The included lunch adds a leisurely touch, letting you savor local flavors in a beautiful setting.

The experience shines brightest for wine lovers who value quality and authenticity. The private group setup, expert guidance, and carefully curated itinerary make it feel personalized without breaking the bank. While it’s not suited for children or those with mobility issues, adults seeking a refined, relaxed way to explore Provence’s wine culture will find this tour very fulfilling.

All in all, it’s a well-rounded, high-value option for travelers eager to taste and learn about the wines that define this part of France—an experience best enjoyed with good company and a curious palate.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation via air-conditioned vehicle is provided from the ports of Toulon and La Seyne-sur-Mer, making it convenient and comfortable.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including vineyard visits, tastings, and lunch.

Can I choose the starting time?
Yes, availability varies, so it’s best to check specific starting times when you book.

Is this a group tour?
It’s a private group experience, meaning it’s tailored to your party for a more personalized feel.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, as it involves wine tastings and adult-oriented activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended because there will be some walking at the estates.

Can I buy wines at the vineyards?
The tour includes tastings, but purchasing bottles depends on each estate’s policies—it’s common to buy if you find something you love.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in English and French.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not designed for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How do I cancel if my plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

You can check availability for your dates here: