Full-day Private Tour Gorges du Verdon (LAVENDER JUNE 15/JULY 15)

If you’re dreaming of rolling lavender fields, crystal-clear lakes, and dramatic canyon vistas, a full-day private tour of the Gorges du Verdon combined with Provence’s lavender landscapes might just be your ideal escape. While this tour runs all year, its crown jewel—the lavender season—only lasts from June 15 to July 15, making it a seasonal highlight. The experience promises a relaxed, customizable journey with a knowledgeable guide, all wrapped into one day, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What we love most about this tour is its flexibility. You’re not just herded from one spot to another; the itinerary can be tailored based on your preferences. Plus, the chance to visit local farms and taste regional delights adds a layer of authenticity many tours overlook. One potential consideration: the drive times add up, so if you’re sensitive to long periods in the vehicle, that’s worth noting. This tour suits travelers who want a curated, in-depth experience, especially those keen on stunning scenery and regional charm without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Seasonal Highlight: The lavender fields are in full bloom from mid-June to mid-July, which is perfect timing if you’re after that iconic purple landscape. Outside this window, the tour still offers beautiful scenery, but the lavender might not be at its peak.
• Private, Customizable Tour: As a private experience, it’s flexible enough to adapt to your interests, whether that’s more time in the fields or exploring local villages.
• Authentic Provence Experiences: Visits to local farms for olive oil, almonds, and lavender scents add authentic regional touches, along with free time in Moustiers Sainte-Marie—a gem of a town.
• Breathtaking Views: The highlight is definitely the view of the Gorges du Verdon, Europe’s largest canyon, and the turquoise waters of Lake Sainte Croix, which are truly stunning.
• Value for Money: At just over $1,300 for a group of up to eight, it’s a considerable investment, but the private guide, tailored itinerary, and visits to exclusive spots make this a worthwhile splurge for many.
• Customer Satisfaction: Both reviewers praised Nathalie’s knowledge and friendliness, and the overall experience as memorable and beautifully curated.

Exploring the Full Itinerary in Detail

The Lavender Lands of Plateau de Valensole

The tour kicks off early, with a roughly 1.5-hour drive from Aix-en-Provence to the famous lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau. Here, you’ll find yourself amidst rows of fragrant purple blooms, a sight that’s especially captivating when in full bloom during June and July. The highlight is a visit to a local farm where you can sample olive oil and almonds while inhaling the scent of various lavender varieties—something that adds a sensory richness that photos alone can’t capture.

According to one reviewer, Nathalie, the guide, takes you to her favorite lavender spots, which often means fewer crowds and more personal insights into lavender farming. Having a dedicated guide who knows the best spots makes all the difference. We loved the way this part of the day combines visual beauty with local flavors, making it a sensory experience.

Visiting Moustiers Sainte-Marie

Next, the tour stops in Moustiers Sainte-Marie, a picture-perfect village perched on a mountain slope. The town is renowned for its historic pottery and charming streets, offering a lovely backdrop for lunch and strolling. You’ll have around two hours here, which gives enough time to browse shops, soak in the quaint atmosphere, and take photos of the iconic star hanging above the village.

Reviewers appreciated the free time in Moustiers, noting it as a “quaint, beautiful city.” One mentioned their enjoyment of the local shops and the relaxed pace, which allowed for genuine exploration. Lunch options are flexible, and while the tour doesn’t specify the cuisine, expect a range of Provençal dishes and possibly suggestions from your guide.

The Gorges du Verdon – Europe’s Largest Canyon

The highlight for many will be the stop at Gorges du Verdon. Known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” this site offers dramatic vistas that will enrich your travel memories. You’ll visit the highest viewpoint, where the sweeping view of turquoise waters and rugged cliffs is nothing short of spectacular. The tour allocates around two hours here, which is enough to absorb the scenery and take plenty of photos.

One reviewer described this part as “breathtaking,” emphasizing the vivid colors of the lake contrasted against the cliffs. The fact that the lake is called Sainte Croix adds to its allure—a perfect spot for those Instagram-worthy shots or peaceful reflection staring at nature’s grandeur.

Panoramic Lavender Views at Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

The last stop takes you to a panoramic plateau above Sainte Croix sur Verdon. This location offers sweeping views over the lake and surrounding lavender fields, especially beautiful at sunset or golden hour. There’s no admission fee here, and the drive itself is part of the scenic experience.

This final viewpoint caps off the day with a peaceful, expansive vista, ideal for soaking in the Provençal landscape before heading back. Reviewers appreciated this quiet, scenic finale, feeling it rounded out the day perfectly.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Timing

The tour uses comfortable private transport, with the driver and guide—Nathalie—offering insightful commentary. The total duration is approximately eight hours, starting at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup and drop-off available, which is a real convenience. The drive times between stops—around 1.5 to 2 hours—are balanced to minimize fatigue while maximizing sightseeing.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Admission tickets are included for the lavender fields and the Gorges du Verdon, allowing you to focus on enjoying the scenery without extra costs. Food and shopping in Moustiers are on your own, though your guide can recommend local spots.

Who Will Love This Tour

This experience is perfect for those who appreciate stunning natural landscapes and want a personalized, flexible itinerary. It’s suited for travelers who prefer a more intimate, curated experience over group tours. The inclusion of local farm visits and free time in charming villages makes it ideal for those seeking authenticity and regional flavor.

Considerations

If you’re sensitive to long driving hours, be aware that the journey can be quite full, with a total of about 4-5 hours in the car spread across the day. The cost per group (about $1,330 for up to eight people) reflects the private, tailored nature of the tour and the exclusive access to certain viewpoints and experiences.

Authentic Reviews and Insights

One traveler noted, “Nathalie was very interesting and informative,” highlighting her knowledge and friendly approach. They appreciated the chance to see sunflower fields alongside lavender, adding variety to the landscape.

Another review emphasized how the tour’s pace allowed for a full appreciation of the scenery, with particular praise for the breathtaking views of the Verdon Gorge and the helpfulness of the guide and driver.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a well-rounded, exclusive look at some of Provence’s most iconic sights, especially during lavender season. The combination of fragrant fields, quaint villages, and dramatic canyon vistas makes for a memorable day. The flexible itinerary and expert guiding ensure you get the most from your experience, tailored to your interests.

While the price tag is on the higher side, it reflects the personalized service and exclusive access to prime viewpoints. If you’re after a curated, scenic adventure with authentic touches and stunning photo opportunities, this tour is worth considering—particularly if you’re visiting in June or July.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want to see Provence’s highlights with minimal hassle, enjoy regional flavors, and capture incredible landscapes. If you’re after a mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and expert storytelling, this tour delivers on all those fronts.

FAQ

Is this tour only available during lavender season?
No, the tour runs all year round, but lavender views are at their peak from June 15 to July 15.

What’s included in the price?
Admission tickets to the lavender fields and Gorges du Verdon are included. Hotel pickup and drop-off are available, making logistics easier.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes, since it’s a private tour, the program can be modified depending on your preferences.

How long is the total driving time?
Expect around 1.5 to 2 hours of driving between stops, spread out across the day.

Is food included?
No, lunch is not included, but you’ll have free time in Moustiers Sainte-Marie to enjoy local cuisine and shop.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. Also, bring some cash or cards for souvenirs or snacks.

Are children allowed?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are permitted, making it accessible for families.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 8 people, ensuring a personalized experience without being crowded.

This private tour offers a lovely balance of scenic beauty, regional flavor, and flexibility, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a picture-perfect Provence day.