Private Tour of Gorges of Verdon and Fields of Lavender in Nice

This private tour from Nice offers a scenic journey through some of Provence’s most iconic sights—the Gorges of Verdon, known as Europe’s grand canyon, and the enchanting lavender fields of Plateau de Valensole. Designed for travelers who want a personalized experience, the tour combines spectacular nature, charming villages, and the aroma of blooming lavender, all with the comfort of door-to-door transport.

One of the highlights? You get the flexibility to spend more or less time at each stop, guided by your private driver who shares insights on the history and sights along the way. Considering the $630.52 price for up to 8 guests, it’s a balanced way to indulge in Provence’s beauty without the hassle of self-driving or overcrowded tours.

A possible caveat? The tour involves long drives through mountain roads, which might not suit everyone—especially those prone to car sickness. Nevertheless, it’s ideal for travelers craving an authentic experience, scenic views, and a touch of luxury with a private guide.

If you’re visiting Nice and eager to explore the natural wonders of Provence in comfort and style, this tour is a great choice. It suits nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or those wanting a private, tailored adventure that hits some of the most picture-perfect spots in the region.

Key Points

• Highly customizable: You can choose how long to spend at each location, making it flexible for your interests.
• Expert guides: Guides are praised for their knowledge and care, enhancing the experience significantly.
• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the canyon, lavender fields, and mountain villages.
• Value for money: For a private tour with transport and personalized service, the price is reasonable.
• Long driving times: Be prepared for mountain roads and a total duration of around 8 hours.
• Limited admission costs: All stops are free to explore, except for optional lunch and souvenirs.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting from Nice at 9:00am

The tour kicks off early, with pickup from your accommodation, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. Your driver-guide, likely a local well-versed in the region’s stories, will be your companion for the day.

Stop 1: Castellane

Your journey begins with a drive along the Verdon River, famous for its eye-catching turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The highlight here is the spectacular views of the 700-meter-deep canyon, which you can admire from various vantage points.

Traveling through this area, we’ve read comments like “enjoy spectacular views of the canyon,” which makes it clear that this is a must-see photo stop. Visitors report that the views are truly breathtaking and worth the drive, especially when the light hits the canyon walls just right.

Stop 2: Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Next, you’ll visit this charming medieval village, perched under a high rocky cliff and surrounded by mountain scenery. Known for its ceramic craftsmanship, the town offers a delightful mix of history, artisan shops, and cozy cafes.

Reviewers mention having “free time to explore” at their leisure, which is perfect for wandering through narrow streets, browsing ceramics, or grabbing a local pastry. The scenery here, with its ancient architecture and mountain backdrop, makes for great photos and quiet moments.

Stop 3: Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon

Afterward, heading to the lake of St. Croix, an artificial yet stunningly clear body of water, you’ll find plenty of reasons to linger. The lake is known as “one of the most beautiful lakes of Provence,” ideal for photos, relaxing, or even renting a boat if you’re feeling adventurous.

The town offers shops with earthenware souvenirs, which some travelers take as a memory of the trip. Many mention enjoying a leisurely lunch at terrace cafes, with a view of the lake or the surrounding mountains. Here, the lavender fields aren’t yet in full bloom, but the picturesque setting makes it worthwhile.

Stop 4: Plateau de Valensole

Your final major stop is at the lavender fields of Plateau de Valensole, where endless rows of purple stretch toward the horizon, framed by the snowy Alps in the background. The aroma of lavender fills the air, creating an authentic sensory experience.

Reviewers describe it as “gorgeous,” and many say this stop is a highlight—perfect for photos, capturing the full beauty of Provence in bloom. The fields are especially impressive in the early summer months but can be breathtaking at any time, as long as the flowers are in bloom.

Transportation and Group Size: Why They Matter

The tour is conducted in a private vehicle, making for a more intimate and flexible experience. With a group size of up to 8 people, there’s plenty of room to relax, chat with your guide, or take photos without feeling rushed or cramped.

Most reviews praise the driver guides for their knowledge and attentive care—reviewers like “Roman” and “Mat” are specifically mentioned as making the day memorable with their friendly, informative style. Having a private guide means you can customize your timing, skip less-interesting stops, or linger longer at your favorite spots.

Timing and Duration

An 8-hour itinerary may seem long, but it’s packed with highlights. The drive through mountain roads might be slow at times, but it’s part of the charm and provides ample opportunities for sightseeing and photography. Keep in mind that you’ll be spending about 2 hours at each major stop, so plan your expectations accordingly.

Is it Worth the Price?

At $630.52 per group (up to 8), this tour offers excellent value for a private, guided day trip. When compared to similar experiences with large groups or self-guided options, the personalized service and flexibility stand out. The fact that all the stops are free to explore adds to the value, with the main cost covering transport, guiding, and the convenience of door-to-door pickup.

Reviewers like Brielle and Constantin emphasize how “outstanding” the experience was, citing “fantastic” guides and “amazing views”—these are key factors that justify the price. For those wanting a seamless, stress-free day with authentic sights and personalized commentary, this tour hits the mark.

Considerations

• The long mountain drives may be tiring or unsuitable for those prone to motion sickness.
• The tour is best suited for travelers who value comfort and flexibility over strict schedules.
• Since lunch is not included in the price, you might want to plan ahead or bring snacks for the day.

The Authentic Experiences Reviewers Love

Many reviewers highlight the quality of their guides, praising their knowledge, friendliness, and safety. For example, Constantin mentions Aleksander’s storytelling and navigation skills, and Cristina notes how Mathew always checked on everyone and was environmentally conscious.

Others mention the stunning scenery: “The lavender fields in full bloom were gorgeous,” says Jesse, who proposed to his girlfriend during this visit. Photographers will love the endless lavender rows and mountain vistas, while those looking for a peaceful escape will appreciate the tranquil lakes and quaint villages.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around villages and scenic stops.
• Bring layers, as mountain weather can change quickly.
• Consider camera gear for capturing the stunning vistas.
• Confirm your pickup time and location when booking.
• Prepare for a full day—bring water, snacks, and sun protection.
• Check the blooming season for lavender if your visit is planned for specific months.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This private tour is ideal for those seeking a personalized experience, scenic nature, and picturesque villages in Provence. If you appreciate expert guides who share stories and insights, and you’re comfortable with a lengthy drive through mountainous terrain, you’ll find this trip rewarding.

It’s a fantastic choice for romantic getaways or small groups who want to explore Provence’s natural beauty without the hassle of self-driving or overcrowded tours. The flexibility, comfort, and quality of the guides make it stand out—especially if you want to maximize your time at key sights.

However, if mountain roads tend to make you carsick, or if you prefer a more structured, all-inclusive experience with meals and fewer stops, you might want to explore other options.

This tour offers a balanced blend of adventure, comfort, and authentic sights—perfect for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a touch of luxury.

FAQ

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s exclusively for your group, with door-to-door pickup and a private guide.

What’s included in the price?
Transport, a private driver-guide, and the ability to customize your stops. Lunch and souvenirs are optional extras.

How long is the tour?
Around 8 hours, with about 2 hours of free time at each major stop.

Can I skip some stops?
Yes, since it’s flexible, you can spend more or less time at each location, depending on your interests.

Are all the stops free to explore?
Yes, the main sights have no entrance fees. Lunch and souvenirs are separate costs.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Aleksander, Jaba, and Mat are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, a private vehicle designed for small groups ensures a comfortable ride.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, sun protection, and some snacks or water for the day.

When is the best time to see the lavender fields?
Typically in early summer, but check blooming seasons if visiting at different times.

To sum it up, this private tour from Nice offers a carefully curated experience that balances stunning scenery, authentic villages, and personal service. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to explore Provence’s natural beauty in comfort—especially those who cherish guided insights and flexible schedules. While mountain roads might be a consideration, the overall value and memorable sights make it a worthwhile choice for many visitors.