Lavender Route - Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon

Avignon , France

Lavender Route - Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon

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About this experience

Discover top attractions including 12th-century Sénanque Abbey with its famous lavender fields (generally blooming at the end of June), and fall under the spell of the gentle landscapes of the Luberon valley, where green hills and steep cliffs are lined with vineyards, olive groves and lavender fields. Explore 2 charming villages, officially listed as some of the most beautiful of all France: Gordes and Roussillon.
Enjoy great photo opportunities along some of the most secret lavender fields of Provence. During the harvest (July) you'll have the chance to visit a local farm, where the flowers are processed to make essential oils, dried flower bunches and lavender sachets.
All of our day tours are limited to 8 participants and are operated by Veronica or Nicolas, the two company's founders and owners. They guarantee personal service, careful attention to detail and a friendly atmosphere aboard.

Available options

Lavender Route - Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon

What's included

Drive and drop-off tour with live commentary onboard

Air-conditioned vehicle

Parking Fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

After a 50-minute drive from Avignon, your tour guide will first take you to the world-known Sénanque Abbey, a wonderfully preserved 12th-century monastery nestled among lush forests and beautiful lavender fields. Widely considered among the region’s top attractions, don't miss the opportunity to admire this gem of Romanesque architecture during the blooming season of lavender (in full bloom starting from June 20-25). Please be aware that during this day trip time doesn't allow a visit of the interiors.

On the way to the old town of Gordes, a photo stop at Gordes' famous overlook is planned. Here you'll have the chance to admire one of the most incredible panoramas of the Luberon valley, where vineyards and olive groves stretch out as far as the eye can see, surrounded by gentle green mountains. Minutes later, your driver will drop you off by the town's castle from where you can easily explore the cobbled streets of this world-known hilltop town and admire stunning views of the Luberon landscapes. Plenty of shopping opportunities are available here, as well as small cafés and icecream shops. Meet your tour guide again at the meeting point and head to another wonderful village.

Stop 3

At around 1 pm your tour guide will drop you in the village of Roussillon, where you'll have a longer time to spend than in the other towns. This allows everyone to have lunch in one of the cafés or snack bars and to explore the colourful streets of Roussillon, where every house is painted a different shade of ochre. If you opt for a quick lunch on the go, you'll also have enough time to walk the beautiful Ochre Trail (entrance fee not included - 4€/adult), a developed pathway through the ombre coloured cliffs of a former ochre mine.

Following the blooming stage of lavender, during the day we will take you to the brightest and most scenic lavender fields of that moment. In June we will focuse on the wide lavender fields on the hillsides of the Luberon valley, whereas later in the season, normally after July 1, we will drive you to higher areas, like the high plateau of Sault. At least two long photo stops are scheduled, both in June and in July.

What's not included

Entrance fees unless if specified

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

42 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

100 reviews

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Important information

Specialized infant seats are available

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult.

The tour guide may have to speak multiple languages on the same tour.

Not recommended for travelers with mobility problems.

Not recommended for travelers with bee sting allergy.

In case you plan to get to the meeting point by car, please contact us in advance so that we can suggest a parking lot and a more convenient meeting place.

Meeting point

To ensure the smooth running of the day, please plan to arrive a few minutes early, as we will depart promptly at 8:45 AM.

Important notes

Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen lotion.

About Avignon

Avignon, a historic city in southeastern France, is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its role as the seat of the Papacy in the 14th century. The city is surrounded by impressive medieval walls and is home to the stunning Palais des Papes, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Top Attractions

Palais des Papes

The Palace of the Popes is one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. It served as the papal residence in the 14th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €12-15

Pont d'Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet)

A famous medieval bridge over the Rhône River, known for the song 'Sur le Pont d'Avignon'. Only four of the original arches remain.

Historical/Architecture 30-60 minutes Free to walk, €6 to visit the museum

Rocher des Doms

A beautiful public garden with panoramic views of the Rhône River and the surrounding countryside. It's a peaceful escape from the bustling city center.

Nature/Park 1-2 hours Free

Musée du Petit Palais

A fine arts museum located near the Palais des Papes, housing a significant collection of medieval and Renaissance art.

Museum/Art 1-2 hours €8-10

Les Halles Market

A covered market offering a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties. It's a great place to sample the flavors of Provence.

Market/Food 30-60 minutes Free to enter, prices vary

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bouillabaisse

A traditional Provençal fish stew made with a variety of fish, shellfish, and aromatic vegetables. Often served with rouille, a spicy saffron mayonnaise.

Dinner Contains seafood, gluten-free if prepared without bread

Tapenade

A savory spread made from olives, capers, and anchovies, blended with olive oil. Often served with bread or crackers.

Appetizer Contains anchovies, gluten-free if served with gluten-free bread

Ratatouille

A classic Provençal vegetable dish made with eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, tomatoes, and herbs de Provence.

Side Dish Vegetarian, gluten-free

Daube Provençale

A rich and flavorful beef stew made with red wine, garlic, and herbs de Provence. Often served with pasta or potatoes.

Dinner Contains beef, gluten-free if served with gluten-free pasta

Popular Activities

Hiking in the nearby Luberon Mountains Kayaking on the Rhône River Picnicking in Rocher des Doms Wine tasting at local wineries Visiting the Palais des Papes Exploring the historic center of Avignon Swimming in the nearby rivers and lakes Boat tours on the Rhône River

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the busiest time of year with warm weather, festivals, and outdoor activities. However, it can be crowded and more expensive.

20°C to 35°C 68°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: English, Provençal (Occitan)
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Avignon is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi companies or ride-sharing services

Getting there

By air

Avignon-Provence Airport • 10 km from city center
Marseille Provence Airport • 100 km from Avignon

By train

Avignon Centre Station, Avignon TGV Station

By bus

Avignon Central Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network is efficient and affordable, with frequent services throughout the day.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Intra-Muros Rive Gauche Rive Droite

Day trips

Château de Beaucastel

15 km from Avignon • Half day

A historic winery and château offering tours and tastings of its renowned Rhône Valley wines. The château is also known for its beautiful gardens and historic architecture.

Pont du Gard

25 km from Avignon • Half day

A remarkable Roman aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage site. The Pont du Gard is one of the most impressive ancient Roman structures in France and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.

L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue

20 km from Avignon • Half day

A charming town known for its canals, markets, and antique shops. The town is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and exploring the picturesque waterways.

Festivals

Festival d'Avignon • July Festival des Lycéens et Apprentis à la Découverte du Cinéma • October Fête de la Musique • June 21

Pro tips

Visit the Palais des Papes early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
Explore the historic center of Avignon on foot, as many of the city's attractions are within walking distance of each other
Try local specialties like tapenade, ratatouille, and daube Provençale at traditional Provençal restaurants and markets
Take a day trip to the nearby Pont du Gard, a remarkable Roman aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage site
Attend the Festival d'Avignon if you're visiting in July, but book your accommodation and tickets well in advance