Best of Provence Walking Tour
Discover stunning Provence on this 7-day self-guided walking tour
Lifetime Deposit
Self-Guided
Best of Provence Walking Tour Overview
Immerse yourself in the alluring aroma of Provence on this 7-day self-guided walking tour that takes you on a picturesque circuit that begins and ends in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
The Best of Provence Walking Tour invites you to experience one of France's most beautiful and well-known regions. Experience the French countryside's unparalleled beauty and make your way through spectacularly charming small villages along the way.
Admire the natural Fontaine-de-Vaucluse as you see the surging River Sorgue gushing high up into the air. Stroll to the small village of Gordes, feeling as though you've been swept back in time while exploring the historic settlement. Breathe in the aromatic air that greets you as you walk picturesque country lanes alongside Provence's quintessential fields of lavender.
To top mesmerizing days of walking off, you'll stay in historic accommodations adorned in French Provencal style, each carrying the ambience of Provence down to the very last detail.
Explore the best of Provence as you walk and eat your way through southeastern France!
Trip highlights
Visit fascinating historical sites like the Cistercian Abbey of Senanque, which was founded in 1148 CE.
Get swept up in the aroma of Provence’s famous fragrant fields of lavender as you walk through the peaceful countryside.
Admire the surging Fontaine-de-Vaucluse as you stop to take in the phenomenon caused by the underground River Sorgue.
Experience authentic French villages like Gordes, known as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France.
Day By Day Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, if time permits, you will have the chance to set out on a short circular walk around the heights of the village. You can also walk to the famous Gouffre de Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, and the ruins of a nearby castle.
- Overnight Location:
- Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
- Distance:
- 7 km, 250m of ascent, 250m of descent (optional)
- Meals:
- None
The first real stage of your walk begins with a steady climb uphill through a beautiful stretch of forest, filled with the Provençal scents of pine, thyme, and rosemary. Your path leads to the village of Le Beaucet, nestled against a steep rock face.
From there, descend into a deep gorge and continue your walk through tranquil landscapes dotted with the occasional house and vineyard, once again immersed in the fragrances of Provence. Your journey ends in the charming village of Venasque, where a peaceful evening and dinner at your accommodation await.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Venasque
- Distance:
- 14km, 610m of ascent, 400m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Today you’ll encounter more mesmerizing villages on a circular walk around Venasque, one of the most authentic villages in the Comtat Venaissin area. Walk the narrow streets that climb up to the heart of the village and see the beautiful doors, building façades, and the old ramparts. Make sure not to miss the 6th-century Baptistry located near the church.
Afterwards, you will return to your guesthouse and enjoy dinner this evening served in-house.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Venasque
- Distance:
- 12km, 460m of ascent, 460m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
A peaceful route unfolds today as you walk to Rochers Rouges. A pleasant climb will take you to the top where you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping views of the Dentelles de Montmirail, Mont Ventoux and the Rhone Valley. Continue the trail through oak woods down into the mesmerizing village, home to an 11th-century abbey. This afternoon you’ll enjoy a tasting of local products made with love by the Cistercian monks.
Finally, continue to Gordes, known as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France!
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Gordes
- Distance:
- 125km, 575m of ascent, 520m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
A spectacular route awaits you today as you walk from Gordes through the Gorges de la Veroncle, where you’ll find yourself surrounded by magnificent towering cliffs. Bound for the belly of the gorge, you’ll pass several old mills long abandoned on the way.
Continue on tranquil footpaths and country lanes, passing Bois d'Audibert, which will tell you that Gordes is just over the hill. Continue uphill and arrive back at your lovely chateau.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Gordes
- Distance:
- 15km, 575m of ascent, 520m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Departing Gordes this morning, you’ll continue on the peaceful Plateau de Vaucluse, where you’ve no doubt become familiar with its many bories (huts). Later in the morning, you will visit a village full of bories!
On the return back to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, you will travel downhill along a beautiful and steep path leading through the forest, before arriving back in town.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
- Distance:
- 12.5km, 200m of ascent, 465m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Your magical walking tour of Provence comes to an end this morning following breakfast. Check out and head to the airport to depart.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 6 breakfasts are included.
- Accommodations for 6 nights are included.
- Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour on Days 2, 4 and 6 (1 piece per person). Transfers from/to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and to/from accommodations are not included.
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- 24/7 emergency phone support
Not included
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Gratuities for various staff if desired
- Guide services
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Optional activities or excursions
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Reviews
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour a 2/5. You should be comfortable walking up to 14 km in a day. The terrain is mostly gently undulating.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
6 breakfasts are included on this tour.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Marseille-Provence Airport (MRS). From the airport, take the train to Cavaillon (55 km), then arrange a taxi from Cavaillon to your accommodation (additional cost). Alternatively, you can arrange a direct transfer from the airport as a supplement in advance or arrange your own direct transfer from the airport.
The tour ends in Lagnes. A transfer from your final accommodations to the train station at Cavaillon is included. Then, take the train from Cavaillon to the airport to depart.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
The best time to travel to Provence for this tour is during the spring and autumn when the weather is mostly warm and pleasant. This tour is not available in the summer due to high heats.
Why book Best of Provence Walking Tour with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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