Full day lavender tour Luberon and Sault

Imagine waking up in Avignon, with its famed medieval bridge, and setting out for a day immersed in the quintessential sights of Provence—lavender fields in full bloom, hilltop villages painted with ochre hues, and the peaceful rhythm of rural life. This full-day lavender tour from Avignon offers a scenic journey through the Luberon and Sault regions, taking you to some of the most photogenic spots that Provence has to offer. Priced at around $140 per person and lasting roughly 8.5 hours, this tour is designed for those eager to see the landscape that has inspired countless painters and photographers.

What we love most about this experience is the opportunity to enjoy multiple photo stops at stunning viewpoints and villages, plus the chance to visit a lavender distillery. The intimacy of a small group—capped at 8 travelers—means you’ll get more personalized attention and plenty of time to absorb the scenery. A second highlight is the seasonal aspect: if you book in July or August, you’ll witness the fields in their full purple glory, a sight that truly captures the essence of Provence.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour’s focus on lavender in bloom is seasonal. If you visit outside the summer months, the fields might not be at their peak, though the villages and other sights remain beautiful. This tour suits travelers who love picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and cultural experiences like visiting a distillery. It’s especially ideal if you prefer small-group tours that allow for flexibility and more interaction with your guide.

Key Points

Seasonal Beauty: Best visited in July or August to see lavender fields in full bloom.
Small Group: Max 8 travelers for a more intimate and personalized experience.
Photogenic Stops: Includes iconic villages and panoramic viewpoints perfect for pictures.
Cultural Insight: Visit a lavender distillery and learn about Provence’s fragrant tradition.
Flexible Itinerary: Includes stops at Gordes, Roussillon, Sault, and the Abbey Notre-Dame de Senanque.
Value for Money: For around $140, you get a full day of sightseeing, expert guiding, and transport.

A Deep Dive into the Lavender Tour Experience

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Locations Visited and Their Charm

Starting in Avignon, the tour kicks off by heading into the heart of Provence. The first stop is Gordes, renowned as one of the most panoramic views in Provence. Here, you’re encouraged to take about 30 minutes to snap photos of the sweeping landscape that stretches across rolling hills and patchwork farmland. The view from Gordes isn’t just stunning—it’s iconic, often featured in travel magazines, and offers a real sense of the region’s rugged beauty.

Next, you’ll visit the Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque, a 12th-century monastery surrounded by lavender fields—an image that has graced countless postcards. The 15-minute stop here is perfect for capturing that quintessential Provence shot, with the ancient stone walls contrasting beautifully against the purple lavender in bloom. The monks’ tranquil presence adds a sense of calm and history to the scene.

From there, the tour takes you to the vibrant village of Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs and colorful buildings. You’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes wandering its narrow streets, marveling at the bold reds and yellows that seem to glow under the Provençal sun. This stop is not just visually striking but also offers a chance to soak in local artisanship and maybe grab a quick coffee or snack before heading on.

The highlight for many is the visit to Sault, known as the lavender capital of France. Set on a rocky outcrop, Sault offers sweeping views of lavender fields merging with wheat. The 2-hour stop includes picture-perfect views and a visit to a local lavender distillery, where you’ll learn how Provence’s signature scent is made. Here, you can also indulge in a lavender ice cream, a treat that delights travelers with its floral flavor.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Gordes provides a panoramic view—a must for photography lovers. We loved the way the guide explained the landscape’s significance, making the photo opportunities even richer. It’s a quick stop, but the view is memorable.

Senanque Abbey is truly postcard-worthy, with its historic stone walls framed by endless lavender in summer. The short visit gives just enough time to admire and shoot the scene, with the guide sharing interesting tidbits about monastic life and lavender farming.

In Roussillon, the vibrancy of the ochre-colored buildings is captivating. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, to admire the colors and perhaps buy some local crafts. The guide’s commentary adds context about the village’s history and geology.

Sault offers a mix of scenic views and cultural insight. Many travelers find this stop the most picturesque, especially with lavender in full bloom. The visit to the distillery is both educational and fragrant, and the local lavender ice cream is a sweet bonus.

The Transport and Guide

Transport is provided via air-conditioned minivan, which makes traveling comfortable, even on warm days. The small group size ensures you won’t feel lost in a crowd and allows for a more relaxed pace. Our guide was described by reviews as knowledgeable and personable, which makes a big difference in bringing the region’s culture and scenery to life.

The Price and Its Value

At $139.63 per person, this tour offers a rich blend of scenery, culture, and expert guiding. Compared to doing these sights independently—renting a car and managing timing—the convenience and local knowledge are well worth the cost. The inclusion of bottled water, a professional guide, and transport makes this a hassle-free way to see the highlights of Provence’s lavender country.

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Seasonal Considerations

This tour is seasonal, with July and August being prime months for lavender in full bloom. If you visit outside this window, you might still enjoy the villages and scenic viewpoints, but the fields won’t be lavender-colored. Our review of the tour noted that early in the season, the guide was flexible, offering alternative sights or options for timing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for photography enthusiasts eager to capture Provence’s iconic landscapes. It’s also well-suited for culture lovers who enjoy combining scenic views with local history and artisan visits. Since it’s a small group, it appeals to travelers seeking a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere rather than large bus tours. If you’re visiting during the lavender season, this tour offers a vivid, fragrant snapshot of the region that many travelers find unforgettable.

The Sum Up

For those who want to see the best of Provence’s lavender country in a single day, this tour delivers a well-rounded experience. The small-group format, expert guide, and carefully curated stops mean you’ll get plenty of memorable moments, beautiful photos, and cultural insights. While the seasonal nature means timing is important, if you’re lucky enough to visit in July or August, you’ll witness scenes straight out of a postcard.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate authentic scenery, local charm, and a comfortable pace. It’s a smart choice for those who want the convenience of a guided trip while still enjoying the freedom of exploring charming villages and panoramic viewpoints. Overall, it offers a wonderful slice of Provence’s natural beauty, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.

FAQ

When is the best time to take this tour?
The tour is seasonal, with July and August being ideal months when the lavender fields are in full bloom, creating the most iconic scenery.

How long does each stop last?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Senanque Abbey, to 30 minutes at Gordes, and up to 2 hours at Sault. The longest stop is at Sault, giving ample time for photography and visiting the distillery.

What is included in the price?
Your fare covers transport in an air-conditioned minivan, bottled water, and a professional guide. Entry to sites is free, and the lavender distillery visit is included, but lunch is not included.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera or smartphone for photos, and sun protection—hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen—especially during summer.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s a relaxed, scenic day suitable for families with older children who enjoy sightseeing and photography.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for travel plans.

How many people are in each group?
The tour caps at 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and plenty of space to enjoy the scenery and ask questions.

Is there any flexibility if the lavender isn’t in full bloom?
Yes, your guide can adjust the itinerary, based on the review, to show other scenic or cultural sights if the lavender isn’t at its peak.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, scenic, and fragrant adventure into Provence’s lavender country, this tour offers a delightful way to soak in some of France’s most iconic landscapes with the comfort of expert guidance.