From Aix-en-Provence: Sidecar Day Tour with Wine tastings

A day in Provence doesn’t get much more authentic or charming than this. For about six hours, you’ll hop into a vintage sidecar, pairing the thrill of a classic motorcycle ride with the serene beauty of the countryside. The starting point is in Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll meet your guide, Kevin, and head out along the legendary Cézanne Road, famous for inspiring the painter’s landscapes. For a price of around $411 per person, you’ll get an intimate, personalized experience that combines a scenic adventure with the pleasures of local wine tastings.

What we love about this tour is its blend of the unusual—riding in a vintage sidecar through stunning Provençal scenery—and the connections you’ll make with local winemakers. The small-group setting ensures a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for soaking in the views and stories at each stop. It’s also notable that this tour includes pickup and private group arrangements, making it both convenient and exclusive.

One consideration is that the experience is weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations, which might be disappointing if you’re counting on sunshine. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a touch of adventure, appreciate good wine, and don’t mind a variable climate. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking something a little off the beaten path—an authentic, engaging way to experience Provence beyond typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Unique Vintage Ride: Combining the charm of a classic motorcycle sidecar with scenic countryside views.
• Local Wine Tastings: Visits to three different wineries, offering personalized insights from local winemakers.
• Stunning Landscapes: Panoramas of Sainte-Victoire mountain and picturesque villages like Vauvenargues.
• Guided Experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who share stories and history of the region.
• Flexible & Private: Small group or private tour with pickup options for convenience.
• Weather Sensitive: Tour relies on good weather; cancellations are possible in poor conditions.

An Authentic Ride through Provence’s Scenic Heartland

Imagine feeling the wind on your face as you cruise along winding roads lined with olive trees, vineyards, and stone farmhouses. That’s exactly what you get with this Sidecar Day Tour from Aix-en-Provence. Led by your guide, Kevin, you’ll set off from the Paul Cézanne statue in town, heading toward some of the most iconic sights in the region.

The journey’s first highlight is the Bimont Dam, where you’ll pause for photos of the spectacular Sainte-Victoire mountain—a view that inspired Cézanne himself. This spot offers a perfect photo opportunity, with the dam framing a backdrop of lush green hills and rocky cliffs. The short 10-minute stop allows you to soak in the grandeur of the landscape without feeling rushed, giving you plenty of time to marvel at the natural beauty.

From there, the tour continues to at least three local wineries. These are not touristy, commercial operations but rather small, family-run estates where you’ll meet passionate winemakers eager to share their craft. The visits last about an hour each, giving you time to hear their stories, learn about local grape varieties, and taste a selection of wines. While the tour doesn’t include alcohol, bottled water is provided, and you’ll probably find yourself savoring more than just the scenery—though, of course, the main tastings are for the wine.

Next, your ride takes you to Vauvenargues, a charming village at the foot of Sainte-Victoire mountain. This peaceful spot offers a glimpse into daily Provençal life, where narrow streets and stone houses create a picture-perfect setting. The ride here is a highlight itself—cruising in a sidecar along winding roads that feel like a step back in time.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Two specific aspects stand out as real highlights. First, the vintage motorcycle experience is genuinely unique. Unlike standard minibus tours, this provides a sense of adventure and intimacy that many travelers crave. You’ll love the way the sidecar puts you directly in touch with the landscape—feeling the wind and hearing the sounds of the countryside. As one reviewer put it, “We felt like we went back in time cruising the winding roads.”

Second, the wine tastings are a clear highlight. Meeting local winemakers adds authenticity, and the quality of the wines, coupled with their stories, makes each tasting memorable. As one guest shared, “Kevin gave us a perfect balance between activity and relaxation,” emphasizing the personal touch that makes this tour special.

A possible drawback is the weather dependency—this experience relies on clear skies for maximum enjoyment. In poor weather, the tour might be canceled or less enjoyable, which means checking forecasts is wise before booking.

In terms of who this tour suits, it’s best for travelers who are adventurous, enjoy scenic drives, and have an interest in wine and local culture. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a personalized, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines thrill, beauty, and taste.

In-Depth Tour Breakdown

Departure from Aix-en-Provence

Your day begins promptly at 10:00 am in Aix, starting at the Paul Cézanne Statue. This central location is accessible by public transportation, making it convenient for many travelers. The guide, Kevin, greets you with enthusiasm, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

Scenic Drive along Cézanne Road

Your first stretch takes you along the Cézanne Road, famous for its views that inspired the painter. We loved the way the winding roads opened up to reveal panoramic vistas of the Sainte-Victoire mountain. The road itself is a joy—curving through vineyards, olive groves, and small farms, giving a taste of rural Provence.

Stop at Bimont Dam

The Bimont Dam offers a 10-minute stop where you can stretch your legs and take photos. The dam’s structure is impressive, and the vistas of Sainte-Victoire are stunning. This brief pause is just enough to appreciate the scale of the landscape without disrupting the flow of the day.

First Winery Visit

Next, you’ll visit a local winery for about an hour. Expect a personalized tasting experience with the winemakers, who often share their passion and insights into Provence’s wine culture. The wines are usually well-regarded, offering a taste of the region’s characteristic flavors—think fresh whites and robust reds.

Village of Vauvenargues

The tour then continues to Vauvenargues, a quiet village set at the mountain’s base. Here, you’ll get a sense of authentic Provençal life, with narrow streets, charming houses, and stunning mountain views. The ride itself is memorable—cruising in a sidecar along narrow, winding roads that seem to lead into a painting.

Second and Third Winery Visits

The journey through three wineries is a core part of the experience. Each visit lasts about an hour, giving ample time for tasting and conversation. You’ll meet passionate local producers eager to share their craft, which greatly enhances the authenticity of the day.

Return to Aix-en-Provence

After the final tasting, you’ll head back to your starting point in Aix, arriving around 4 pm. The small-group setting ensures a relaxed pace, with plenty of opportunities for questions or to simply enjoy the scenery.

Pricing and Value Analysis

At $411.25 per person, this tour might seem on the higher side for some. However, considering the inclusions—multiple winery visits, guided scenic drives, a vintage sidecar experience, bottled water, and personalized attention—it offers good value for travelers seeking a unique, immersive Provence experience. The private tour aspect means fewer crowds and a tailored approach, which many find worth the extra cost.

What You’re Paying For

• The thrill of riding in a vintage sidecar—a rare experience.
• The chance to meet local winemakers and taste regional wines.
• Stunning scenery that you enjoy at your own pace.
• The convenience of pickup and private-group setting.

Tips for Maximizing Value

Bringing your own snacks or picnic items can be a nice addition, especially if you want to extend your enjoyment at the scenic stops. Also, consider how this tour fits into your overall Provence itinerary—if you love unique outdoor activities paired with culture and taste, this is a perfect complement.

Practical Information

• The tour begins at 10:00 am and lasts approximately six hours.
• Pickup is available, and the meeting point is in Aix-en-Provence.
• The activity is most suitable for travelers who can participate in outdoor activities and are comfortable on a motorcycle.
• Weather can affect scheduling—cancellations are possible if conditions are poor, so check the forecast.
• The tour is private, with only your group participating, providing a more intimate experience.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup, the scenic sidecar ride, visits to three wineries, bottled water, and the guided experience. Alcoholic beverages are not included but tasting opportunities are part of the winery visits.

How long is the ride in the sidecar?
The entire experience lasts about six hours, with the ride itself covering scenic drives along Cézanne Road and through Provencal villages.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
Yes, bottled water is provided, and tastings at wineries are optional. You can enjoy the scenery and the experience without needing to partake in wine tasting.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and consider layers, as it can be cooler in the sidecar on windy roads. A helmet and protective gear are typically provided for safety.

Is this experience suitable for children?
This tour is mainly tailored for adults who enjoy adventure and wine tastings. The activity requires riding on a motorcycle, so it may not be appropriate for young children.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or a reschedule will be offered.

How accessible is the meeting point?
The meeting point in Aix-en-Provence is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from most accommodations in the area.

Are there group discounts?
The tour offers group discounts, so it’s a good option for friends or small groups wanting a private experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Sidecar Day Tour suits travelers who crave more than just sightseeing—they want to feel the landscape and connect with local producers. Perfect for those with a sense of adventure, a love for wine, and an appreciation for authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s also an excellent choice for couples or small groups looking for a memorable day that combines scenery, culture, and a bit of thrill.

In essence, this tour offers a rare chance to see Provence from an entirely new perspective—on a vintage motorcycle, surrounded by stunning views, and sampling some of the region’s best wines. If you value authentic encounters, scenic drives, and small-group intimacy, it’s well worth the price. Just keep an eye on the weather, and you’ll come away with a story to tell for years to come.