Nestled in the heart of Provence, the historic city of Aix-en-Provence beckons travelers with its vibrant markets, architectural gems, and renowned wine region. Explore this charming destination on a small-group tour that immerses you in the local culture and flavors. Stroll through the lively marketplace, savor regional delicacies, and indulge in a wine tasting experience that showcases the terroir of the Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire appellation. As you explore the city’s rich history and the winemaking prowess of the region, you’ll uncover a deep appreciation for the essence of Provence. The journey promises to enchant your senses and leave you with lasting memories.
Key Points
- Explore the historical city of Aix-en-Provence through a guided walking tour, visiting vibrant local markets and tasting regional delicacies.
- Set out on a journey along the Cezanne road, admiring the rolling hills and vineyards while discovering the acclaimed Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire wines.
- Immerse in the wine tasting experience, sampling full-bodied reds and elegant roses at two local wineries and gaining insights into the region’s winemaking.
- Enjoy a small-group tour with a live English-speaking professional guide, ensuring a personalized and enriching experience.
- The tour includes transportation, cheese and wine tastings, and admission to historical monuments, catering to a comprehensive exploration of Aix-en-Provence.
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Tour Details
The tour boasts an 8-hour duration and a small group size limited to 8 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience guided by a live English-speaking professional.
Throughout the day, you’ll explore the historical city of Aix-en-Provence, wandering through its colorful local markets and indulging in a glass of wine and a cheese tasting.
Later, you’ll drive along the Cezanne road, visiting two prestigious wineries in the Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire appellation to sample their full-bodied red wines and elegant roses.
The tour includes transportation, admission to monuments, and the expertise of a knowledgeable driver/guide, making it an immersive and convenient way to discover the charm of Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding wine region.
City Walking Tour
After exploring the tour details, the guided walking tour through Aix-en-Provence’s historical town center takes visitors on an immersive journey through the city’s vibrant past.
Strolling along the charming streets, the group discovers the region’s colorful local markets, where the aromas of freshly baked bread and sizzling crepes fill the air. The tour guide leads the way, sharing fascinating insights into Aix-en-Provence’s rich history and architecture.
From the grand Cours Mirabeau, with its elegant 17th-century buildings, to the tranquil Mazarin Quarter, the walking tour offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of this enchanting Provençal city.
As the tour progresses, you will have the opportunity to savor a refreshing glass of local wine and artisanal cheeses, further seeing the authentic flavors of the region.
Local Market Exploration
As the group strolls through the bustling local markets, they’re immediately enveloped in a sensory symphony – the vibrant colors of fresh produce, the tantalizing aromas of spices and baked goods, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers. Navigating the maze of stalls, they encounter an array of regional delicacies, from plump olives and fragrant lavender to handcrafted pottery and intricate textiles, each item a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Provence region. The tour guide points out the highlights, encouraging the group to engage with the artisans and sample the local specialties. It’s an immersive experience that truly captures the essence of Aix-en-Provence’s vibrant marketplace.
| Product | Price | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Olives | €4.50/lb | Locally cured, plump and flavorful |
| Lavender | €7.00/bundle | Fragrant bundles of the iconic Provence flower |
| Pottery | €25.00+ | Handcrafted ceramic pieces in traditional designs |
| Textiles | €15.00-€50.00 | Intricate table runners, scarves, and home goods |
| Baked Goods | €3.00-€5.00 | Freshly baked breads, pastries, and savory tarts |
Wine Tasting Experience
Leaving the vibrant local markets behind, the group sets out along the Cezanne road, eagerly anticipating the next leg of their oenological adventure.
The picturesque countryside unfolds as the bus winds through rolling hills and vineyards.
Arriving at the first winery, the group is welcomed by the vintner, who guides them through a tasting of the estate’s acclaimed Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire wines. Swirling, sniffing, and sipping, the participants savor the full-bodied reds and elegant roses, learning about the unique terroir and winemaking techniques.
The second tasting showcases equally impressive offerings, leaving the group impressed by the region’s winemaking prowess.
Satisfied, they head back, already planning to return and explore more of Provence’s celebrated vinous treasures.
Cezanne Road Drive
The picturesque Cezanne road winds through the rolling hills and vineyards of Provence, offering a captivating journey for the group as they depart the vibrant local markets of Aix-en-Provence.
Along the way, the guide points out the iconic Mont Sainte-Victoire, a stunning limestone mountain that inspired many of Paul Cezanne’s most famous paintings. The group drinks in the breathtaking vistas, pausing occasionally to admire the idyllic countryside dotted with medieval villages and olive groves.
As they approach the first winery, anticipation builds for the wine tasting experience that awaits, where they’ll have the opportunity to sample the renowned red wines and elegant roses of the Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire appellation.
Cotes De Provence Sainte Victoire
The Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire appellation is renowned for its full-bodied red wines and elegant rosés, crafted from a harmonious blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that thrive in the region’s warm Mediterranean climate and limestone-rich soils. During the wine tasting experience, guests will have the opportunity to sample the nuanced flavors and aromas of these exceptional wines at two carefully selected properties. The tasting will showcase the diversity and quality of the Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire terroir, offering insights into the winemaking traditions and unique characteristics that define this celebrated wine region.
| Grape Varietals | Soil Composition | Climate |
|---|---|---|
| Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon | Limestone-rich | Warm Mediterranean |
Inclusions and Amenities
This guided tour includes a range of thoughtful amenities to enhance the experience. Transportation is provided throughout the day, and a knowledgeable driver-guide offers service in English.
Participants can look forward to savoring local cheeses and wines during the tastings, as well as gaining admission to historical monuments along the way.
The small group size, limited to just 8 people, ensures an intimate and personalized adventure. Comfortable shoes and sun protection are recommended to fully enjoy the walking tour through Aix-en-Provence’s charming streets and vibrant markets.
With these thoughtful inclusions, travelers can enjoy the culture and flavors of this captivating region.
Important Considerations
Before embarking on this immersive tour, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. Participants should be aware that the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves a substantial amount of walking through the historical town.
Travelers are encouraged to come prepared with sun protection, such as sunglasses and a hat, as well as comfortable footwear to fully enjoy the experience.
Plus, it’s important to note that smoking, luggage, and pets aren’t permitted during the tour.
Finally, a minimum of two passengers is required for the tour to operate, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure for all participants.
Some important things to note:
- Tour not suitable for those with mobility issues
- Bring sun protection and comfortable shoes
- No smoking, luggage, or pets allowed on tour
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Cancel the Tour if I’m Unable to Attend?
Yes, customers can typically cancel the tour if they’re unable to attend. However, there may be a cancellation fee, and the amount would depend on the tour operator’s policy and the timing of the cancellation.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
There are no discounts for children or seniors on this tour. The tour has a fixed price per person, regardless of age. However, children under a certain age may be eligible for a reduced rate or free admission.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Wine Tastings?
The maximum group size for the wine tastings is 8 participants. The small group size ensures an intimate and personalized wine tasting experience, allowing guests to fully appreciate the wines at the two Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire properties.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Unfortunately, no outside food or drinks are allowed on the tour. The tour includes a cheese and wine tasting, so bringing additional items would not be permitted. Participants should plan to enjoy the provided refreshments during the experience.
Do I Need to Make a Deposit to Secure My Booking?
Yes, a deposit is usually required to secure a booking for a small-group tour. The specific deposit amount and payment terms will be provided by the tour operator when making the reservation.
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Recap
The Aix-en-Provence city and wine tour offers a captivating blend of history, gastronomy, and oenology. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant local markets, savor regional delicacies, and indulge in a wine tasting experience along the Cezanne road.
The tour also takes guests through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Cotes de Provence Sainte Victoire appellation, showcasing the region’s winemaking prowess and unique terroir.
