Provence offers a captivating journey through its cultural and historical wonders. From the UNESCO-listed historic center of Avignon to the medieval fortress town of Les Baux De Provence, this region enchants visitors with its timeless allure. Explore the Roman ruins of St Remy-de-Provence, marvel at the engineering feat of the Pont Du Gard aqueduct, and indulge in the renowned Côtes Du Rhône wines. This enchanting destination promises an unforgettable experience for those who are ready to discover its hidden gems.
Key Points
- Avignon’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its medieval architecture, the Popes’ Palace, and cultural heritage.
- The Popes’ Palace in Avignon is a massive Gothic fortress with ornate papal apartments, chapels, and panoramic views, offering insight into past power struggles.
- St Remy-de-Provence is a tranquil Provençal town with Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and associations with the artist Vincent van Gogh.
- Les Baux De Provence is a medieval fortress town with a well-preserved historic center, the Château des Baux ruins, and a Romanesque church.
- The Pont Du Gard is a stunning Roman aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its architectural elegance and scenic location along the Gardon River.
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Explore Avignon’s Historic Center
The tour begins with an exploration of Avignon’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors will wander through the city’s charming streets, taking in the medieval architecture and learning about its rich history as the seat of the papacy during the 14th century.
They’ll visit the impressive Popes’ Palace, a massive Gothic fortress that once housed several popes.
The tour also includes stops at the iconic Pont d’Avignon, a medieval bridge that only partially remains, and the lively Place de l’Horloge, the central square surrounded by cafes and shops.
Through this immersion in Avignon’s past, guests will gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s enduring significance and cultural heritage.
Discover the Popes’ Palace
Visitors can explore the impressive Popes’ Palace, a massive Gothic fortress that once housed several popes during Avignon’s tenure as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts:
- Ornate papal apartments and chapels adorned with frescoes.
- Sprawling courtyards and towers offering panoramic views of Avignon.
- Fascinating historical exhibits showcasing the palace’s rich ecclesiastical history.
Guests can wander through the palace’s grand halls and chambers, imagining the intrigues and power struggles that once transpired within these walls.
With its awe-inspiring architecture and captivating past, the Popes’ Palace offers a truly memorable glimpse into Avignon’s remarkable heritage as the former seat of the Catholic Church.
Wander Through St Remy-de-Provence
After exploring the impressive Popes’ Palace, the tour heads to the charming town of St Remy-de-Provence, where travelers can enjoy the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Located just a short drive from Avignon, this picturesque Provençal town is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and associations with renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh.
Visitors can stroll through the quaint streets, admire the town’s medieval ramparts, and visit the former convent where van Gogh was hospitalized and painted some of his most famous works. With its tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings, St Remy-de-Provence offers a delightful respite from the bustle of the city.
Fortress Tour of Les Baux De Provence
From Avignon, the tour next heads to the medieval fortress town of Les Baux de Provence, allowing travelers to step back in time and explore its remarkably well-preserved historic center. Perched atop a rocky outcrop, this former stronghold offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Alpilles mountains.
The highlight of the visit includes:
- Wandering through the narrow, winding streets lined with ancient stone buildings and shops.
- Admiring the 10th-century Château des Baux and its impressive ruins.
- Visiting the Church of St-Vincent, known for its impressive Romanesque architecture.
With free time to explore at leisure, visitors can soak in the enchanting medieval ambiance that still permeates this captivating hilltop village.
Admire the Pont Du Gard Aqueduct
Next, the tour heads to the iconic Pont du Gard, a remarkably well-preserved Roman aqueduct that stands as a testament to the engineering prowess of ancient civilizations. Towering 160 feet high, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers visitors a chance to marvel at its sheer scale and architectural elegance. Guests can explore the aqueduct’s three tiers of arches and learn about its fascinating history as they wander along the banks of the Gardon River. With ample time to take in the stunning scenery and snap photos, the Pont du Gard promises to be a highlight of the day’s adventures.
After this impressive stop, the tour continues on to the medieval fortress of Les Baux de Provence.
Taste the Côtes Du Rhône Wine
Throughout the tour, guests typically enjoy a refreshing glass of Côtes du Rhône wine, savoring the region’s renowned vintages. This signature wine pairing complements the day’s immersive experiences, enhancing the overall appreciation of the local culture and cuisine.
The Côtes du Rhône region is known for:
- Its diverse terroir, producing a range of bold, full-bodied red wines.
- A long history of winemaking dating back to the Roman era.
- A reputation for exceptional quality and value among wine enthusiasts.
Sipping this iconic French wine whilst overlooking the stunning landscapes of Avignon and the Rhône River adds a truly authentic touch to the day’s memorable discoveries.
Convenient Transportation and Friendly Guide
The tour’s convenient transportation and friendly guide play a vital role in ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for visitors.
The air-conditioned minivan provides comfortable and efficient transport between the day’s diverse destinations, allowing guests to sit back and soak in the picturesque landscapes.
The knowledgeable and multi-lingual driver-guide brings each location to life, sharing fascinating historical insights and anecdotes along the way.
Their friendly demeanor and willingness to accommodate individual needs make the tour feel more like a journey with a local friend than a typical group excursion.
With the hassle of navigation and logistics handled, travelers can fully enjoy the beauty and charm of Avignon, St Rémy, Les Baux de Provence, and Pont du Gard.
Tour Details and Meeting Information
This tour explores the historical sites and charming towns of Avignon, St Remy, Les Baux de Provence, and Pont du Gard in a single day. The excursion starts at 9:00 am from a central meeting point in Avignon and ends back at the Avignon Tourist Office.
During the day, travelers will visit the Popes’ Palace, Pont d’Avignon, and other highlights in Avignon’s UNESCO-listed historic center.
The tour includes:
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Entrance tickets to Pont du Gard and Popes’ Palace
- A glass of Côtes du Rhône wine
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this small-group tour offers an intimate experience led by a multilingual guide. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully explore the medieval fortresses and Roman aqueduct.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can Children Under 4 Participate in the Tour?
According to the tour details, children under 4 years old are not allowed on this tour. The tour is not wheelchair accessible and has a minimum drinking age of 18 for the complimentary wine.
Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?
The tour is not wheelchair accessible, as the tour details specifically state "Not wheelchair accessible." Guests with mobility issues may have difficulty navigating the historical sites and uneven terrain during the tour.
What Is the Minimum Drinking Age for the Wine Tasting?
The minimum drinking age for the wine tasting on this tour is 18 years old. The tour details specify that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it does include a complimentary glass of Côtes du Rhône wine for eligible participants.
How Many Travelers Are Allowed on the Tour?
The tour allows a maximum of 8 travelers. According to the tour details, the operator runs a small group tour with a maximum group size of 8 people.
Is Confirmation Provided at the Time of Booking?
Yes, confirmation of the Avignon tour booking is provided at the time of booking. The tour operator states that confirmation is assured upon booking, allowing travelers to plan their trip with confidence.
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Recap
Provence’s cultural and historical treasures offer a captivating journey. Avignon’s medieval architecture, St Remy’s Roman ruins, Les Baux’s medieval fortress, and the Pont du Gard aqueduct’s stunning beauty leave a lasting impression.
With convenient transportation and a friendly guide, visitors can discover the region’s renowned Côtes du Rhône wines and enjoy its timeless allure.