Market & Perched Villages Of The Luberon Day Trip From Marseille

Venture into the picturesque Luberon region on this captivating day trip from Marseille. Discover the charming villages dotting the rolling hills, each with its own unique character and age-old traditions. Explore vibrant open-air markets brimming with local produce, artisanal crafts, and the enticing aromas of Provençal cuisine. Lose yourself in the peaceful Combe of Lourmarin, and marvel at the stunning Sénanque Abbey. This immersive exploration of the Luberon’s cultural heritage promises to enchant the senses and leave you yearning to uncover more of this enchanting corner of France.

Key Points

Explore the charming Luberon region, visiting picturesque villages like Gordes, Lourmarin, and Roussillon with their vibrant open-air markets.
Discover the stunning natural landscapes of the Luberon, including rolling vineyards, olive groves, and the tranquil Combe of Lourmarin.
Visit the 12th-century Cistercian Sénangue Abbey, admiring its Romanesque architecture amidst the serene lavender fields.
Immerse in the rich cultural heritage of Provence, interacting with friendly local vendors at the markets in Lourmarin and Roussillon.
Wander the narrow streets and picturesque squares of the Luberon’s perched villages, marveling at the stunning architecture and breathtaking vistas.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

Overview of the Day Trip

This day trip from Marseille transports travelers through the charming villages of the Luberon region, showcasing its vibrant markets and picturesque landscapes.

Over 11.5 hours, the tour takes guests to highlights like the 12th-century Sénangue Abbey, the open-air markets of Lourmarin and Roussillon, and the scenic Combe of Lourmarin route through the foothills.

Visitors wander the quaint streets of villages like Gordes, Lourmarin, and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, absorbing the local culture and charm.

The comprehensive itinerary covers a variety of experiences, from photo stops to exploring historic sites, ensuring travelers make the most of their day in this picturesque corner of Provence.

Exploring the Luberon Villages

After taking in the scenic beauty of the Luberon region, the day trip moves on to explore the charming villages that dot the landscape.

Travelers wander the quaint streets of Gordes, admiring the distinctive stone architecture and taking in stunning views over the valley below.

The vibrant open-air markets of Lourmarin and Roussillon beckon visitors to browse the stalls, sampling regional produce and crafts.

Throughout the day, the group experiences the rich cultural heritage and authentic atmosphere of these picturesque Provençal villages.

From the quaint cobblestone streets to the lively marketplaces, the Luberon’s perched villages offer a glimpse into the heart of traditional Provence.

Picturesque Combe of Lourmarin

The picturesque Combe of Lourmarin winds through the foothills of the Luberon mountains, offering travelers a scenic route to explore the region.

This winding road takes visitors past rolling vineyards, olive groves, and limestone cliffs, providing a glimpse into the area’s natural beauty.

Along the way, you’ll catch sight of the charming village of Lourmarin, known for its Renaissance-era château and lively markets.

The Combe of Lourmarin is a highlight of the Luberon day trip, allowing you to soak in the stunning landscapes and get a feel for the rural character of this enchanting corner of Provence.

Sénanque Abbey Photo Stop

On the Luberon day trip from Marseille, the first stop is a photo opportunity at the 12th-century Sénanque Abbey. This Cistercian monastery, nestled in a tranquil valley, offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich religious history and stunning natural surroundings.

The abbey’s simple yet striking Romanesque architecture, with its harmonious proportions and harmonious symmetry, invites contemplation.

The serene courtyard, with its cloisters and gardens, creates a peaceful haven away from the bustling world.

The abbey’s honey-hued limestone walls blend seamlessly with the surrounding lavender fields, a quintessential Provençal landscape.

The site’s spiritual aura, a testament to centuries of monastic life, imbues the visit with a sense of timelessness and reverence.

Open-air Markets in Lourmarin and Roussillon

Following the scenic drive through the foothills, the tour delves into the lively open-air markets of Lourmarin and Roussillon.

In these charming Provençal villages, visitors can enjoy the vibrant local culture, browsing an array of fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and regional delicacies.

The bustling Lourmarin market offers a tantalizing display of fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and baked goods, while the Roussillon market showcases the area’s renowned ochre-colored pigments in the form of textiles, pottery, and artwork.

Both markets provide a wonderful opportunity to interact with friendly local vendors and soak up the authentic atmosphere of these picturesque Luberon communities.

Visiting the Charming Villages

After soaking up the vibrant local culture at the open-air markets, the tour explores the charming villages that dot the Luberon landscape.

Visitors wander through the narrow streets and picturesque squares of Gordes, Roussillon, Lourmarin, and other historic Provençal settlements, marveling at the stunning architecture and breathtaking vistas.

The tour takes guests to:

Gordes, a picturesque hilltop village with its iconic stone houses and 12th-century castle.
Roussillon, renowned for its vibrant ochre-colored buildings and panoramic views over the surrounding countryside.
Lourmarin, a quaint village with charming Renaissance-era châteaux and lively café culture.

Immersed in the timeless ambiance of these Provençal gems, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich heritage and captivating natural beauty.

Inclusions and Amenities

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and an experienced driver-guide to lead the journey through the Luberon region.

Plus, the package provides access to the open-air markets and the charming villages, with entrance fees to any monuments or museums covered.

Lunch, however, isn’t included, allowing visitors to explore the local cuisine at their own pace.

The tour picks up and drops off participants at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Marseille’s Old Port, with a start time of 8:00 am and a duration of about 11.5 hours.

The tour has a maximum of 8 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Meeting Point and Pick-up

The tour starts with a pick-up from the Radisson Blu Hotel in Marseille’s Old Port at 8:00 am. This convenient meeting location allows guests to easily access the tour and begin their journey through the charming Luberon villages.

The tour concludes by returning to the original departure point, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish.

The centralized location of the Radisson Blu Hotel makes it an accessible starting point for travelers.

The early 8:00 am departure time allows for a full day of exploration in the Luberon region.

The return to the original departure point provides a hassle-free end to the day’s activities.

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Many Languages Does the Multilingual Guide Speak?

The multilingual guide speaks multiple languages, though the exact number is unclear. This flexibility allows them to accommodate a diverse group of travelers on the tour and provide a more personalized experience.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

The tour operator does not allow pets on the tour. Children under 4 years old are also not permitted. The tour is designed for a maximum of 8 travelers to explore the charming villages of the Luberon region.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The 11.5-hour itinerary is fixed, covering multiple villages and markets. Extending the trip would require booking a separate, longer tour or arranging private transportation.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Villages?

Travelers can customize the itinerary to visit specific villages, but this may require additional costs or changes to the tour duration. It’s best to discuss options directly with the tour provider to accommodate any personalized requests.

Is There a Discount for Booking the Tour in Advance?

The tour operator may offer discounts for booking the day trip in advance. However, the availability and amount of any discounts are not explicitly stated in the provided information. It’s best to check with the tour provider directly for their current pricing and promotion details.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

Recap

This Luberon day trip offers a delightful immersion in Provence’s cultural treasures.

Travelers will discover historic abbeys, wander idyllic villages, and browse vibrant markets brimming with local produce and crafts.

From the scenic Combe of Lourmarin to the charming streets of Roussillon, the tour showcases the authentic beauty and heritage of this enchanting region.