Provence: Villages & Vineyards

Arrive in Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage city. It is a beautiful medieval town, where you can meander though history as you walk its cobbled streets. If you have time, why not visit the famous Pope’s Palace and St Benezet Bridge.

A short transfer (duration: 30 min) takes you to the famous wine village of Chateauneuf du Pape “the Pope's new castle”. It was chosen as the summer residence of the Popes of Avignon. It was a Pope who brought the vines here in the 14th century, making wines that have been famous for centuries. The growing area is small compared to many of the world’s famous vineyards, but the wine produced here is constantly prized.

This morning’s walk is a circular route through the fabulous local vineyards. This splendid loop walk stays within the heart of the Chateauneuf appellation, strolling on farming tracks in between the parcels of vines of the Vaudieu & Nalys & Solitude wineries, which lead from one estate to the next. The itinerary takes you to 3 well-known wine estates - Vaudieu, Nalys, and Solitude - all centuries-old, all happy to share their savoir-faire with you during a wine-tasting. The reds are deep and heavily spiced, while the surprising whites have notes of almond, spice, and honeysuckle.

After this short walk, you will have the option (not included) to participate in a half day wine tour of the Southern Rhônes premium wine villages. A local wine expert will reveal a wealth of secrets about the vines and explain the key elements of the wine-making process as you visit the cellars and taste four to five wines at a local wine estate (depending on the wine expert you visit 1 or 2 wine estates). The tasting characteristics, ageing potential and varying influences of the terroir and cellar methods will all be described.

Ascent/Descent: 65m/53m (213ft/174ft)

This morning walk through the famous vines once more, alongside tracks packed with the red rocks that were deposited here 15,000 years ago, at the end of the last Ice Age. They absorb the heat during the day and emit it at night, keeping a constant warmth in the vineyards which help to produce powerful and spicy reds. The walk leads you past the renowned Château Mont Redon, one of the region’s most iconic estates.

Ascent/Descent: 155m/155m (509ft/509ft)

A short transfer takes you to Séguret, a hilltop village surrounded by vines and listed among France’s Most Beautiful Villages (Les Plus Beaux Villages de France). Stroll through its cobbled streets, past stone houses built into the rocky hillside. From here, enjoy a scenic walk through Haut Vaucluse, following quiet farm tracks beneath rugged peaks, with beautiful views across the Rhône Valley and its vineyards and olive groves. The route leads to Gigondas, a picturesque village set among the vines and renowned for its fine red wines. Explore its narrow streets and stone houses, and visit the 11th-century church. It’s the perfect place to end the day, whether sampling local wines or simply relaxing and soaking up the Provençal way of life.

Ascent/Descent: 502m/631m (1,646ft/2,070ft)

You’ll be transferred to Beaumes-de-Venise, a charming village known for its sweet Muscat wine and scenic setting at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The mountain range name means “lace”, probably because the magnificent and intricate limestone peaks look similar to lacework. The route then takes you to the hilltop village of Le Barroux, which is home to an impressive 12th century castle. Before checking into your accommodation wander through a maze of quiet streets and take in such highlights as the Church of Saint-Jean Baptiste.

Ascent/Descent: 509m/317m (1,669ft/1,040ft)

Today's walk takes you closer to the mighty Mont Ventoux. Its peak of 1,912m puts it head and shoulders above others in the Luberon mountain range. Walking the lower slopes, through pine and cedar forests, offers an impressive contrast with the "géant de Provence” and its bare limestone peak. Its huge silhouette is a backdrop for your hike, its barren white peak glistening in the sun. Reach the Chapel of Piaut, where in generations past locals climbed during periods of drought to pray for rain. Descend the pilgrimage path to the fortified village of Malaucene which takes shape around its ancient hilltop fort. The old town reveals an amazing tree-lined avenue.

Ascent/Descent: 575m/572m (1,886ft/1,876ft)

A short transfer brings you to the perched village of Le Crestet, a beautifully preserved gem of stone houses, winding lanes, and sweeping views that seem untouched by time. From here, follow the trail toward Vaison-la-Romaine.

Once you reach the town enjoy your final afternoon strolling through this extraordinary place. Renowned for hosting France’s largest archaeological site, Vaison La Romaine showcases remarkable Roman ruins — from ancient villas and baths to a theatre still in use today.

Ascent/Descent: 395m/515m (1,296ft/1,690ft)

All great tours must come to an end. Your tour ends in Vaison La Romaine. From here you can take a bus to Avignon (approx. 2hrs). Alternatively, you can hop off the bus in Orange and jump on a train for the remainder of the journey to Avignon, saving a little bit of time making the trip appox. 1hr 20min.

If you’d prefer, Macs Adventure can provide a private taxi transfer for an additional fee; just request at time of booking.