Luberon Villages & Olive Oil Tour from Aix-en-Provence
About this activity
Discover the Luberon’s hilltop villages on a full-day small-group tour from Aix-en-Provence. Visit Gordes and Lourmarin, explore Provençal landscapes, and enjoy an olive oil mill visit (or Calisson Museum on Sundays) for an authentic taste of Provence.
Highlights
- Discover picturesque Luberon villages
- Taste fresh olive oil at a local mill
- Explore the charming streets of Gordes
- Capture photos of beautiful hilltop scenery
- Experience local culture and artisan shops
Full description
Experience the authentic flavors and landscapes of Provence on a full-day small-group tour through the Luberon Regional Natural Park. Departing from Aix-en-Provence, this journey combines iconic hilltop villages with local culinary traditions in a relaxed and scenic day out. Discover Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France, and enjoy free time in charming Lourmarin, known for its lively cafés and laid-back Provençal atmosphere.
From Monday to Saturday, the tour includes the Bastide du Laval olive oil mill, where you can learn about traditional production and taste locally crafted olive oils. On Sundays, the experience includes the Calisson Museum in Aix-en-Provence, celebrating the region’s famous almond confection.
The Luberon Region
The Luberon is one of Provence’s most celebrated regions, known for rolling vineyards, olive groves, lavender fields, and hilltop villages built from warm limestone. Located within the Luberon Regional Natural Park, the area preserves traditional Provençal landscapes and rural heritage.
Two Iconic Villages
This full-day tour explores two of the region’s most emblematic villages, each offering a different perspective on Provençal life.
Gordes — Iconic Hilltop Village
Perched dramatically above the valley, Gordes is famous for its stone houses, panoramic viewpoints, and historic castle. Often ranked among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, its architecture blends harmoniously with the surrounding countryside, making it one of Provence’s most photographed locations.
Lourmarin — Provençal Lifestyle
At the southern edge of the Luberon, Lourmarin offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Shaded squares, artisan boutiques, and cafés invite visitors to slow down and experience everyday Provençal life. Its Renaissance château and artistic heritage reflect the cultural richness of the region.
Olive Oil or Calisson Tradition
From Monday to Saturday, the tour includes a visit to Bastide du Laval, a traditional olive oil estate where guests discover olive cultivation, production techniques, and the importance of olive oil in Mediterranean cuisine, followed by tastings.
On Sundays, when the mill is closed, the experience instead includes entry to the Calisson Museum of Roi René in Aix-en-Provence, dedicated to the region’s iconic almond-based sweet and its centuries-old confectionery tradition.
A Relaxed Small-Group Experience
Limited to eight guests, the tour allows time to explore at a comfortable pace while benefiting from insights shared by an expert driver-guide. Travel takes place in a premium air-conditioned Mercedes minivan operated by Ophorus, specialists in small-group tours across France since 2005.
Included / Excluded
- Transportation in premium air-conditioned minivan
- English-speaking driver-guide
- Olive oil mill visit and tastings (Mon–Sat)
- Calisson Museum entry (Sunday departures)
- Small-group experience (maximum 8 guests)
- Personal travel insurance, expenses
- Mealds and drinks (lunch)
- Hotel pickup and drop-off.
- Gratuities for the driver/guide.
Itinerary
Aix-en-Provence Departure
Meet your guide in Aix-en-Provence and set off toward the Luberon Regional Natural Park in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. The scenic drive introduces you to one of Provence’s most beautiful countryside regions.
Gordes
Arrive in Gordes, a dramatic hilltop village known for its stone architecture, sweeping views, and timeless Provençal charm. Enjoy free time to stroll the lanes, take photos, and admire one of the most iconic villages in France.
Meeting point
Start Location
Aix-en-Provence Tourist Information Center
Tourist Information Center, 300 Av. Giuseppe Verdi, 13100 Aix-en-Provence, France
Important information
Know before you book
- Instant confirmation upon booking
- English speaking tour.
- Tour involves walking and is not suitable for wheelchairs.
- Small group Provence tour, maximum 8 persons
Know before you go
- Walking involved in village streets
- Comfortable shoes recommended
- Sun protection advised in summer
- Program adapted depending on day of week
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure for a full refund.
Reviews
An excellent relaxed and informative tour with our fabulous guide Dulce.
(Translated by Google) We took several tours. Very enjoyable and very well explained. The organization is top-notch. I absolutely recommend it!! (Original) Nous avons fait plusieurs tours. Très agréable et très bien expliqué. L’organisation est au top. Je recommande absolument !!
This is an in-depth explanation of cheeses, duck/goose products, the history of medieval Sarlat. The tastings were thoughtfully prepared and very good. Lena did an excellent job with each option. She was equally conversing for our group in English and French as we had a mixed group. Lena made it easy to get to know the other tourists. Our group became quite friendly and we did 2 other tours together. It was such fun! Before you eat and try to shop take this tour with Lena so you can understand what things to look for to get exactly what you want out of your entire experience!
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Additional information
This experience is ideal for travelers wishing to discover authentic Provence beyond the cities through a combination of scenic landscapes, historic villages, and local culinary traditions. The tour focuses on cultural discovery and relaxed exploration rather than guided museum visits, allowing guests time to experience village life at their own pace.
Seasonal adaptations ensure the experience remains authentic year-round, with an olive oil estate visit included from Monday to Saturday and a visit to the Calisson Museum in Aix-en-Provence on Sundays.
The itinerary is designed as a balanced introduction to Provence’s heritage, gastronomy, and countryside within a single day from Aix-en-Provence.
Please note that we do not distribute water bottles anymore to limit our environmental impact. We strongly recommend that you bring a reusable bottle.