Aix en Provence and Wine Tasting Private Full Day Tour
Red mountains, ancient streets, and the genuine flavors of Provence — all in a single unforgettable day.
This Aix en Provence private full-day tour takes you through some of the most striking landscapes in southern France, from the rust-colored peaks of the Esterel to the sun-drenched vineyards of the Var, with a deep dive into one of Provence's most storied historic cities along the way.
Your professional driver-guide collects you directly from your accommodation and leads you through a carefully crafted itinerary that balances natural scenery, cultural discovery, and authentic local gastronomy. The route is designed to feel unhurried, giving you genuine time to explore rather than simply observe.
The tour concludes with a visit to a prestigious wine estate where centuries of Provencal winemaking tradition come to life. You will taste wines that carry the character of the local terroir and walk through a site that holds both architectural and spiritual significance.
Tour Highlights
Scenic drive through the Esterel Massif, whose deep red volcanic rock gives the range its reputation as the Golden Mountains of Provence.
Guided time in Aix en Provence, including the iconic Place de la Rotonde, historic fountains, and the animated Cours Mirabeau boulevard.
Opportunity to browse local markets, discover artisan shops, and take lunch at a restaurant of your choice in the old town.
Wine tasting at Chateau Sainte Roseline, a celebrated Cotes de Provence producer whose wines are distributed both locally and internationally.
Visit to the 11th-century Chapel of Sainte Roseline, a remarkable historic monument set within the wine estate grounds.
Views of the Mont Sainte Victoire, the limestone massif that inspired Paul Cezanne and remains one of the defining landmarks of the Provencal landscape.
Fully private and flexible itinerary — your guide adapts the day to your interests, pace, and preferences.
Itinerary
1
Hotel Pickup and Departure
Your driver-guide arrives at your accommodation to begin the day. The route heads northwest toward Aix en Provence via the coastal hinterland, offering an early introduction to the varied terrain of the region.
2
2
The Esterel Massif and Mont Sainte Victoire
The drive takes you through the Esterel range, whose ancient volcanic formations produce a vivid red and orange palette across the hillsides. Further along, the limestone profile of Mont Sainte Victoire comes into view — a massif that has shaped both the geography and the artistic identity of Provence.
3
Free Time in Aix en Provence
Arrive in the city and explore at your own pace. The Place de la Rotonde, with its grand fountain at the heart of the city, serves as the natural starting point before wandering into the labyrinthine lanes of the old town. The Cours Mirabeau offers shaded cafes and restaurant terraces ideal for a leisurely lunch.
4
Provencal Vineyard Landscape
On the return journey, the route passes through rolling vineyard country typical of the Var department. Your guide provides context on how the local soil and climate shape the wines produced in this part of Provence.
5
Chateau Sainte Roseline — Wine Tasting and Chapel Visit
The final stop is Chateau Sainte Roseline, an estate with roots going back to the 11th century. You will taste wines from one of the region's most respected Cotes de Provence producers and visit the historic chapel that forms part of this remarkable site.
6
Return to Accommodation
Your driver-guide returns you to your starting point, completing a full day that has covered landscape, culture, history, and gastronomy across one of France's most celebrated regions.
What Is Included
Included
Private professional driver-guide for the full day
Hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off
Transportation in a comfortable, recent-model private vehicle
Wine tasting at Chateau Sainte Roseline
Visit to the Chapel of Sainte Roseline
Guided commentary throughout the route
Not Included
Lunch and personal dining expenses
Personal purchases at markets or shops
Gratuities for your guide (discretionary)
Travel insurance
Important Information
This is a private tour. All itinerary elements can be adjusted in coordination with your guide. Please communicate any specific interests or requirements in advance or at the start of the tour.
Duration
Approximately 9 hours, including all stops, free time, and the wine estate visit.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a camera. Carrying a small amount of cash is recommended for lunch and market browsing.
Cancellation
Please refer to the booking confirmation for the applicable cancellation policy. Private tours typically require advance notice for any changes or cancellations.
Accessibility
The tour is rated Easy in terms of physical difficulty. Guests with specific mobility requirements should contact the operator prior to booking to confirm suitability.
Age Range
Suitable for all ages. The wine tasting element is intended for adult participants. Please note that alcohol consumption by minors may not be permitted.
Reserve Your Private Day in Provence
Secure your place on this private full-day journey through Aix en Provence, the Esterel mountains, and the vineyards of the Var. Your guide is ready to tailor the experience to your pace and interests.
The tour starts and ends at your accommodation. Your driver-guide comes directly to your hotel or rental property, so no travel to a meeting point is needed.
Can the itinerary be changed to suit our preferences?▼
Yes. All elements of this private tour can be modified in discussion with your guide. You are encouraged to share your interests before or at the start of the day so the guide can tailor the route accordingly.
Is lunch included in the tour?▼
Lunch is not included. The free time in Aix en Provence is designed to give you the opportunity to choose a restaurant along the Cours Mirabeau or in the old town at your own expense.
What wines will we taste at Chateau Sainte Roseline?▼
Chateau Sainte Roseline is a producer of Cotes de Provence wines, known for both rosé and red varieties that reflect the local terroir. The specific wines available during the tasting may vary by season.
Is the Esterel mountain road suitable for all passengers, including those prone to motion sickness?▼
The Esterel route involves some winding mountain roads. Passengers who experience motion sickness on curved roads may wish to inform their guide in advance, as alternative routing may be possible.
What is the difficulty level of the tour?▼
The tour is classified as Easy. Most of the day is spent in the vehicle or walking at a relaxed pace through town centers and the wine estate, with no significant physical exertion required.
Aix en ProvenceWine Tasting ProvencePrivate Day TourEsterel MountainsCotes de ProvenceChateau Sainte RoselineMont Sainte VictoireProvence CultureFrench Riviera ExcursionFull Day TourProvencal LifestyleHistoric Provence
This tour operates in the Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur region of southeastern France, covering key sites across the Bouches-du-Rhone and Var departments. Pickup is available from the French Riviera coastal area, including Cannes, Nice, and Antibes. The route traverses the Esterel Massif — a volcanic mountain range straddling the Var and Alpes-Maritimes border — before reaching Aix en Provence, the cultural capital of the Bouches-du-Rhone. The return leg passes through the rolling vineyard landscape of the Var, home to the Cotes de Provence appellation, one of France's most recognized rose wine designations. The final stop, Chateau Sainte Roseline, is located near Les Arcs-sur-Argens in the Var department, a historic wine-producing commune at the heart of the Provence wine country.
Region: Provence-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, France | Departments: Bouches-du-Rhone, Var, Alpes-Maritimes | Key Destinations: Aix en Provence, Esterel Massif, Mont Sainte Victoire, Chateau Sainte Roseline, Les Arcs-sur-Argens | Tour Type: Private Full-Day Excursion | Activity Category: Cultural, Gastronomy, Wine, Scenic Drive | Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 9 Hours | Departure Zone: French Riviera (Cannes, Nice, Antibes area)
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