Tranquil hiking trails in Provence's Luberon

Avignon

Day 1: Welcome to Provence!

Say hello to gorgeous Provence! Upon arrival you will be greeted by an English-speaking guide, who will take you to your hotel in Avignon. After check-in, prepare for a tour of Avignon's remarkably rich architecture, which dates back to Roman times.

Climb to the top of the fortified medieval city walls and witness Avignon in all its glory. You'll then enjoy skip-the-line access to the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, immersing yourself in its maze of galleries, chambers, and chapels. Walk the cobbled streets to the Place de l'Horloge, and marvel at the town hall with its clock tower and theater. The tour concludes with a glass of Côtes du Rhône wine, served in an intimate and historical setting.

Avignon - Chateauneuf Du Pape - Avignon

Day 2: Wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Rise and shine! After a delicious breakfast, you will embark on a five-hour guided tour to discover the wine country of the Grand Crus.

The highlights of this renowned region include Gigondas, Séguret, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, whose wines carry the certification of Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée (AOC). During the tour you’ll have a chance to admire the beauty of the surrounding vineyards and small regional villages dominated by bell towers.

You’ll be at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail mountains, and in this lovely landscape you’ll learn about wine production and local grape varieties. You’ll get to taste fine wines with a specialist by your side, whose expert knowledge will help make your tasting session unique and memorable.

Avignon - Gordes - Goult

Day 3: Hike your way to charming Goult

Today, it's time for some hiking through the astonishing Provence countryside! After a rich breakfast, you will be transferred to Gordes, where you'll be equipped with detailed maps and daily road books  before setting off to explore this magical region. Don't worry about your luggage - it will be safely transferred to your destination in Goult.

Explore the historic perched village of Gordes - probably the most famous in the Luberon, before hiking through vineyards and thyme- and rosemary-scented hills, ultimately reaching the hamlet of Saint-Pantaléon.

Your hike then continues to Goult, a wonderful historic village less popular than Gordes but equally charming, its alleyways twisting around the ruins of an old castle. Enjoy your evening here and admire the awe-inspiring landscapes around you!

Goult - Bonnieux

Day 4: Enjoy the beauty of local villages

Imagine yourself hiking through breathtaking surroundings as the sun shines upon you: this will soon become a reality as you head off the beaten path, to discover what makes the Luberon so special. Along the way you'll encounter tiny hamlets, vineyards, an ancient church, the historic village of Bories, an old lavoir (wash house) and, of course, amazing views.

Reach the beautiful perched village of Lacoste, where you can stroll along cobbled streets and visit the ruins of the Marquis de Sade's castle. Next, make your way to Bonnieux, another wonderful village atop of which stands a 12th-century church surrounded by century-old cedars. The view from Bonnieux across the valley floor, with its patchwork of orchards and vineyards, is truly unforgettable. Don't forget to bring your camera with you!

Bonnieux - Roussillon

Day 5: Enjoy the painterly colors of Roussillon

Rise and shine! Another day in Provence awaits you. Today you’ll head back to the Calavon Valley, following an old Roman road lined with cherry orchards and vineyards.

Cross the Pont Julien, a 2,000-year-old Roman bridge, and ascend to the astonishing village of Roussillon. Considered one of the most impressive villages in France, it is a real must-see in the Luberon!

If time allows, explore the nearby ochre mines with their startling array of orange and red hues, which also feature across the handsome village houses - it's no wonder Roussillon is classed as one of the most beautiful destinations in all of France.

Roussillon - Gordes - Avignon

Day 6: Soak up the many landscapes of the Luberon

Today you'll start your return journey by heading west towards Gordes, via the pretty hamlet of Joucas set above the vineyards. Incredible views abound at every turn on your way back - you'll never get quite enough of the Luberon's natural beauty.

If time allows, take the longer route into the hills to reach the charming hamlet of Murs, beautifully surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and numerous cherry trees. You'll have some time to rest and relax before being transferred back to Avignon in the afternoon.

Avignon

Day 7: Explore Avignon at your leisure

Spend a free day exploring Avignon at your own pace, taking a chance to rest your legs and enjoy your surroundings on your last full day in France. You'll be provided with a road book, offering advice on the best places to visit and eat at while you're there. Make the most of your time at leisure!

Avignon

Day 8: Au revoir, France

Even the most exciting trips come to an end! After breakfast, a driver will meet you at your hotel and transfer you to the TGV train station, where you'll continue your onward travels home. Have a safe trip!