Tour of the Bandol and Côtes de Provence vineyards + Lunch

If you’ve ever dreamed of wandering through sun-drenched vineyards, tasting exceptional wines, and learning from a seasoned expert—all in the gorgeous South of France—you’ll want to read this. From what we gather, this Tour of the Bandol and Côtes de Provence vineyards offers an authentic peek into the region’s wine culture, combined with stunning views, educational insights, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Our favorite aspects? The knowledgeable guidance of a former three-Michelin-starred sommelier, the chance to sip on some of Provence’s finest wines, and the beautifully prepared lunch that perfectly complements the day’s tasting adventures. A possible consideration? The tour’s four-hour duration means it’s a fairly packed experience, so pace yourself if you’re not a big drinker or don’t want to rush.

This experience is best suited for wine lovers, curious travelers eager to learn about Provençal terroirs, and those who appreciate good scenery paired with great food. If you’re after a balanced mix of education, scenery, and culinary delights—this tour hits the mark.

Good To Know

• Expert Guidance: Led by a former three-star Michelin head sommelier, ensuring top-tier knowledge and tips.
• Scenic Landscapes: Vineyards located between sunlit hills and the Mediterranean, offering incredible photo opportunities.
• Authentic Visits: Tours of two separate high-quality estates—each showcasing different facets of Provence wine.
• Tastings & Lunch: Enjoy multiple wine tastings paired with a magnificent lunch in a typical Var restaurant.
• Convenient Transportation: Pick-up from Toulon or La Seyne-sur-Mer in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Value for Money: At $233 per person, this includes transport, visits, tastings, and lunch—making it a comprehensive experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Easy Pick-Up & Comfortable Transport

Your day begins with a hassle-free pickup from either Toulon or La Seyne-sur-Mer’s cruise terminals, making this tour accessible for cruise passengers or those staying locally. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures you stay comfortable as you’re whisked away through the scenic coastlines, away from the busy crowds and into the heart of Provence.

Travel time varies depending on your pickup location, but the smooth ride is worth it for the upcoming vineyard visits and panoramic views. Romain Ambrosi, the guide behind this tour, is praised for his friendly demeanor and wealth of knowledge, often going out of his way to accommodate guests—something reviews highlight as a major plus.

First Stop: The Iconic Bandol Vineyards

Your first visit takes you to a family-run estate or historic property within the celebrated Bandol appellation. Known primarily for its bold red wines, especially those dominated by the Mourvèdre grape, Bandol wines have a reputation for elegance and power.

Here, you’ll learn about the unique terroir—the combination of soil, climate, and vine cultivation practices that give Bandol wines their distinctive character. The estate’s host will walk you through the winemaking process, explaining how they cultivate and harvest grapes, and how their techniques differ from other regions.

This estate’s ambiance is warm and inviting, often with a story of generations of passion. The tasting here typically includes red, rosé, and white wines, providing a well-rounded sense of what Bandol has to offer. One reviewer, Barby from Canada, noted that “Romain was very knowledgeable and friendly,” and the wines were “fabulous.”

The Lunch Break: Savoring Provençal Flavors

After the first tasting, the tour includes a magnificent lunch in a carefully selected Var restaurant. The meal is an opportunity to relax, soak in the views, and enjoy Provençal cuisine—perhaps a plate of local cheeses, fresh seafood, or savory seasonal dishes—paired with a local wine or two.

Travelers commonly mention how the lunch complements the day’s tastings, giving a fuller appreciation of the regional flavors. The restaurant’s setting often overlooks vineyards or calming coastal scenery, making it a feast for the senses.

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Second Estate: Discovering Côtes de Provence Wines

Post-lunch, the vehicle whisks you to another estate, where the terroir differs from Bandol’s. Here, you’ll explore the famous Côtes de Provence wines—particularly their renowned rosés, which are among the most emblematic in the world.

At this estate, you’ll see different cultivation methods tailored to the region’s specific climate and soil, and learn how they craft their signature rosés. The expert guidance continues as you sample a variety of wines, with the tailored insights of Romain adding a layer of depth to your tasting. As one reviewer said, “Both vineyards were excellent, and the interaction with staff was fantastic,” highlighting the genuine experience.

Tasting & Learning: What to Expect

Throughout both vineyard visits, you’ll be guided through the tasting techniques, understanding how to assess a wine’s aroma, body, and flavor profile. The expert insight from Romain makes this accessible whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur.

Guests often comment on the quality of the wines, noting that the selection at both estates was truly impressive. The experience isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding what makes each wine unique and how the Provençal climate influences the character.

Logistics & Price: Making Sense of the Investment

For $233 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package: transportation, visits to two estates, tastings, and a lunch. When broken down, it’s quite a good value considering the personalized guide, high-quality wine experiences, and scenic setting.

The tour is designed to be intimate, often with a private group, which means plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention. The half-day duration (around 4 hours) ensures you get a meaningful experience without feeling rushed, although it’s still a full schedule.

Authentic Insights & Reviews: What Travelers Say

Combining several reviews, the feedback highlights Romain’s expertise and friendliness. David from the US mentioned, “Romain did a great job,” and the wineries were “excellent,” with staff being “fantastic” during tastings. They also appreciated the personalized stories and anecdotes Romain shared, enhancing the overall experience.

Another note from a traveler: the scenery and views were a real highlight, with many commenting on how the landscape changes from one estate to the next, adding visual variety to the day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine enthusiasts eager to deepen their understanding of Provençal wines, especially those interested in red wines from Bandol and rosés from Côtes de Provence. It’s also ideal for food lovers who enjoy pairing tastings with regional cuisine, and those who want a relaxed yet educational outing in the French countryside.

Travelers looking for a luxurious yet authentic experience will also appreciate the small-group setting, expert guidance, and scenic surroundings. However, if you’re not a fan of wine or have mobility issues, this might not be the best fit, as the tour involves walking and tasting at each estate.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded dive into Provence’s wine culture, combining scenic vineyard visits, tastings led by a knowledgeable guide, and a delectable Provençal lunch. It’s a smart choice for those who want to learn about regional wines in a relaxed, intimate setting while enjoying beautiful landscapes and delicious food.

The expert guidance of Romain elevates the experience, making it suitable for wine novices and aficionados alike. With a good balance of education, scenery, and gastronomy, it’s a memorable way to spend a few hours in the South of France—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to enjoy the region’s finest flavors.

If you’re after an authentic, practical, and enjoyable introduction to Provence wine, this tour delivers on all fronts.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes transportation from Toulon or La Seyne-sur-Mer in an air-conditioned vehicle, visits to two wine estates, tastings at each, a delicious lunch, and a small bottle of water per person.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included and arranged from the designated pick-up points in Toulon or La Seyne-sur-Mer.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, as it involves wine tastings and adult-oriented activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around the estates and vineyards.

Will I learn about winemaking techniques?
Absolutely. The guide will share insights into how the estates operate and discuss the specific techniques used in the region.

This guided wine tour of Provence promises a perfect blend of scenic beauty, expert knowledge, and delicious regional cuisine—ideal for those wanting a taste of the South’s finest wines in an intimate setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: