Wine-Tour day: in the Gorges du Verdon

If you’re searching for a way to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the South of France with a dash of adventure, this Gorges du Verdon wine tour by sidecar might just be your next great escape. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, it’s designed to offer an unforgettable blend of scenic driving, local wine tasting, and relaxed lakeside picnics — all in one day.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the atypical sidecar journey offers a fun, intimate way to see the region’s highlights. Second, the culture through wine tasting at a local vineyard adds depth to your trip. Lastly, the blend of stunning panoramas and relaxed lakeside stops creates a balanced mix of thrill and tranquility.

A possible consideration might be the winding mountain roads, which can be a bit intense for those prone to motion sickness or looking for a very leisurely pace. But overall, this adventure is ideal for travelers craving a unique way to discover Provence’s natural beauty while enjoying some local winemaking charm. Perfect for those with an adventurous spirit, a love of scenic drives, and a curiosity for regional wines.

Good To Know

• Unique transportation: Riding in a sidecar adds a level of fun and intimacy to your exploration.
• Scenic routes: Expect panoramic views of Sainte-Victoire, the Verdon Gorge, and lakes with turquoise waters.
• Culinary highlights: Enjoy a picnic on the lakeside and a wine tasting at a local vineyard.
• Accessibility: The tour is suitable for those with reduced mobility, making it inclusive.
• Flexible and private: The experience is tailored for small groups or private bookings, ensuring a personalized touch.
• Value for money: At $416 per person, you gain a full day of sights, tastes, and adventure—worth considering for the experience it provides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point in Aix-en-Provence

The tour kicks off from multiple convenient locations in Aix-en-Provence—ranging from the Paul Cézanne statue to luxury hotels like La Villa Gallici. The pickup process is smooth, with a transfer time of around 40 minutes to reach the start point of your sidecar adventure. This early segment sets a relaxed tone, as you settle in for the roads ahead.

Winding Roads of Sainte-Victoire Mountain

Once on the road, you’ll hit the famed Sainte-Victoire Mountain, immortalized by Cézanne. Here, the photo stops reveal sweeping views of the countryside that seem to go on forever. The driver, often Eric or similar guides, will navigate the serpentine routes that reveal the rugged beauty of Provence.

Many guests mention how much they appreciate the scenic drive – “We loved the way the roads twisted through the mountains,” a reviewer recounted. The ride provides a sense of adventure, with enough speed and curves to keep things exciting without feeling unsafe. Plus, the scenic vistas make every stop a photo opportunity.

Lakes of Esparron and Sainte-Croix

Next, your journey takes you towards the lakes—either Esparron or Sainte-Croix—where the landscapes shift to more unspoiled, wild terrain. Here, you’ll stop at picturesque spots for your picnic, which is often described as a highlight. You can unpack your basket on the lakeshore, savor local treats, and even take a refreshing dip in the turquoise waters.

Several reviewers mention how much they enjoyed the lakeside picnic—“Unpacking our picnic with that view was a real treat,” shared one guest. The lakes are popular for swimming and pedal boating, so if you’re feeling adventurous, they present a perfect opportunity to cool off.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Crossing the Verdon Gorge

The star of the tour is undoubtedly the Verdon Gorge, considered one of Europe’s most remarkable natural wonders. The Route des Crêtes offers sweeping outlooks of the canyon, with plenty of stops to admire the breathtaking scenery and snap photos.

Guests consistently highlight this part as the most spectacular. “The views from the mountain roads of the Verdon are unforgettable,” one reviewer said. The gorge’s dramatic cliffs and emerald waters make it a must-see, and the winding roads add a dash of excitement to the journey.

Lake Sainte-Croix and Relaxation

Descending into the area around Lac de Sainte-Croix, you’ll find another perfect spot for unwinding. Here, you can swim, rent a pedal boat, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Many guests appreciate this relaxed moment after the scenic drive, making the experience well-rounded.

Ending with Wine Tasting

The day concludes at a local winery, where you’ll learn about Provence’s wine traditions and taste regional varieties. The guided tour offers insights into local grape varieties and winemaking techniques, adding a cultural layer to your adventure.

One reviewer praised the wine tasting experience—“The guide was knowledgeable and friendly—an excellent way to wrap up the day.” It’s a nice touch that combines regional education with sensory pleasure, rounding out your day perfectly.

Return to Aix-en-Provence

After a full day of sightseeing, the journey heads back, with a 2-hour transfer to your starting point. The relaxed pace and scenic drives make the return just as enjoyable, leaving you with a camera roll full of memorable views and a head full of stories.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour is priced at $416 per person, which covers hotel pickup and drop-off, helmet and gloves, tasting, and a bottle of water. This fee reflects a full day of exploration, personalized service, and multiple stops—making it good value for those seeking a premium experience.

Note that catering is not included unless you’ve booked a picnic, so bringing snacks or extra water is advisable. The tour is accessible to people with reduced mobility, which is a thoughtful touch often appreciated by travelers with specific needs.

Participants can expect a live guide speaking in both English and French, ensuring clear communication. The tour is designed for private groups, making it ideal for couples, families, or friends seeking a more intimate outing.

Remember to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing—especially in summer when the sun can be intense. And if you’re planning to swim, pack a towel and swimsuit.

The winding mountain roads mean the drive is quite dynamic; if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s wise to be prepared. The guides are experienced and will prioritize safety, but caution is always recommended on mountain roads.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers who want more than just a typical sightseeing day. If you enjoy scenic drives, wine culture, and outdoor picnics, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also well-suited for those with reduced mobility seeking an accessible way to enjoy Provence’s natural beauty.

Couples looking for a romantic, memorable day, or friends wanting a fun, shared adventure will appreciate the private group setting. Photographers and nature lovers will adore the stunning vistas, while wine enthusiasts will find the vineyard visit a perfect addition.

However, if you’re not comfortable with winding mountain roads or prefer a more relaxed, less adventurous pace, this might not be the best fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is accessible for people with reduced mobility, making it inclusive for a broader range of guests.

How long is the transfer time?
The transfer from Aix-en-Provence to the start point takes approximately 40 minutes, with the return transfer lasting around 2 hours.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, helmets and gloves, a wine tasting, and a bottle of water.

Can I bring my own snacks?
While catering isn’t included unless you’ve booked a picnic, bringing your own snacks and extra water is recommended for comfort.

Do I need to be an experienced rider?
Not necessarily—you’ll be riding in a sidecar, which is designed for comfort and safety. The guide will navigate the winding roads.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 5 are not suitable for this tour, and pregnant women are advised not to participate, mainly due to safety considerations.

What should I wear?
Dress in weather-appropriate clothing, and don sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, especially during summer.

How many people can join the tour?
It’s a private group experience, so the group size is limited for a personalized adventure.

What’s the best time of year to go?
Spring through early fall are ideal when weather conditions are pleasant and the scenery is at its best.

Final Thoughts

This Gorges du Verdon sidecar tour offers a distinctive way to experience Provence’s stunning scenery, combining the thrill of a motorcycle ride with leisurely lakeside stops and cultural tastings. The route’s spectacular vistas and the intimacy of riding in a sidecar make it stand out from more conventional day trips. It’s a great choice for those seeking a memorable, immersive adventure that balances thrill, relaxation, and local flavor.

While the winding mountain roads may not suit everyone, the overall experience rewards travelers with jaw-dropping views, authentic wine tasting, and a sense of discovery that few other tours can match. Whether you’re a couple celebrating, a group of friends, or a solo traveler eager for something different, this journey promises a full day of beauty and fun.

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You can check if your dates are available here: