Adventure Collective
Historic Provence Tour with Ooh Provence in Marseille - Marseille

Historic Provence Tour with Ooh Provence in Marseille

Marseilleeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for those with light to moderate fitness comfortable walking a few miles over varied terrain.

Overview

Step through ancient Roman arches and medieval monasteries, capped with world-class wine tasting near Marseille. Ooh Provence’s signature day tour blends outdoor history with gourmet indulgence in the heart of Provence.

Sightseeing Tour
Marseille, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur

Pont du Gard, Villeneuve les Avignon & Châteauneuf du Pape wine

Full day private tour • Roman & Medieval history adventure extraordinaire, wine

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Adventure Photos

Pont du Gard, Villeneuve les Avignon & Châteauneuf du Pape wine photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a captivating journey through Provence's rich history, starting at the iconic 1st-century Pont du Gard aqueduct. Explore the medieval charm of Villeneuve Les Avignon and La Chartreuse monastery, then indulge in fine wines at Châteauneuf du Pape. Experience a delightful blend of culture, tradition, and gourmet treats.

Pont du Gard, Roman history and Villeneuve Les Avignon, médiévale cité, La Chartreuse, Fort St André and the fine wine of Châteauneuf du Pape


Tour Summary

This is an exceptional unique tour captures the essence of Provence from the Romans to the medieval times begining with a visit to Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct built in the 1st century which at the time was the world's tallest bridge. It brought water to the 20,000 inhabitants of the ancient city of Nîmes. From here we make our way to the delightful small town of Villeneuve Les Avignon which sits across the River Rhône offering exceptional views across the Valley to the city of Avignon. It is here that the famous bridge Pont St Bénezet once ended at the Tour Philippe le Bel, a 13th century dungeon tower. A guided walking tour with a visit to La Chartreuse, a medieval monastery founded by Pope Innocent VI in the 1300's, housing one of the biggest charter houses in France. A harmonious series of open and enclosed garden spaces & architectural styles. One church, three cloisters, 40 monks' cells, gardens & a chapel with 14th century frescoes painted by Matteo Giovannetti. This is also an ideal setting for a light lunch as the town offers a variety of traditional eateries, before heading towards the wine growing region to the north and the village of Châteauneuf du Pape, ending the day with a relaxing visit to one of the best vineyards of the region, a wine tasting and a stop at a local artisanal chocolate maker. History, culture, tradition, fine wine and chocolate.


Rates from

Adult 495.00€ per person Senior 480.00€ per person Youth 295.00€ per person Child 195.00€ per person 11+ persons Group rates apply - please ask us for a quotation


Tour duration & schedule

The total duration of the tour is 8 hours, assuming pick-up in Avignon, Aix-en-Provence or Marseille. The order for the tour takes into account the starting point changing depending on your location. There is a scheduled lunch break, at leisure, not included.


Tour itinerary & highlights

We will arrive to collect you from your hotel or guest house. (If you are staying in a rented apartment or villa, we can arrange that too) We will be at the Cruise Ship terminal in Marseille if arriving by ship. This tour is available from Aix-en-Provence, Marseille or Avignon.

Leave by car arriving first to the Pont du Gard, visit and walking tour to visit the bridge. Drive back towards and stop in Villeneuve Les Avignon, walking tour via Fort St André through the village to La Chartreuse. Leisurely visit to the site, stop for lunch at your leisure before heading north towards the village of Châteauneuf du Pape.

Short stop in the village and a visit to one of the vineyards to learn about the wine and a wine tasting. If possible we include a visit to the cave, but this depends upon the season and availability. On the way back time for some shopping at a local artisanal chocolate maker. At the end of the visit return to Aix-en-Provence & Marseille. (or local drop-off in Avignon)


Language: English or French


What’s included

  • Pick-up & drop-off at your hotel or villa in Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Arles, Avignon, St Rémy de Provence & Lourmarin. If your staying elsewhere we can coordinate a pick-up from your address. (there may be a supplement payable)
  • Travel to all of the destinations proposed with dedicated guide/driver & return to your hotel, address or the cruise terminal. Admission to the sites listed - the Pont du Gard, La Chartreuse, Fort St André and the vineyard visit with wine tasting is included. Refreshments, snacks & lunch not included.

Refreshments, snacks & lunch are not included.

Adventure Tips

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The trip involves strolling on uneven stone paths and through historic sites requiring steady footing.

Pack sun protection

Provence’s Mediterranean sun can be strong, especially near the exposed aqueduct and vineyards.

Bring a reusable water bottle

Stay hydrated while touring the outdoor sites and vineyards, where water sources may be limited.

Prepare for moderate walking

Expect 2–3 hours of walking on mixed terrain with some elevation changes at Villeneuve Les Avignon.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • European green woodpeckers frequent the wooded areas around the Pont du Gard.
  • Various species of butterflies and bee populations thrive among the lavender and vineyard flora.

History

Pont du Gard is a remarkably preserved example of Roman engineering, built to transport water over 50 km to Nîmes in the 1st century AD.

Conservation

Efforts in the region focus on preserving historic sites while promoting eco-friendly tourism practices, including limiting group sizes and encouraging sustainable vineyard management.

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Adventure Hotspots in Marseille

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Crucial for uneven cobblestone streets and outdoor walking at historic sites.

Sunhat and sunscreen

Essential

Protects from harsh sun exposure typical of Provence’s Mediterranean climate.

spring|summer|fall specific

Light jacket or layers

Essential

Layers help adapt to shifting temperatures throughout the day, especially near the river or vineyards.

spring|fall|winter specific

Reusable water bottle

Essential

Keeps you hydrated during outdoor walks and wine tastings where drinks may be limited.