Excursion Villages de provence & olive oil mill visit tour at Marseille

Experience the Provençal charm of Southern France during this scenic, full-day excursion to some of the 'must see' villages of Provence - Les Baux de Provence and Saint Rémy de Provence. These two picturesque villages date back centuries; Les Baux de Provence offers a majestic hilltop location with sites of historical interest and the celebrated Cathedral of Images. Saint Rémy is embraced by a wide, leafy boulevard; the lazily charming old town is a maze of winding streets, cafés, squares and fountains with two exceptional attractions on its edge.

Depart the pier for the brief drive through the Provençal landscapes en route to the little mountain range known as the Small Alps, or 'Les Alpilles', home of incredibly scenic village of Les Baux de Provence.

Les Baux de Provence, Lunch

Upon arrival, take a guided tour of a traditional olive oil mill for a tasting of its products. After this delightful tasting, take a guided walking tour of the impressive ruins of a former 11th-century citadelle, which is perched on a rocky plateau. Some free time is then made available to explore the village and browse the many Provencal shops. Enjoy Lunch in a local restaurant before your next destination.

St. Remy de Provence

Continue your drive to Saint Rémy de Provence, which acts as a sort of link between the Arles area and the Provence of the Popes. Although it has every appearance of being no more than a prosperous farming community, this small town is inextricably linked to the unavoidable 'tourist route' through Provence.  Philosopher Nostradamus was born in a house on Rue Hoche in St. Remy, only later moving to Salon de Provence to compile his famous, influential prophecies.  Three centuries later a tormented Vincent Van Gogh sought refuge in St. Remy where he painted some of his best known works.

Return to the ship in Marseilles via your coach on the approximate 1-hour and 15 minute drive.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Les Baux de Provence, 11th-century Citadel, Fontvieille, Olive Oil Tasting, Alpilles Hills, Saint Rémy de Provence

Note

Please note: This tour requires an extensive amount of walking for approximately .75 miles (1100 metres), with inclines, cobblestone streets and steps to negotiate. It is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Although a minimum number of participants are required for tour's operation, space is very limited. We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, walking shoes and sun protection. The order of the sites visited may vary.