Provence & Southern France Hiking Journey

Welcome to the French Riviera! Upon arriving at Nice Airport, you'll be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel. After settling in and enjoying some leisure time, join us for cocktails followed by a delightful dinner at a charming bistro nestled in the heart of the Old Town. 

Approximately 3-4 hours of walking (17km)

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast before hiking to the stunning village of Villefranche. Enjoy sweeping Mediterranean views, explore the charming old town, and find a cozy spot for lunch by the crescent-shaped beach.

On our return, we’ll hike over Mont Boron, stopping at Fort Boron for panoramic views of the coastline and Alpes-Maritimes. Tonight, we’ll enjoy dinner at a favorite bistro in the old town.

Approximately 1 hours of walking (3.5km)

After breakfast, we’ll hike up Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice, the coast, and the port, then descend into the old town to explore the historic flower and food market, in operation since 1897, along with favourite streets and shops.

Late morning, we’ll head west to a stunning village inland from Cannes, once home to Picasso. Explore its 20 art galleries, admire valley views, and enjoy the street sculptures.

We’ll then continue to a charming Provencal hilltop town, our home for the next three nights. With its medieval streets and serene atmosphere, it’s perfect for an evening stroll before dinner at a local bistro.

Approximately 4-5 hours of walking (9km)

Start with breakfast at our sunlit hotel, overlooking the Bandol wine region. Then, we’ll drive across France’s highest sea cliff, stopping for stunning views on the way to the vibrant fishing port of Cassis.

Next, hike through Calanques National Park, a breathtaking blend of land, sea, and urban areas, with more than 1,600 plant species. The steep trail offers pristine, spectacular scenery.

After a beachside picnic and swim in turquoise waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs, we’ll return to Cassis. Enjoy dinner at your leisure after this unforgettable day.

Approximately 3-4 hours walking (5km)

Start your day with a scenic coastal hike from Cassis to the top of Cap Canaille, Western Europe’s second-highest sea cliff, offering unrivalled views. Return to the charming port village for lunch before embarking on a private boat tour of the Calanques—stunning limestone inlets with exquisite turquoise coves. Enjoy time for swimming, sipping rosé, and exploring sea caves as we drift through this spectacular maritime national park.

This evening, indulge in a culinary experience at a superb Michelin-starred restaurant. Smart casual attire recommended.

 

A well earned rest day (no walking)

Take a well-deserved rest day as we leave the Côte d’Azur and head north into the stunning Luberon countryside, immortalised by Peter Mayle. En route, visit a unique underground limestone quarry turned art gallery, where monumental works are projected onto the walls in harmony with pleasant music.

Enjoy lunch in the gardens of a favourite château before continuing into the lesser-known Provencal hills. Our home for the next four nights is a boutique hotel nestled among Côtes du Rhône vineyards at the foothills of Mont Ventoux, “The Giant of Provence.” Unwind with cocktails on the terrace, a friendly pétanque match, and an evening at your leisure.

Approximately 4-5 hours walking (12km)

Today, we venture into the breathtaking vineyards of the southern Côtes du Rhône, starting in the famed wine village of Gigondas. From there, we’ll hike through the stunning Dentelles de Montmirail, with its dramatic limestone peaks and endless terraced vineyards.

This exceptional hike offers unforgettable views. We’ll unpack a picnic lunch among the vines before heading to a late afternoon cooking class with our charming chef, a fourth-generation local. Enjoy an early evening meal on the terrace, overlooking the valley with Mont Ventoux as a magnificent backdrop.

No walking today

Enjoy a day of indulgence with our private sommelier, a former head sommelier for Alain Ducasse, as you explore the finest vineyards of the southern Côtes du Rhône.

Visit the renowned village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the ruins of the Pope’s summer palace. Indulge in a three-course wine pairing lunch, with insights from your sommelier.

On the way back, we may stop at a friend’s vineyard for more tastings, then return for sunset drinks and an introduction to the “nez du vin,” where you’ll learn how sommeliers refine their sense of smell.

Approximately 7-8 hours walking (12km)

After breakfast, a short bucolic drive takes us to the base of Mont Ventoux, Europe’s highest standalone mountain. We’ll hike through stunning landscapes in this UNESCO biosphere reserve, home to more than 60 unique species, with a 1,500m ascent offering spectacular summit views.

Refuel with a bistro lunch in a ski village before driving down. Enjoy some poolside relaxation or pétanque before our final communal dinner at a favourite village eatery. 

As our adventure concludes, we’ll savour a final breakfast together, reflecting on our refreshing time in Provence. Transfers will be provided to Avignon TGV station for journeys to Paris and beyond. For departures from Marseille Airport, transfers can be arranged at an additional cost.