Essence of the Luberon

8 days - from $2495

Outstanding walking in Provence and the Luberon – hilltop villages, crumbling castles and expansive meadows filled with wildflowers and lavender From hilltop towns of the Luberon to the herb-scented trails of Mont Ventoux, we savour dramatic vistas and wonderful Provençal hospitality. Discover the Dentelles de Montmirail, the foothills of the Mont Ventoux and the world-famous Côtes de Rhône vineyards of Beaumes-de-Venise, Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Séguret. Vaison-la-Romaine affords us plenty of attractions to tempt during our three days here. Her lazy market square, Gallo-Roman remains - including a 6000-seat Roman theatre – the largest archeological site in France and oodles of time to sip refreshing beverages and people-watch. From the Dentelles we travel to the Luberon where the beauty and variety of the scenery is exceptional – from ochre mines to orchards as far as the eye can see. Explore Gordes, Provence’s best-known hilltop village – a town of silk painters, weavers and potters, where houses built of golden stone rise to the Renaissance château crowning the top. A true highlight for all will be our three days in the hidden hamlet of Buoux - from our 12th-Century 'Feature Stay' base we undertake magnificent walks and are sure to enjoy the perfect marriage of activity, gastronomy and well earned relaxation beside the welcoming pool. Savour an intimate glimpse into this distinctive region of France under seemingly permanent blue skies.

Highlights

• Get past the popes in Avignon
• Indulge in Provencal food around Vaison-la-Romaine
• Sample the Luberon’s villages and landscapes
• Vaison La-Romaine

Itinerary:

Day 1: (Sun) Arrive in Avignon.2: Travel to Gigondas. Walk to Séguret through famed Côtes du Rhône vineyards (4 hours).3: A free day to explore the superb market in Vaison and discover the old town and the many treasures from the Gallo-Roman civilisation.4: Walking with views of Mont Ventoux, through the medieval village of Le Crestet (5 hours).5: Drive to Gordes. Circular walk including visit to 12th century Cistercian Abbey of Sénanque. Transfer to the hamlet of Les Séguins (Buoux) (4 hours).6: Walk in the Buoux Gorge and along the Aiguebrun River. Continue into the Luberon hills to Buoux Fort (4 hours).7: Loop walk to the charming village of Bonnieux along the ridges of the Petit Luberon mountains (6 hours).8: Transfer to Avignon where our trip ends upon arrival (Sun).
Included: Peregrine tour leader, transport and sightseeing.
Not Included: International flights, arrival and departure transfers, departure taxes, visas, insurance, other meals, drinks, optional additional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.
Meals: 7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners
Valid From: 01 Jan 10
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Avignon to Avignon
Trip Reference: PEEL