L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Gordes and Roussillon: the most beautiful villages of Provence 1
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L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Gordes and Roussillon: the most beautiful villages of Provence

(3)
Marseille, France
Arts & CultureAttractionsPhotography ToursCity BreaksPrivate Car Tours
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About this activity

Explore three of Provence's most picturesque villages in a single day with a private guide and driver. This full-day immersion takes you through L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue's vibrant antique markets, Gordes' hilltop medieval charm, and Roussillon's distinctive ochre-coloured architecture—the landscapes that inspired Peter Mayle's beloved 'A Year in Provence'.

Full day tour to discover the treasures of Provence with a private official guide and a private driver

This unique tour will also give you the great opportunity to experience the authentic atmosphere of the Lubéron villages that the worldwide famous writer Peter Mayle describes so well in its bestseller "A year in Provence".

First you will go to Isle sur la Morgue, a nice village, very well known for its flea market that takes place every week-end. A large antique center called "Le Village des Antiquaires de la Gare" welcomes several antique shops and art galleries. You can't imagine what you can find there! From decorative furniture, antique textile, paintings, ceramics, glassware, lighting, prints, maps, vintage clothing, jewellery, bags - it goes on and on with so many stalls.

Along the river you will for sure appreciate the beauty of the waterwheels scattered around town serving as reminders that L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue was a very active industrial center in the past. Of course, your guide will show you the worldwide famous "Café de France", a pretty café with its bright green façade being framed by two old plane trees that is an excellent place to relax.

Then you will stop at Gordes, a small village listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France thanks to its privileged position, its exceptional charm and its typical architecture with its tiny white and gray dry-stone walled houses. You will understand why so many artists have decided to move there attracted by the beauty and serenity of this perched village with some exceptional views that are typical from Provence.

Then you will go to Roussillon, another village labelled as Gordes one of «The most beautiful villages in France". Totally different colors and atmosphere as Roussillon is famous for its red and yellow ochre cliffs and unusual natural landscapes.

You will get to discover local artisanal. Many small creators chose to open shops there attracted by the country life style offering open space, pollution-free environment and healthy living.

Your guide will be happy to explain you local traditions and cultural historical stories without forgetting to show you her favorite secret places.

Highlights

  • Browse Le Village des Antiquaires de la Gare, a major antique hub with dozens of shops, galleries, and vintage stalls
  • Wander L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue's riverside promenade and historic waterwheels dating to its industrial past
  • Visit the iconic Café de France with its signature green façade and plane trees
  • Explore Gordes, officially ranked among France's most beautiful villages, perched dramatically above the Lubéron valley
  • Discover Roussillon's striking ochre cliffs and earthy-toned village streets
  • Private guide and driver throughout—no group tours, personalised pace and stops

Insider tips

  • Visit L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue on a weekend to catch the weekly flea market in full swing; weekday visits are quieter but less bustling with vendors
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes—Gordes involves steep, narrow cobbled streets and uneven terrain; bring water and a hat for the ochre trail near Roussillon
  • Ask your guide to recommend quiet corners and local eateries; many famous villages get overwhelmed by day-trippers mid-afternoon

Good to know

  • 8-hour duration includes driving time between villages; start early to maximise daylight and avoid crowds
  • Private car pickup and drop-off from Marseille area; confirm pickup location and time when booking
  • Comfortable walking shoes essential; bring sunscreen, hat, and camera for the ochre landscapes of Roussillon
  • Some village streets are narrow and steep; limited accessibility for mobility restrictions in hilltop areas like Gordes

Who it's for

Culture and history lovers seeking authentic Provence beyond tourist hotspotsAntique collectors and vintage shoppers interested in European markets and galleriesPhotography enthusiasts drawn to postcard-worthy medieval architecture and ochre landscapesLiterary fans retracing Peter Mayle's Lubéron settings from 'A Year in Provence'

Best time to visit

Visit spring (April–May) or early autumn (September–October) for mild weather and manageable crowds. Avoid July–August peak season. Weekend visits to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue capture the weekly flea market; morning departures maximise daylight across all three villages.

Frequently asked questions

Available
From€150
per person