Ultimate Southern France

Explore the Captivating Coasts of France & Monaco on a 12-Day Guided Tour

$8,350

 

Tour Description

Relax and unwind on a guided tour that takes you from Monaco to France. Cruise to spectacular Saint-Tropez, marvelling at the coastal town’s ancient walls for unparalleled views of its medieval towers. Step inside the Aix-En-Provence Cathedral, a national treasure and religious landmark. Slide into the passenger’s seat of a vintage car and be chauffeured through the countryside to an acclaimed winery for a private tour. Experience Calanques National Park, journeying past towering limestone cliffs looming over turquoise waters. Indulge in a diverse range of spectacular dining experiences, from exquisite seafood dinners to Michelin hotel meals. Learn about Bordeaux's unique history from a Local Expert or take a guided bike ride to learn about the city’s sustainability efforts.

The Activity Level of this tour is Dynamic, meaning this journey features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills.

 
 

HIGHLIGHTS AND INCLUSIONS

Luxurious Accommodations: Stay in hand-picked, five-star hotels that exude charm and sophistication, offering unparalleled comfort and exceptional service.

Gourmet Experiences: Savor exquisite French cuisine with gourmet dining experiences, including a private dinner at a renowned Michelin-starred restaurant and a wine tasting at a prestigious vineyard.

Cultural Immersion: Explore the artistic treasures of Avignon, the elegant streets of Aix-en-Provence, and the glamorous shores of the French Riviera. Enjoy exclusive access to historical sites and engage with local experts to gain deep insights into the region's heritage.

 

  • Day 1

    Welcome to the French Riviera

    Monte Carlo

    Welcome to the French Riviera

    Transfer to your hotel before dining waterside at Fontvieille marina. Enjoy an evening drive along the legendary Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit to the Grimaldi Palace.

    Included Dining:

     

    Dinner

    • Fairmont Monte Carlo

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Join your Travel Concierge for guided sightseeing of glamourous Monaco. See the Grand Prix circuit – famous for hosting the annual Formula One Monaco Grand Prix – explore the old town, and admire the Royal Palace where the Grimaldi family lives. Wander along the yacht-filled harbor and see the cathedral, which houses the tombs of the late Prince Rainier and Princess Grace.

      Read more

      Monaco Orientation

    Curated Experiences

    Day 2

    Nice Sightseeing

    Nice

    Monte Carlo

    Nice Sightseeing

    In Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, join a Local Expert touring the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Continue to Nice where joining a Local Expert on a walk through the streets of Old Nice viewing the opera house, admire the Sainte-Réparate Cathedral and maybe taste some socca at the colorful food market on the Cours Saleya.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast

    • Fairmont Monte Carlo

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Join a Local Expert to take a walk through the charming streets of Old Nice and see the Opera, the antique market, and the St. Reparate Cathedral.

      Old Nice Walking Tour

    • Join a Local Expert to visit the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its gardens. Built by the passionate art collector Madame Ephrussi, she gathered the best from each era including delicate pieces of furniture once belonging to Marie Antoinette.

      Read more

      Visit Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild

    Curated Experiences

    Day 3

    Star-studded St. Tropez

    Monte Carlo

    Saint-Tropez

    Gemenos

    Star-studded St. Tropez

    Step into the 1950s glamour of the French Riviera in St. Tropez. Join a Local Expert to discover the boutiques, the old town and admire the yachts in the marina. Taste the local Tarte Tropézienne custard-filled, sugar-topped pastry at the bakery where it was first created. Delight this evening in an elegant Michelin Star meal at La Magdeleine.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Dinner

    • La Magdeleine - Mathias Dandine

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • This evening, experience a Private Concert during your delicious meal, set within your beautiful hotel.

      Private Concert during dinner

    • Take in the best of Saint-Tropez as a Local Expert guides you through the remains of the ancient landmark Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption and its colorful bell tower. Afterward, taste the local Saint-Tropez tart pastry in the bakery where it was first created in the 1950s.

      Read more

      St. Tropez Guided Walk and Pastry Tasting

    Curated Experiences

    Day 4

    Aix-en-Provence

    Gemenos

    Aix-en-Provence

    Gemenos

    Aix-en-Provence

    Join your Local Expert to discover the ancient Roman town. Follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne along the tree-lined boulevard of Cours Mirabeau and enjoy a French pastry and coffee in one of the most prestigious residences . Curate your visit at the Château La Coste open-air museum on a Guided Art Walk around the grounds or a wine-tasting experience.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast

    • La Magdeleine - Mathias Dandine

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Explore Aix en Provence with a Local Expert and discover the ancient Roman town with its bubbling fountains and elegant 18th-century architecture. Take an easy amble through the maze-like streets of the Old Town under the cool shadow of the Aix Cathedral. Follow in the footsteps of Paul Cézanne along the grand, tree-lined boulevard of Cours Mirabeau.

      Read more

      Tour Aix en Provence with a Local Expert

    Curated Experiences

    • On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience sample the estate’s organic wines and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. In 2009, the wines of Château La Coste were labeled "Organic Agriculture", a label which recognizes respect for the land as well as the methods, in perfect harmony with nature.

      Read more

      Château La Coste Wine Tasting

    • Join a Local Expert for a relaxed walk among olive groves and woods to discover the installations created by the best modern artists and architects.

      Château La Coste Art Walking Tour

    Personalise Your Day

    Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip.

    Day 5

    Calanques National Park

    Gemenos

    Marseille

    Cassis

    Gemenos

    Calanques National Park

    Indulge in another Relaxed Start before strolling or cycling the Château gardens. Then try pétanque or lounge poolside. Arriving in Cassis, board your private cruise. Pass towering limestone cliffs, fjord-like inlets and hidden beaches of Calanques National Park. Savor the evening with a gourmet seafood dinner.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Dinner

    • La Magdeleine - Mathias Dandine

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Board your private cruise through the Calanques National Park to admire the towering limestone cliffs and the long, narrow and deep fjord-like inlets.

      Calanques National Park Private Cruise

    Curated Experiences

    • Indulge in a divine seafood dinner in the charming fishing village of Cassis.

      Cassis Seafood Dinner

    Exceptional Dining

    Day 6

    French Icons

    Gemenos

    Lourmarin

    Nimes

    French Icons

    Visit the village of Lourmarin to browse the stalls of its famous market. Take a seat in your vintage Citroen 2CV and embark on a chauffeured drive through the Luberon mountains, through lush vineyards and scenic villages arriving at the Domaine de la Citadelle winery to taste its wines with a picnic prepared by local chef Madame Dromer.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Lunch

    • Maison Albar L'Imperator, Nimes

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Visit the tree lined avenues of Lourmarin and explore the lively market featuring crafts, clothing and local delicacies.

      Lourmarin Market Visit

    • Take a seat in your chauffeured Citroen 2CV and embark on a drive through the rolling countryside past fields of lavender.

      Provence Chauffeured 2CV Experience

    Curated Experiences

    • Visit the acclaimed winery, Domaine de la Citadelle, for a tour of its grounds and a picnic lunch. Savor a selection of Provençal favorites paired with local wine.

      Domaine de la Citadelle Picnic Lunch

    Exceptional Dining

    Day 7

    Les Baux

    Nimes

    Les Baux-de-Provence

    Nimes

    Les Baux

    Visit the renowned Pont du Gard, a well-preserved Roman aqueduct. Observe how this three-level, 900-footlong bridge was built out of soft yellow limestone blocks from a nearby quarry. Stop in Avignon and admire the Palace of the Popes, the famous broken bridge and beautiful squares shaded by leafy platanes. Continue through the Alpilles National Park to the village of Les Baux-de-Provence.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Dinner

    • Maison Albar L'Imperator, Nimes

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Stop in Avignon and admire the Palace of the Popes, the famous broken bridge and beautiful squares shaded by imposing, leafy platanes.

      Visit Avignon

    • Journey through the Alpilles National Park to one of the most beautiful villages in France, Les Baux-de-Provence, perched on a plateau.

      Visit Les Baux-de-Provence

    Curated Experiences

    Day 8

    Arles and Carcassonne Sightseeing

    Nimes

    Arles

    Carcassonne

    Arles and Carcassonne Sightseeing

    Journey on to the fortified city of Carcassonne, one of the largest surviving medieval walled cities in Europe. Explore Van Gogh's town of Arles and visit the Roman Amphitheater with a Local Expert. Journey through Camargue to your hotel in Carcassonne in the heart of the city.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Dinner

    • Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh as your Local Expert walks you through the city that inspired many of the artist's paintings.

      Arles City Tour

    Curated Experiences

    Day 9

    Founder's Collection

    Carcassonne and the Languedoc Region

    Carcassonne

    Carcassonne and the Languedoc Region

    After exploring Carcassonne venture into the rolling countryside to the village of Lastours overlooked by its four Cathar castles. Meet Jean-Marc Boyer, the Michelin-starred Chef of Le Puits du Trésor where you enjoy a traditional French cooking class and savor the food you have prepared accompanied by local wine. Relax on our evening cruise of the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Lunch

    • Hôtel de la Cité Carcassonne - MGallery

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Carcassonne represents one of the biggest and best-preserved fortified cities in Europe, with 53 watchtowers and 1.5 miles of ramparts open to the public. Explore this real-life Magic Kingdom with a Local Expert and uncover its rich history, dating back to the pre-Roman period.

      Read more

      Carcassonne Walking Tour

    • Admire flora and fauna, rural vistas and lush vineyards on this gentle 1.5-hour cruise. Built in the late 17th century as a shipping short cut between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, the Canal du Midi is one of Europe’s oldest canals still in operation.

      Read more

      Cruise the Canal du Midi

    Curated Experiences

    • Meet Jean-Marc Boyer, the Michelin-starred Chef of Le Puits du Tresor where you enjoy a traditional French cooking class

      Le Puits du Tresor Cooking Class

    Exceptional Dining

    Day 10

    Bordeaux

    Albi

    Bordeaux

    Bordeaux

    Journey to the enchanting city of Bordeaux where you will have time to explore this elegant, 18th - century jewel on the banks of the Garonne. Awaken your senses at the Bassins des Lumières Museum and enjoy an evening at leisure to get acquainted with the local cuisine and fabulous wines this area has to offer.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Dinner

    • Le Grand Hotel Bordeaux

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Awaken your senses at the Bassins des Lumières Museum.

      Bassins de lumieres light show

    Curated Experiences

    Day 11

    Bordeaux Sightseeing

    Bordeaux

    Bordeaux Sightseeing

    Learn about the 18th-century architecture of Vieux Bordeaux with a Local Expert. Or set off on a leisurely bike ride around the Garonne River before ending at the picturesque Jardin Public.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast, Dinner

    • Le Grand Hotel Bordeaux

      View Hotel Details

    Magnificent Stays

    • Conclude your journey with a superb dining experience at the historic Château du Ferrand, where you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner. Learn how the estate is working towards a more environmental future by using organic fertilizers, protecting local fauna and harvesting by hand.

      Read more

      Bordeaux Celebration Dinner at Château Ferrand

    Exceptional Dining

    • Take a relaxing bike tour around the City of Bordeaux. Enjoy a beautiful loop of the Garonne river, pass through the Chartrons district and stop in the picturesque park Jardin Public. See the Palais Gallien and the grand shopping centrer, Glace des Grands Hommes.

      Read more

      Bordeaux Bike Ride

    • Join a Local Expert to discover the best sights in Bordeaux. See the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the famous Water Mirror, the stunning neoclassic theater and the modern architecture of the Cité du Vin.

      Bordeaux City Tour

    Personalise Your Day

    Today you can select your choice of the below experiences. Your Travel Concierge will discuss and confirm your preference on trip.

    Day 12

    Depart Bordeaux

    Bordeaux

    Depart Bordeaux

    After breakfast you are transferred to Bordeaux Airport as your Luxury Gold journey comes to an end.

    Included Dining:

     

    Breakfast

  • Your Travel Concierge

    Enjoy seamless personal assistance throughout your journey. From securing exclusive reservations, to organising transportation, your Travel Concierge ensures every aspect of your travel is tailored to your tastes and preferences.

    Local Expert Guides

    In select destinations, our network of Local Expert Guides will illuminate your journey on a deeper level. ​

    In-Room Porterage

    Included at all hotels.

    Taxes & Tipping

    Hotel taxes, porterage and tips, as well as tips for included dining experiences, are included.

    Meals & Dining

    Enjoy breakfast every morning, and an array of incredible dining options throughout your journey, infused with discovery and adventure.

    Complimentary Room Service

    On days where a Relaxed Start (RS) is indicated, you can select to indulge in breakfast in bed.​

    Wi-Fi

    Enjoy complimentary hotel Wi-Fi. And, on select coaches, onboard Wi-Fi may also be available.

    Airport Transfers

    Transfers are included on your journey start and end dates, and where additional accommodation has been booked in advance through Luxury Gold. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city as the itinerary, may be requested.

  • Booking and Payments

    • Deposit: A non-refundable deposit of 30% of the total tour cost is required to confirm your booking.

    • Final Payment: The balance must be paid in full 90 days before the departure date. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of your booking.

    Cancellations and Refunds

    • Cancellation by Client:

    • More than 90 days before departure: Loss of deposit.

    • 30-90 days before departure: 65% of the total tour cost.

    • Less than 30 days before departure: 100% of the total tour cost.

    • Cancellation by Company: We reserve the right to cancel the tour due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, a full refund will be provided.

    • Changes to Itinerary

    • Flexibility Required: Weather and road conditions may necessitate changes to the planned route and itinerary. Flexibility is essential.

    • Substitutions: We reserve the right to substitute accommodations and services of similar standard when necessary.

    Travel Insurance

    • Mandatory: Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses, personal injury, and emergency evacuation is mandatory for all participants.

    • Proof Required: Proof of insurance must be provided before the tour begins.

    Health and Safety

    • Fitness Level: A reasonable level of fitness is required for participation in the activities outlined in the tour itinerary.

    • Medical Conditions: Participants must disclose any pre-existing medical conditions at the time of booking.

    Liability

    • Responsibility: The company will not be held liable for any injury, loss, or damage to personal property that occurs during the tour.

    • Third-Party Services: The company is not responsible for the actions or omissions of third-party providers, such as airlines or accommodation services.

    Visas and Documentation

    • Passport Validity: Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the return date.

    • Visas: Obtaining necessary visas and travel documents is the responsibility of the participant.

    Conduct

    • Respect for Culture: Participants are expected to respect local customs and cultures.

    • Behavior: Disruptive or harmful behavior may result in the participant being asked to leave the tour, with no refund provided.

    Complaints

    • Immediate Reporting: Any complaints should be reported immediately to the tour leader to allow for a timely resolution.

    • Post-Tour Complaints: Complaints must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the tour's conclusion.

    By booking this tour, you agree to adhere to these terms and conditions.

 

Travellers photos