
Essentially French Small Group Tours
Oct 2026
10th - 5th Oct
Price is 3,700 euros Per Person - (double occupancy)
Embark on an unforgettable all-inclusive tour fully hosted by Susan and Brendan at their historic 13th-century maison in Provence. This exceptional package includes seamless private transportation, charming accommodation, wine with meals, entry fees to all attractions and most meals, (with select exceptions).
This is a flexible Itinerary - Final itineraries and details will be emailed to guests closer to tour dates.
Day 1: Arrival in Mazan
Morning/Afternoon:
Arrival at Avignon TGV Station: Your journey begins as you are greeted at the Avignon TGV station and driven to your charming home in Mazan, a picturesque village in the heart of Provence. We pick-up from Avignon TGV between 10.00 am and 2.00pm. Guests can make their own arrangements if they prefer.
Check-In and Orientation: On the first evening of our small group tours, guests are warmly welcomed into our spacious home. After settling into your suite, guests gather in the salon for aperitifs and dinner. This relaxed setting allows everyone to become acquainted whilst savouring the ambience of our historic residence. Our home boasts a rich history, having once housed a Papal family and served as a sanctuary for the Knights Templar.
Evening:
Welcome Dinner: Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner in the Salon, savouring Provençal cuisine.
Relax at Home: Unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings of your home.
Day 2: Hilltop Villages - Gordes &Roussillon
Morning:
Gordes and Roussillon: Start your day with a visit to Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France, perched on a hilltop overlooking the Luberon Valley. Explore its narrow cobblestone streets, visit the 11th century chateau and take in the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Afternoon: We next travel to the stunning village of Roussillon. This village is know for its striking red ochre cliffs and colourful buildings. Experience an incredible lunch with a view before exploring the village, visit the former ochre quarries and admire the unique architecture.
Return to Mazan for aperitifs before choosing to dine at one of the many restaurants in our village.
Day 3: Discovering Avignon
Morning:
Drive to Avignon: Embark on a day trip to Avignon, a city rich in history and culture.
Visit Palais des Papes: Explore the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Enjoy a lunch in the beautiful square Place de l’Horloge.
Afternoon:
Enjoy the afternoon exploring the ancient town of Avignon, take the small train, or explore on foot.
Evening:
Relax at Home, aperitifs in the salon before having dinner in a restaurant in Mazan (walking distance).
Day 4: Chateauneuf-du-Pape & Picnic amoungst the vines
Morning:
Wine Tasting in Chateauneuf-du-Pape: Indulge in a day of wine tasting in the prestigious wine region of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. We will visit some of the area’s renowned wineries, learn about the winemaking process and sample a variety of wines.
Begin the day with a leisurely drive through the breathtaking Provençal countryside, enjoying vistas of rolling vineyards and quaint villages as we make our way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
Tour & Wine Tasting at a Renowned Domain
Arrive at one of Châteauneuf-du-Pape's celebrated wineries. Enjoy a guided tour of their facilities, learning about the art of winemaking, the region’s unique terroir, and the history behind their exceptional wines.Following the tour, participate in a tasting of their finest vintages, guided by an expert sommelier.
Midday:
Sumptuous Picnic Amongst the Vines
Head to a picturesque spot in the vineyards for a lavish Provençal picnic. Savour locally sourced delicacies: Artisan cheeses, charcuterie, fresh baguettes, olives, seasonal fruits, and pastries, paired with a bottle of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine.
Relax under the shade of an olive tree or umbrella while soaking in the serene beauty of the vines.
Afternoon:
Visit to a Generational Family-Owned Château
Continue the journey to a storied, family-owned château, where tradition and craftsmanship have been passed down for generations. Enjoy an exclusive tour of their vineyards and cellar, learning how their unique approach and history shape their wines. Conclude with a private tasting session in their elegant salon, an opulent setting that highlights the refined character of their wines.
Evening:
Relax at Home, aperitifs in the salon before having dinner in a restaurant in Mazan (walking distance).
Day 5: Visiting Isle-sur-la-Sorgue & Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Morning:
Today we visit two stunning villages on the Sorgue river, L’lsle-sur-la-Sorgue and Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Spend the morning exploring the picturesque town of L’lsle-sur-la-Sorgue, famous for its antique markets and canals. Browse through the numerous antique shops, visit the bustling market (Sunday is market day), and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterside restaurant (including beer and wine).
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, we drive to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a charming village nestled at the foot of limestone cliffs, 230m tall. Take a stroll along the Sorgue River, visit the Petrarch Museum, the Paper Mill, (still producing high quality rag paper using traditional techniques dating from the 15th century), and walk up to the viewpoint overlooking the village and natural spring.
Evening:
Return to Mazan:
Farewell Dinner: Celebrate your final evening with a special farewell dinner at a renowed local restaurant in Mazan. Enjoy amulti-course meal featuring gourmet Provencal dishes, paired with exceptional local wines. Toast to new friends and unforgettable memories.
Day 6: Departure Day
Morning:
Departure from Mazan: Depart our home in Mazan as Brendan takes you back to Avignon TGV Station.
Farewell: Bid farewell to Provence as you board your train or make your own way for your next adventure.
This itinerary provides a rich mix of historical exploration, visits to stunning hilltop villages, and opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Provence.