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Perfect for the avid walker and moderate hiker, this tour to Southern France showcases many delightful and unspoiled parts of Provence and the French Riviera.
Energetic pace with more physically demanding activity. Longer walking/hiking tours (more than 3 hours), over uneven and possibly rugged terrain. Expect some longer days. Varying altitudes with some steep ascents/descents. Capable of standing for extended periods of time. Some days may include 5–13 km of walking over the course of the day.
We depart for Marseille via Paris.
We arrive in Marseille and transfer to Gréoux-les-Bains for a 5-night stay. This evening we enjoy our first dinner in France. Bon appetit!
We walk along the ridge above the Moustiers-Ste-Marie, considered one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France. The town has ancient gates, medieval architecture, pottery shops and a gorgeous location at the base of rocky cliffs. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Provencal Alps and Lake Sainte Croix as we walk the old Roman path down towards the village.
We begin at the picturesque hilltop town of Forcalquier—home to one of the largest and liveliest Provencal markets. The guide will lead us on a captivating tour of the town, allowing ample time to explore the wonderful market at our leisure. Then we proceed with our walk on the Mourres Plateau where mushroom-shaped formations resemble human faces—a true geological wonder!
We travel to Rustrel, known for its amazing ochre cliffs and small canyons which gave the village the nickname the “Provencal Colorado”. On our walk we will see an incredible succession of rust-coloured rocks, golden cliffs and red earthen chimneys which rise majestically out of the vegetation. Then we visit Simianela-Rotonde, listed as one of the most beautiful villages of Provence, where Mediterranean and Alpine influences meet. We will enjoy a visit of the medieval castle and free time to wander the charming streets of the village.
We head to the village of Quinson for a scenic walk along the lower Verdon Gorges. The walkway follows an old canal previously used to carry drinking water to Aix-en-Provence. The views of the turquoise waters of the Canal are quite wonderful. We return to Gréoux where the rest of the day will be at leisure.
We proceed to Menton for a 5-night stay. On our walking tour of this delightful seaside resort we’ll take in the lovely pastel-coloured architecture, the old town, the cemetery where many prominent 19th century English and Russian figures are buried, and the enchanting views of the surrounding countryside.
At leisure in Menton to explore this exquisite town, enjoy a swim in the Mediterranean Sea, tour the museum dedicated to the artist Jean Cocteau, or visit nearby towns such as Monaco or Nice.
Our walk begins in La Turbie. Overlooking the Principality of Monaco, this small town resembles a balcony hanging over the Mediterranean and seems to float in the sky. The tall Trophée d’Auguste built 2,000 years ago for the glory of Emperor Augustus is still impressive, while the rest of the town, with its medieval vaulted passageways, bell tower and baroque fountains is enchanting. Then walk on the trail towards Eze - a fine 14th century village built on a hill. We’ll enjoy a visit of the exotic garden and magnificent views over the coast.
We cross into Italy for a beautiful day of sightseeing. We first discover the beautifully preserved medieval town of Dolceacqua located in the Lugarian Hills. The town enchants visitors with its scenic bridges and small houses that circle the Castello dei Doria, immortalized in French impressionist painter Claude Monet’s painting The Castle of Dolceacqua. We will enjoy a typical Italian lunch at a local restaurant featuring fresh locally-grown food. Later we visit the perched village of Apricale - surrounded by forested hills, it is on the list of the “Most Beautiful Villages in Italy”.
Our last walk is on the picturesque hiking path along the rocky seaside from Beaulieu and around the main peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat. We pass magnificent villas and see how unspoiled Cap Ferrat has remained. We conclude our walk with a visit of the Villa Ephrussi - home of the Rothschild family. The villa’s opulent furnishings, garden with dancing fountains and views of the Mediterranean are breathtaking – a wonderful way to end our tour! Tonight enjoy a farewell cocktail followed by dinner.
We fly back to Canada via Paris.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (90 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
