Aix-en-Provence & Lourmarin On Your Own (Guided in Japanese)

Description

Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

Your independent excursion starts at Marseille pier, where you will board the motorcoach for the first drive of the day along the highway, en route to wonderful Lourmarin.

This charming village, at the foot of the Luberon Range, was once the home of novelist Albert Camus, and is indeed a perfect hideaway for an author thanks to its great serenity and beauty. The village itself is dominated by its Renaissance castle, which is built high on a rock bluff, and now classified as an historical monument.

You will spend your free time here wandering through this delightful village, which features outdoor cafés, narrow streets and old stone houses.

Climbing back onto the motorcoach you will wind your way through the picturesque countryside, to Aix-en-Provence, the medieval capital of Provence, which sits at the foot of the Sainte Victoire mountain, and was immortalized on canvas by the painter, Paul Cézanne.

You will have a couple of hours to explore this beautiful village, including the old town, which is an enjoyable maze of narrow streets, and home to a 12th-century cathedral, Saint-Sauveur d'Aix, the Archbishop's Palace and clock tower.

But for those who love to shop, you will be thrilled with the options on offer here, as the town is home to numerous chic boutiques, art galleries, antique and craft shops. You may also wish to seek out one of the region's sweet specialties, the Calisson d' Aix - diamond-shaped candies made out of almonds, honey and preserved melon.

And because this is a trip for the independent-minded, you will be encouraged to seek out a café or restaurant to enjoy a relaxing and tasty lunch. Why not sample some of the region's delicious Provencal dishes including their local tapenades, fresh fish of the day, or vegetables roasted in local olive oil.

After you have fully explored this delightful town, you will board the motorcoach for the relaxing journey back to Marseille, via the highway.

Special Notes:

Euros are required for entrance fees as well as for purchasing lunch and refreshments. Shopping is limited in villages outside of the main touristic season.