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

It's believed that the Greeks began making wine when they settled in the Bandol region around 600 B.C. The wine they produced had a renowned reputation by the time the Romans arrived in 125 B.C. Over time, the wines of Bandol have become one of the most internationally recognized wines of Provence.

There are many different factors that determine the aroma and taste of wine, from the age and varieties of the vines to the climate, soil and terrain. Learn more about Bandol wines with a visit to Domaine de Souviou, one of the most renowned producers of wine in the area.

Your day-long outing begins as you board your coach at the pier and travel along the coast with picturesque views over the bay of Toulon. From your comfortable seat on the coach you can watch the scenic countryside leisurely pass by your window and imagine a time when Romans, Gauls, Catalans and Savoyards rode over the lush hillsides.

Soon, you'll reach Domaine de Souviou. It extends over 75 hectares of vineyards, olive trees and forest overlooking the Mediterranean Sea. It is a place rich in history and a true conservatory of 7000 olive trees, 200 of them are millennia old, which stand majestically on terraces and testify to this era.
Upon arrival, follow the guide for a walking visit of the domain and learn about the fascinating history of the area. ome shards found on the property seem to say that a little less than two thousand years ago, men, fleeing from Roman attacks on the oppida near the sea, chose to settle in a hidden valley in the foothills of the Massif de la Sainte Baume. The protective isolation, a place where one could find water all year round, sunshine, a not too rough soil.

During your walking visit discover the original 12th century wood-fired oven and kitchen, the 17th century village square, and the medicinal and aromatic herb gardens.

Enjoy sampling the wines at the conclusion of your tour; your tasting will be served as an aperitif where you can compare the differences between two different rosés from older and younger vines, as well as one red.

The sun soaked region of Provence is also well known for its delicious Mediterranean produce. The flavors of the region include tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, rosemary and olive oil.

Taste the area's best wine and produce with a delicious buffet lunch. Choose from a wide selection of fresh salads, savory tarts, meat and cheese platters, and regional seasonal specialties, paired with wines, of course, then relax in the beautifully restored Orangery. Finish with a little something sweet like a slice of cake or traditional Provencal biscuits with your coffee.

After lunch you'll travel to the picturesque village of Le Castellet. When you step off the coach it will feel like you've stepped into a 15th century fortified hamlet. Sections of the ancient ramparts still stand, as well as narrow, cobblestone streets, and stone houses adorned with climbing bougainvillea and overflowing pots of geraniums and lavender. And the hilltop castle provides spectacular views of limestone cliffs and a wealth of vineyards.

Make the most of your free time to explore the various art galleries, gift shops and boutiques, which are tucked around the corner of nearly every square.

Your exceptional day concludes with a relaxing drive back to the ship.