Paris to the South of France Road Trip: Beaune, Ardèche, Ventoux, Moustiers & Cassis - 11 Days

Highlights

• Learn how to make baguettes or patisseries at a hands-on boulangerie class in Paris
• Delight in a "Tour de France" wine cellar tasting with an expert Parisian sommelier
• Explore the caves of Grotte Chauvet and Aven d'Orgnac near Vallon Pont d'Arc
• See the awe-inspiring Gorges du Verdon, known as the "Grand Canyon of Europe"
• Discover the medieval mountain villages of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paris, Visit the Louvre, Evening River Cruise

Welcome to Paris, the City of Light! France's elegant capital offers centuries of history, art, fashion, and culture. Meet your driver at the airport and transfer to your hotel to check in before spending the rest of the day exploring the capital. Begin by heading to the city's most iconic landmark, La Tour Eiffel (Eiffel Tower). Ride the elevator to three different observation decks to enjoy a bird's-eye view of the city and the winding river Seine. If you'd like to dine at Le Jules Verne, a Michelin-star restaurant perched at 410 feet (125 m) on the second level, you'll need to make a prior online reservation.

In the afternoon, it's time to explore the Louvre, the world's largest art museum and home to over 35,000 works of art. Enter through the central glass pyramid and discover the grand galleries, each focusing on specific themes, such as ancient civilizations, classical Greek and Roman art, and Mesopotamian sculptures. After seeing iconic works like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, head outside to discover the 16th-century Jardin des Tuileries, originally the private gardens of the French royal family. Then, buy a Nutella crepe from a kiosk and head to a nearby park to while away the afternoon.

Explore the Champs-Élysées and the imposing Arc de Triomphe before boarding a one-hour city-lights evening cruise (or choose a 2.5-hour dinner cruise) on the Seine River. Enjoy spectacular views of Paris' most famous buildings, such as Les Invalides, and Musée d'Orsay, illuminated against the night sky while listening to an audio commentary on your smartphone. Then, watch from the boat's terrace as you cruise past La Tour Eiffel just as it begins to sparkle in an enchanting light show that changes with the season. Afterward, take a stroll along the Seine to see the river from a different perspective.

Day 2: Boulangerie Class, Visit Notre Dame, Classic 2CV Paris Grand Tour

Learn how to bake traditional French bread, viennoiseries, or patisseries during a hands-on boulangerie class this morning at a Parisian bakery. Over three hours, you'll knead, shape, and create your baguette dough under the guidance of a professional boulanger (baker). While it's in the oven, discover the infinite possibilities of the fougasse, a French artisan flatbread that can be filled with an endless variety of enticing ingredients. At the end of the class, savor your delicious bread or pastries and leave with professional secrets to recreate these delights in your own home.

Afterward, head to Notre Dame de Paris, one of the city's most beloved landmarks. Built over two centuries, starting in 1163 CE, this Gothic masterpiece tells stories of history, restoration, and resilience. Following the devastating fire of 2019 CE, the cathedral is set to reopen its doors to worshippers and visitors on December 8, 2024 CE, with the restoration focusing on preserving the original design. Marvel at the exquisite rose windows (among Europe's largest) and admire the cathedral's grandeur, then stroll around Île de la Cité, cross the Seine's historic bridges, and snap vistas from the Left Bank. 

With most of the afternoon at your disposal, experience Paris like never before with a three-hour Grand Tour in a classic 2CV car! This quintessentially French ride whisks you through five distinct zones of the city—North, South, Center, East, and West—covering all the iconic sights. Imagine rolling past the Eiffel Tower, Place Vendôme, the vibrant Montmartre, Place de la Concorde, Notre Dame, and more, with a friendly driver customizing the route just for you. Each stop tells its own Parisian story, and the 2CV adds a vintage flair to your memorable adventure.

Day 3: Explore Paris at Your Own Pace, "Tour de France" Wine Tasting

Make the most of your free day in Paris by strolling along the Seine between the Musée d’Orsay and the Pont d'Alma. Alternatively, explore the artistic Belleville neighborhood with its vibrant street art and cozy cafés. Escape the crowds in the serene Buttes-Chaumont park or walk the hidden Petite Ceinture railway-turned-urban trail. On rainy days, the Catacombs' vast network of tunnels offers a fascinating underground adventure, while the tropical greenhouses of Jardin des Plantes promise an exotic escape. For lunch, savor a classic French onion soup topped with melted Gruyère at a local café. 

Then, wander through the enchanting Jardin du Luxembourg between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter. Created in 1612 CE by Queen Marie de Médicis and inspired by Florence's Boboli Gardens, this 25-hectare oasis blends French and English charm. Voted Europe's most beautiful garden in 2022 CE, follow the paths to discover 106 statues, the 17th-century Medici Fountain, the Orangery, and the elegant Davioud Pavilion. See miniature boats sailing on the central pond and a puppet show at the garden's theater, then stop for coffee and a croissant at one of the garden cafés.

In the early evening, you'll embark on a wine-tasting "Tour de France" in an atmospheric 17th-century wine cellar near the Louvre. Over two fun-filled hours, you'll sip six wines from France's top six regions paired with delicious cheeses. Guided by an expert sommelier, learn how champagne is made, master wine-tasting techniques, and decode French wine labels. With engaging lessons on terroir, appellations, and food pairings, you’ll leave happy and ready for your Parisian night. Consider heading to the art museum Palais de Tokyo, where you can view art until well past midnight. 

Day 4: Drive to Beaune, Explore the Town & Surrounds, Paths of Light Show

Pick up your rental car this morning and drive three hours to Beaune in the heart of Burgundy's wine-growing area. Surrounded by lush vineyards, this historic walled town offers endless wine activities that celebrate its rich heritage. Along the way, stop by the beautiful Château du Clos de Vougeot, set amid picturesque vineyards for postcard-perfect photos. After checking into your hotel in Beaune, head out to explore this medieval gem, once home to the powerful Dukes of Burgundy. A good place to begin is the beautifully preserved historical center.

Visit the museum Hôtel-Dieu, a 15th-century Gothic former hospital with a colorful, geometric-patterned tile roof. Enter to admire the Flemish master Rogier van der Weyden's altarpiece, "The Last Judgment." For a memorable experience, time your visit with the iconic Ventes de Beaune wine auction held in the Hôtel-Dieu each November. Besides wine, Burgundy is also said to be the birthplace of the French love affair with snails, so stop by a quaint café at lunchtime to try escargots de Bourgogne (snails baked in butter with garlic and parsley).

Afterward, engage all your senses by visiting the Burgundy Wine Museum, housed in a historic building. Explore the region's winemaking history through fascinating artifacts like old wine presses and barrels and interactive sensory exhibits. Then, hop in the car again and drive 10 minutes to Château de Pommard, where you can enjoy a Burgundy wine tasting while learning about winemaking history. When darkness falls, return to the town center for The Paths of Light show, where colorful animations are projected onto the town's historic buildings, showcasing the stories and symbols behind them.

Day 5: Market Visit, Drive to Vallon Pont d'Arc via the Gorges de l'Ardèche

If you're in Beaune on a Saturday morning, the Place de la Halle market is a feast for the senses. You'll find a hive of activity from early morning until 1 pm, with around 180 traders offering vibrant, fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, and more. Peruse the organic goods from local farms with plenty of treats for locavores as you snack your way through the market, stopping at stalls to pick up some picnic staples. In summer, head to Place Carnot for a nostalgic flea market experience, where you can immerse yourself in Beaune's local flavors and culture while discovering a unique souvenir to take home.

With picnic packed and luggage on board, hop in the car and drive 3.5 hours to the impressive Gorges de l'Ardèche, a natural wonder shaped over millions of years. Stretching over 14 miles (22 km), this deep canyon offers spectacular views as the Ardèche River winds through it. Drive along the panoramic route, built in 1960 CE, as it follows the path of the river. Stop to marvel at the iconic Pont d'Arc, a 66-meter-high limestone arch, and set out your picnic lunch with a view. Then, continue your drive with visits to the Grotte Chauvet and Aven d'Orgnac caves on your way to your hotel in Vallon Pont d'Arc.

Day 6: Canoe Down the Ardèche River Through the Gorges de l'Ardèche

Pack a cap, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and picnic food as you prepare for an exhilarating day paddling down the Ardèche River. Your day kicks off at about 8.30 am at La Vernède in Vallon Pont d'Arc, where your friendly team will equip you with everything you need, from life jackets to waterproof containers. After a quick canoeing tutorial, hop in the shuttle, which will drop you at the starting point. There, you'll embark on a 15-mile (24 km) journey where the nature reserve's geological marvels and pristine landscapes unfold at every turn of the river.

Armed with a good dose of energy and plenty of water, glide between the towering 985-foot-high (300 m) limestone cliffs of the Gorges de l'Ardèche and be awestruck by the wild beauty and rich biodiversity. Whether navigating gentle rapids and waterslides or soaking up the sun at Cathedral Rock, you'll savor each moment of this aquatic adventure. Paddle beneath Pont d'Arc—the striking limestone arch that spans the river—and picnic at scenic spots, leaving time for a refreshing swim. After five hours on the river (not including breaks), you'll arrive at the Sauze landing stage, where shuttles will be waiting.

Day 7: Drive to Crillon-le-Brave, Self-Guided E-Bike Tour up Mont Ventoux

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Check out of your hotel this morning and drive 1.5 hours to Crillon-le-Brave, a hilltop village on the southern side of Mont Ventoux. After settling into your hotel, pack some snacks, hop back in the car, and head to nearby Bédoin, a Provençal village. Once there, you can rent an e-bike to conquer Mont Ventoux, the "Giant of Provence," at 6,263 feet high (1,909 m). This legendary ascent offers spectacular views from the Vallée du Rhône to the Alps. With the e-bike's powerful motors and comfortable designs, you can tackle this iconic climb without breaking a sweat, allowing you to focus on the scenery.

Enjoy every twist and turn on your ascent, from lush vineyards and fragrant lavender fields to shady pine forests and the moonlike summit. Stop in mountain villages and hamlets like Les Bruns along the way to soak up the authentic atmosphere. Around the halfway mark, you'll come to Chalet Reynard, a famous rest point where many cyclists take a break. From here, the landscape transitions from shaded forest to the exposed, rocky "moonscape" that defines the upper slopes. On arrival at the summit, celebrate with photos and spend some time taking in the views before heading down.

Day 8: Drive to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Explore the Gorges du Verdon

Start today's adventure by driving 2.5 hours to the picturesque Moustiers-Sainte-Marie in the Verdon Region. Nestled between dramatic cliffs, this enchanting spot is where you'll spend two nights. Check into your hotel and walk to the village center, where you can wander the narrow Provençal streets, browse artisan shops for hand-painted ceramics, and enjoy lunch at a local café. For a touch of adventure, climb the pathways and stairs to the chapel perched above the village for panoramic views of the plains, Lac de Sainte-Croix, and the iconic Star of Moustiers, suspended on an iron chain. 

After soaking in the charm of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, set your sights on the awe-inspiring Gorges du Verdon, just a short drive away. Known as the "Grand Canyon of Europe," this natural wonder boasts limestone cliffs plunging 2,297 feet (700 m) into turquoise waters. Whether you're kayaking through the gorge, hiking along scenic trails, or simply marveling at the views, it's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Wrap up the day with a refreshing swim in Lac de Sainte-Croix or by relaxing at your hotel, recharging for more Provençal adventures.

Day 9: Discover Valensole Plateau & Alpes-de-Haute-Provence's Villages

Today, take a scenic drive through the Plateau de Valensole in the protected Parc Naturel Régional du Verdon, one of France's most famous lavender-growing regions. From June to July, the fields here burst into vivid purple blooms, stretching across the countryside alongside expanses of golden wheat fields. Stop as often as you need to—this beautiful contrast in color makes for perfect photo opportunities. Outside the lavender blooming season, you'll discover other aromatic plants, wildflowers, and herbs, including chamomile, poppy, saffron crocus, and rosemary.

On your drive, you may see people cultivating and harvesting Damask roses and other aromatic plants by hand. These are then distilled and transformed into essential oils, floral waters, and lotions. Stop at a roadside stall or village shop to purchase a handmade soap, scented oil, or other floral product. Take a piece of Provence home with you and chat with the vendors about the distillation processes or the plants they cultivate. For lunch, try regional lamb, fresh trout caught in the rivers, or lavender honey drizzled over artisan goat's cheese from a local farm.

After lunch, continue your adventure through Provence's beautiful countryside on a drive to the medieval hilltop town of Gréoux-les-Bains, tucked near the Verdon River and renown for its natural hot springs since Roman times—hence the name, "Les Bains" (the Baths). Pass by lush olive groves and fragrant fields of lavender, thyme, and rosemary, and discover other traditional medieval villages of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, like Forcalquier, Manosque, and Lure. Keep your camera ready, and be sure to stop to capture the moment and breathe in the air before returning to Moustiers.

Day 10: Drive to Cassis, Guided Kayak or Hike in Calanques National Park

Farewell the fragrant fields of Haute Provence and drive two hours south to the coastal town of Cassis. Check into your hotel and then start your exploration of the town at the lively food market. You'll find stalls overflowing with the region's finest: creamy cheeses, fresh-caught fish, olives, and vibrant produce. Pick up some goodies for a picnic and head to the beach for a leisurely lunch with a view of the azure waters. Afterward, stroll through the colorful little port, lined with pastel-colored buildings and bustling cafés, or hike up to the Cap Canaille, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs, for sweeping views of the bay.

After your beach picnic, head to one of the surrounding vineyards where some of Provence's best rosé and white wines are produced. Stay for a wine tasting and tour to learn about the winemaking process and stroll through the rows of vines. If getting active is more your style, opt for a kayak tour of the hidden coves and bays in the Parc National des Calanques or set off on a half-day hike to explore the Calanques with a private guide. Starting at Port Miou, you'll trek through dramatic limestone landscapes, where sheer white cliffs plunge into the crystal-clear Mediterranean. 

From the shady pine scrublands of Port Pin, beloved by beachgoers, to the jaw-dropping En-Vau, with its vertical cliffs and deep turquoise waters, each step you take offers a new panorama. Enjoy the balance of adventure and beauty with postcard-perfect contrasts of vivid sea blues, limestone whites, and lush greens. Afterward, return to your hotel to refresh and cap off your day with dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in the freshest seafood. Just remember to reserve your table early!

Day 11: Drive to Marseille, Depart

Wake up early and take advantage of your final few hours in Cassis. Visit a café on the port for one last taste of Provençal treats. Pair a freshly brewed coffee with regional specialties like navettes de Provence, crisp boat-shaped cookies lightly flavored with orange blossom water, and fougasse, a flatbread that's often sweetened with sugar or honey and sometimes scented with anise or orange zest. Then, return to the hotel to grab your bags and drive 25 minutes to Marseille, where you'll drop off your rental car at the airport and catch your flight home. Safe travels!

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