Private Day Trip from Marseille: Valensole, Sainte-Croix Lake & Moustiers from Marseille
This private day trip reveals the spectacular, wide-open landscapes of Haute-Provence right from Marseille: the vast fields of Valensole, a stroll through Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, and the stunning views of Sainte-Croix Lake, all at your own pace, with zero stress about driving or parking.
The tour in detail
It’s a full day out of Marseille, but absolutely worth it. Pick-up is followed by a direct drive up to the Valensole plateau. Depending on the season and the light, the best photo spots are part of the plan, whether the lavender is in full bloom or the wide-open scenery simply speaks for itself.
After that, the day continues toward Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, with free time to explore this stunning village carved into the cliffside. The sightseeing wraps up with a panoramic stop at Sainte-Croix Lake to take in its famous colored waters, before a relaxed drive back to the city.
Programme
The durations shown for each stage are indicative (≈). They adapt to your departure point and pace. Some stages offer up to 3 options to choose from.
- 1~1h45–2h15 driveDeparture from Marseille
Pick-up at your hotel, Airbnb, or Saint-Charles train station. The plan for the day is quickly confirmed before hitting the road toward Haute-Provence.
- 2~1h30 on siteValensole PlateauLandscape Village
Arrival on the plateau, with several stops along the way. In the summer, the blooming lavender is a massive visual highlight. The rest of the year, the vast landscapes are still incredibly scenic. Stops are timed for the best photo spots.
- 3~1h15–1h30 on siteMoustiers-Sainte-MarieVillage Monument Landscape
Free time to wander the cobblestone streets, admire the old facades, and walk up to the chapel if you're feeling energetic. The best viewpoints and areas are pointed out depending on the crowds.
- 4≈ 1hLunch (not included)Meal
Lunch is not included. Restaurant recommendations can be provided in advance based on what you feel like, such as local, bistro or quick options, and your constraints, including vegetarian preferences, allergies and more. The place and timing can be adjusted as the day unfolds.
- 5~45–60 min on siteSainte-Croix LakeLandscape Village
Next, a stop by the water or at a great viewpoint overlooking the lake. It’s a peaceful moment to just take in the incredible colors and snap a few final pictures.
- 6~2h15–2h45 driveReturn to Marseille
Time to head back. You can kick back and relax in the car, all the way to drop-off exactly at the pick-up point (or anywhere else agreed on in Marseille).
100% tailor-made pick-up and return
Pick-up wherever you choose, whether that is your hotel, station, cruise port, airport or rental villa, with return to the same place at the end of the day. The programme, departure times, stops along the way and overall pace of the excursion can all be adjusted to what you want. Every excursion can be personalised: departure or arrival city, places visited, time spent on site, coffee breaks or restaurant choice.
- Free choice of departure and arrival points, which may be different.
- Customisable itinerary: add villages, nature breaks or photo stops as you wish.
- Flexible timings: leave earlier, return later, extend a stop... travel at your own pace.
- An experience adapted to your profile: families, couples, friends, seniors or slow travel enthusiasts.
What is included
- Private air-conditioned transport from Marseille
- A private driver for the day
- Pick-up and drop-off in Marseille
- Parking and toll fees
What is not included
- Lunch
- Renting pedal boats or water activities at the lake
- Tips
- Personal purchases and consumption
Practical information
Practical information
Our advice
- Comfortable walking shoes (sneakers are great)
- Water, sunscreen, and sunglasses
- A hat or cap
- Your camera or a fully charged phone
- A light jacket if you're visiting outside of peak summer
- • The lavender bloom in Valensole usually peaks between mid-June and mid-July, though Mother Nature always has the final say.
- • Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is built on a hillside, so expect some inclines, steps, and cobblestones.
- • It's a lot of driving from Marseille, so the day is paced to stay enjoyable, rather than rushing from place to place.
- • The order of stops may be adjusted depending on traffic or weather to give you the best experience.