Question 1

Are there other lavender spots worth seeing on the way?

Accepted Answer

The Senanque-to-Moustiers route passes through some of the most photographed lavender country in France, including the Valensole Plateau and smaller fields around the Luberon villages of Gordes and Sault. Your private driver can suggest scenic photo stops along the way during the bloom season, helping you spot pull-offs that work best for capturing the purple rows in the right light.

Question 2

Can visitors enter the Abbey of Senanque?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the Abbey of Senanque is an active monastery where Cistercian monks still live, but visiting hours are limited and often booked in advance. Guided tours of the cloister and church are usually available, while photography is permitted outside but restricted indoors. Modest dress is required out of respect, and the gift shop sells lavender honey, oils, and liqueurs handmade by the monks.

Question 3

How far is Moustiers-Sainte-Marie from Avignon?

Accepted Answer

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie sits about 100 miles (161 km) southeast of Avignon, with a driving time of around 2 hours each way along scenic Provence countryside. The route winds past olive groves, vineyards, and limestone hills before reaching the village perched between two cliffs. Your private driver handles the navigation so you can simply enjoy the views.

Question 4

Is the drive from Avignon to the lavender fields difficult?

Accepted Answer

The route from Avignon to the Abbey of Senanque is straightforward, but the road to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie includes winding mountain stretches near the Verdon region. Your professional Daytrip driver knows these roads well and handles the curves so you can relax and admire the scenery, including views of Lake Sainte-Croix as you approach the cliffside village.

Question 5

What local foods should I try in this region of Provence?

Accepted Answer

Provence is known for lavender honey straight from the Abbey of Senanque, fresh goat cheese, herbs de Provence, and local olive oil. In Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, sample traditional Provencal dishes like ratatouille or daube provencale, paired with regional rose wine. Look for nougat, calissons, and lavender-infused desserts for a sweet ending to your meal.

Question 6

What makes Moustiers-Sainte-Marie one of the most beautiful villages in France?

Accepted Answer

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is officially listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France thanks to its dramatic setting between two limestone cliffs, with a golden star suspended on a chain above the gorge. The village is famous for centuries-old faience pottery, narrow cobbled lanes, fountains, a Romanesque church, and panoramic views over Lake Sainte-Croix and the Verdon Gorge.

Question 7

What should I pack for this lavender day trip?

Accepted Answer

Pack light layers for variable Provence weather, comfortable walking shoes for cobbled village streets and field paths, sun protection, and a refillable water bottle. A camera is a must for the lavender fields and cliffside views in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie. Bring some euros in cash, as smaller shops, market stalls, and rural cafes often prefer cash over cards.

Question 8

When is the best time to see the lavender fields at the Abbey of Senanque?

Accepted Answer

The lavender fields at the Abbey of Senanque are at their peak from mid-June to mid-July, when the purple blooms create a striking contrast against the 12th-century Cistercian stone walls. Morning visits offer softer light for photos and fewer visitors. Bloom timing shifts each year slightly based on weather, so check current bloom reports before planning your day trip from Avignon.

Question 9

What is the best time to see lavender at Senanque Abbey?

Accepted Answer

The best time to see lavender fields in full bloom at Senanque Abbey is from mid-June to mid-July when the purple flowers create a stunning contrast against the stone monastery. For the most vibrant colors, visit in the morning when the light is soft. The exact blooming period can vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions, so check current bloom reports before planning your trip.

Question 10

How far is Moustiers-Ste-Marie from Avignon?

Accepted Answer

Moustiers-Ste-Marie is approximately 87 miles (140 km) from Avignon, with a driving time of about 2 hours. The journey takes you through beautiful Provence countryside, making the drive itself a scenic experience.

Question 11

What makes Moustiers-Ste-Marie unique?

Accepted Answer

Moustiers-Ste-Marie is a charming medieval village dramatically situated between two rocky cliffs with a star suspended on a chain between them. It's known as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France" and is famous for its centuries-old tradition of fine faience pottery. The village features narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful fountains, a 12th-century church, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape and nearby Sainte-Croix Lake.

Question 12

What should I know about visiting Senanque Abbey?

Accepted Answer

Senanque Abbey is an active Cistercian monastery where monks still live and work. Visitors can tour the abbey with a guide, but hours may be limited, especially during religious observances. Photography is permitted outside but may be restricted inside. The abbey maintains a simple gift shop where you can purchase lavender products and honey made by the monks.

Question 13

How should I dress for this day trip?

Accepted Answer

Wear season-appropriate clothing that makes you feel comfortable. As with any religious site, dress modestly out of respect.

Question 14

What are the must-try local foods in this region?

Accepted Answer

The Provence region offers delicious local specialties including lavender honey from Senanque Abbey, goat cheese from the mountains around Moustiers-Ste-Marie, olive oil, and herbs de Provence. In Moustiers-Ste-Marie, try traditional Provençal dishes like ratatouille, bouillabaisse (if available inland), or daube provençale (beef stew). Don't miss sampling local wines from the region to complete your culinary experience.

Question 15

Is the drive to Moustiers-Ste-Marie challenging?

Accepted Answer

The drive to Moustiers-Ste-Marie involves some winding mountain roads, particularly as you approach the village and the Verdon region. However, your professional Daytrip driver is experienced with these routes and will ensure a safe and comfortable journey. The roads are well-maintained but can be narrower in some sections. The spectacular scenery along the way makes any minor driving challenges well worth it.

Question 16

Should I bring cash with me on this trip?

Accepted Answer

Yes! While larger stores and tourism-catered restaurants may take card payments, many small French towns are cash-based and have limited ATM options. Bring enough cash for your purchases for the day.

Question 17

How do day trips with Daytrip work?

Accepted Answer

Day trips offer travelers private round-trip transportation to popular sightseeing locations. One of our professional drivers will pick you up in a luxurious, climate-controlled car, take you to the site of interest, and wait for you while you explore before driving you back to your hotel.

Question 18

Will I have to wait around for the driver to return?

Accepted Answer

Your Daytrip driver will wait for you nearby for the duration of your exploration, meaning you’ll never have to wait for your return trip transportation to arrive. Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities, and we aim to close out your day trip with a return on your schedule.

Question 19

Can I customize the pickup and drop-off times?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’re free to choose the pickup and drop-off times that work best for you. However, the time spent at the destination is fixed and cannot be changed.

Question 20

Are entrance tickets and tours included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The price of a day trip does not include any entrance tickets, guided tours, or meals you may partake in at your destination. The price covers round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver who can provide local insights en route.

Question 21

How long will I have to explore?

Accepted Answer

Each sightseeing stop has a recommended duration that includes plenty of time to explore. However, it is possible to customize the time spent at each sightseeing stop at a later stage in the booking process to best fit your unique schedule.

Question 22

If my plans change, is the booking flexible?

Accepted Answer

Day trip bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before your trip for a full refund, no strings attached. While the destination and stops are predetermined, it is possible to change your pick-up point, whether it is at your hotel or some other location within the city.

Question 23

Can I take a large group?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Day trips are fully customizable to suit the needs of any private group. From solo travelers to large families with children and even corporate groups, we are ready to create a bespoke itinerary that accommodates parties of all sizes. The price is dependent on the number of vehicles required to serve your group, and we also provide child seats.

Question 24

Will my driver speak English?

Accepted Answer

Your friendly, professional, local driver will speak English. Our drivers are happy to provide any local insight they can on the way to your destination and may be able to answer questions and provide tips for the best possible experience on your day trip.

Question 25

Can I request children’s car seats for the journey?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide car seats for children of all ages, which meet stringent safety standards and local legal requirements. You can even bring your own car seat. We also have handicapped-accessible vehicles available for a wide range of needs for our passengers. When booking your day trip, please specify the accommodations you will need.

Question 26

Can I pay securely online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Daytrip offers flexible payment options. We accept Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Ali Pay. You also can pay securely online with any major credit card, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Question 27

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Booking your day trip is as easy as our one-way and return trips! On the landing page of the day trip you’d like to take, simply select the date, pick up time, and how many adults and children will be on the trip. On the second page, you’ll fill in personal details, including any special requests, disability accommodations, and children’s car seats you may need. We are flexible too! You can change your exact pick-up location (hotel address, etc) up to 24 hours before your day trip.

Lavender fields in Provence from Avignon: Private day trip

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