Avignon & Le Pont du Gard

Description

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

Enjoy a picturesque motorcoach ride through the stunning Provencal countryside on this guided art and history tour.

Your first port of call is the breath-taking Pont du Gard, a world famous ancient Roman aqueduct bridge that crosses the shallow Gard River. This amazing feat of engineering used to carry around 44 million gallons of water a day from Uzès to Nimes, from along a 30-mile route to the fountains, baths and homes of the citizens of Nîmes. Built around the year 40 A.D., it features three impressive levels of arcades, that are recessed one on top of the other reaching a height of 160 feet. The upper level spans 900 feet, which is why it resisted the floods of the River Gardon for the past two thousand years.

Although walking across the bridge is now forbidden, you will be able to absorb the magnificence of this unique 18th-century structure from a nearby vantage point.

You will then drive to nearby Avignon for a walk around this historic town, with cobbled streets and narrow stairs. The town itself is still delightfully contained within its 14th-century walls and features beautifully preserved ramparts and pretty bell towers.

The city is dominated by the Rocher des Doms, on which majestically stands the Cathedral and the Palace of the Popes, home to nine Popes during the Great Schism that lasted from 1309 to 1378. A truly magnificent building you will be able to wander through the vast galleries and great halls.

You will then be free to pick your own location for lunch as there are many restaurants and cafés to choose from. Take the opportunity to try some of the local wines, or their delicious Provencal dishes, many of which feature locally grown herbs and olives.

Most of Avignon's medieval city streets are closed to vehicle traffic and are lined with boutiques and art galleries, along with craft, jewelry and souvenir shops. You will have time to browse them for gifts as well as enjoying a stroll around the Place de l'Horloge, the town's main square, which is situated a few yards from the Palace of the Popes, and is also lined with cafés and restaurants.

After you have fully explored this ancient city, you will return to Marseille via the highway, traveling through breath-taking countryside which features vineyards, orchards and cypress trees.

Special Notes:

This tour involves walking over intermediate to long distances plus stair climbing - those with physical limitations should take this into consideration.

The drive between Marseille and Le Pont du Gard takes approximately 1 3/4 hours; the drive from Le Pont du Gard to Avignon takes approximately 45 minutes, and the drive from Avignon to Marseille takes approximately 1 1/2 hours.

Use of an audio headset (included) will enhance your tour experience.