Rocher des Doms Tours and Activities

This is an exceptional guided day tour to visit both Villeneuve-lès-Avignon and Avignon the city of the Popes. It's only the river Rhône that separates them both, but history indisputably links them. Around 1000 AD Benedictine monks built St André Abbey on Mount Andaon. It's here that we begin our tour with a visit to the Abbey private gardens and Fort. The market town of Saint André became a fortress under the influence of the King Philippe Le Bel, who wanted to control access to the Rhône between Avignon and the Gard following annexation to the French crown. From here we take a walk down to visit La Chartreuse, a former monastery at the centre of the village. Exquisite frescoes connected to the Palais des Papes and an opportunity to explore the site before taking a break for lunch. Then return to Avignon via the Tour Philippe le Bel, once the entrance to the famous Pont d'Avignon. A walk on the bridge before a guided tour of the Palais des Papes, a most spectacular historic monument.

The historic French town of Avignon and the winemaking region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape are among Provence’s biggest draws, attracting visitors all year round. This private 5-hour combination bus and walking tour from Aix-en-Provence makes it possible to check both off your list in a day. Take in famous landmarks such as Avignon’s bridge and cathedral, and sample fine local wines in a Châteauneuf-du-Pape cellar. Along the way, listen as your private guide brings centuries of Provençal history to life.