Route Napoleon, Gorges du Verdon and Mont Ventoux
10 - 18 May 2027
Embark on an unforgettable eight-day driving adventure through the spectacular landscapes of Southern France. Your journey begins in Grenoble, the gateway to the legendary N85 – the iconic Route Napoléon – where some of France's most exhilarating roads and breathtaking scenery await. Carefully designed to let you savour every mile, the route winds through the charming towns of Gap, Digne-les-Bains, Castellane and beyond, offering the perfect blend of driving pleasure, stunning vistas and Provençal character.
Following the historic Route Napoléon, you'll venture into the magnificent Gorges du Verdon, where dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters and sweeping mountain roads create one of Europe's most memorable driving experiences.
The adventure continues with the ascent of the legendary Mont Ventoux, one of the most famous and challenging climbs in Tour de France history, before heading west into the contrasting landscapes of the Languedoc and the wild beauty of the Camargue. From there, discover the awe-inspiring Gorges du Tarn, cross the iconic Millau Viaduct, and conclude your journey with a relaxing final evening at a beautiful château hotel—the perfect ending to an extraordinary tour through some of France's finest driving roads and most captivating scenery.
Price
(price based on 2 people sharing a room)
A 10% deposit is required to confirm your booking
£2579 per person
What's Included
Eight nights' accommodation on a B&B basis
Dinner on six evenings with wine and water
Lunch on two days
Entry to Citroenmuseum
Boat tour on Lac d'Esparron
Coffee stops
Services of a tour manager
Detailed roadbook
Rally plate
Use of our GPS route app
What's Not Included
Châteauneuf du Pape wine tour (optional)
Itinerary
Monday 10th May
Join the tour in Grenoble for a welcome drink, briefing and dinner ahead of an epic five days of driving. The Chateau de la Commanderie offers a peaceful stay just outside of Grenoble, with a spa and a gastronomic restaurant to start the tour off with a swing.
Tuesday 11th May
The Route Napoleon, one of the greatest drives which stretches from Grenoble down to Castellane. Our route today takes us via Gap for a coffee stop and plenty of time to enjoy the roads and scenery. This evening, we stay at the four-star Bonne-Etape Hotel with a Michelin starred dinner.
Wednesday 12th May
Today, we continue to enjoy the Route Napoleon. We will regroup at the ‘Citroenmuseum‘ for a guided tour, followed by a coffee stop in the historic town of Castellane. We then head into the heart of the Gorges du Verdon, where lake waters glisten and Provencal sights, sounds and aromas surround your senses. This evening, we stay in Greoux les Bains at the luxury four-star Villa de Castellane spa hotel, with a superb restaurant.
Thursday 13th May
Today join our ‘Gorges du Verdon’ run, exploring the best parts of the region, which will also include a boat cruise on Lac d’Esparron, as well as a typical Provençal lunch overlooking a medieval village! This evening is free to enjoy dinner at leisure.
Friday 14th May
Today is the ‘Mont Ventoux’ run. Whilst this hill climb might be famous for the Tour de France race, it is also used as a competitive hill climb for cars and the views from the summit are stunning. We have a light lunch arranged at the famous Chalet Reynaud, before our ascent. After the descent, stay in the centre of Orange, for two nights with dinner included on the first evening.
Saturday 15th May
Today can be used as a free day to relax or join the optional Chateauneuf-du-Pape wine tour, to be enjoyed from a private bus rather than our cars. This evening is free to explore Orange and its restaurants.
Sunday 16th May
Today is the ‘Gorges du Tarn’ run offering stunning scenery and roads, as we wind up to our Logis Hotel with a Michelin starred restaurant.
Monday 17th May
Our last drive of the tour takes you over Norman Foster’s stunning Millau Bridge, an amazing structure over a huge viaduct. The route then takes you beneath the bridge for views of this incredible spectacle. The final night is at the superb Chateau d’Ayres Hotel where we have farewell drinks and dinner.
Tuesday 18th May
Check out after breakfast and continue your onward journey