Info and Answers
Frequently asked questions and answers about our tours
Why is small-group travel such a fun and fulfilling way to travel?
Because you’re sharing the road with people who love the same things you do—European markets, regional cuisine, and of course wine. With a small group, conversations flow, friendships form, and doors open that big bus tours simply can’t squeeze through. There’s also a practical upside: splitting costs on a comfortable shared home and private transport keeps the overall price friendlier than you might expect. We cap each trip at 12 guests, which is the sweet spot for flexibility, intimacy, and genuine camaraderie.
How many people are in each group?
Twelve guests or fewer. That’s deliberate. It keeps daily excursions nimble, dinners relaxed, and conversations easy—without anyone getting lost in the shuffle.
What’s included in the trip?
Once you arrive in Nîmes, we’ve got you covered until departure: all local transportation, daily breakfast, market-fresh lunches (at restaurants or wineries), chef-cooked dinners at the house, apéritifs, and wine with meals. Personal shopping and souvenirs are on you, but the core experience—from morning coffee to the last toast of the night—is included.
Where are we staying?
Our home base is a charming stone mas (farmhouse) with six suites, each with a private bath. It’s comfortable, welcoming, and perfectly set up for relaxing between adventures. Staying here is more immersive than a string of hotels, and it also trims costs so we can keep the trip price sensible without cutting corners on quality. Click here for a tour of the mas.
What are the evening dinners like at the mas?
After a day in the markets and villages, we ease into the evening with an apéritif—maybe a pastis—and a friendly game of pétanque on the private court. Our chef cooks dinner using the day’s market finds, so meals are fresh, seasonal, and balanced—the kind of eating locals enjoy, without needing a post-vacation “reset.”
What about dietary restrictions?
Shopping daily at the markets makes it much easier to accommodate dietary needs. We work closely with guests ahead of time (for example, our April 2026 group includes travelers who are celiac/gluten-intolerant) and plan menus accordingly. Just let us know your requirements, and we’ll do our very best to take care of the details.
How many wineries will we visit each day?
We keep the pace relaxed and enjoyable: typically one winery per day. That leaves room for market visits, lunch, and the cultural and historical stops that make the region come alive. Wine is a centerpiece—not the entire table.
Where does the tour begin and end?
For our April 24 – May 2, 2026 tour, we’ll pick you up at Nîmes Centre train station on Friday, April 24 (early-to-late afternoon window so we can gather the group) and drop you back at the same station at 11:00 AM on Saturday, May 2. If you arrive early, the station area has a park, cafés, and restaurants—an easy place to relax while we coordinate arrivals.
What does the trip cost?
The price is $4,995 per person, all-inclusive from your arrival in Nîmes to your departure (meals, wine with meals, apéritifs, chef services, lodging, and local transport). Airfare and travel to/from Nîmes are not included.
How and when do I pay?
You’ll receive an invoice from Piéton Market Tours LLC for a non-refundable $500 deposit to hold your spot. The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. You can pay by credit/debit card, ACH, or mail a check to 21 Princeton Dr., Asheville, NC 28801 (payable to Piéton Market Tours LLC). While payments are non-refundable, if you must cancel, we’ll issue a credit toward a future trip.
What’s the best way to get to Nîmes?
Most guests fly into a major European hub (Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona, etc.) and then take the TGV or regional train to Nîmes. We’re happy to help you map an itinerary that fits your schedule and budget.
Can I skip a day and relax at the house?
Absolutely. If you’re craving downtime (pool time, a book, a nap), you’re welcome to enjoy the mas. We’ll make sure you’re fed and comfortable—no guilt, no FOMO.
I know meals are included—does that cover wine and other drinks?
It wouldn’t be a wine and culinary tour without them. Wine and apéritifs are included with lunch and dinner. If you have a favorite beer or spirit—or discover something irresistible at a market—feel free to purchase and enjoy.
What about travel insurance and liability?
We recommend travel insurance (Allianz is a solid option). We’ll also send a liability waiver for signature prior to departure. Insurance gives you peace of mind for the what-ifs; the waiver handles the basics so everyone can focus on the fun parts.
If there’s something we didn’t cover here, just ask—we’ll get you a straight answer and help you plan a trip you’ll be excited to take.