Provence – Cycling

Destination: France
Duration: 8 days

For many the most enchanting region of France this part of the country is perfect for combining an exploration of the great Roman and medieval architecture of Arles and Avignon, with cycling through the lowlands of the Camargue and discovering the charm of the small hillside villages of the Luberon. Combine this with great food and local wines and the exceptional sun of the south and you have everything one needs for a memorable holiday.

Day 1

Bonjour la France!

Arrive and transfer to hotel in Arles.

Day 2

Into the Camargue, 55km cycling

After bike fitting we cycle first to Saint Gilles and then on small back-roads into the lowlands of the Camargue, part of the ride following the Petite Rhone. After a ferry crossing we get to the quaint seaside town of Les Saintes Maries de la Mer where there is time for a swim and to enjoy the surroundings. Back to Arles in local bus.

Day 3

Les Alpilles and Saint Remy, 65km cycling

We cycle through small hamlets and olive groves before reaching the foot of Les Alpilles mountain. A short uphill section brings us to the fascinating village of Le Baux which we can visit. Later we stop for coffee in the typical Provençal town of Saint Remy before cycling back to Arles.

Day 4

Free day

Today is left free for your own excursions, e.g. to nearby Avignon or to see Pont du Gard.

Day 5

Into Luberon, 28km cycling

We drive past Cavaillon and start cycling in the small hamlet of Oppede le Vieux. Passing through vineyards and lovely villages such as Menerbes, Lacoste and Bonnieux we get a great introduction to the Luberon. Eventually we reach our rural hotel near Apt, nestling in the countryside amidst lavender fields.

Day 6

Rousillion and the Ocre mines, 43km cycling

We cycle from the hotel to Rustrel where we get an idea about the ancient trade of ochre pigments excavated in local mines. Then continue via Sant Saturnin through vineyards to Rousillion, one of the prettiest villages in the region. Time for a coffee here before we head back to the hotel.

Day 7

Gordes and Fountaine du Vaucluse, 43km cycling

We ride through the rolling hills of the Luberon before reaching the spectacular setting at Gordes. After a stroll through the narrow streets we continue to Senanque, the most famous abbey in the region. Then continue to Fountaine du Vaucluse and L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue where we get picked up by bus.