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Home > Luberon, Alpilles and Côtes-du-Rhône
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More infos BOOK NOW !Our most comprehensive, moderate-level Provence cycling tour showcases the best of this unforgettable region, making it a perfect fit for those who’ve never been to Provence before — and even those who have! Unlike other tourists who rush to take it all in from a bus seat, you'll discover them at your own pace, on a bicycle, away from traffic and on quiet roads.
This self-guided bicycle itinerary you to some of the best-known places in Provence, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Saint-Remy, Les Baux, Tarascon, Arles, Gordes, and Roussillon. Since they’re scattered in different corners — the Luberon, the Alpilles, and the Côtes-du-Rhône, to be precise — we worked hard to connect them all on quiet roads through the quintessentially Provençal scenery. You’ll ride over rolling hills up to fortresses offering panoramic views, through lush vineyards surrounding world-famous châteaux, and even back in time — the fascinating history of Provence is ever-present in the exceptional monuments of the past.
For travel and cycling tips to Provence, visit our "Travel and cycling tips" section.
Arrive in Avignon, check in at your hotel, and set out to explore the city at leisure. The old walled city is home to plentiful gems like the Palais des Papes, making it a great introduction to the history of Provence.
Today's itinerary will take you through villages that bear the names of familiar wine labels: Tavel, Lirac, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. We offer two options today, so you might arrange your own vineyard visit. Stop for a sip of acclaimed rosé or a swig of the region’s most well known red — or try something you’ve never heard of before!
Grab a bottle for a roadside picnic or stick it in your luggage back in Avignon; we’ll transport it carefully!
Head south towards the Alpilles mountain range, whose beauty inspired van Gogh to complete 150 paintings. You’ll find yourself in another place he immortalized: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, worth a stop for its Roman remains and medieval buildings. On your way to Saint-Rémy and Les Baux, Tarascon offers an interesting side trip. The magnificent castle by the Rhône River is one of France's best-kept medieval fortresses.
Also of interest is the Souleiado Museum, where the colorful Provençal fabric maker has been busy since 1806. Today's mileage involves some hills and climbs.
Depending on your mood, you may choose to relax, visit Les Baux, or ride the 49 km (30 miles) loop to Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Roman ruins. If you’re there on a Saturday, do not miss the open-air market! Regardless of the day, you can pay a visit to the Roman amphitheater. Whether you choose to ride or not, set aside some time to visit Les Baux and its medieval fortress.
The unobstructed views over the Alpilles make this town worth the climb!
Today's ride will take you through the awe-inspiring Alpilles (don’t worry, it’s a low mountain range reaching 390 meters or 1,170 ft). Pretty villages such as Eygalières offer inviting terraces for lunch. A few pedal strokes further and you will enter the Luberon Regional Park.
Overnight in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, a quiet little spot in proximity to the lavender country.
Regardless of your starting point, make sure you spend some time walking through Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, famous for its powerful spring gushing out of the ground. Climbing Luberon's hills rewards you with two of France's prettiest villages: Gordes and Roussillon will be yours to discover.
You will return to your hotel in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
If today is a Sunday, take a stroll through the town's Sunday market that fills the village with colorful displays of Provençal fabrics, sounds of laughter, and the sweet scents of lavender, herbs, and spices. Your bicycle ride will take you through Venasque northwards towards Mont-Ventoux, the “Giant of Provence”.
You will return to your hotel in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Avignon (between 9:00 am and 6:30 pm).
Depart Avignon at the time of your choice.
7 nights in 3-star hotels
7 nights in 3- and 4-star hotels