Cycle Provence

8 Days
From CAD 3595
Best Rate
Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating


(20 reviews)

Experience Overview

Ride your way through neat rows of vineyards, beneath towering aqueducts and past verdant forests on an eight-day active cycling adventure through Provence. This journey through Southern France is the perfect blend of scenic trail riding, historical sightseeing and indulgent wine tasting. Visit the serene gardens of St Remy to see where Vincent van Gogh created his famous works, savour regional red wines at a vineyard outside Avignon and walk the cobbled streets of Les Baux to the top of the limestone cliffs. With a handful of UNESCO World Heritage sites, Roman history and serene landscapes where wild horses roam free – what more does a European cycling adventure need?

Highlights

  • Cycle through the same landscapes that inspired some of Vincent van Gogh's greatest masterpieces, like ‘Irises’ and the iconic ‘Starry Night’.
  • Pass by fragrant fields on the way to the spectacular three-tiered city of Pont du Gard – this Roman aqueduct is a UNESCO World Heritage site and if it’s quiet, you’ll even get to ride the bridge!
  • Search for wild white horses outside Camargue as you cycle to the Mediterranean Sea. The lakes of Camargue are also a bird spotters paradise, home to more than 400 species of birds.
  • Encounter rich Roman history and architecture in the historic towns of Arles and Orange. You’ll see Van Gogh’s Cafe Terrace, the UNESCO World Heritage listed Roman Amphitheatre and one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in Europe.
  • Stop in at famous vineyards outside Avignon and savour the delicious, regional French wines of the area. You deserve a reward after days of riding, don’t you?
  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 1621

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Moderate

TransportTransport: Bicycle (e-bike option available,subject to availability),Support vehicle

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: AMXC

StartStarts: Avignon, France

FinishFinishes: Arles, France

DurationDuration: 8 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Average

Includes

Meals: Breakfasts (7),
Accommodation: Hotel (7 nights)

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3595 (CAD 449 /day)

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Avignon

Bonjour! Welcome to France. Your adventure begins in Avignon with a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, maybe visit the historic Palais des Papes and the Pont d’Avignon or explore the leafy streets and the massive Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace) at your own pace. You could also flop down on the grass of the Jardin des Doms with a fresh fougasse (French bread often sculpted to resemble a head of wheat) and some cheese. Tonight, ask your new local leader for the best dinner spot.

Optional Activities:

  • Avignon - Pont d'Avignon (Bridge of Avignon) (5 EUR)
  • Avignon - Palais des Papes (15 EUR)
  • Avignon - Museum of the Petit Palace (6 EUR)
  • Avignon - Museum Calvet (6 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

2
Day 2: Orange

After breakfast today, there will be a bike fitting for the group followed by a short test ride to ensure everyone's equipment has been set up properly. Then, you’ll leave Avignon and cycle along quiet and flat country roads to Orange. Along the way, pass through the famous wine region of Chateauneuf du Pape and maybe make a stop at a local vineyard. Sample some of the red wine this region is famous for, then continue the road to Orange. When you arrive, head out on an orientation walk of the town, visiting the Arc de Triomphe d'Orange and the outstanding Roman Theatre – one of the best preserved Roman theatres in Europe. The rest of the afternoon is free.

Included Activities:

  • Orange Roman Theatre

Optional Activities:

  • Chateauneuf-du-Pape - Wine tasting - Free
  • Orange Triumphal Roman Arch - Free
  • Orange Art and History Museum (6 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

3
Day 3: Uzes

Leave Orange behind and ride the quiet roads south to the walled Provencal commune of Caderousse. Here, cross the mighty Rhone River passing the medieval village of Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres and cycle past the vineyards that produce Lirac wines – the favourite wines of kings and the papal community in Avignon. Continue west through wine country to the legendary Pont du Gard – widely considered to be one of the world’s best-preserved examples of a Roman Aqueduct. Towering high above the Gardon River, this three-tiered stone masterpiece never fails to impress. On a quiet day, there may even be an opportunity to ride across it! After visiting the Pont du Gard, continue west to the small town of Uzes with its graceful circuit of boulevards and cute cafes.

Included Activities:

  • Pont du Gard Entrance

Optional Activities:

  • Uzes - Cathedral - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

4
Day 4: Saint Remy

Today is a long day in the saddle, but you’ll be rewarded with impressive sights along the way. Hopefully, the infamous mistral wind will be blowing from the northwest, providing a tailwind all the way to Saint Remy. Winding back across the Rhone, travel beneath the old city gate and into the small town of Tarascon. Take a short break from cycling to visit the imposing medieval castle, before sitting on the riverbank to learn about the legend of the Tarasque, the namesake of the town. After lunch, continue to Saint-Remy-de-Provence. In distinct contrast to the surrounding larger cities and towns, Saint Remy displays a typically Provencal way of life. Visit the serene gardens of Saint-Paul Asylum where Vincent van Gogh was a self-admitted patient and where he painted many works of art, including ‘Irises’ and the famous ‘The Starry Night’.

Included Activities:

  • Saint Remy - Van Gogh Asylum visit

Optional Activities:

  • Saint Remy - Glanum Archaelogical Site (8 EUR)
  • Saint Remy - St Paul de Mausole Monastery (8 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

5
Day 5: Saint Remy (& optional Mont Ventoux ride)

Today is a free day off the bike to explore charming Saint Remy at your own pace. Indulge your inner Van Gogh and chill out in a Provencal cafe, or if you’re still keen for a ride, your crew can suggest the best route in the local area. You can also take on the legendary Mont Ventoux on a carbon road bike. Driving from Saint Remy to Bedoin early, you’ll be riding on the mountain as the sun rises to beat the infamous Ventoux winds and summer heat. The unguided ride should take about 4 hours, leaving enough time to grab a coffee and croissant before you rejoin your driver in Bedoin for the drive back in Saint Remy.

Optional Activities:

  • Mont Ventoux Cycling Extension (Including road bike hire & transport)) (100 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

6
Day 6: Les Baux & Arles

Hit the road again after breakfast. Today, you start with a short ride to the hilltop commune of Les Baux-de-Provence. Although the distance is short, this is also one of the more difficult rides. For those not wanting to ride uphill, your support vehicle is always available. The first climb through the forest is rewarded with a short but beautiful descent on possibly the smoothest road in all of France. Carry on through olive groves and vineyards before arriving at Les Baux – declared ‘one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France’ thanks to its narrow, cobbled streets and surrounding countryside. Visit Chateau des Baux, which sits perched on a limestone cliff offering 360-degree views. After, ride through the Val d’Enfer’s (Valley of Hell) white limestone rock formations. From here, it is a downhill ride to Fontvieille, where you’ll follow the Canal d'Arles alongside the Rhone River all the way into Arles. Park the bikes and take a leader-led walk, passing the Place de la Republique, Van Gogh’s Cafe Terrace and the UNESCO World Heritage listed Roman Amphitheatre.

Included Activities:

  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • Castle Visit - Les Baux de Provence

Optional Activities:

  • Arles - Musee de Arles Antique (8 EUR)
  • Arles - Reattu Museum (8 EUR)
  • Arles - Vincent Van Gogh Foundation (10 EUR)
  • Les Baux de Provence - Carriere des Lumieres (14 EUR)
  • Les Baux de Provence - St Vincent Church - Free

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

7
Day 7: Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer/Arles

Swap vineyards for waves on a ride south to the capital of the Camargue – Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which sits on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Set on the Rhone River delta, the lakes of Camargue are a bird spotters paradise, home to more than 400 species of birds. The area is also known for its famous white Camarguais horses, often seen running free around Camargue. After lunch, return to Arles by vehicle. You also have the option to ride back to Arles (but this optional ride will not be supported by either the leader or your vehicle). Tonight, maybe get the group together to enjoy a final dinner.

Optional Activities:

  • Saintes Maries de la Mer - Boat Tour 90 minutes (16 EUR)
  • Saintes Maries de la Mer - Ornitology Park - Flamingos (8 EUR)
  • Saintes Maries de la Mer - Cathedral Rooftop Climb (2 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)

8
Day 8: Arles

There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

Reviews

 

Ron   -  Traveled, July 2023

I would recommend this tour to anyone interested in cycling around the world, we had a fantastic experience.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/04/2023

 

Frank   -  Traveled, July 2023

Trip was very well organised. Andrea Alessandrini was an excellent tour leader and did his ultimate best to make it a safe and pleasent trip for everyone. Cycling is a great way of traveling, I am considering to do another tour. The only remark (I already told Andrea) is that it was not made possible for me to book a single room. My son therefore joined me, to help me out. But two members of the group were having a single room anyway so I don’t really understand. Safie who did the transport was also doing a real good job and was also very nice. And the group was a bunch of interesting prople from different continents. Great experience !!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/04/2023

 

Wendy   -  Traveled, July 2023

Intrepid bike tour Provence, above and beyond what I expected. Intrepid staff amazing! New people I met on bike tour great! Would do this ride again, art. History and good food great company while riding.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/03/2023

 

Kirsty   -  Traveled, July 2023

Physically challenging ride (for a casual rider) along stunning scenery. It was a great week with Fred, Safia and Andrea who were so upbeat and positive. Having Andrea along as sweeper helped immensely when going up the long hills. Overall recommend!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/20/2023

 

Lyanne   -  Traveled, July 2023

A beautiful bicycle bucket-list trip through sunflower fields and the enchanting Provence region. A historic perspective of the area adds to this amazing adventure. And did I mention the food…? “Incroyable!”

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/22/2023

 

Eleanor   -  Traveled, June 2023

Stop doubting yourself and do this tour! Cycling Provence was such a wonderful immersive experience that truly made me feel connected to the varied landscape. I am a much bigger person and never thought I'd survive cycling these distances but on an e-bike I was practically gliding through the French countryside. Our tour leader Alice was knowledgeable, patient and had such an excellent sense of humour that helped the group feel connected from day one. Walter our driver made everything feel seamless and had us in stitches at every water break. Phenomenal trip. I will be booking with Intrepid again!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/23/2023

 

Belinda   -  Traveled, June 2023

We are couple in our late 50’s with reasonable fitness (could be alot better). We like to eat and drink everything (as long as it’s good). So, if you want to see new things, learn a new culture, taste new cuisine and not put on weight. Then , give this tour an go. We always find like minded people on these tours. The accommodation is good enough clean and comfortable. We loved not thinking about where we are going to stay and eat. We liked seeing the best that the area has to offer and going off track. June is a great time to visit the south of France as it gets so hot in July and August. This is our 5th trip with Intrepid and we hope to go on many more. They just get it! Enjoy ??

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/28/2023

 

Lauren   -  Traveled, June 2023

Ali and Walter were an amazing team! They were so fun, responsible and patient all at the same time. We couldn’t fault the accommodation or itinerary either. We’ll definitely be back for another Intrepid soon and hope to get either of our guides again!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/17/2023

 

Vaiva   -  Traveled, July 2022

The tour guides were great. The first week of August was extremely hot and some of the rides, though relatively short, proved a challenge. There was a mixture of nice routes and busy roads. Some accommodation options were disappointing. Overall, we preferred the Cycle Tuscany trip we did with Intrepid in the past.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/11/2022

 

John   -  Traveled, July 2022

A very nice trip hitting some amazing sites and towns. Accommodations were quite acceptable but keep in mind that what one is used to will affect reviews. A comment from one participant that you cannot by a decent bike for less than $7,500 highlights this. I grew up in Wythenshawe. Would go again and recommend to others. Intrepid should consider two group leaders on the road however with a group as large as 15 people. The following weeks we were told that the group sizes were 3 and 5.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/12/2022

 

Sandra   -  Traveled, July 2022

be wary of using Intrepid. hotel accommodations were on very low end of spectrum if you are use to different. Bikes for weeklong rides are not appropriate and not in best condition mechanically.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/30/2022

 

Barbara   -  Traveled, June 2022

Cycling tour of Provence with excellent guides, good equipment, fun people and fantastic food! We visited Roman ruins, cycled along rivers and vineyards, toured castles and fortresses, tasted wine in Chateauneuf-du-Pape, swam in the Mediterranean sea and experienced the amazing cuisine of southern France. I highly recommend this tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 06/24/2022

 

Paul   -  Traveled, June 2022

Good tour guides. Wonderful French countryside and dining. But hotel locations outside of the villages undermined the experience. In Arles, particularly disgusting lodging forced many of us to find alternative hotels for the last two nights. Intrepid customer support is completely unresponsive. Ultimately, we do not recommend this tour.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 07/10/2022

 

Diane   -  Traveled, September 2022

The Intrepid Provence bicycle trip was better than expected. Go Team Italy.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/22/2022

 

Heather   -  Traveled, September 2022

I highly recommend the Provence biking trip. Both of our leaders , Walter and Ali were excellent. Biking routes were very scenic, and we had plenty of sightseeing stops to break up the daily biking. Free day in Saint-Remy was a highlight. Biking was mostly on flat rural roads and bike paths.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/23/2022

 

Charlie   -  Traveled, August 2022

A great trip. Good food and wine everywhere and lots of fun. Plenty of time to experience French culture. Astrid and Walter were terrific leaders

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/30/2022

 

John   -  Traveled, August 2022

The trip was far better than I could have ever expected!!

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/09/2022

 

Bruce   -  Traveled, July 2022

Cycling tour of Provence was an excellent mix of cycling through beautiful French towns, learning about the culture, food and wines. Also inclded great social interaction. An ebike is a good suggestion if extended hill climbs are not for you.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 08/16/2022

 

Karen   -  Traveled, September 2023

Great trip! As a 53-year-old who is fairly healthy (walking, recreational cycling) I found most days on the bike to be comfortable and relaxing, but there were a few short steep uphills (where I just walked my bike for the final 30 seconds or so) during the first two days, and a longer but less steep uphill on the day after Saint Remy, which was challenging but do-able. I only wish Intrepid would offer a shorter version of this trip (or similar trips). I loved, loved this trip, but it's daunting for someone like me with limited vacation time and only a casual cyclist to commit to a tour like this too often.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 03/24/2024

 

Catherine   -  Traveled, August 2023

A well paced, highly enjoyable cycling vacation going through small villages, bike paths, country roads, and occasionally some roads with traffic. Really enjoyed our group. Ali and Andreas were terrific tour leaders.

Source: Tour operator   Submitted: 09/24/2023

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