Highlights of Provence by Bike

Highlights of Provence by Bike

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8 Days From

$1590

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Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the picturesque landscapes of Provence with our "Highlights of Provence by Bike" tour. Cycle through the stunning scenery that inspired famous artists, explore historic cities like Avignon and Arles, and visit charming medieval towns such as St Remy and Uzes. Discover the unique natural beauty of the Camargue, with its wild horses and pink flamingos, and enjoy the warm hospitality of family-run hotels. This self-guided cycling adventure offers a perfect blend of culture, nature, and relaxation, with the convenience of luggage transfers and digital navigation tools. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience in the heart of Provence. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Cycling through stunning Provence landscapes

  • Immersing yourself in landscapes that captivated renowned artists

  • Exploring historic cities of Avignon and Arles and medieval towns including St Remy and Uzes

  • Exploring the unique natural landscape of the Camargue

  • Arriving in Orange with its Roman Theatre and Triumphal Arch

  • Visiting the world-famous wine town Châteauneuf-du-Pape

  • Admiring the Roman Arch and fortress ruins in Les Baux

  • Seeing the Pont du Gard, the famous World Heritage listed Roman aqueduct

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrive Orange

Location: Orange

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Arrive Orange and make your own way to your hotel. Orange has wonderful architectural monuments from Roman times: the Roman Theatre and Triumphal Arch are historical witnesses from this epoch. Enjoy exploring the old town, with its Provençal charm and small pretty shops and cafés.

Day 2 : Cycle via Châteauneuf-du-Pape to historic Avignon (36.5km/22.6mi)

Location: Avignon

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The first stage of your cycle trip takes you into the world-famous wine town Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where a stroll through the town should not be missed. Continue to the city of Avignon along the Rhône Cycle path, a relaxed way to cycle into the city. On arrival in Avignon we recommend visiting the old town including the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace).286m ascent, 306m descent

Day 3 : Cycle via picturesque St Rémy to Arles (56km/35mi)

Location: Arles

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Taking a quiet cycle route, you leave Avignon and pedal directly to St Rémy, one of the most beautiful and certainly the most typical town in Provence. Take a break in the shaded square or wander the old centre with its shops and cafes. A visit to the monastery Saint Paul de Mausole, where van Gogh spent a year, is highly recommended. Leaving St Remy, you can admire the Roman Arch as you head to the Alpilles. Enjoy great views of Les Baux, the “city in rock” with its hilltop location and fortress ruins. Continue to Arles, once the second largest city of the Roman Empire. Today, Roman culture and Romanesque heritage characterise the historic centre of Arles. It is also the city of Vincent van Gogh. Make your way to your hotel, where you stay for two nights.340m ascent, 343m descentIt's possible to add an extra night and stay overnight in St Remy - a supplement applies. In this case it's 25km Avignon to St Remy and 30km St Remy to Arles. Must be requested at time of booking.

Day 4 : Discover the unique beauty of the Camargue (45km/28mi)

Location: Camargue

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Loop cycle to the Camargue. It's a unique natural landscape - half sea and half land, with brackish water lakes, vast salt steppes, wild horses and pink flamingos. Cycle along small paths exploring the nature reserve. In Mejanes you can take a small train through unspoilt nature, with the chance to see flamingos and wild bulls. The route today is almost always on cycleways and quite flat. Return to Arles and your hotel.175m ascent, 180m descent

Day 5 : Along the Rhône to Tarascon and Beaucaire then Nîmes (48km/30mi)

Location: Nîmes

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning the route takes you to the towns of Tarascon and Beaucaire, located on the banks of the Rhône River. There are many lovely viewpoints and a castle dating from the 12th century en route. You can visit a café and enjoy a break beside the river, or visit the castle of King Remy in Tarascon. Nîmes has numerous well-preserved Roman buildings: the Amphitheatre, the Maison Carrée and the Tour Magne are impressive, or you can enjoy the modern part of the city and the “Carré d'Art” designed by British architect Lord Norman Foster. Overnight in Nimes.271m ascent, 226m descent

Day 6 : Via the Pont du Gard to medieval Uzès (45km/28mi)

Location: Uzès

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The fortress of Tarascon accompanies you for a while as you cycle through the vineyards of Costières de Nimes, the area's southern-most wine growing area. After a few hours you'll see the Pont du Gard, the famous World Heritage listed Roman aqueduct. Aromatic plants such as lavender, thyme and rosemary accompany you into the pretty Provençal town of Uzès, with its magical, medieval charm. It is a maze of small streets and shaded squares, along with a bell tower and 17th and 18th century mansions. Saturday is market day, and this is one of the best in the south of France.320m ascent, 230m descent

Day 7 : Through the Garrigue and vineyards to Orange (51km/31.6mi)

Location: Orange

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

The final day's cycle takes you initially through the hilly landscape of the Garrigue, with its low growing holm oaks, juniper and wild Mediterranean herbs. Then the vineyards and lovely orchards of Provence take over once again, and you cycle through the Rhone valley's famous wine regions of Lirac and Laudun on the other side of the river, before returning to Orange.321m ascent, 414m descent

Day 8 : Trip concludes

Location: Orange

Meals Included: Breakfast

Arrangements conclude in Orange after breakfast. If you'd like to add an extra night, please ask for our rates.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    7 nights in 2 to 3 star hotels

  • 7 breakfasts – continental style and generally consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices

  • 7 nights in 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities (upgrade to 3-4 star comfort hotels - supplement applies)

  • Digital information pack including smartphone app with maps, roadbook and GPS Tracks

  • Minimum 21 speed bike with pannier & helmet, lock and repair kit (electric bike available on request - supplement applies)

  • Luggage Transfer, 1 piece maximum 20kg, supplement applies for excess

  • Tourist tax

  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Orange

  • Meals not listed as included, drinks

  • Travel insurance - mandatory

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What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from Orange

    Travel arrangements to and from Orange are not included.

  • Meals not listed as included

    Drinks, dinners, and lunches are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.

  • Tour guide

    This is a self-guided cycling holiday, so no tour guide is provided.

  • Single room supplement

    A supplement will apply if you are traveling solo or book a single room.

  • Entrance fees

    Entrance fees to attractions and sites are not included.

  • Transfers not listed as included

    Any transfers not specifically listed as included are excluded.

  • Excess luggage

    A supplement applies for excess luggage beyond the included 20kg.

  • Handlebar phone holder

    We recommend bringing your own handlebar phone holder to follow the route more easily using the app.

  • Items of a personal nature

    Personal items and expenses are not included.

  • Printed documents

    Printed documents are available at an additional cost and must be requested in advance.

Accommodation

7 nights in 2 to 3 star hotels. During the trip you will be accommodated in family run 2 to 3 star hotels. Room sizes will vary between accommodations, and often within them. Rooms are simply furnished often with an eclectic mix of furnishings. They have been chosen for their location and local charm and are often a highlight of the trip. There is an option to upgrade to 3 to 4 star hotels - a supplement applies. ...more ...less

Grading

GRADE 2
The cycling is introductory to moderate grade with daily cycling distances from 45 to 55km/28 to 34mi. You will cycle mostly on small side roads with low traffic and asphalted paths. The route is easy and varied, with a few small ascents in the hilly landscapes of the Garrigue and the Alpilles. The trip is considered suitable for beginners who have a reasonable to good level of fitness. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos, visit a museum or enjoy the market places in many of the interesting towns visited. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list. ...more ...less

What You Carry

During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.

Mode of Transport

Travel to and from Orange is included. During the tour, you will cycle through various scenic routes, with a 7 or 21 speed bike provided, including a pannier and helmet. Electric bikes are available on request for an additional supplement.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    During the trip, you will be accommodated in family-run 2 to 3-star hotels. Room sizes will vary between accommodations, and often within them. Rooms are simply furnished often with an eclectic mix of furnishings. They have been chosen for their location and local charm and are often a highlight of the trip. There is an option to upgrade to 3 to 4-star hotels, but a supplement applies. ...more ...less

  • What meals are included in the tour?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts, which are continental style and generally consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea, and juices.

  • What kind of bike will be provided?

    You will be provided with a 7 or 21-speed bike with a pannier and helmet. An electric bike is available on request, but a supplement applies.

  • Is luggage transfer included in the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfer is included. You are allowed one piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.

  • Is this a guided tour?

    No, this is a self-guided cycling holiday. You will receive a digital information pack including a smartphone app with maps, a roadbook, and GPS tracks to help you navigate.

  • What should I carry during the cycling day?

    During the cycle day, you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.

  • What is the difficulty level of the cycling routes?

    The cycling is introductory to moderate grade with daily cycling distances from 45 to 55km (28 to 34 miles). You will cycle mostly on small side roads with low traffic and asphalted paths. The route is easy and varied, with a few small ascents in the hilly landscapes of the Garrigue and the Alpilles. The trip is considered suitable for beginners who have a reasonable to good level of fitness.

  • Are helmets provided, and are they mandatory?

    Helmets are provided with the bike, and for safety reasons, they are a compulsory item on your equipment list.

  • What kind of natural landscapes will I see during the tour?

    You will explore a variety of natural landscapes including the unique beauty of the Camargue, which features brackish water lakes, vast salt steppes, wild horses, and pink flamingos. You will also cycle through the hilly landscape of the Garrigue, with its low-growing holm oaks, juniper, and wild Mediterranean herbs.

  • What historical sites can I expect to visit?

    You will visit several historical sites including the Roman Theatre and Triumphal Arch in Orange, the Palais des Papes in Avignon, the monastery Saint Paul de Mausole in St Remy, and the Pont du Gard, a World Heritage-listed Roman aqueduct. You will also explore the historic centers of Arles and Nîmes, which feature numerous well-preserved Roman buildings.

  • How fit do I have to be?

    Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.

  • What happens if something goes wrong?

    On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.

  • I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?

    Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Georgina(Australia)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

24 Jun 2024

We were a party of 3 self-guided - 2 normal bikes/1 e-bike. Starting late May. Weather perfect and a lovely time of year with wildflowers along the roadsides. Route was fascinating and varied with vineyards, agriculture, villages, mountains and more. Who knew the Romans built so many edifices, roads, and towns that still survive today in this area? So much to see. We had added an extra day for each town and were so glad we did. Hotels all acceptable, with one glitch re booking in Nimes. Taxi service for luggage worked perfectly. A small thing, and really the only gripe - the Guibo app navigation was a bit dodgy at times and we would have preferred additional backup resources to support the route. 100% reliant on good phone reception and working data. It was a memorable trip with great weather, friendly people, gorgeous food and wine and amazing history to explore. ...more ...less

F. Koch(Olinda, VIC)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

13 Jul 2018

This was our first time doing a self guided bike ride like this, plus first time in Provence. A great way to see that part of the world, my friend and I absolutely loved it! The route descriptions were very detailed with extra handy tips and information, and everything was well organised. The bikes were comfy, well maintained and sufficient for our purpose. The selected hotels were small-ish and authentic, in convenient locations and with friendly hosts. I am already looking at where I want to go next....! ...more ...less

Paul Mason(Brisbane, QLD, Australia)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

14 Jul 2024

Absolutely amazing trip - just incredible. Our second trip of a lifetime.

K. Velasco(Aurora, United States)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

17 Oct 2023

Route was fantastic and well thought out. Lodging was very comfortable and clean. The towns were inviting. Our group of 6 was very pleased and we had minimal problems with our e-bikes (3 flats). Bike storage was simple and our luggage always arrived before we did. We thank them for an excellently planned vacation! ...more ...less

A. Netherway(Melbourne, Australia)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

22 Oct 2024

We very much enjoyed our Highlights of Provence by Bike self guided bike tour. The Guibo app was pretty good to use. Our bikes & equipment supplied (panniers, tool kit, hi viz vest & handlebar phone holder) were all very good. The company was easy to contact when required. Our luggage was transported safely. We appreciated greatly being able to extend our trip by choosing to stop overnight at Les Baux, which was a highlight of our trip. ...more ...less

C. Williamson(Charlotte, United States)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

28 May 2024

Wonderful experience. The app worked great. I did have one flat, and discovered that a needed tool was missing. Fortunately there was a bike shop nearby. Turned out it was no big deal. The weather was fantastic.

B. Payne(Warrawee, Australia)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

8 Jun 2024

We had a great holiday cycling in Provence and the ebikes were excellent. Most of the hotels were really nice with a very good breakfast and located close to the town centre. There was so much to do and see that we didn’t have enough time for everything. The only day we would have changed was the day cycling in the Camargue area which wasn’t anything special. We saw a few flamingos in the distance but with hindsight I wish we’d stayed in Arles to have a better look at some of the amazing Roman buildings. A whole day in Nîmes would have been worthwhile too. One wet day only, but be sure to pack something waterproof. The app for the route guidance didn’t work very well in narrow lanes in city centres but it was fine in more open spaces. In mid-May the temperatures were very pleasant and there were flowers everywhere in the lush, green countryside. Certainly a holiday we won’t forget. ...more ...less

G. Hounslow(Busselton, Australia)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

20 Jun 2023

We enjoyed our Highlights of Provence. The Hotels were very comfortable.

M. Coverdale(Warrnambool, Australia)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

1 Oct 2024

The countryside and architecture were beautiful , the villages were lovely places to stop and take in the lifestyle of the locals.

Lisa Dean-Erlander(, Idaho, United States)  

Highlights of Provence by Bike

25 Jun 2023

Provence was beautiful, almost all the hotels were wonderful, trip directions almost always got us where we wanted to go. Overall we were quite happy with our trip. The hills were larger than we expected for a level two trip and I wish we had asked for the electric assist bikes, especially on the day we rode to Les Baux. ...more ...less

Read all 20 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.

    Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Highlights of Provence by Bike

8 Days Starting and ending in Orange, France

Visiting: Orange, Avignon, Arles, Camargue, Nîmes, Uzès

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

UPB

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

introductory to moderate

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Cycling, Walking

From: $1590 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 26-Mar-2025 but subject to change.

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