Provence Backroads

Provence Backroads

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8 Days From

$1690

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Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating cycling adventure through the picturesque landscapes of Provence with the "Provence Backroads" tour. Pedal past olive groves and vineyards, explore the historic towns of Arles, St Remy, and Tarascon, and immerse yourself in the timeless scenery that inspired Van Gogh. Enjoy exceptional local cuisine and stay in charming family-run 2 and 3-star hotels. Highlights include visiting the well-preserved castle in Tarascon, the windmills in Fontvieille, and the medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence. With a digital information pack, luggage transfer, and bike rental included, this self-guided tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and leisurely cycling. ...more ...less

Highlights

  • Cycling through stunning Provence scenery past olive groves and vineyards

  • Exploring the great towns of Arles, St Remy and Tarascon

  • Experiencing the timelessness of the landscapes made famous by Van Gogh

  • Enjoying the exceptional local cuisine

  • Visiting the well-preserved castle in Tarascon

  • Seeing the windmills and historic sites in Fontvieille

  • Exploring the picturesque Medieval village of Les Baux-de-Provence

  • Following the Van Gogh walking trail in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival In Barbentane Or Graveson

Location: Barbentane

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

The neighbouring towns of Barbentane and Graveson offer a great start to your cycle trip in Provence, just a 15 minute taxi ride from Avignon TGV rail station. On arrival at your hotel, relax and enjoy the gardens and, subject to weather, swimming pool. You can also wander into the nearby town. Dinner at the hotel is included tonight. ...more ...less

Day 2 : Through Typical Montagnette Villages To King René's Town, Tarascon (20 Or 27Km/13 Or 16.8Mi)

Location: Tarascon

Accommodation Name: 2-star hotel in the centre of Tarascon

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, begin cycling to Tarascon. Depending on your hotel the previous night, you'll cycle through the foothills of the Alpilles to reach Tarascon or alternatively via the Abbey of St Michel de Friogolet. Whichever route you take, today is full of superb scenery through typical villages of Provence. Situated on the Rhone River, Tarascon has some interesting sights. Its well preserved castle was once home to Count Rene d’Anjou, the King of Provence, and has an excellent display of tapestries and earthenware jars. The Souleiado (fabric) museum is also worth exploring (closed on Sundays). Tuesday is market day, where you can discover some local specialties. Across the river are some great 17th and 18th century houses. The usual hotel here is 3 stars in the centre of Tarascon. Own dinner arrangements.123m/404ft ascent, 128m/420ft descent

Day 3 : Cycle To Arles (25Km/16Mi)

Location: Arles

Accommodation Name: hotel in the old centre of Arles

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today's route takes you north into rugged and rocky scenery close to the town of Fontvieille. Here you can see the windmills (including Daudet’s Mill as described in the short stories ‘Lettres de mon Loulin’, written by Alphonse Daudet in 1869), some interesting churches and the Musee de Daudet. Continue to historic Arles, which dates from the 7th century BC and was a major Gallo-Roman city. Here you should visit the Arena and the Roman Theatre, and you can cycle along its canal to the reconstructed Van Gogh bridge, the setting of the painter's famous “Pont de Langlois” works. The Frank Gehry-designed Luma-Arles is worth a visit. Our usual hotel is in the old centre of Arles. Own arrangements for dinner this evening.Ascent: 166m/544ft, descent 107m/351ft

Day 4 : To Les Baux-De-Provence Via Barbegal Castle (21Km/12.5Mi)

Location: Les Baux-de-Provence

Accommodation Name: 3-star hotel in Les Baux

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s cycle is quite short, giving you time to explore the area. From Arles you cycle via Barbegal Castle. Les Baux is a picturesque Medieval village atop a fortified rocky site with a royal history and ruins to explore. There are some great museums in the village including the History Museum and the Olive Museum, and the nearby Carrieres des Lumieres is well worth a visit. Dinner and overnight at Les Baux. The usual hotel is a charming 3 star with pool located at the foot of the village.223m/731ft ascent, 88m/288ft descent

Day 5 : Cycle To Saint-Rémy-De-Provence (27Km/16.8Mi)

Location: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Accommodation Name: 3-star hotel in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Meals Included: Breakfast

From Les Baux you ride to Maussane along a back road with gorgeous views of the Alpilles, and continue to Saint Rémy, a small town in the heart of the Regional Natural Park of Alpilles. Vincent van Gogh spent time in an asylum here (he also spent time in Arles) and the picturesque landscapes and light inspired many of his works. Other artists attracted to the area include Picasso, Gauguin, Matisse and Cézanne. There is ample time to explore this delightful town, including the house where Nostradamus was born and its pretty squares and shops. The usual hotel is 3-star with a pool and ideally located near the town centre.320m/1050ft ascent, 449m/1473ft descent

Day 6 : Free Day In Saint Rémy-De-Provence

Location: Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Accommodation Name: 3-star hotel in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a day at leisure exploring Saint Remy, including the Van Gogh walking trail to discover where his great works were painted. Wednesday is market day. Own dinner arrangements.

Day 7 : Return To Barbentane/Graveson (25 Or 27.5Km/15.5 Or 17Mi)

Location: Barbentane

Accommodation Name: hotel in Barbentane or Graveson

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today you pedal along back roads lined with orchards, typically olive groves and fruit trees. Pause to peek into the village of Eyragues, with its splendid 18th-century clock tower and fortified Romanesque church of Saint Maxime dating from the 11th century. Stretch your legs on ancient lanes lined with the remains of ramparts, then continue through vegetable gardens and farmland around Châteaurenard. Finish by riding back into Barbentane (or Graveson). Dinner at the hotel.164m/538ft ascent, 203m/666ft descent

Day 8 : Trip Concludes

Location: Avignon

Meals Included: Breakfast

The trip concludes after breakfast. It is a 15 minute taxi ride to Avignon TGV station, from where you can take the train to Paris (3hrs) including Charles de Gaulle airport.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    7 nights in 2 and 3 star hotels

  • 7 breakfasts, 3 dinners – breakfasts are continental style and generally consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses which usually include some regional specialties. There are usually, but

  • Dinners are based on the basic set menu available at the restaurant. These are usually of a high standard and often reflective of the local cuisine. However, it is usually possible to upgrade to the a-la-carte menu or a more superior set menu for an addit

  • 7 nights in 3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities.

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

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

  • 21 or 24 speed bike rental with helmet, panniers, pump, repair kit and lock (electric bike available on request - supplement applies). Child bikes are also available on request

  • Tourist tax

  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to and from Barbentane/Graveson

  • Meals not listed as included, drinks

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What's Not Included

  • Travel to and from Barbentane/Graveson

    Travel arrangements to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.

  • Meals not listed as included

    Lunches, dinner in Tarascon, Arles, and St Remy, and drinks are not included.

  • Travel insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Guide

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

  • Solo traveler supplement

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

  • Entrance fees not listed as included

    Entrance fees to attractions not listed as included are excluded.

  • Transfers not listed as included

    Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage are not included.

  • 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.

  • Printed documents

    Printed documents are available at an additional cost and must be requested. They will be provided locally at the joining hotel.

  • Items of a personal nature

    Personal items and expenses are not included.

Accommodation

7 nights in 3 star hotels
During the trip you will be accommodated in family run 3 star hotels. Room sizes will vary between hotels, and often within hotels. Rooms are simply furnished often with an eclectic décor. They have been chosen for their location and local charm and are often a highlight of the trip. ...more ...less

Grading

GRADE 1 - Daily cycles are a leisurely 20 to 28km / 13 to 17.5mi on undulating to sometimes mountainous terrain (the ride to hilltop Les Baux is steep but short. The usual hotel is at the foot of the village). The cycling is on a combination of low traffic side roads with some crossings and short stints on higher traffic roads required. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. This trip is suitable for beginners and children (electric bikes, children’s bikes and trailers are available on request). ...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 Barbentane/Graveson is included. During the tour, you will cycle through the stunning Provence scenery with a 21 or 24 speed bike rental, including helmet, panniers, pump, repair kit, and lock. Electric bikes are available on request.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of bike is provided for the cycling tour?

    You will be provided with a 21 or 24 speed bike rental, including a helmet, panniers, pump, repair kit, and lock. Electric bikes and child bikes are available on request for an additional cost.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in family-run 2 and 3 star hotels. Room sizes will vary between hotels, and often within hotels. 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.

  • What meals are included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes 7 breakfasts and 3 dinners. Breakfasts are continental style and generally consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea, and juices. Dinner will consist of 3 courses which usually include some regional specialties.

  • Is luggage transfer provided during the tour?

    Yes, luggage transfer is included. You can transfer 1 piece of luggage with a maximum weight of 20kg. A supplement applies for excess luggage.

  • Is there any support available in case of emergencies during the tour?

    Yes, you will have access to an emergency hotline for assistance during the trip.

  • Are there any additional costs for solo travelers?

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

  • 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 tour?

    The tour is graded as introductory – grade 1. Daily cycles are a leisurely 21 to 28km / 13 to 17.5mi on undulating to sometimes mountainous terrain. The cycling is on a combination of low traffic side roads with some crossings and short stints on higher traffic roads required. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a reasonable level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. This trip is suitable for beginners and children.

  • What happens if I arrive late on the first day?

    If you arrive late on the first day, your bike will be waiting for you at the hotel.

  • Are there any specific recommendations for following the route using the app?

    It is recommended to bring your own handlebar phone holder to follow the route more easily using the app.

  • 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

P. Bardsley(Palmerston North, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

21 May 2024

A great trip once we figured out the app.

C. Naughtin(Wavell Heights, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

20 Oct 2024

We thoroughly enjoyed our bike riding trip! We opted for e-bikes which was great for us given that we weren't both regular bike riders. The itinerary of each day was very flexible, giving you the chance to have a late or early start with still plenty of time in the day to enjoy the village for your overnight stay. We often opted for an early start, arriving around lunchtime at our destination. We particularly loved the two-night stay (with a rest day) at Saint Remy de Provence. It gave us more time for some sight seeing and enjoying the bigger village. The GPS navigation was also super easy to follow and as English-speakers, we didn't find any issues making our way around. We would highly recommend this experience to others looking to 'get off the beaten track' and explore some hidden gems in the Provence region. ...more ...less

D. Houlihan(Dargan, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

26 Sep 2023

The trip was fantastic. I had an issue with the battery on my eBike and they sorted it out with no issues. The app and maps worked brilliantly. The accommodation was always clean and friendly.

S. Rabach(Oakleigh, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

27 May 2024

This was a fabulous trip. The organisation was seamless and it was exactly as described in the information provided. We are both in our 60s and the level was perfect for our fitness levels.

B. Patel(Warrnambool, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

20 Jul 2023

Fabulous trip. Ride was pretty much exactly as described. Hotels excellent. The Guibo app was easy to use.

L. Poling(Ancaster)  

Provence Backroads

11 May 2022

We were extremely happy with the bike trip. The bikes provided were excellent. The people at UTracks were easy to deal with and efficient. There were many lovely backroads with many farms, vineyards and orchards on the trip. Many times we were the only person on a road. Traffic wasn’t a problem at all. It’s essential to have the ability to measure the distance one has travelled given the nature of the directions supplied. For example “ at 1.8 km turn right, at 2.4 km go on small road between olive trees”. We did not have the ability to measure the distance we had travelled so we did get lost several times but were able to get back to the trip plan prepared by utracks eventually. The distance was perfect for my husband and I who are in our seventies and especially because it gave us time to explore the villages we rode through. Boulbon was a really lovely town we spent time in. The Montmajour Abbey was a highlight as well as the Barbengal aqueduct. The hotels were on the whole quite nice. The hotel Mas d’Aigret in Les Baux was a highlight! It was the perfect time of year to do this trip, the weather was sunny and hot every day. It was nice to have a two day stop in St Remy, to rest and visit the sights in town. I was sorry the bike trip ended, I would have been happy to continue for several more days. It was an outstanding experience! ...more ...less

Cynthia Sadubin(Kirribilli, NSW, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

21 Jun 2024

The cycling trip was great. The information provided before the tour was lacking. Most of the accommodation was very good. A couple of places could have been better. Overall a very pleasant way to see the countryside and some beautiful towns of Provence.

G. Curd(New Zealand)  

Provence Backroads

08 Oct 2018

Great trip, days long enough in heat, and trail and route challenging at times which we enjoyed. Awesome trip I would probably recommend a guided option unless familiar with the area.

Anwen H.(UK)  

Provence Backroads

31 Aug 2019

We recently went on your self guided cycling holiday - Provence Backroads. It was truly a wonderful holiday. The bicycles were faultless - so comfortable and reliable, the maps were very detailed and quite easy to follow although we also had GBS which faciliated matters further. We travelled through varied terrain and saw beautiful villages and stunning scenery. Had a lovely time in Saint Baux Arles and Saint Remy. We were not very impressed with Tarascon, but received a warm welcome in the hotel. The Mitchellin star food in Saint Remy was divine. Would definitely go on a cycling holiday again. ...more ...less

J. Ritchie(Middle Cove, Australia)  

Provence Backroads

1 Aug 2023

Best part of the cycle was from les Baux de Provence to St Remy through the Alpilles. Wonderful scenery and quiet country roads.

Read all 19 reviews

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Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.

  • 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.

Provence Backroads

8 Days Starting in Barbentane, France and ending in Graveson, France

Visiting: Barbentane, Tarascon, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Avignon

Tour operator:

UTracks

Tour code:

PBR

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

introductory

Tour operated in:

English

Activities:

Cycling, Walking

From: $1690 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 22-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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