Alpilles of Provence Cycling Tour
Spend 5 days immersed in Provence cycling from Arles to Barbentane on this self-guided tour
Lifetime Deposit
Self-Guided
Alpilles of Provence Cycling Tour Overview
Explore one of France’s most famous regions on the 5-day Alpilles of Provence Cycling Tour. This self-guided cycling tour will introduce you to the sublime landscapes and charming villages of Provence as you ride and enjoy views of the Alpilles.
Setting out from Arles, you’ll enjoy pleasant rides through fields of lavender and poppies, whizzing past olive groves and climbing gentle vine-covered hills. On to Les-Baux-de-Provence, you’ll explore the historic village and learn about its royal roots. Feel inspired by the same sights and sounds that influenced Van Gogh during his final years when he painted some of his best works and discover the birthplace of Nostradamus as you lose yourself in Saint-Remy-de-Provence. Finally, you’ll sail triumphantly into Barbentane, where your magical cycling tour in Provence comes to an end.
Discover Provence your way, at your own pace, and in your own style! Book the 5-day Alpilles of Provence Cycling Tour and discover the beauty of southeastern France.
Trip highlights
Discover a land brimming with beauty as you pedal fields of lavender, rolling vineyards, and orchards bursting with fruit.
Ride from Arles to Barbentane, taking in stunning churches, enchanting castles, and storybook villages along the way.
Delight in the wines and produce of Cotes du Rhone and greater Provence, enjoying spectacular dining during the tour.
Soak up French culture with overnight stays in Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and Barbentane.
Day By Day Itinerary
Your tour begins in the historic town of Arles, which dates to 7th century BC and was once a major Gallo-Roman city. Make your way to your hotel and then set out to visit the city’s famous arena and Roman Theatre, the perfect introduction to this ancient world. Later, stroll the canal to admire the reconstructed Van Gogh Bridge before returning to your hotel in the old center of Arles for a good night's rest.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Arles
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- None
Your first day of cycling will take you from Arles to Les-Baux-de-Provence, a delightful village steeped in royal history and home to impressive, fortified ruins. The short ride today will allow you time to explore the village museums. The Olive Museum and the History Museum are both must-sees!
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Les-Baux-de-Provence
- Distance:
- 23km, 481m of ascent, 307m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast, dinner
From Les-Baux-de-Provence you'll make your way back to Maussane cruising a back road, where views of the Alpilles will take your breath away. Press on to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, an enchanting town made famous by Vincent Van Gogh's time spent here.
One year before his passing, Vincent Van Gogh found himself locked up in an asylum in this very town, and several other artists have flocked to the area, including Picasso and Matisse. Explore remarkable Saint-Remy here, including the home where Nostradamus was born.
There are no shortages of things to do and see in Les-Baux-de-Provence. Soak up your time, as it's sure to be a highlight!
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
- Distance:
- 28km, 483m of ascent, 348m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Your route today will be flanked by century-old olive groves and blooming fruit trees. Passing through the small village of Eyragues, you’ll marvel at its 18th-century clock tower and fortified, Romanesque-style Saint Maxime church from the 11th and 12th centuries.
Your path will be peppered with relics of ramparts, making it a journey steeped not only in natural beauty but rich history as well. Arrive at the market garden plains of Châteaurenard and then continue to your hotel in Barbentane or Graveson.
- Overnight Location:
- Hotel in Barbentane or Graveson
- Distance:
- 28km, 174m of ascent, 215m of descent
- Meals:
- Breakfast, dinner
Following breakfast, your cycling tour of Provence will come to an end. Transfer to Avignon train station to depart.
- Overnight Location:
- None
- Distance:
- None
- Meals:
- Breakfast
Tour Map
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Inclusions
Included
- 4 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
- Accommodations for 4 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Arles and after the tour in Barbentane are not included but can be added as a supplement.
- Transportation for you and your luggage are included throughout the tour (1 piece per person). Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- Tourist city tax
- 24/7 emergency phone support
- Maps and tourist information for all places of interest on the route
Not included
- Flights to Marseille and from Paris
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Guide services
- Bike rental
Optional Extras
- Bike rental
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Optional activities or excursions
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Reviews
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These reviews reflect all trips offered by this local tour partner on 10Adventures, not just the tour you’re viewing.
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FAQ
We rate this tour a 2/5. You should be comfortable riding up to 30 km in a day with the help of your hybrid or e-bike. The terrain is mostly flat and sometimes gently undulating.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
4 breakfasts and 2 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS). You can take a direct train from the airport to Arles. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to Arles in advance as a supplement or arrange your own private transfer from the airport.
The tour ends in Barbentane. Take a taxi to Avignon train station and then take the train to Marseille Provence Airport (MRS). Alternatively, you can book a private transfer in advance as a supplement or arrange your own private transfer.
Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are GITANE Verso, 21-speed hybrid bikes or GAZELLE Arroyo / GAZELLE Medeo e-bikes.
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
The best time to travel to Provence for this tour is during spring (March to May) and during fall (September to October) when weather is moderate and crowds are lighter.
Why book Alpilles of Provence Cycling Tour with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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