Highlights of Provence Cycling Tour

Arrive on your own in Vaison la Romaine, home to France’s largest Roman archaeological site. Spend time exploring the vast Roman ruins before crossing a 2,000-year-old bridge leading to the medieval village. The village is perched high above the Ouvèze River, with cobbled streets leading up to the 12th-century feudal castle, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. Enjoy a free evening for dinner and rest, with the famous market in Vaison la Romaine on Tuesday morning.

Today you will cycle through some of the most prestigious wine regions of Provence, with Mont Ventoux towering in the background. Your journey takes you through the renowned Côtes du Rhône landscapes, passing the world-famous vineyards of Gigondas where you can enjoy wine tastings. Continue through olive groves and vineyards to Beaumes de Venise, a charming village famous for its sweet Muscat wines. Pedal through hidden villages, oak forests, and orchards before reaching Bedoin, the legendary starting point for the Tour de France ascent of Mont Ventoux.

Cycle through the tranquil landscapes at the foot of Mont Ventoux, passing hidden villages, cherry orchards, vineyards, and truffle oak plantations. Stop in Pernes-les-Fontaines, a lively town known for its 40 ancient fountains. Your destination is Isle sur la Sorgue, a picturesque town surrounded by the clear waters of the Sorgue River, famous for its antique shops and vibrant Sunday market.

Start your day early and cycle through picturesque landscapes of dry-stone huts and ancient stone walls. First, reach Gordes, a stunning village with grey stone homes perched high above the Calavon Valley, crowned by a Renaissance castle. Then, head to Roussillon, known for its vibrant homes painted in hues of yellow, orange, and red, thanks to the nearby ochre quarry. Afterward, ride back to Isle sur la Sorgue via a scenic cycle-only path that follows a former railway line.

Start the day in Cavaillon, a lively town known for its markets and locally grown produce. Cycle through farmlands and orchards, crossing the Durance River, and head toward the charming village of Eygalières, nestled amidst vast olive groves. Explore its hilltop stone houses and the ruins of its castle. Continue to Saint Rémy, a town that inspired Van Gogh and is also the birthplace of Nostradamus. With its vibrant colors and bustling cafés, Saint Rémy offers a perfect end to the day.

Begin your day with a visit to the Saint Paul de Mausole monastery, where Van Gogh spent a year creating some of his most famous works. As you cycle through the pine forests, wildflower fields, and thyme-scented hills of the Alpilles, you’ll reach the picturesque village of Les Baux, perched high above olive groves with its medieval castle ruins. Continue towards the sea, passing vast farmland and iconic landscapes before arriving in Arles, a city steeped in Roman history. Explore its famous Roman monuments, including the coliseum and theater.

Cycle south from Arles into the wild Camargue, a unique delta of the Rhône River. This area is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with flamingos, herons, and egrets nesting in the lagoons and shallow pools. The landscape is rugged, with salt-cracked earth and untamed terrain, until you spot the town of Saintes-Maries de la Mer. This charming seaside village, known for its Gypsy heritage, features whitewashed houses and an imposing church dedicated to their patron saint, Sara. Enjoy a free evening to explore and stay in the heart of Saintes-Maries de la Mer.

After breakfast, your cycling journey comes to an end in Saintes-Maries de la Mer.