Best of Provence - a big title really considering all the great aspects to be found and experienced in this enchanting region of France! This tour is a combination of several of our tours with some longer riding in between in order to give a little bit of different places : Drome Provencale, Vaucluse, Luberon, Alpilles, Gard and Rhone River areas. Discover some great wines, some amazing historical villages, pass through lavender fields, olive groves, and visit castles and art museums.
Place of departure is Avignon from where you have a superb central location to visit all the historical sites of the old city of Avignon. Looping through the charming countryside you finish back in Avignon near the Palais des Papes. Your itineraries are studied with care and patience ; they avoid the traffic and look up the highlights.
We offer a standard and very deluxe version of hotels, both options are great !
To
see
-The Palais des Papes and the pont d’Avignon.
-St Remy and see Van Gogh made over 150 paintings
-The Camargue and Camargue Gardoise
-Aigues Mortes, a famous medieval town surrounded by ramparts with its Tower of Constance
Gastronomy
Bouillabaisse, Pistou soup, the aïoli, the fougasse, Provencal beef stew, Tapenade, Herbs of Provence, the candied fruit, the Melonnette, the Gibassier, the Provencal atrium, the fougasse from Aigues-Mortes with orange blossom, the lavender, the courgette, the provencal tomatoes, the escalette, the gardiane de taureau
Wine
Cotes de Provence, Cotes du Luberon, Cotes du Rhône, Bandol, Pastis
Feedbacks
We very much enjoyed our self-guided cycling tour. We had great support and communication in the planning. Throughout our week everything went off as planned.
Mark B.
This was my second experience with Discover France and had, again, an amazing time with my children. If you want to discover, on your own, little cities in France, this is what you have to do.
Linda G.
Our first but certainly not our last trip to beautiful France! The routes were well laid out, the app worked well, the bikes were comfortable and the hotels were excellent.
Ingrid A.
We truly had a glorious time and only have compliments for you and your company. Equipment, information, assistance, accommodation were faultless and Solène at Discovery France took care of us from the first e-mail of enquiry until the end of the cycle trip. We truly can’t wait for our next adventure with Discover France. Anna.V
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Basic : 2* or 3* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Standard : 3* or 4* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
J-1
Arrival in Avignon
Arrive in Avignon, which is easily accessible from Paris by TGV. Make your way to the first hotel on your own. After checking in at your hotel, you will have the opportunity to explore the many sites of Avignon.
Included : Emergency support,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast
J-2
From Avignon to St Remy
A ride from Avignon to St Remy de Provence. You leave Vaucluse to join the Bouches-du-Rhone department with an itinerary that will take you to the top of the village of Graveson the very picture of what Provence evokes to you: cicadas, sun, convivial welcome, heritages, traditions and culture which represent the art of living in Provence, until Saint Remy de Provence a typically Provencal way of life. You’ll soon be strolling along the boulevards under the shade of century-old plane trees.
Distance : 44km (27mi)
Elevation : 293m
Accommodation : Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Accommodation : Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Accommodation : Hotel de l'Image**** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast
You may want to spend some time in the morning visiting St Remy and see Van Gogh made over 150 paintings. Your ride goes to Arles. The ride is not too long today, so in function of weather you can leave as wish. You will pass les Baux de Provence and the Abbey of Montmajour. Take some time to visit the site of Les Baux, walk the old stone streets, and imagine what it must have been like 2000 years ago.
Today, you enter the Camargue, this small piece of marshy land so rich in fauna, flora and atypical landscapes. You will first head towards St Gilles and then you will drive along the banks of ponds and swamps on small roads. Observe pink flamingos, egrets and start to smell the sea air. You reach Saintes Maries de la Mer and its beautiful beach, take the opportunity to wander through its small streets.
Distance: 57km (35mi)
Elevation: 80m
Accommodation : Hotel Les Palmiers** - Ste Maries de la Mer
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Accommodation : Hotel le Dauphin Bleu*** - Saintes Marie de la Mer
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Accommodation : Hotel Vila de la Mar**** - Saintes Maries de la Mer
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast
On this day, you will discover the Camargue Gardoise with the arrival at Aigues Mortes, a famous medieval town surrounded by ramparts with its Tower of Constance. You take a small road along the ponds and then a road to reach the arrival point. Enjoy Aigues Mortes, stroll through its streets and shops and visit the ramparts and the Tower of Constance where you can enjoy an exceptional view.
Distance: 56km (35mi)
Elevation: 55m
Accommodation : Hotel Canal*** - Aigues Mortes
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Accommodation : Hotel Canal*** - Aigues Mortes
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Accommodation : Hotel des Remparts**** - Aigues Mortes
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast
Today's itinerary follows the Mediterranean Sea and goes up to Montpellier, a cosmopolitan city in the Languedoc region. You will walk along the coast between sea and pond passing by well-known seaside resorts such as Le Grau du Roi, La Grande Motte and Carnon. You will take a bicycle path to reach Montpellier and its nice city center.
Distance: 44km (27mi)
Elevation: 60m
Accommodation : Hotel des Arts** - Montpellier
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Accommodation : Grand Hotel du Midi**** - Montpellier
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Accommodation : Grand Hotel du Midi**** - Montpellier
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom and breakfast
You can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Trains depart in all directions throughout the day.
Included : breakfast
CUSTOMIZED TOUR
This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Arrival city is Avignon, which accessible via train from Paris Gare de Lyon (2hrs 45min) or Paris CDG airport (3 hours). Taxi from rail station to hotel is approx.15 euros
-Departure from Montpellier, TGV trains to Paris or Paris CDG airport depart all day long.
The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 10 (or equivalent)
All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 20 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.
Available sizes : S (From 1m47), M, L, XL
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 20 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)
With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 20 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.
Available sizes : S, M, L, XL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Saddle bag containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Rear pannier (from S size)
Helmet
Odometer
Lock
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next
road.
Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Saddle bag containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump.
Rear pannier (from S size)
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.
Available sizes : S, M, L, XL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Details
Included
ACCOMODATIONS
-6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
-Daily breakfast at each hotel
BIKES
-Hybrid bike rental included
GEAR
-Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
-Guidance Application (phone not provided)
SUPPORT
-Orientation in person with our local guide
-Detailed ROAD BOOK, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
-Comprehensive trip literature
-Technical and emergency support available at all times
TRANSFER
-All luggage transfers
Not included
-Airfare to and from the trip
-Lodging before and after the trip
-Drinks
-Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.
-Multirisk travel insurance
Other questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
A charming hotel in Avignon, located in the very heart of the Pope's City, in a small quiet street. Near the Tourism Office and the antic walls, the hotel welcomes you in a XVIIIth century house. All rooms differ, decorated with relish, on 1st and 2nd floor without lift. Being able to receive 1 to 4 persons, all rooms have air-conditionned, private bathroom, telephone and TV. Thematic rooms ( morocco, indian, african ) has topic will make about you dream: come to discover them... Your hosts, Sylvie and Pascal, will be attentive to making your stay in Avignon as pleasant as possible, providing car rental information, train and plane schedules, suggestions for excursions...
http://www.hotel-boquier.com/en/
The charming hotel, Cloître Saint-Louis, is located in a 16th century building and combines historic and modern structures in the heart of Avignon. Initially a Jesuit novitiate, Cloître Saint-Louis became a military hospital in addition to an annexe of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris over the course of several centuries. Looking like new after a thorough renovation, Cloître Saint-Louis has been a cultural centre and 4-star hotel since 1991. Come and discover the Provencal art of living during your enchanted stay at Cloître Saint-Louis, only two steps away from the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) and famous bridge.
http://www.cloitre-saint-louis.com/en/
Set in an old mansion at the foot of the Palais des Papes in the heart of Avignon, La Mirande is steeped in secular history. This timeless refuge offers a dreamy, relaxing and authentic experience in a refines, 18th century-esque décor. The twenty-six upper-floor rooms boast a unique décor, each with its own 18th century wall hanging recreated by Braquenié, Le Manach, Canovas, Comoglio and Rubelli, to name a few. With both a gastronomic restaurant and a chef ’s table, the hotel serves honest, living cuisine with respect for ingredients and humankind; a culinary hymn to land and its biodiversity.
http://www.la-mirande.fr/#/fr/accueil/
Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
You are a few steps from the historic centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in the calm sanctuary of a peaceful neighbourhood where the hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ has found its roots. A small, entirely renovated, the charming hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ offers 14 comfortable ground-floor rooms, eleven of which have private terraces opening onto a garden shaded by magnificent centenarian fig trees. Setting itself apart from standardised hotels, the ‘Sous les Figuiers’ radiates a very personal atmosphere that will make you feel completely at home. Fig trees, flowers and an original decor which might be described as ‘contemporary baroque’ - everything is centred on well-being and personal attention, with an accent on natural simplicity.
http://www.hotelsouslesfiguiers.com/en/
Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
You are a few steps from the historic centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in the calm sanctuary of a peaceful neighbourhood where the hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ has found its roots. A small, entirely renovated, the charming hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ offers 14 comfortable ground-floor rooms, eleven of which have private terraces opening onto a garden shaded by magnificent centenarian fig trees. Setting itself apart from standardised hotels, the ‘Sous les Figuiers’ radiates a very personal atmosphere that will make you feel completely at home. Fig trees, flowers and an original decor which might be described as ‘contemporary baroque’ - everything is centred on well-being and personal attention, with an accent on natural simplicity.
http://www.hotelsouslesfiguiers.com/en/
Nestling in the heart of the Alpilles and Provence, the Hotel de l’Image is a luxury 4-star hotel. Located in the centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, this haven of peace reserves many surprises, such as a magnificent park at the rear of the hotel equipped with a very beautiful swimming pool. Also, you will be able to enjoy the restaurant les Terrasses de l’Image and its gourmet cuisine.
Young and design, this town centre hotel regularly hosts art exhibitions. For a relaxing “Spa” stay, take advantage of the Spa “La Maison d'Ennea”, located 900 meters from the hotel and accessible via a special shuttle service. Peace and quiet, well-being and visits around the Bouches-du-Rhône will be on the programme during your stay at the Hotel de l’Image.
http://www.hotel-image.fr/fr/hotel-luxe-saint-remy-de-provence-site-officiel.php
Opposite the Réattu Museum, next to the roman Thermes and steps away from the Rhône river, this enchanting hotel built in the 16th and 17th centuries is located in the heart of the historic city of Arles, a meeting and cultural place. The Hôtel du Musée is the ideal point of departure form wich to discover Arles "La Romaine" and explore the ancient and medieval monuments scattered throughtout the legendary Provencal landscapes.
http://www.hoteldumusee.com/
This large 17th century house, situated in the historic centre of Arles, has been tastefully transformed into a hotel Spa full of charm. It is surrounded by lush gardens, forming a veritable haven of green in summer and an open-roofed art gallery in winter. For all those who love Provence, the hotel Spa le Calendal provides a bright, airy and spacious setting where the colours, the material and the furniture all evoke that eternal Provence that has welcomed visitors so warmly down the centuries! The hotel SPA comprises 38 stylish and colourful rooms, ranging from the simple bedroom to the family suite. Views vary depending on their orientation - out over the Amphitheatre, the Roman theatre, the garden or the typical Provençal streets of Arles. All the rooms have been tastefully decorated to evoke Provence, the Alpilles, the Camargue and naturally Arles, both an historic and an artists' town.
http://www.lecalendal.com/
A former 17th century Carmelite convent, the Jules César is now a hotel of character which combines elements of the 18th century with contemporary art, without forgetting its past. Having been entirely renovated between late 2013 and early 2014 by the master of fashion Christian Lacroix, the hotel has impressed and surprised us. The hotel is a real journey through time, where nothing is left to chance. The days of yore are recounted in the lobby, with busts of Julius Caesar and Venus.Recounting everything that the building has experienced, from Antiquity to modern times, the luxury hotel offers real 5 star comfort. The bedrooms and suites, on the themes "Provençale","Monacale" and "Christian Lacroix" combine comfort and discovery. During your stay, you can enjoy taking advantage of the gourmet restaurant, the outdoor pool, the lounges or perhaps the bar, where you can get together for a drink, just as the residents of yesteryear would have done.
http://www.hotel-julescesar.fr/fr/index.php
Just 50 metres from the beaches, you will stay in one of the 31 comfortable rooms at the Hotel Les Palmiers. Set in a quiet street, you can enjoy the Camargue lifestyle on the terrace of this 2-star hotel in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. The hotel has been carefully decorated with touches of Camargue and Provence, combined with modern furniture.
https://www.hotel-palmiers.fr/en
Hotel le Dauphin Bleu*** - Saintes Marie de la Mer
Le Dauphin Bleu is a family hotel on a human scale, located on the seafront, in the center of the village of Les Saintes Maries de la Mer, just a few steps from the fine sandy beaches.the hotel is ideally located near all the shops, cultural activities, arenas, horseback riding and of course a stone's throw from the beaches, all of which will offer you an unforgettable vacation.
The hotel has a lounge bar, an outdoor terrace and free WIFI access throughout the hotel.
https://www.hotel-saintes-maries-camargue.fr/
Hotel Vila de la Mar**** - Saintes Maries de la Mer
Elegant simplicity and naturalness are the words that best describe the 30 rooms and 3 junior suites of the Vila de la Mar Hotel & Spa. The beds are made of driftwood. The pebbled or flagstone floors provide a mineral element, while the leather and hide furnishings evoke the Camargue and its bull ranches. This setting is enhanced with photos of bulls, horses and Camargue landscapes, as well as framed bandannas displaying the gardians' motifs. The atmosphere resolutely reflects authenticity.
For your comfort, take advantage of our 4-star facilities including a private furnished patio or terrace for relaxing, intimate moments. For couples and for family groups, Vila de la Mar offers a holiday site which is unique in Camargue.
https://www.viladelamar.com/en/hotel-spa-saintes-maries-de-la-mer
Hotel Canal is the contemporary boutique hotel in Aigues Mortes in Petite Camargue, in the Gard.
Between the Camargue, Languedoc, Cévennes and Provence, just a few steps from the ramparts of the fortified town of Aigues Mortes, along the Sète au Rhône canal, throughout the year, the canal hotel offers a peaceful and restful break of discovery.
This independent hotel, rated 3 stars, features 25 air-conditioned rooms, all equipped with free high-speed Wi-Fi and flat-screen TV. In the heart of the Petite Camargue, on the edge of the Mediterranean, a new stopover for you who are in search of another South.
Modern and friendly, built in the 50s, the hotel was completely restructured for its opening in March 2005, offering accommodation with a contemporary design, combining simplicity, efficiency, comfort and freedom of movement.
https://www.hotel-canal.fr/index.php/fr/
Hotel Canal is the contemporary boutique hotel in Aigues Mortes in Petite Camargue, in the Gard.
Between the Camargue, Languedoc, Cévennes and Provence, just a few steps from the ramparts of the fortified town of Aigues Mortes, along the Sète au Rhône canal, throughout the year, the canal hotel offers a peaceful and restful break of discovery.
This independent hotel, rated 3 stars, features 25 air-conditioned rooms, all equipped with free high-speed Wi-Fi and flat-screen TV. In the heart of the Petite Camargue, on the edge of the Mediterranean, a new stopover for you who are in search of another South.
Modern and friendly, built in the 50s, the hotel was completely restructured for its opening in March 2005, offering accommodation with a contemporary design, combining simplicity, efficiency, comfort and freedom of movement.
https://www.hotel-canal.fr/index.php/fr/
Located in Aigues Mortes in the heart of a unique location facing the Tower of Constance and inside the almost thousand-year-old ramparts, wishes of Louis IX. This hotel has 14 rooms with views of the walkway or the Tower of Constance. Take care of yourself in the spa and then we invite you to have a drink at the hotel bar.
https://www.remparts-aiguesmortes.fr/fr/hotel-de-charme-aigues-mortes
In the heart of the city centre, close to the famous Place de la Comédie and its Theatre, the Palais des Congrès, the Fabre Museum and the Corum, you will have access to all the leisure facilities: museums, cinemas, restaurants and means of transport: train station, tramway, bus....
All the rooms are equipped with shower or bath, WC, flat screen TNT TV, telephone, free Wifi and free internet access at the reception and in some rooms, air conditioning, all the hotel rooms are air-conditioned.
https://hotel-des-arts.fr/
The Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier - Opéra Comédieenjoys the ideal location for discovering Montpellier: it is situated where the heart of the town beats away, the famous Place de la Comédie.
It is there, at the foot of the Fontaine des Trois Grâces, that the people of Montpellier have always arranged to meet.
The Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier - Opéra Comédie is a charming hotel in a privileged location; historical curiosities as well as shows at the Opera are within walking distance.
https://www.grandhoteldumidimontpellier.com/en/
The Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier - Opéra Comédieenjoys the ideal location for discovering Montpellier: it is situated where the heart of the town beats away, the famous Place de la Comédie.
It is there, at the foot of the Fontaine des Trois Grâces, that the people of Montpellier have always arranged to meet.
The Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier - Opéra Comédie is a charming hotel in a privileged location; historical curiosities as well as shows at the Opera are within walking distance.
https://www.grandhoteldumidimontpellier.com/en/
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DURATION 7 days/6 nights
PRICE FROM 1738 €
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