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 the Rhone River areas. Discover some great wine, 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 Camargue and Camargue Gardoise, Aigues Mortes, a famous medieval town surrounded by ramparts with its Tower of Constance, Carbonnière Tower, Nîmes, visit of this magnificent Roman city with its arenas, its Maison Carrée, its Jardins de la Fontaine, its Tour Magne and its Museum of Romanity.
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 olive of Nîmes, the gardiane de taureau
Wine
Cotes de Provence, Cotes du Luberon, Cotes du Rhône, Bandol, Pastis
Feedbacks
5/5
5/5
|Traveled in June 2023
We had a truly great trip, it was pretty much exactly as we expected! Our bikes were good and in good shape. We had no mechanical issues.
The hotels we stayed at were really lovely. Thank you again for your assistance Tatiana. I’m sure we
...’ll be back in touch for another tour.
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
Arrival 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,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom, city tax and breakfast the next morning
J-2
From Avignon to Saint-Remy-de-Provence
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 : Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa ***** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Included : luggage transfer,Itinerary (no cue sheets),bedroom, city tax and breakfast the next morning
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** - Saintes 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, city tax and breakfast the next morning
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, city tax and breakfast the next morning
Start from Aigues Mortes to reach the Carbonnière Tower and drive through the Gardoise countryside. You will pass through typical villages such as Générac where you can observe the traces of votive festivals on the doors and gates of the houses. You finally arrive in Nîmes, enjoy a thorough visit of this magnificent Roman city with its arenas, its Maison Carrée, its Jardins de la Fontaine, its Tour Magne and its Museum of Romanity.
Distance: 43km (27mi)
Elevation: 215m
Accommodation : Hotel de l'Amphithéatre*** - Nimes
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Accommodation : Appart'City Confort Nimes Arenes**** - Nimes
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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 Nimes ; same return travel time to Paris.
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 30unisex (or equivalent)
All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L
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 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)
With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.
Available sizes : 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 :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Rear pannier
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 :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump.
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."
The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise.
Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
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."
SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)
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 :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
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
ACTIVITIES
Visit to the gardens of the Arnaga villa
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
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)
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/
Housed in a beautiful old building with a majestic façade, right in the heart of Avignon, the Hôtel De Cambis invites you to a gentle and pleasant stopover on the Wine Route.
The experience begins as soon as you arrive, in the colourful and intimate setting of the wine bar, where the hotel reception is hidden away. Then it's on upstairs that the immersion continues. Here, the Premiers Crus, Grands Crus and Millésimes are rooms to be tasted with your eyes.
https://www.hoteldecambis.com/
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/
Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa ***** - Saint-Remy de Provence
Le Vallon de Valrugues & SPA is a 5-star hotel located in Saint Remy de Provence, overlooking the Alpilles, 600 m away from the city center, a mere stone's throw away from great hikinng trails and the famous Vang Gogh route. This is the ideal base to set off and explore Provence. Most of its 48 elegant rooms and suites have been refurbished. The gourmet restaurant offers Provencal themed menus using seasonal local products. The hotel boasts a 500 m² spa complete with six treatment rooms , a hammam, sauna, whirlpool bath, fitness room and two heated pools – one indoor and one outdoor.
http://www.vallondevalrugues.com/uk/hotel-luxe-spa-saint-remy-de-provence-vallon-de-valrugues-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
The Hotel de l'Amphitheatre in Nîmes was originally two private mansions from the 17th and 18th centuries that were brought together to become this charming little hotel with 11 rooms, renovated and decorated in soft, warm colors.
The rooms of the Hotel de L'Amphitheatre are equipped with flat screen television and air conditioning. For even more convenience, they even have free wi-fi.
https://www.hoteldelamphitheatre.com/
Appart'City Confort Nîmes Arenes is located in the historic center of Nîmes, a 1-minute walk from the arena, 300 meters from the train station and near an underground public parking lot. Wi-Fi connection is free.
Studios and apartments at Appart'City Confort Nimes Arenes feature a flat-screen TV and a seating area. Their fully equipped kitchenette includes a microwave and hotplates. The private bathroom has a bathtub or shower.
Breakfast includes a variety of breads, croissants, fruit salad, fresh fruit and various cheeses. Yogurt and a variety of organic teas are also available.
Finally, the nearest airport, Nîmes-Garons, is in Garons/Saint-Gilles, 12 km from the Appart'City Confort Nimes Arenes.
This is the preferred neighborhood for travelers visiting Nimes, according to independent customer reviews.
https://www.appartcity.com/fr/destinations/languedoc-roussillon/nimes/nimes-arenes.html?utm_source=google&utm_medium=mybusiness&utm_campaign=nimes-arenes
Located just a stone's throw from the Maison Carrée and the Jardin de la Fontaine, on the edge of the quays, treat yourself to a mythical interlude at the city's most iconic hotel. This hotel with 53 rooms and 8 warmly luxurious private homes awaits you for an escape with family or friends. An invitation to travel accentuated by a 350 m² Codage spa and an exceptional culinary experience signed by Pierre Gagnaire.
https://www.maison-albar-hotels-l-imperator.com/