Average rating Self-Guided Provence Cycling Holiday

If you want to bask in the splendour of the French countryside, hopping on a bike is the best way to get around and the Provence region is always a treat for avid cyclists. Staying in a beautiful 17th century farmhouse B&B, you’ll head out each day armed with a top-of-the-range GPS system, luxury bike and a head for exploration!

Petty rivalry aside, both England and France have some equally impressive country sides. Provence is one of France’s gems, and coupled with the gorgeous Mediterranean summers we envy so much there really isn’t any reason not to spend a week in this sun-kissed rural haven.

And more than just sleepy villages and rolling scenery to meet you on your arrival. Provence is a cultural representation of all things French - fine wine and finer cuisine with historical points of interest dating back to Roman antiquity. Of course, you’ll need a way to get around it all and the information to plan your trip - this tour is an open-ended and highly flexible cycling experience with all equipment provided, as well as fabulous accommodation (top rated 2nd out of 90 B&Bs in the area on Tripadvisor) and some fantastic meals to look forward to after a day’s exploration.

The highlights on this Provence Cycling holiday are plentiful, and all experienced on your own terms and timescale. Want to take a gentle cycle to Gordes village for lunch before ambling around its historically rich stone streets? Fancy a more technical ride through the back routes coupled with museum visits? Your hosts will be able to provide heaps of advice to help you tailor an itinerary to your own tastes, but feel free to simply make it up as you go along!

There are a couple of things you probably won’t want to miss, however; if you’re looking for a cycling challenge punctuated with some of the best views in Provence, have a go at Mont Ventoux (nearly 2000m high, which takes a good couple of hours to conquer).

If you want a break from your bike for a day, there are as many as four (yes, four!) UNESCO World Heritage sites in the vicinity. These include the Pont du Gard aquaduct, the gigantic Roman theatre at Orange, the Popes’ Palace in Avignon and the Arles gladiatorial arena - all deserving of both the UNESCO title and your time.

As the tour is conducted on your own terms, the riding can be as technical or as easy-going as you fancy. You'll be given a copy of the Ride Directory which helps you pick your ride for the day and the sights that you want to take in - you'll then use a top range GPS system to make sure you stay on track!

Given that you could be in the saddle for a long time, the bikes that you'll use are quality Lapierre Hybrids. They feature 24 gears, a comfortable riding position and tyres and we can even throw in a gel seat cover to reduce sore bums. However, if you plan on using your own bike the tour cost will be reduced by 75 Euros - just mention it when booking.

The Provence farmhouse is a great romantic getaway and very highly recommended for couples! Families are also welcome.

Be advised that the height of summer (July/August) can see temperatures soar into the 30s with a high sun, so avoid these months if you’re not good with the heat and definitely pack lots of sun cream no matter what time of the year.

Getting there

You can fly from the UK to Marseille or Avignon, or you can come by train to Avignon. From there, the best option is to hire a car. Driving time from Marseille is 50 mins and Avignin is 25 mins.

Price details

Price for two nights / three days from 270 Euros



Price for six nights/seven days from 809 Euros (£707) per person depending on room

Available

Apr—Oct

Typical Duration

2 days - 1 week

Comfort level

Reasonably comfortable (Inns, B&Bs, luxury camping etc.)

Experience required

A reasonable level of fitness and interest is all that is needed