FAQ for Cycling in Provence with Getaway by Bike

Below you’ll find answers to a few of our most frequently asked questions. If you have any more questions, please contact us.

Jump to: Weather, Riding in Provence, Bike Hire pros and cons, General tourism in Provence, Travelling to Provence

Road and Weather Conditions

What are weather and temperatures like in Provence?
Provence can be a little unpredictable! However, generally speaking, between late April and late September, the climate and temperatures in Provence are normally very pleasant (although it can get quite hot during July and August). Provence gets about 300 days of sunshine per year so for most of the time the skies are blue and the sun is shining! The following is a list of the average maximum temperatures in Provence (temps on the coast will always be slightly warmer than in the inland areas). Of course, in July and August the temps can peak well into the mid-high 30’s:

Average Temperatures
March: 11-14c. (51 - 58f.)
April: 16-19c. (60 - 66f.)
May: 17-21c. (63 - 70f.)
June: 26-27c. (78 -80f.)
July: 28-29c. (82 - 84f.)
August: 28-29c. (82 - 84f.)
September: 24-25c. (75 - 77f.)
October: 19-22c. (66 -71f.)
November: 14-16c. (58 - 60f.)

Spring - temperatures are usually between 6 and 20 degrees and the skies are generally clear and blue, the mornings crisp and the evenings cool. There are the occasional periods of torrential rain but they never usually last long. April weather is less predictable than May. It will be warm enough to wear shorts and sleeveless tops in the middle of the day but you will probably still need a jacket or light jumper/sweater at night.

Summer - temperatures rise dramatically during summer and can reach the mid to high thirties (occasionally pushing 40 degrees), although average maximums are usually between 27 and 30 degrees. The air is often hazy in the early morning but usually burns off by the afternoon. Temps are always cooler up in the mountains and down on the coast. Fortunately, the heat is a dry one rather than a humid one but make sure you dress appropriately, carry plenty of water around with you and drink it regularly. Take extra care when cycling or if you are not used to such high temperatures.

Autumn - summer start to recede, the days are still fairly warm but you will need warmer wear for the nights as temperatures start to get chillier. Average autumn temps are between 10 and 22 degrees. Occasional heavy storms are a feature of the later summer and autumn months so be prepared with wet weather gear for outdoor activities. Autumn is one of the best times of the year as the climate is still generally fairly mild, the days are not as short as they are during winter and there are less tourists and travellers out on the roads and in the towns and market areas.

Winter - whilst winters can be fairly reasonable along the Mediterranean coastline, inland temperatures can plunge down to minimums of between minus 8 and 10 degrees with maximums of up to about 7-10 degrees (a deadly minus 25 up on Mont Ventoux where many routes remain impassable - you are strongly advised not to attempt to ride up Mont Ventoux during winter) and the best place to be is probably indoors around a log fire! Snow falls in the mountains (Mont Ventoux will be snow-capped) and occasionally, although not every year, down on the flats. Cyclists should be appropriately dressed and equipped for the snow and cold, wet weather. Temps are even colder when the infamous Mistral wind is blowing so you will need to be well and truly rugged up if you are planning to visit Provence between December and early March. Hats, scarves and gloves are an absolute must. The mistral wind blows on and off throughout the year but it is at its iciest during winter. Its only saving grace is that it does blow the haze and clouds away leaving you with beautifully sunny, cloudless, blue skies! Furthermore, you certainly won’t have to fight off the crowds during the winter; by the same token many places will be closed as well so plan your trip with that in mind.

How much daylight do you get in Provence?

The days are long and languid in the south of France during the Summer months as the sun doesn’t set until almost 9.00pm and even then it is followed by a lovely twilight period before night finally falls sometime between 9.30pm and as late as 10.00pm during the height of Summer. Spring and Autumn sunsets are usually sometime between 8.00pm and 8.30pm, followed by about a 30 minute twilight period.

Is it likely to rain while we are there?

Provence receives about 300 days of sunshine every year so you would be unlucky to experience rain while you are here! Rain more often occurs during the later autumn months but never usually lasts long. It might rain overnight or early in the morning but will usually clear after a couple of hours. Don’t bother bringing an umbrella or wet weather gear (unless it can fold up small).

Riding

What’s the terrain like in Provence?

The terrain can be surprisingly hilly in Provence. There are certain areas where the countryside is fairly flat (around Avignon, and heading in a south-westerly direction towards L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Cavaillon, St Remy, Arles, and the Camargue etc.) However, in the eastern and northern region of Provence taking in the Luberon, the lavender fields in and around Sault, the northern wine belt area (with the exception of the area around Orange and Chateauneuf-du-Pape), and north of Vaison-la-Romaine, the countryside is undulating, rolling and at times quite hilly.

What’s the traffic like? What’s the best time of the day to ride?

Generally, the amount of traffic on the road and traffic flow is pretty good. However, on major highways and roads leading in and out of larger centres such as Avignon, Nimes and Arles and during peak hours in major towns and cities, traffic can be quite heavy and congested. It is best to avoid peak hours altogether. Try to start your day early (e.g. before 8.00am if possible) or set out after 9.30am when the traffic has eased off a bit. One of the quietest times of the day (if you can handle the heat) is between 12.00pm and 2.00pm (as most businesses are shut and people are at home or in cafes eating lunch). One of the busiest times to be out on the road is between 4.00pm and 6.30pm, so, unless you enjoy fighting the traffic and sharing the road with lots of large trucks, you are well advised to avoid riding at this time of the day, particularly on major roads around Cavaillon, St Remy and Arles. Provence is awash with roundabouts which facilitate the flow of traffic, and most of the roads in the region are interconnected and very well sign-posted. French drivers tend to drive fast but are generally competent, considerate drivers (although they are a bit lax when it comes to indicating their intentions, so be alert!). On a positive note, road rage is rare - French drivers are used to sharing the roads with cyclists and are generally very respectful of riders. If you are used to hazardous riding conditions and battling the road with other motorists just to stay upright then you will find riding around Provence a pleasant and relaxing experience!

Can we ride two abreast?

Technically not although most riders do ride two abreast. During the summer months the travelling population doubles around Provence so be aware and considerate of other riders and motorists sharing the road with you (not all of them are on holidays!). Most country roads around Provence are fairly narrow (certainly compared to roads in Australia and the US) so it is best to ride in single file rather than two abreast.

Can we buy takeaways for lunch?

“Fast-food” outlets are still quite sparse in the south of France, however it is possible to buy sandwiches, filled baguettes, and boxed salads from certain cafes, shops and petrol stations. Your cheapest and most convenient bet would be to buy your pre-prepared lunches from one of the larger supermarket chains such as Intermarche. They sell packaged sandwiches, and salad boxes, as well as fruit and other snacks. Not all supermarkets will be open during the middle of the day, so don’t leave your lunch purchase until then - buy either first thing in the morning before you head off for the day’s ride or purchase just before closing time at midday.

Riding gear and accessories

What sort of riding preparation should I do before hand?

As with anything, if you have put some effort and preparation into your trip you are going to enjoy yourself so much more than if you had done nothing. Riders should have a reasonable to good level of fitness and have had recent riding training and experience across a variety of terrain, including hills. You should always seek medical advice before commencing any kind of physical activity. The following training guidelines might assist you; bear in mind however that these are guidelines only. You will need to take into account the exact nature of your route (how much climbing will be involved), your own physical condition, age, any medical issues, and riding experience and prior training. Our itineraries usually involve riding every day which may be more than you are normally used to. Begin your training program slowly and then gradually build up over the months preceding your trip. But above all, make sure you have fun! This is not the Tour de France - it is your hard-earned, well-deserved holiday! Relax and enjoy it!

If you are planning to do:
Itineraries of up to 30km per day - you should be riding at least once or twice a week and doing up to 60km per week. Your rides should include some climbing.

Itineraries of between 30km-50km per day - you should be riding at least twice a week and doing up to 100km per week. Your rides should include some climbing.

Itineraries of between 50km-80km per day - you should be riding at least two-three times per week and doing up to 150km per week. Your rides should include some significant climbing.

Itineraries of 80km plus per day - you should be riding a minimum of three-four times per week and doing up to 200km per week. Your rides should include some significant climbing.

As our self-guided trips are not escorted, guided tours, it goes without saying that you (or someone in the group you are travelling with) should have some basic knowledge of your bike mechanics and be able to change a flat tyre if needs be.

Do I need to wear a helmet?

Helmets are not compulsory under French law but Bikestyletours.com insists that its clients wear helmets at all times when out on the roads as a safety precaution and to protect you in the event of an accident.

Should I bring my own bike or hire one over there?

There are pros and cons to bringing your own bike/hiring one in Provence, so I have listed them out for you - you make up your mind!

Hiring a bike:
Pros: None of the hassles of carting a bike around with you on flights/trains; no additional expenses associated with transporting a bike from overseas to France, hired bike is delivered to the door of your hotel, in a clean, as-new condition, no time spent assembling/disassembling the bike when you arrive and depart; back-up repair/technical support provided with hire bike; opportunity to ride a superior carbon-fibre bike (if yours is an aluminum one!)
Cons: Your hire bike may take some getting used to as it will obviously not be the same as your own; if you have a top of the range carbon fibre bike we may not always be able to hire you a bike of a similar caliber (although we will do our best!)

Bringing your own:
Pros: You know exactly what you are dealing with - so there will be no time wasted adjusting to and getting used to a new bike; it maybe cheaper to bring your own bike rather than hire one.
Cons: See pros above for hiring a bike!

My advice is: if you are really particular about the type of bike you ride and are very attached to your own bike then I recommend that you bring your own. If this does not apply to you, then hiring a bike might be the best way to go. Bear in mind however that the hire bike will naturally feel different to your own - that is to be expected - and there will be an initial adjustment, “getting used to it” period on the first morning’s ride. Stick with it and you will soon be enjoying your bike and the delights of riding around Provence.

Bringing my own bike - What type of bike and equipment do I need?

A well set up road or hybrid bike that has been serviced before departure is best. You won’t be going off road unless you get the map reading wrong!!! (That has happened! The dog at the farmhouse made it pretty clear to the last group of riders that they weren’t wanted.)

You will need to use gearing to suit your strength and fitness level. To give you an idea:

Lawrie (competitive 47 year old masters cyclist) uses a 53/39 front and 13/27 rear.
John (a pretty fit 58 year-old) uses a triple 32/42/52 front and a 13/26 rear.
Natalie who is (was) a recreational cyclist uses a similar gear set to John, and
Vincent (a fit 46-year-old who trains between 200-300km per week during the season around Provence and climbs Mont Ventoux 6-7 times per year) uses a 53/39 front and 13/26 rear.

You might not use all the gears but it is useful to have them available. You can discuss your needs with Lawrie or Vincent before your trip and they can assess your fitness levels and suggest suitable gearing based on your strength/fitness levels and what you plan to do on your cycling holiday in Provence.

You will need to carry your normal tool kit on the road such as spare tube, tire levers, pump etc. All hire bikes come fitted with their own tool kits. As for other equipment - it is really up to you. You may wish to carry spare clothing, extra food, camera, raincoat and shoes capable of walking in to spare your cleats. On past trips we have had people who have taken this gear on a daily basis and others who have not bothered. It often depends on the particular day and weather conditions. If you intend to carry gear on a daily basis we suggest using a handlebar bag as this is the most convenient way to carry things and has proven to be the best. The wearing of helmets is not compulsory in France but Bikestyletours.com insists that all clients bring one along (or we can hire one for you) and wear it on a daily basis.

Should I bring my own pedals, saddle helmet, bike computer, tool kit, locks, water bottles etc?

Pedals and saddles are personal things and you want to feel comfortable first and foremost whilst riding. We therefore strongly recommend that you bring your own pedals and saddle if you are hiring a bike - just let us know at the time of hiring what type of pedals you are bringing. It won’t be necessary to bring a tool kit, helmet, locks, bike computer or water bottles as we can supply all of that (for free). That should save you a bit of room in your suitcase!

Should I bring winter riding gear if I am going to ride up Mt Ventoux?

If you are riding up Mt Ventoux between mid-May and late September then you won’t need to bring winter riding gear. Be aware though that, even in the middle of summer, and with a breeze blowing, it can be cool up on the summit and you should protect yourself from getting chilled by not spending too long at the summit after you have ridden up there. We would advise that you bring winter riding gear if you are riding outside of those times (e.g. between October and April) and particularly if you are used to only riding in warmer conditions.

Should we lock our bikes up if we stop somewhere?

Yes, definitely! We can supply locks or you can bring your own if you prefer. Hired bikes should be securely locked whenever you are stopped for a period of time, particularly in touristy places such as tourist sights and attractions, car parks, in towns and villages etc and of course overnight at your hotel.

General tourism

What’s the best time to see the lavender?

Lavender blooms from late June to September and is harvested from mid-July to late August, the exact time of course depends on the region, the plants and the seasonal weather. If you want to be sure to catch the lavender in bloom then you should plan your visit from mid-June to mid-July. You should also plan your riding itinerary around towns, villages and areas where the lavender is prevalent (particularly the Luberon region and over to Sault and the Vaucluse plateau). There are lavender distilleries in the region which might also be of interest; a visit could easily be incorporated into your itinerary.

What’s the best time to be in Provence?

Provence has something to offer everyone all year round. Spring is beautiful as the flowers start to bloom and the air is still cool and crisp, summer is gloriously hot (with plenty of cultural events on show) and of course not forgetting the wonderful ripe fruit in season, and Autumn has a special magic all of its own as the colours turn golden brown and the heat dissipates somewhat.

Do I need to be able to speak French?

Being able to speak a few words of French may add to the enjoyment of your trip but it is certainly not a necessary requirement of this trip. There are English-speaking staff in the hotels you are staying in and many wait staff in restaurants speak a little English. Your tour organisers, Wendy and Vincent, are bi-lingual and are only a phone call away if you need help of any kind!

Travelling to Provence

What’s the best way to get to Avignon?

There are many different travelling options from both the UK and other international destinations. We have listed below the most popular ways of getting yourself down to the south of France:

Train Travel with Eurostar and the TGV

One of the quickest, easiest, and most popular ways of getting from London to the south of France is by Eurostar/TGV train. Throughout the year there are frequent departures from London’s Waterloo or Ashford stations, followed by a simple platform change at Lille for your connecting trip down to Avignon. Journey times are approximately 7hrs, 30 minutes. During the summer months (June through to September), there is a direct rail service from Waterloo to Avignon with a journey time of approximately 6hrs, 15 minutes. For further information and bookings, contact www.eurostar.com

For those travelling from Paris, trains depart at regular intervals from all major stations including Roissey Charles de Gaulle Airport, Orly Airport, Gare de Lyon, Gare de Nord and Gare de Est. The trip from Paris to Avignon generally takes between 2.45hrs - 3.15hrs depending on whether the journey is direct or not. Some services stop in Lyon. Make sure that your destination is Avignon TGV Gare and not Avignon Central (which is located in the centre of town). We will assume that you are arriving at TGV Gare and we will be collecting our clients from TGV Gare unless we are otherwise advised.

Car Hire/Train

Provence is approximately a 10-12hr drive from the Channel ports. Motorists might find the following web site links useful for route directions:
www.aferry.co.uk
www.poferries.com

If you want the convenience of having your own car whilst you are in Provence but prefer not to drive it through France, then train services are an excellent way to go. They run from late May to early September, departing Calais early in the evening and arriving in Avignon early the next morning. There is a wide choice of sleeping accommodation from 4-6 berth couchettes to two berth first class sleeping compartments. For full details of timetables, further information and bookings contact Rail Europe at www.raileurope.com

Air Flights

There are many regular, low-cost flights from the UK and Paris to the south of France. The most convenient destinations are Nimes (about a 1-hour drive to Avignon) and Marseille (about a 1hr, 15 minute drive to Avignon). From 2006, bi-weekly flights commenced from Southampton direct to Avignon.

Train travel to Avignon

Do I need to book train tickets prior to travel and can I do that outside of France?

It is highly advisable to book your tickets prior to travelling, particularly if you are planning on travelling to France during the height of the tourist season (between the end of June and the beginning of September). France is one of the most visited countries in the world, visitor numbers swell during the summer months, and seats on trains will be at a premium during those particular periods, over weekends and on national holidays. You must have an authorised, validated ticket for travelling on the TGV. Tickets cannot be purchased from the conductor on the train. Failure to produce a ticket will result in heavy penalties (not to mention being kicked off the train at the next stop!) We strongly advise that you reserve a seat as well (particularly during the busy summer months) or you may find yourself standing up for the entire 3-hour journey which will not be a comfortable experience (especially if you have just arrived into France on a long-haul flight!)

Can I carry my bike on the TGV?

Yes you can. Usually you will be traveling with your bike in a case so it will be classed as luggage. I suggest you arrive early at the platform so you get you bicycle into one of the luggage racks located at the ends of each car (carriage). I have also had a conductor escort me to the baggage car where the bike has traveled and then collected me before arrival to get the bike.

However if your bike is not in a case you will need to reserve a seat on a train specifically designated to carry bikes. Not all TGV train services allow bikes on board so check carefully at the time of making your reservation that you have reserved a seat on one of the trains that do accommodate bikes. In addition to reserving a seat on a train designated to carry bikes, you will also need to ensure that your bike is sealed securely.

Booking your ticket for you and your bike.

Depending on where you live it is not always possible to buy a TGV ticket online so you may have to book through your travel agent in the country where you live or wait until you arrive in France and book it at a train station. The latter depends on when you arrive as it’s best to have a few days to spare.

If you are travelling with an assembled bike your first step in planning a trip with your assembled bike is to determine whether there are trains to your destination that carry assembled bicycles. For information, navigate to the Internet page http://www.voyages-sncf.com/guide/voyageurs/TrainVelo.htm . Or, if this URL doesn’t work, go to http://www.velo.sncf.com, and click the link “Transporter son Velo”. Now, in either case you will need to click “En savoir plus sur la transport de votre velo”, which brings up a table of major destinations in France (Grandes Lines) which have transport of assembled bicycles. Alternatively you may prefer to speak to someone on the phone rather than navigating your way around the website. In either case, you will eventually need to contact SNCF directly in order to make your reservation if you are travelling with a bike. To do this simply call SNCF directly (Tel:) +33 (0) 892 35 35 39 (English-speaking service). The operator should be able to handle most train destinations, not only Eurostar. You can receive information without making reservations. If you are willing to pay for your tickets by credit card and to have them delivered in France or pick them up at the railway station before your departure, you can make your reservations on line. If you are taking your bike you will need to book by this method (by telephone).

Booking your ticket without a bike.

Reservations not involving the transportation of bikes can be made either by booking in advance, booking on-line or purchasing a ticket at a railway station in France on arrival.
To book online, go to the following website: www.voyages-sncf.com. When the home page opens up, scroll down to the bottom of the page; in the left-hand corner click on the English language icon. You will then be linked to the English version booking screen. We recommend at the time of making your booking that you take out cancellation insurance (it’s usually only an extra 2 euros but worth it if you need to/or are forced to cancel your reservation).

Once you have completed the booking you may be given a choice regarding the collection of tickets. You may be able to print them out yourself or alternatively provide a French address to which they can be sent. If you have your tickets sent to a private French address you will need to organize the retrieval of your tickets well in advance. This may not be the most convenient option to take, particularly if you have left your train travel booking to the last minute! If you are planning to book on-line we recommend that you do so at least 6-8 weeks in advance. Generally, it is not possible to book on-line more than 2 months in advance.

On arrival in France, you can purchase a ticket for the day of your departure by going to a ticket window at the station or purchasing a ticket at one of the automatic vending machines. Leaving your purchase until the last minute however can be a little risky particularly during the busy summer months when seats are at a premium. If you are travelling with a bike, this option, whilst possible, is not advised. You may face a wait if you can’t board the next available train.
When booking your tickets allow yourself plenty of leeway in terms of the time taken between arriving off an international flight and boarding your train for Avignon. You should allow yourself at least a 2-hour window in case your flight is delayed or you need to change stations.

How should bikes be carried on the TGV?

You can carry your bike onto any train as long as it is secured in a sealed bike bag, bike box or bike case. If you have travelled with your bike from an international destination you will have already had to secure your bike in a sealed bike bag/box for travel by plane. When the train arrives at the platform and comes to a complete stop, carry your bike onto the same car in which you will be sitting. (Note: seating is always reserved on TGV trains.) Place your bike in the oversized luggage storage area at the entrance of the car. If you have any questions or concerns, stay with your bike until you have an opportunity to speak with a conductor.

If the conductor has placed your bicycle case in the baggage car: You are responsible for both loading and unloading your bike. Similarly, you should prepare in advance for your bike’s retrieval from the baggage car as you near your destination. As the train nears your stop, walk through the train to the exit nearest the baggage car. When the train stops make a beeline to it, as you will have limited time (about 1-2 minutes at most) to load and unload your bike, not to mention your other luggage! An important point to remember - French trains always keep to their schedules and will not wait for late passengers!

How long does it take to get from Paris to Avignon by train?

Journeys can take anywhere between 2.45hrs and 4hrs depending on whether they are direct or not. When you reserve your ticket look for trains that travel directly from Paris to Avignon rather than those that stop in Lyon, as this can add up to an extra hour or more onto your journey. If your train does stop in Lyon, check to see if you are continuing on the same train or if you need to change trains. If your continuing journey from Lyon to Avignon is on another train, you will have to de-board and possibly even change platforms in order to catch the connecting train onto Avignon. If you are travelling with a bike then you are well advised to travel on a direct train between Paris and Avignon saving you the hassle of getting on and off trains at Lyon.

Thanks for reading! If you have any more questions, please contact us.

Frequently asked Questions