TRIP DETAILS:
Trip Duration: 8 days, 7 nights
Average Daily Distance: 50km (30 miles) to 80km (50 miles) per day
Stays: 2 nights St Remy
3 nights Gordes
2 nights Vaison-la-Romaine
2008 Dates: Between April and October
Start: St Remy-de-Provence (transfer from Avignon TGV Station)
Finish: Vaison-la-Romaine (transfer to Avignon TGV Station)
Accommodation: 3 and 4 Star Quality Hotels in traditional Provençal villages
Group Size: Minimum 2 people
Cost: AUD $3250/person (riders), AUD $2955 (non-riders)
Deposit: USD* $892/person - Reserve now
Single supplementary fee: AUD $950

Inclusions

• Seven nights accommodation in luxury 3-4 star hotels in traditional Provencal villages, breakfasts daily (taxes included)
• Transfers between the train station (or airport) and hotels
• Daily luggage deliveries from hotel to hotel
• 3 gourmet dinners
• 1 day’s guided ride OR 1 day’s guided sightseeing excursion
• Bike hire (Seven days bicycle hire including free delivery and bike accessories such as helmets, computers, repair kits, water bottles, pumps and locks)
• Comprehensive information pack on arrival, containing day-to-day itineraries, guide book, route maps and directions, travelling information and tourist brochures
• 24-hour back up support and assistance if required including regular contact with tour guides and access to a cell phone for the duration of the trip
• Back-up technical/mechanical assistance with hire bikes

Extra options

Bicycle Hire/Upgrade: Additional cost
Guided Bike rides: Additional cost
General tour guiding: Additional cost
Wine Tours: Additional cost

Day 1: St Remy-de-Provence

Getawaybybike staff will be at the train station (or airport) to meet you and transfer you to your four-star luxury hotel in St Remy-de-Provence. Your hire bikes will be delivered on arrival, as well as your cycling itinerary and information pack. There will be time to put your bike together and have a short shake-down ride if you wish; staff will be on hand to provide any technical assistance and support if required. Depending on the time of your arrival, there should also be opportunities to do some sightseeing in St Remy itself. Tonight there will be a welcome dinner at your hotel in St Remy.

St Remy-de-Provence, immortalized by Van Gogh and other painters who fell in love with the region, is a charming medieval town, historically rich, prosperous and with a somewhat chic ambience.

Day 2: St Remy-de-Provence

Today we have a few rides for you to choose from depending on what you would like to see and how far you would like to ride. Free night. Feel free to choose from one of the many tempting brasseries or restaurants in the town centre of St Remy.

Circuit 1: Abbaye-de-St Michel-de-Frigolet and Alpilles
Distance: 57.5km (36 miles)

This option offers you the choice of riding both circuits in one go or doing the Abbaye de St Michel-de-Frigolet circuit in the morning and then doing the Alpilles circuit in the afternoon.

Abbaye-de-St Michel-de-Frigolet
Distance: 30km (19 miles)

Easy, flat riding; this circuit will suit beginner riders who can ride the distance; moderate incline up to Abbaye-de-St-Michel-de-Frigolet; moderate level of fitness required. Take a picnic lunch and picnic under the trees in the grounds of the Abbaye.

The beautiful 10th Century abbey, l’Abbaye de St. Michel-de-Frigolet is in a tranquil setting and is famous for its unique thyme-flavored liqueur produced by the monks.

Alpilles Circuit
Distance: 27.5km (17 miles)

Generally flat apart from steep climb up to Les Baux and around Les Alpilles hills; moderate to good level of fitness required. Stop in at the Roman site of Glanum and explore the roman antiquities on the route to Les Baux. We recommend the old village of Les Baux-de-Provence for lunch. Classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Les Baux is situated in the heart of the Alpilles on a rocky plateau 245m high. From the lookout, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of the Camargue, the city of Arles and the Alpilles mountain chain across the olive tree-studded valley below.

St Remy - Arles Circuits
Distances: Between 54km and 76km depending on routes chosen

There are many different ways of getting to and from Arles from your home base at St Remy. We have 4 different riding options, each with its advantages and disadvantages; you could do the round trips suggested or chose one option one way and another option for your return trip back. This ride will suit most riders with a good level of fitness to ride the distance and climb the Les Baux hills (if you choose this route). Be aware that the traffic on most of the routes leading into and around Arles is very heavy.

Option 1: Nice flat road, no climbing, heavy traffic, chance to cross the Rhone River and pass through the pretty port village of Beaucaire, scenic route between Beaucaire and Forques near Arles. Round trip - 70km (42 miles)

Option 2: Steep climb through the Les Baux/Alpilles hills (less traffic, very scenic). From St Martin-de-Crau, flat, easy riding, less scenic, traffic leading into Arles from St Martin-de-Crau. Chance to explore the Roman site of Glanum, the Roman Antiquities outside St Remy and Les Baux-de-Provence village. Round trip - 72km (43 miles)

Option 3: Steep climb through the Les Baux/Alpilles hills on the way to Fontvieille, flat after that. Scenic ride with interesting sights to see e.g. Daudet’s Windmill at Fontvieille and Abbaye de Montmajour near Arles. Also, there is the chance to explore the Roman site of Glanum, the Roman Antiquities outside St Remy and Les Baux-de-Provence village. Heavy traffic after Fontvieille. Round trip - 76km (46 miles)

Option 4: Nice flat road, no climbing; stop in and see Daudet’s Windmill at Fontvieille and the Abbaye de Mont Majour near Arles. Not particularly scenic however if you are wanting to get to Arles quickly this is the shortest distance although traffic will be heavy closer to Arles. Round trip - 56km (34 miles)

The city of Arles (52,000 inhabitants), once a mighty metropolis during the golden age of Roman Gaul and symbol of ardent Christianity, is now the gateway to the beautiful Camargue. It is also France’s largest township covering some 77,000 hectares, including two-thirds of greater Camargue. Encircled by the banks of the Rhone River, the arid plains of Crau, the Alpilles mountain chain, and the untamed marshlands of the Camargue, it is a city of exceptional beauty. Explore the Roman monuments such as the famed arena where bull-fights and camarguaisse races are held; admire the town’s stately private mansions from the 16th and 17th centuries; or lunch at one of the many outdoor cafes and shaded terraces and discover why this city has intrigued and inspired artists such as Van Gogh, Gauguin and Picasso over the centuries.

Tonight you’re free to dine at one of the many restaurants in the town in St Remy.

Day 3: St Remy de Provence to Gordes
Distance: 72km (43 miles)

From St Remy-de-Provence, your trip takes you first south to Mausanne-les-Alpilles and then back north-east to Mas de la Brune and then over to the pretty town of Gordes. You will travel along picturesque roads, through quiet villages and cross over the Durance River before arriving in Gordes. The jewel in the Provencal crown, Gordes is one of the “must-see” villages in this region. Listed as one of France’s “most beautiful villages” and popular as a summer retreat with film stars and artists alike, the village of Gordes will impress with its exceptional charm and unique stone architecture.

Dinner will be provided tonight in a local restaurant in the village. After dinner why not take a stroll around town and enjoy the magnificent views of the Luberon.

Day 4 and 5: Gordes

Once again we have a few rides for you to choose from depending on what you would like to see and how far you would like to ride.

Circuit 1 : Venasque/Bories/St Didier
Distance: 70km (42 miles)

This one is for the climbers and those who love sharp descents! It is a reasonable length and there are a couple of very steep climbs - riders should therefore be experienced and have a very good level of fitness for this ride. Look out for the interesting Bories huts along this route. Suggested stop for lunch in Venasque. Looking for a sugar fix later in the afternoon? Stop in at the Nougaterie/Chocolaterie in St Didier!

Classified as “one of the most beautiful villages in France” Venasque sits majestically atop a rocky outcrop dominating the Nesque Valley and the Carpentras plains. Venasque is one of the oldest villages of the Comtat Venaissin and its interesting and dramatic past is reflected in the buildings and sites that makes this village a worthwhile detour off the normal touristy path.

Located between Pernes-les-Fontaines and Venasque, the charming little village of St Didier is set within the superb environs of the Vaucluse hills. The main street is lined with gorgeous platane trees and cafes, providing a cool spot during the warmer months of the year to relax over a refreshing drink or ice-cream.

Circuit 2: Discovery Petit Luberon
Distance: 70km (42 miles)

This is a fantastic circuit through pretty countryside - however it’s a long ride with some steep climbs up into the Luberon villages and through the Luberon National Park; riders should be experienced and have a very good level of fitness for this ride. Recommended stop for lunch - Lourmarin or Lacoste.

Situated in the heart of one of the biggest ochre deposits in the world, Roussillon is famous for its magnificent red cliffs and ochre quarries. From its ochre cliffs, tunnels and canyons streaked with colour from the brightest yellows to the deepest reds, ochre is everywhere in Roussillon and the surrounding countryside. The contrast between the red cliffs, the blue Provencal sky and the thick green of the pines and heather clinging to the wooded summits is both startling and beautiful - it is not surprising that Roussillon has been classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France.

Classified as one of “the most beautiful villages in France”, Bonnieux is built on a plateau above the valley, its houses spread out on the hill-side in harmonious earth-toned colours and shapes. From afar you will see the 425m church tower well before you actually arrive in the village itself.

The tiny village of Lacoste (just over 400 inhabitants) is another typically charming Provencal village situated in the heart of the Petit Luberon. Its claim to fame is that it is where the famous chateau of the notorious Marquis de Sade is situated.

Circuit 3: Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Circuit and Abbaye-de-Senanque/Venasque
Distance: 56km (34 miles)

This option offers you the choice of riding both circuits in one go or doing the Fontaine-de-Vaucluse Circuit in the morning followed by lunch in Gordes and then onto our Abbaye-de-Senanque/Venasque Circuit in the afternoon.

Fontaine-de-Vaucluse
Distance: 26km (16 miles)

This is a very pleasant route; although it is not long you will need to have some fitness to tackle the ride back up to Gordes! Moderate to good level of fitness required. Explore the mysterious spring at Fontaine as well as the Petrarch Museum. Suggested lunch spot is Fontaine with its lovely setting by the River Sorgue.

Abbaye-de-Senanque/Venasque
Distance: 30km (19 miles)

This is not a long ride but the terrain is undulating and there are some steep climbs up into Venasque and on the return ride from the Abbaye-de-Senanque to Gordes. However, the views are spectacular and the villages are gorgeous. Make sure you stop into the Abbaye and take a guided tour. This pretty circuit requires a good level of fitness and some climbing experience. Suggested stop for lunch is Venasque.

On nights four and five feel free to dine in one of the tempting little bistros or restaurants in and around the village of Gordes.

Day 6: Gordes to Vaison-La-Romaine
Distance: 50km (30 miles)

From Gordes, your route takes you northwards, through beautiful sun-drenched country across to Mazan, then Bedoin skirting around the mystical Giant of Provence, Mont Ventoux. You then continue on past the classic Provencal village of Malaucene and arrive in the old Roman town of Vaison-La-Romaine, the jewel of Roman Provence. Steeped in Roman history and rich in architecture, Vaison is a delightful village; its many gorgeous tree-shaded outdoor restaurants and cafes, bustling markets, wine and gourmet festival, and wonderful Provencal boutiques will no doubt tempt you back for another visit!

Dinner will be provided at your hotel-restaurant tonight.

Day 7: Vaison-La-Romaine

Today is your last day of riding, so make the most of it! Again we have a few rides for you to choose from depending on what you would like to see and how far you would like to ride.

Vallee de Toulerenc Circuit
Distance: 70km (42 miles)

This is a glorious riding route with a great mix of climbing, flat stretches, and descents - all set against a magic scenic mountain back-drop! This circuit will suit experienced riders with a very good level of fitness. Suggested stop for lunch - Brantes (for traditional Provencal fare and unbeatable views).

Mont Ventoux Classic Circuit
Distance: 74km (44 miles)

Challenge yourself like the Tour de France professionals and tackle the “giant of Provence”! Mont Ventoux is a challenging ride for amateur and professional cyclists alike. This ride should only be attempted by riders who have a very high level of fitness and significant recent mountain climbing experience. Pay particular attention to the sharp corners on the descents.

Known as the “Giant of Provence”, Mont Ventoux stands at 1912 meters and is the highest mountain in Provence. The name “Ventoux” derives from the word “vent” for wind and it is indeed windy up at the summit! Although Mont Ventoux looks as if it is perpetually snow-capped, the white stuff is in fact an arid carpet of limestone gravel. The views from the summit are spectacular and, on a clear day, you can see from the Alpes to the Pyrenees.

Wine Route Circuit
Distance: 53km (32 miles)

This one is for the wine lovers! The terrain is mostly flat or rolling with a small climb and should suit riders with a moderate to good level of fitness. There are plenty of opportunities for wine tastings at the many Domaines (wineries) scattered throughout this corner of Provence. Suggested stop for lunch - Gigondas.

Over the centuries, Vacqueyras has largely been an agricultural centre, its principal crop being its wine production. With vineyards extending as far as the Dentelles de Montmirail ranges, it produces one of the three major vintages of Cotes du Rhone wines. Although this village has long been regarded as a producer of wines of renown, it was not until 1990 that local wine-growers obtained official recognition for the quality of their wines and were bestowed with the Cotes du Rhone AOC classification. Known the world over for its famous Muscat (and equally distinguished Cote-du-Rhone village reds and whites), Beaumes-de-Venise actually derives its name from the famous prehistoric caves (or baumes) to be found in the hill overlooking the town.

Tonight feel free to dine at one of the many restaurants in Vaison-la-Romaine. You will have probably discovered some hidden gems during your wanderings around this delightful Roman town. What better way to celebrate a memorable trip to Provence than with a glass or two of Cote du Rhone.

Day 8: Vaison-La-Romaine

All good things must come to an end and it’s time to say au revoir to beautiful Provence. We hope that your trip has been an enjoyable and memorable one and that we will see you again in the not too distant future!

On your last day our Getawaybybike staff will collect you from your hotel in Vaison-la-Romaine, transfer you to the railway station in Avignon, and assist with your departure.

If you would like to reserve this trip go to our Reserve a Trip page.Or if you would like to be kept up to date with details of our trips please go to our Enquire About a Trip Page.