TRIP DETAILS:
Trip Duration: 8 days, 7 nights
Average Daily Distance: 80km (50 miles) plus 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 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 in St Remy with your tour organisers. 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.
Tonight there will be a welcome dinner and an early night for your first ride tomorrow.

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. Tonight feel free to dine at one of the many bistros or restaurants in the town of St Remy. Free night. Feel free to choose from one of the many tempting brasseries or restaurants in the town centre of St Remy.

Circuit 1: Nimes/Pont-du-Gard
Distance: 105.5km (66 miles)

This ride affords you the opportunity to explore the elegant and beautiful former Roman town of Nimes and take in the magnificent 2000-year old Roman aqueduct - the Pont-du-Gard. You might find time for a swim in the Gardon River at the Pont-du-Gard after a long, hot bike ride! This ride is long, though generally flattish; whilst there is no climbing involved, riders should be experienced and fit enough to tackle the sheer distance and heavy traffic likely to be encountered in and around the town of Nimes. The sights will be well and truly worth it though! Best place for lunch - picnic lunch on the banks of the Gardon River at the Aqueduct, followed by a swim or canoe along the river after lunch. There are also cafes and restaurants at the site as well.

The vibrant, festive city of Nimes (140,000 inhabitants), was founded some 2000 years ago, and its cultural legacy owes much to the cultivated and artistic Emperor Augustus. Its history is indelibly etched in its fine Roman monuments, ancient ruins, beautiful gardens, and stately mansions, and much of the past has been preserved for posterity within its many museums and galleries. Hailed as one of the greatest feats of Roman engineering, the magnificent Pont du Gard aqueduct was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus in 19BC. Its purpose was to channel fresh water across a 45km stretch of land from the Eure River spring near Uzes to the nearby town of Nimes, thus supplying the many fountains and thermal baths within the metropolis. This graceful bridge, spanning the Gardon River, is the crowning glory of the ancient aquaduct.

Day 3: St Remy de Provence to Gordes
Distance: 72km (45 miles)

From St Remy-de-Provence, your trip takes you first south to Maussane-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 the stunning hill-top village of 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. Free night tonight – why not take a stroll around this beautiful town and take in the sights and magnificent views of the Luberon. Besides the restaurant in your hotel there are plenty of other tempting bistros and restaurants in and around the village of Gordes from which to choose.

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: Discovery Petit Luberon
Distance: 99.5km (62 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 is Bonnieux (there are several restaurants that offer excellent menus and superb panoramic views of the Luberon countryside over to 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. 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.

Circuit 2: Ochre Trail
Distance: 117km (73 miles)

This delightful circuit is an interesting mix: vine-covered terrain, ochre cliffs and classified villages. The roads are quiet and peaceful, the countryside undulating apart from some steep climbs up into the Luberon villages. Highlights of this ride are Roussillon, Apt, Bonnieux and Gordes. Suggested stop for lunch: Apt. 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.

Apt is situated in the heart of the Luberon Nature Reserve between the mountains of Vaucluse and Luberon. This pleasant city, so typical of Provence, is well reputed for its local products; it even boasts the classification of “site remarquable du gout” (a place of wonderful tastes). 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 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.

Circuit 3: Gorges de la Nesque/Sault
Distance: 117.5km (73 miles)

The distance and significant climbing through the spectacular Gorges de la Nesque and up into the villages of Sault and La Roque-sur-Pernes requires that riders have a very good level of fitness for this ride. Suggested stop for lunch is Sault. Situated near the end of one of the gorge systems that cut through northern Provence, is the Gorges-de-la-Nesque, a spectacular rift through the white calcareous rock of the plateau. Although not as huge as the Verdon Gorge, it is still very impressive. This breath-taking winding mountain road, described by locals as a cyclist’s paradise (and you are sure to see why!) takes you through a number of hair-pin bends and turns, all of which offer jaw-dropping views. As you wind your way around the gorge, you will also pass a number of pretty mountain-side villages, including Villes-Sur-Auzon and Monieux before arriving in Sault.

This road is a popular route for motor-cyclists and touring motorists of all descriptions, particularly during the summer months when the crowds head to the cool of the mountains to escape the summer heat. Situated on the border of a great wooded plateau, blooming with lavender, Sault is a very appealing place to indulge the senses. Here is nature in its true glory! The town is surrounded by immense blue/purplish tracks of lavender alternating with fields of wheat for as far as you can see - superb! Your second dinner of the tour is reserved for night four. Details are provided in your day-to-day itinerary. Free night on night five. Why not take a stroll around this beautiful town and take in the sights. There are plenty of tempting bistros and restaurants in and around the village of Gordes from which to choose.

Day 6: Gordes to Vaison-La-Romaine

There are many ways to get to Vaison from Gordes and here are some of our suggestions:

Option 1: Via Sault
Distance: 108km (68 miles)

If you chose not to ride the Gorges de la Nesque route the other day, today might be the perfect opportunity to challenge yourself on this spectacular ride. Leaving Gordes, the fifth leg of your trip takes you north-east, through the spectacular Gorges de la Nesque, past lavender fields and onwards to the pretty mountain villages of Sault, Aural and Montbrun-Les-Bains. The scenery is postcard pretty and riders will enjoy getting off the beaten track and into the Provencal “wilderness”. This route, which snakes around the back of Mont Ventoux, passes the pretty hill-side village of Crestet. Several kilometers down the road the ride finishes in the old Roman town of Vaison-La-Romaine.

Option 2: Via Mont Ventoux
Distance: 86km (54 miles)

Today is your chance to challenge yourself like the Tour de France professionals as you head across the “Giant of Provence” - Mont Ventoux! For road bicycle racing enthusiasts, the mountain can be climbed by three roads. This route takes you up from Bedoin: 22 km over 1610 m. This is the most famous and difficult ascent. The road to the summit has an average gradient of 7.6%. After you descend down the Malaucene side continue riding through this beautiful sun-drenched corner of Provence, past the pretty villages of Malaucene and Crestet before finally arriving in Vaison-La-Romaine, tired but satisfied! Bedoin is a lovely little agricultural village situated in the heart of the Mont Ventoux region. Spread out over a large area, it comprises several hamlets all of which are blessed by the region’s sunny Mediterranean climate. Bedoin is noted for its AOC wine as well as the high quality fresh fruit and vegetable produced here. Malaucene is the capital of the Ventoux and nestles within the old ramparts. The village is shaped around its ancient fort, which stands at the highest point of the village. The old town is partly surrounded by a remarkable avenue lined with ancient platane trees and its cafes provide a welcome respite for riders. All that remains of Malaucene’s fortified enclosure are a few of the gates. One of these, the Soubeyran gate, was used during the Revolution as a gallows for public hangings.

Option 3: Via Beaumes de Venise
Distance: 80km (50 miles)

From Gordes, head north-eastwards, through beautiful sun-drenched country across to Mazan, skirting around the mystical Giant of Provence, Mont Ventoux, before arriving in the wine village of Beaumes-de-Venise. Continue on through the heart of the wine growing area passing Vacqueyras and Gigondas before finishing in the old Roman town of Vaison-La-Romaine. 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. 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! Your third dinner of the tour is reserved for night six. Details are provided in your day-to-day itinerary.

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.

Circuit 1 - Mont Ventoux Classic
Distance: 74km (46 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.

Circuit 2: Romans and Vineyards
Distance: 82.5km (52 miles)

This circuit is generally quite flat and, although long, it should suit most riders with a good level of fitness to ride the distance (no climbing involved)! This is THE route for the wine lover - suggested stop for lunch is Chateauneuf-du-Pape, followed by wine tastings in the village itself, as well as at Vacqueyras, Gigondas and Sablet. Located between Avignon and Orange, Chateauneuf-du-Pape spreads out at the foot of the remains of its fortress castle. The village looks over the plain of Comtat and the 3 000 hectares of vine fields. The village is almost completely dedicated to its world famous wine “Chateauneuf du Pape” which is also part of the similarly famous Cotes du Rhone. In the 14th century Pope Jean XXII, chose Chateauneuf as the location for their summer residences, and then decided to plant vines on the stony land which surrounded their landholdings.

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. Gigondas, this little village with its great name is situated in Upper Vaucluse at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail. This little village with only 700 inhabitants is an absolutely essential stop for lovers of this world renowned vintage. In Roman times the village was called “Jocunditas” which means joy or rejoicing - its famous vintage was already appreciated in those days.

Southern Drome/Provence
Distance: 116.5km (73 miles)

This is a long, but beautifully scenic ride through mainly rolling/hilly countryside with a few steady climbs thrown in. This ride is designed for the experienced rider with a good level of fitness to handle the distance and occasional climbing. There is a nice restaurant at Crupies or, alternatively, take a picnic lunch with you. There are plenty of lovely spots along the way to stop for a picnic. 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.