This Provence bike tour is based in Avignon, and in the center of the old city near the Pope's Palace and the old train station. The location is perfect for cycling in/out of a big city. Avignon is a lively city with a historical center, important sites and charming old streets. You can stay at your choice of either an excellent 4 star or very deluxe 4 star hotel in Avignon.
On this cycling tour, you will be provided with different itineraries allowing you to discover the many landscapes and villages north, south, and west of Avignon. Key sites include the charming wine village of Chateauneuf du Pape, Pont du Gard, St Remy de Provence, Tarascon, Barbentane, Graveson or Tavel. You can choose the amount of cycling you want to do, or you can take a day off and visit. Rides are either short, long, or challenging!
To
see
Pont du Gard, Abbaye of St Michel de Frigolet, Avignon Bridge, walking the old streets of Avignon and visiting museums, or especially the arts. In July, the Festival of Avignon is a huge performing arts program at multiple venues.
Gastronomy
Bouillabaisse, Pistou soup, the aïoli, Provencal beef stew, Tapenade, Herbs of Provence, the candied fruit, the Melonnette, the Gibassier, the Provencal atrium, the fougasse, the lavender, the courgette, the provencal tomatoes
Wine
Cotes de Provence, Cotes du Luberon, Cotes du Rhône, Bandol, Pastis
Feedbacks
We very much enjoyed our self-guided cycling tour. We had great support and communication in the planning. Throughout our week everything went off as planned.
Mark B.
This was my second experience with Discover France and had, again, an amazing time with my children. If you want to discover, on your own, little cities in France, this is what you have to do.
Linda G.
Our first but certainly not our last trip to beautiful France! The routes were well laid out, the app worked well, the bikes were comfortable and the hotels were excellent.
Ingrid A.
We truly had a glorious time and only have compliments for you and your company. Equipment, information, assistance, accommodation were faultless and Solène at Discovery France took care of us from the first e-mail of enquiry until the end of the cycle trip. We truly can’t wait for our next adventure with Discover France. Anna.V
Hands down the best adventure organization I’ve ever worked with abroad. This will be my 5th time returning to the TdF in 2025 with Discover France. Gabriel and the reservation team do everything they can to make your trip exactly as you hope. If there’s something they can or cannot do they work with you all the way. It’s a very one-on-one, professional and reassuring process for reservations abroad.
The programs are incredibly memorable, with exclusive VIP access that exceeds any other TdF organizations. Their focus is the riding, course, and to make sure your experience on a bike is as good as it can possibly be. Other programs offer different bells and whistles to their TdF packages but absolutely nothing is as exclusive, personalized, and uniquely small-group as Discover France programs.
You do not need to be an expert rider for the programs. But experience and at least comfort on a bike is needed. The rides can also be tailored on a daily (or even hourly) basis to the rider/group skill, weather, overall energy level that day, and your personal preferences. Support vehicle with special French credentials allows for Discover France to provide a van with you the entire trip. Sun, clouds, rain, sleet/snow (yes…it’s the Pyrenees or Alps), hot and cold: there is always a vehicle that can help you along the way and offer a place to bring along your gear like the professionals.
Shout out to: Florentin and Titouan for spectacular rides and support expertise. Finally, Thomas and Aurelian are two of the most dedicated cycling enthusiasts and leaders of a one-of-kind organization. Their dedication and leadership is evident from the top down as all of the guides and employees seem to love their works as much as they do.
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
Upon arrival in Avignon, you can take a taxi to arrive at your charming hotel in the center of Avignon just near to the Palais des Papes in central Avignon. After check-in, you are free to explore the rest of the day in this charming town.
You can go for a walk in the city center of Avignon (on your own) by following our walking tour that you will find by clicking on the link in your travelbook. In three riding days, you can choose from several itineraries, the following itineraries are examples. We can also suggest some longer, more challenging rides for those interested. This format allows for people of all abilities to come along, including non-riding participants. We can suggest visits by car and arrange spa treatments among many possible ways to spend an exciting day in the Avignon area!
Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,dinner (no drinks),bedroom and breakfast the next morning
Walking tour in Avignon
Walking Tour - After you settle in at your hotel you can visit Avignon in a unique way with our cultural walking tour in the historical center! Our Walking Tour will introduce you to the most important sites and give you a fun way to pass a few hours after your arrival.
J-2
Avignon Loop Collias Pont du Gard
A taxi will drive you to Collias where you can start a canoe trip. We will transfer you with your bikes so after the canoe trip you can return back to the hotel by bike. This is your day to see the Pont du Gard, the 2000+ year old Roman aquaduct spanning the Gardon River on which you will canoe ! The Pont du Gard is a marvel of history and a nice ride by bicycle through fragrant Provence.
Canoeing in the Gardon's gorges - An 8-km (5mi) route which will lead you from the small village of Collias to its Majesty the Pont du Gard. No particular major difficulty on the descent, your only obligation is to be at least 6 years old and be able to swim. Canoe trip is about 2 hours.
Note: Canoeing is a water-based activity, so bring a change of clothes if necessary.
J-3
From Avignon LOOP to Chateauneuf du Pape
Today is a loop to Chateauneuf du Pape. This charming wine village just to the north of Avignon is a perfect ride. It is flat and picturesque with vines surrounding the old town of Chateauneuf. You have all day and mostly flat terrain to cover and a lunch in Chateauneuf with the local product is highly recommended before visting and return to Avignon.
Distance : 66 km (41 mi).
Elevation : 350m.
Since you stay at the same hotel, you can decide to go for another ride today instead of going to Chateauneuf du Pape. Our local guide will recommend which ride is best to do each day.
From Avignon LOOP to Frigolet or Tarascon or St Remy de Provence
Today you will have the possibility to choose between 3 itineraries from the shortest to the longest one according to the time you want to spend on the bike :
The short option (1) take you to Barbentane and the impressive Abbaye of St Michel de Frigolet.
With the medium option (2) you go deeper in the south of Avignon and the charming village of Tarascon, still including the Abbbaye of St Michel de Frigolet and Barbentane.
On the long option (3) you will add the well-known town of St Remy de Provence to your ride of today.
Distances : Option 1 : 45 Km (30 mi) // Option 2 : 76 Km (47 mi) // Option 3 : 95 Km (58 mi)
Elevation : Option 1 : 397 m // Option 2 : 530 m // Option 3 : 580 m
Today is departure day, you can take your time getting started in the morning, have breakfast and depart at your leisure from Avignon by train for Paris or other destination. (Depart on your own). Additional nights can be arranged, please inquire.
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 Avignon; 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
- 4 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast
- 1 dinner included in Standard & Upgraded version
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
ACTIVITIES
- Canoe tour to Pont du Gard
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...)
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/
The charming hotel, Cloître Saint-Louis, is located in a 16th century building and combines historic and modern structures in the heart of Avignon. Initially a Jesuit novitiate, Cloître Saint-Louis became a military hospital in addition to an annexe of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris over the course of several centuries. Looking like new after a thorough renovation, Cloître Saint-Louis has been a cultural centre and 4-star hotel since 1991. Come and discover the Provencal art of living during your enchanted stay at Cloître Saint-Louis, only two steps away from the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) and famous bridge.
http://www.cloitre-saint-louis.com/en/
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/
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/
The charming hotel, Cloître Saint-Louis, is located in a 16th century building and combines historic and modern structures in the heart of Avignon. Initially a Jesuit novitiate, Cloître Saint-Louis became a military hospital in addition to an annexe of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris over the course of several centuries. Looking like new after a thorough renovation, Cloître Saint-Louis has been a cultural centre and 4-star hotel since 1991. Come and discover the Provencal art of living during your enchanted stay at Cloître Saint-Louis, only two steps away from the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) and famous bridge.
http://www.cloitre-saint-louis.com/en/
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/
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/
The charming hotel, Cloître Saint-Louis, is located in a 16th century building and combines historic and modern structures in the heart of Avignon. Initially a Jesuit novitiate, Cloître Saint-Louis became a military hospital in addition to an annexe of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris over the course of several centuries. Looking like new after a thorough renovation, Cloître Saint-Louis has been a cultural centre and 4-star hotel since 1991. Come and discover the Provencal art of living during your enchanted stay at Cloître Saint-Louis, only two steps away from the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) and famous bridge.
http://www.cloitre-saint-louis.com/en/
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/
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/
The charming hotel, Cloître Saint-Louis, is located in a 16th century building and combines historic and modern structures in the heart of Avignon. Initially a Jesuit novitiate, Cloître Saint-Louis became a military hospital in addition to an annexe of the Hotel des Invalides in Paris over the course of several centuries. Looking like new after a thorough renovation, Cloître Saint-Louis has been a cultural centre and 4-star hotel since 1991. Come and discover the Provencal art of living during your enchanted stay at Cloître Saint-Louis, only two steps away from the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) and famous bridge.
http://www.cloitre-saint-louis.com/en/
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/