Best of Provence - a big title really considering all the great aspects to be found and experienced in this enchanting region of France! This tour is a combination of several of our tours with some longer riding in between in order to give a little bit of different places: Drome Provencale, Vaucluse, Luberon, Alpilles, Gard, and the Rhone River areas. Discover some great wine, some amazing historical villages, pass through lavender fields, olive groves, and visit castles and art museums.
Place of departure is Avignon from where you have a superb central location to visit all the historical sites of the old city of Avignon. Looping through the charming countryside you finish back in Avignon near the Palais des Papes. Your itineraries are studied with care and patience ; they avoid the traffic and look up the highlights.
We offer a standard and very deluxe version of hotels, both options are great!
To
see
Côtes du Rhone' de Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Roman ruins of an ancient Roman village of Vaison la romaine, Mont Ventoux, Ochre hills, Fontaine de vaucluse, Alpilles mountain range and the rock of, Les Baux de Provence
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
Testimonials
« 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
»
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
Arrival in Avignon, which is easily accessible from Paris by TGV. Make your way to the first hotel on your own. After checking in at your hotel, you will have the opportunity to explore the many sites of Avignon.
Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast
J-2
From Avignon to St Paul 3 Châteaux
In the morning, ride through the vineyards of the renowned appellation 'Cotes du Rhone' de Chateauneuf-du-Pape, and then continue on to Serignan du Comtat, then Rochegude before reaching St Paul in the lavender country.
Distance : 77 Km (48 mi).
Elevation : 380 m.
Accommodation : Le Victoria Boutique Hotel*** - St Paul Trois Chateaux
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Accommodation : Le Victoria Boutique Hotel*** - St Paul Trois Chateaux
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Accommodation : Chateau de Massillan **** - Uchaux
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Today the ride is somewhat long but over flat to rolling country and will bring you in the village of Visan ; then to Vaison la Romaine, built in the Middle Ages and with original Roman ruins of an ancient Roman village. Then to Bedoin where you will stay at the foot of the imposing Mont Ventoux. If you have the legs and desire, you can climb Mont Ventoux from Bedoin - the classic climb ! 21 km to the top and min 2 hours round trip for strong riders.
Ride to Gordes with an option to ride to Roussillon and back to Gordes. This itinerary will bring you through the village of Fontaine de Vaucluse before climbing to Gordes, your final destination. If you choose to go to Roussillon, you can discover the famous ochre colored soil that is mined and used in pigment to color homes locally and far away.
Distances : 51 or 68 Km (32 or 42 mi).
Elevation : 710 or 835 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Mas de Carcarille*** - Gordes
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Accommodation : Hotel Mas de Carcarille*** - Gordes
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Accommodation : La Bastide de Gordes***** - Gordes
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)
A ride from Gordes to Saint Remy de Provence. You leave Vaucluse to join the Bouches-du-Rhone department with an itinerary that will take you via Coustellet with its lavender museum to melon-town Cavaillon. A short steep walk (or ride) will take you the top of the village of Eygalieres, a panoramic viewpoint from where you see the Durance River valley, Alpilles mountain range and the rock of Les Baux de Provence. Then finish your ride in St Remy de Provence, the epicenter of Provencal culture, native town of Nostradamus and residence of Vincent Van Gogh.
Distance : 51 Km (32 mi).
Elevation : 210 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Accommodation : Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Accommodation : Hotel de l'Image**** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Straight to Avignon is not so far, but to miss the fantastic site of the Pont du Gard would not be doing the Best Of ! So, we take you on a route west of Avignon to see the Pont du Gard. Arriving in the afternoon in Avignon center, you can visit Avignon after check in to your hotel.
Distance : 74 Km (46 mi).
Elevation : 672 m.
NOTE : You won't have many possibilities to buy supplies on the route between the Pont du Gard and Rochefort du Gard. During summer we recommend that you buy some water bottles in St Remy de Provence or Tarascon.
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
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
- 6 nights of accomodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast at each hotel, 1 dinner included
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
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...)
TRANSFER
- All luggage transfers
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/
Le Victoria Boutique Hotel*** - St Paul Trois Chateaux
Located in Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, Le Victoria Boutique Hôtel features a bar and a terrace. Featuring a restaurant, this 3-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. The hotel has family rooms.
A buffet breakfast is served each morning at Victoria Boutique Hotel.
The Victoria Boutique Hotel is 45 km from Avignon and 23 km from Montélimar. The nearest airport, Avignon-Provence, is 50 km away.
https://levictoriaboutiquehotel.com/
Le Victoria Boutique Hotel*** - St Paul Trois Chateaux
Located in Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, Le Victoria Boutique Hôtel features a bar and a terrace. Featuring a restaurant, this 3-star hotel offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi. The hotel has family rooms.
A buffet breakfast is served each morning at Victoria Boutique Hotel.
The Victoria Boutique Hotel is 45 km from Avignon and 23 km from Montélimar. The nearest airport, Avignon-Provence, is 50 km away.
https://levictoriaboutiquehotel.com/
The history of the Château dates back to 1555 when it is said to have been built from a hunting lodge where Diane de Poitiers, the famous lover of King Henry II of France, visited. Château de Massillan has 20 Rooms and a luxury Suite for you to enjoy throughout the estate. The heart of the Château, the main historic building, has 13 rooms and a luxury suite and the Trianon du Soleil. All our rooms embrace nature with their splendid materials and fabrics through the harmony of feng shui. You can marvel at the beautiful view from "l'Orangerie" in the gourmet, organic restaurant, unwind in the inner courtyard to the peaceful sound of trickling water from the fountain, recline on the sun loungers next to the swimming pool as well as explore or relax in the gardens spread over nine hectares of the estate.
http://www.chateaudemassillan.fr/
The Hotel la Garance set in a Old farmhouse transformed in charming hotel that has kept all the charms of its origin as a provencal farm. Surrounded by olive and cherry trees situated at Sainte Colombe only 4 km from Bedoin. The Hotel offers 16 rooms with comfortable beds, a shaded garden and swimming pool with an exceptional view on the Mont Ventoux.
http://www.lagarance.fr/
Treat yourself to an enchanting stay at the foot of Mont Ventoux at the Hotel des Pins. At the north of the Vaucluse department, in Bédoin, this 3-star hotel is waiting to give you a warm Provençal welcome. Take advantage of the hotel’s ideal location in a village overlooked by the Giant of Provence, it is the perfect starting point for exploring the stunning surrounding area. At the hotel, take advantage of the 23 rooms and three suites, each on which enjoys its own individual identity and ambience. Whether the rooms have a natural, designer, Baroque, contemporary or romantic theme, each one combines cosy and comfortable surroundings with unrivalled tranquillity. The Hotel des Pins also invites guests to take a seat in its restaurant, L'Esprit Jardin. In the dining room, on the sunny terrace or on the patio, savour a seasonal cuisine inspired by the produce on offer at the local Vaucluse markets. In the shade of the pine trees, dive into the swimming pool and unwind in the garden, soothed by the gentle song of cicadas.
http://www.hotel-des-pins.fr/en/
Crillon le Brave***** - Crillon le Brave (4km bedoin)
Hotel Crillon le Brave is a relaxed and informal refuge where you can enjoy all of the simple pleasures of Provence. Located about 25 miles northeast of Avignon, the hotel occupies much of the old historic centre of Crillon le Brave, a tiny hill village surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. The 34 rooms and suites are located in eight old village houses that are connected by bridges, alleyways and hidden courtyards. Each of the renovated houses has its own charm and character that reflect the rich history of the village.
http://www.crillonlebrave.com/
Situated at the heart of Luberon, the hotel with restaurant Carcarille conjugates simplicity, authenticity and modernity. At the foot of the village of Gordes, classified among the most beautiful jewels of Provence, this family ancient country-house invites you in the silence and in the rest. The tone is given from the entrance by singulars centenarians cypress which guide the look towards an impressive house in dry stones with the strong character, which comes down gradually towards a nature where push olive trees, vineyard and almond trees. Well-kept and cosy atmosphere, cooking full of local flavors, thoughtful service, will make you live a unique experience of the Provençal lifestyle.
http://www.carcarille.com/en
Situated at the heart of Luberon, the hotel with restaurant Carcarille conjugates simplicity, authenticity and modernity. At the foot of the village of Gordes, classified among the most beautiful jewels of Provence, this family ancient country-house invites you in the silence and in the rest. The tone is given from the entrance by singulars centenarians cypress which guide the look towards an impressive house in dry stones with the strong character, which comes down gradually towards a nature where push olive trees, vineyard and almond trees. Well-kept and cosy atmosphere, cooking full of local flavors, thoughtful service, will make you live a unique experience of the Provençal lifestyle.
http://www.carcarille.com/en
La Bastide de Gordes, overlooking Gordes, one of France’s most beautiful villages, in the magical setting of the Luberon region, makes time stand still. Beautiful 16th century property, ideal for guests looking for a change of scene and wishing to recharge their batteries in sophisticated surroundings. Uninterrupted view of the Luberon and Alpilles, where you can enjoy the gentle Provençal way of life. Hanging gardens, terraces, the Sisley Spa and lovely bedrooms, with the valley at your feet. The décor of the 34 bedrooms and 6 suites is inspired by the original 18th century château, with comfortable, well-furnished rooms, decorated with a thousand antique treasures, providing a perfect blend of traditional elements and modern sophistication. Some of these cocoon-like bedrooms, decorated in subtle tones, are further extended by a private terrace. All have direct access to the 1600 m2 Spa Sisley.
http://www.bastide-de-gordes.com/
Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
You are a few steps from the historic centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in the calm sanctuary of a peaceful neighbourhood where the hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ has found its roots. A small, entirely renovated, the charming hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ offers 14 comfortable ground-floor rooms, eleven of which have private terraces opening onto a garden shaded by magnificent centenarian fig trees. Setting itself apart from standardised hotels, the ‘Sous les Figuiers’ radiates a very personal atmosphere that will make you feel completely at home. Fig trees, flowers and an original decor which might be described as ‘contemporary baroque’ - everything is centred on well-being and personal attention, with an accent on natural simplicity.
http://www.hotelsouslesfiguiers.com/en/
Hotel Sous les Figuiers*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
You are a few steps from the historic centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, in the calm sanctuary of a peaceful neighbourhood where the hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ has found its roots. A small, entirely renovated, the charming hotel ‘Sous les Figuiers’ offers 14 comfortable ground-floor rooms, eleven of which have private terraces opening onto a garden shaded by magnificent centenarian fig trees. Setting itself apart from standardised hotels, the ‘Sous les Figuiers’ radiates a very personal atmosphere that will make you feel completely at home. Fig trees, flowers and an original decor which might be described as ‘contemporary baroque’ - everything is centred on well-being and personal attention, with an accent on natural simplicity.
http://www.hotelsouslesfiguiers.com/en/
Nestling in the heart of the Alpilles and Provence, the Hotel de l’Image is a luxury 4-star hotel. Located in the centre of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, this haven of peace reserves many surprises, such as a magnificent park at the rear of the hotel equipped with a very beautiful swimming pool. Also, you will be able to enjoy the restaurant les Terrasses de l’Image and its gourmet cuisine.
Young and design, this town centre hotel regularly hosts art exhibitions. For a relaxing “Spa” stay, take advantage of the Spa “La Maison d'Ennea”, located 900 meters from the hotel and accessible via a special shuttle service. Peace and quiet, well-being and visits around the Bouches-du-Rhône will be on the programme during your stay at the Hotel de l’Image.
http://www.hotel-image.fr/fr/hotel-luxe-saint-remy-de-provence-site-officiel.php
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/
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DURATION 7 days/6 nights
PRICE FROM 1620 €
COLLECTION
Cycling - Standard
DESTINATION
Provence
CATEGORY
Highlights
To
see
Gastronomy
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