BEST TRIP OF 2009 - AWARDED BY NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC ADVENTURE!
This Provencemulti sport tour is a great way to discover Provence - and NOT like any other tour! This itinerary starts in Avignon and visits the culturally rich countryside from Avignon, to the Alpilles and into Luberon. An "off the beaten path" active trip, you will cycle through the vineyards and forests of the region, hop on a canoe and paddle down the Gardon River, hike through the Provençal mountains, lavender fields and olive-yards, ride a high quality mountain bike on the trails of the Luberon and you have the option to do a cooking class too! This tour combines several activities to provide you with a unique way to discover this beautiful part of France ! Enjoy !
To
see
Pont du Gard, Citadel of Les Baux de Provence, The Val d'Enfer and its rock formations, Fontaine de Vaucluse & Mont Ventoux
Gastronomy
Bouillabaisse, Pistou soup, the aïoli, the fougasse, 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.
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.
Accommodation : Cloitre Saint Louis**** - Avignon
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Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast
Activity
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
From Avignon to Uzes
The route will move out of Avignon through the Gard forests and vineyards and to visit the famous roman aqueduct Pont du Gard which dominates the river at over 165 feet high. Swimming is possible in the river. You will cycle on to Uzes, a beautiful Provencal village with tree-lined streets.
Distance : 54 Km (34 mi).
Elevation : 522 m.
Accommodation : Hostellerie Provençale*** - Uzes
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Via Ferrata - Recreational via ferrata, designed for discovery, ladders, monkey bridge, Tyrolean crossing, abseiling... All of this takes place in the refreshing Gardon Gorges setting, between Uzès and the Pont Du Gard. Ready for diving into the vertical world ?
Start time for this activity is at 2pm in Collias.
J-3
From Collias to St Remy via Collias (Canoe)
An exciting combination of cycling and paddling today. You will hop on a canoe and paddle down the Gardon River through the famous Gorges du Gardon. You will start the day with a short and flat warm-up bike ride from your hotel to the village of Collias to start your canoe trip through a calm stretch of the Gardon River.
We recommend you to be at the canoe meeting point between 10 am and 11am, and plan a picnic there
Your bikes are transferred to meet you at the pull out spot in Remoulins. You then cycle from there to the beautiful village of Saint-Remy-de-Provence where you will spend the night.
Distances : 58 Km (36 mi) cycling, 8 km (5 mi) paddling.
Elevation : 368 m
Note: Canoeing is a water-based activity, so bring a change of clothes if necessary.
Accommodation : Le Mas des Carassins*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Accommodation : Hotel de l'Image**** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Included : luggage transfer,canoe rental,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)
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-4
From St Remy LOOP around St Remy
Put your hiking shoes on and get on the GR 6 trail that will lead you to the nearby hills above St Remy known as the Alpilles. This hike will take you along to the Citadel of Les Baux de Provence. After your visit of the village we suggest you walk to the Val d'Enfer and its rock formations, then make your way back to Saint Remy. Hiking with hills at Les Baux.
Note : This hike isn't available in July & August due to fire risks and will be replaced by a biking loop around St Rémy (42km). Outside this period, the forestry service still has the right to close the trails as needed due to the reason above.
Distance : 19 Km (12 mi).
Elevation : 467 m.
OPTION -Cooking Class. If you book the cooking class for today, it starts at 02:30 pm.
Accommodation : Le Mas des Carassins*** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Accommodation : Hotel de l'Image**** - Saint-Remy de Provence
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Let's try a cooking class this morning. The class starts at 02:30pm with a welcome coffee followed by a guided tour of the garden of the Farmhouse. Then you will have cooking lessons up to 06:30pm and lunch to taste the meal prepared together with some fine local wine.
J-5
From St Remy to Fontaine de Vaucluse
After breakfast, you cycle on to Fontaine de Vaucluse where you spend the night. On the way to Fontaine de Vaucluse, you have the possibility to cycle on to Isle sur la Sorgue, which is a short 10km trip from Fontaine. Isle sur la Sorgue is a charming town located on the river Sorgue, that is very worth visiting !
Distance : 51 Km (32 mi).
Elevation : 210 m.
Accommodation : Hotel du Poete*** - Fontaine de Vaucluse
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Accommodation : Hotel du Poete*** - Fontaine de Vaucluse
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For your day, we have planned for you to do a nice 'balade' on mountain bikes. You will ride a short distance on paved roads to meet the trail and after you will have a nice quiet trail to follow that makes a loop and brings you back to the road. The trail is a mix of wide trail and sand/gravel to sections of single track. None of it is technical or requires advance mountain bike skill. Approximately 3 hours cycling. Return to Fontaine de Vaucluse.
Distance : 34 Km (21 mi).
Elevation : 540 m.
Accommodation : Hotel du Poete*** - Fontaine de Vaucluse
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Accommodation : Hotel du Poete*** - Fontaine de Vaucluse
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Included : Itinerary (no cue sheets),Mountain bike rental,bedroom and breakfast
Today, ride to Bedoin at the foot of Mont Ventoux. You will ride on typical narrow little country side road from Provence and Luberon. Enjoy nice panoramic views and roads in the middle of limestone cliffs. Approaching the Mont Ventoux, you will ride in the vineyards of Provence wine.
Today is departure day. You can take your time getting started in the morning then have breakfast Transfer to Avignon (included) where you can add extra nights or catch a train to Paris.
Transfer is scheduled for 9:30am (from your hotel) to the Avignon TGV Station. If you need this transfer for another time please let us know. Allow 1 hour travel time before a train departure.
Included : breakfast,transfer departure,luggage transfer,client transfer
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 Aspect 940 is a semi-rigid mountain bike designed to be light and efficient. Equipped with a fork locking system, disc brakes and Syncros components, this model is perfect for your sportier rides.
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
- 7 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
-Daily breakfast at each hotel, 1 dinner
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
- Mountain bike rental included for 1 day
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.
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/
In the very heart of Uzès and only 100 metres from the delightful Place aux herbes, you’ll find your three stars hotel in a 300-year old building offering a perfect blend of charm and authenticity with all the modern conveniences: air-conditioning, lift, rooms with Internet, mini-bar, LCD television, bathrooms with whirlpool baths, power showers, or floor-level showers.The restaurant, La Parenthèse, offers a host of mouth-watering dishes made only from the freshest regional products.
http://www.hostellerieprovencale.com/
The Hotel Entraigues nestles in the heart of the historic centre of Uzès between the Ducal Château and the Old Bishop’s Palace, the Saint Théodorit Cathedral and the Fenestrelle Tower. Well known to residents of Uzès, this former town mansion was built in the 15th century and remodelled in the 17th century. Acquired in 2013, it has been fully restored to its original condition. Day to day, the hotel combines hospitality with top notch services and sustainable development. The ground floor is a large open space under a vaulted roof, where you can relax, work or get together in comfortable lounges adorned with art. This is also an exhibition space, where artists of different backgrounds and mediums show their work. Outdoor swimming pool, terrace with panoramic view, lift, lounges, reading area, patio, free Wi-Fi, safe, mini-bar with selection of wines, reversible air-con, large high definition LED screen TV with multiple channels, garage…
http://www.hotel-entraigues.com/index.php/fr/38-2/
In the heart of the "Golden triangle" (Nimes, Aix, Avignon), and at the foot of the Alpilles,bathed in light, you will find le Mas des Carassins. An oasis of calm and cool, located a few minutes walk from the center of Saint-Remy, once home to Van Gogh and Nostradamus. In this old, clad dry stone mas, built in the middle of the 19th century, come encounter the real sweet life, an atmosphere of serenity, calm and conviviality which assures prefect stay in a place over a hundred years old. Rooms are all personalized, with their Provencal "boutis" (bedcovers), bear a name that symbolizes Provence or the history of the Mas. In beautiful days, as soon as the time allows it, you can take advantage of the sweetness of the Provencal evenings in the garden. Take advantage of the calm to discover the kitchen only elaborated from products of the market, with rich savours and the flavors. The Chef, born in the region, will make you discover the true Provençal kitchen made with products of Provence and Méditerrannée.
http://www.masdescarassins.com/anglais.php
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
In the heart of the "Golden triangle" (Nimes, Aix, Avignon), and at the foot of the Alpilles,bathed in light, you will find le Mas des Carassins. An oasis of calm and cool, located a few minutes walk from the center of Saint-Remy, once home to Van Gogh and Nostradamus. In this old, clad dry stone mas, built in the middle of the 19th century, come encounter the real sweet life, an atmosphere of serenity, calm and conviviality which assures prefect stay in a place over a hundred years old. Rooms are all personalized, with their Provencal "boutis" (bedcovers), bear a name that symbolizes Provence or the history of the Mas. In beautiful days, as soon as the time allows it, you can take advantage of the sweetness of the Provencal evenings in the garden. Take advantage of the calm to discover the kitchen only elaborated from products of the market, with rich savours and the flavors. The Chef, born in the region, will make you discover the true Provençal kitchen made with products of Provence and Méditerrannée.
http://www.masdescarassins.com/anglais.php
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
The Hotel du Poete is housed in an old mill which has been entirely renovated into a charming three star hotel complete with all the modern conveniences guests would need. Each of the 21 rooms and 3 junior suites, has a differently defined decorative theme in a typically Provençal inspired ambiance. Relax and refresh yourself in the swimming poo l; admiring the shades of ochre as the sun sets on the hills of Fontaine de Vaucluse. The hotel's ideal location between the Luberon and the Alpilles allows easy access for exploring many regions. For pleasurable dining experiences, the hotel is located within 50 meters of a variety of local and recommended restaurants.
http://www.hoteldupoete.com/en/
The Hotel du Poete is housed in an old mill which has been entirely renovated into a charming three star hotel complete with all the modern conveniences guests would need. Each of the 21 rooms and 3 junior suites, has a differently defined decorative theme in a typically Provençal inspired ambiance. Relax and refresh yourself in the swimming poo l; admiring the shades of ochre as the sun sets on the hills of Fontaine de Vaucluse. The hotel's ideal location between the Luberon and the Alpilles allows easy access for exploring many regions. For pleasurable dining experiences, the hotel is located within 50 meters of a variety of local and recommended restaurants.
http://www.hoteldupoete.com/en/
The Hotel du Poete is housed in an old mill which has been entirely renovated into a charming three star hotel complete with all the modern conveniences guests would need. Each of the 21 rooms and 3 junior suites, has a differently defined decorative theme in a typically Provençal inspired ambiance. Relax and refresh yourself in the swimming poo l; admiring the shades of ochre as the sun sets on the hills of Fontaine de Vaucluse. The hotel's ideal location between the Luberon and the Alpilles allows easy access for exploring many regions. For pleasurable dining experiences, the hotel is located within 50 meters of a variety of local and recommended restaurants.
http://www.hoteldupoete.com/en/
The Hotel du Poete is housed in an old mill which has been entirely renovated into a charming three star hotel complete with all the modern conveniences guests would need. Each of the 21 rooms and 3 junior suites, has a differently defined decorative theme in a typically Provençal inspired ambiance. Relax and refresh yourself in the swimming poo l; admiring the shades of ochre as the sun sets on the hills of Fontaine de Vaucluse. The hotel's ideal location between the Luberon and the Alpilles allows easy access for exploring many regions. For pleasurable dining experiences, the hotel is located within 50 meters of a variety of local and recommended restaurants.
http://www.hoteldupoete.com/en/
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/
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DURATION 8 days/7 nights
PRICE FROM 1895 €
COLLECTION
Multisport - Standard
DIFFICULTY
CATEGORY
Highlights
To
see
Gastronomy
Wine
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