2
introductory to moderate

Traveller Rating

 

Activities
  • guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 7 nights on a comfortable barge
Meals
  • 6 Dinners
  • 6 Lunches
  • 7 Breakfasts

8 Days£1370GBP

View Inclusions

Overview

Trip Code: PBB

Trip highlights

  • Cycling through stunning countryside past olive groves and vineyards, and through the wild Camargue
  • Exploring the great towns of Arles, Avignon and St Remy de Provence
  • Experiencing the timelessness of the landscapes made famous by Van Gogh
  • Seeing the famous Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard

Cycle through a revolving landscape from the wilderness of the Camargue where wild horses roam, to scenes of picturesque Provençal villages and vineyards that inspired Van Gogh and the sandy beaches of the Mediterranean. The Camargue is rich in wildlife including flamingos and endemic plants, while its flat plains provide easy cycling, before giving way to the spectacular limestone foothills of the Alpilles. Explore the villages of Provence brimming with tasty treats, art studios and cultural relics. Enjoy the vineyard scenery and marvel at the well preserved Pont du Gard. Relax on board the barge after each day's cycle and enjoy the views on the bank of the Rhone as you soak up the hospitality of the crew.

Countries:

France

Starting Point:

Avignon or Aigues Mortes

Finishing Point:

Aigues Mortes or Avignon

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Make your way to Avignon. You will find the boat at the Quai de la Ligne, next to the famous Pont St Bénezet. Boarding begins at 5pm, with the introductory briefing at 6.30pm followed by dinner on board.

Meals:  D

Today's cycle takes us to the other side of the river Rhone by crossing the island Île de la Barthelasse, and we’ll ride in the typical Provencal landscape, between vineyards and orchards. Before heading back to the boat we’ll visit Villeneuve Les Avignon, once known as the town of the cardinals. In the afternoon there'll be time to visit the historic centre of Avignon. Own dinner arrangements. Elevation +-205m/675ft

Meals:  B,L

We cruise for two hours this morning to the new harbour on the Rhone at Aramon. From here we cycle to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe, the Pont du Gard. This UNESCO listed aqueduct is a truly spectacular work of architecture. Later we return to our mooring in Aramon, a typical village on the banks of the Rhone, with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux. Elevation +-200m/660ft

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning we cruise to Vallabrègues, another pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. Today's cycle takes us along country roads to the town of Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers. From here we continue to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigolet whose grounds are perfect for a picnic. Later we continue to the medieval village of Boulbon before returning to the boat at Vallabrègues. Elevation +-175m/580ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's cycle brings us to Saint Remy de Provence, the birthplace of Nostradamus. This village is one of the "must-sees" in Provence. Vincent Van Gogh was treated here at Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole and was so inspired by the light and landscape that he created 143 oil paintings and more than 100 drawings. We cycle to the Alpilles (hills), with an ascent to the fortified town of Les Baux de Provence. This picturesque village is lodged high atop the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees accompanies our journey. Continue to Arles. Elevation +335m/1105ft, -340m/1122ft

Meals:  B,L,D

This morning is dedicated to exploring Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul. You will be welcomed by a professional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town (1hr). World Heritage listed, Arles has many important and beautiful Roman ruins. After lunch we reach Franquevaux by bike, from where we sail to Aigues Mortes for our overnight stay. The striking walled town of Aigues-Mortes is set on the Petite Camargue, a flat marsh. The town has changed little in outward appearance since the Middle Ages, with its watch towers and fortified portes or gates. It was established as a port town with access to the sea via a canal through the marshlands. We recommend trying a "fougasse", a traditional local pastry made with Brioche dough, sugar and orange blossom. Elevation +105m/344ft / -100m/328ft

Meals:  B,L,D

We discover the spectacular Camargue on today's round cycle. Through small country lanes between canals and lagoons, we'll reach the charming village of Le Grau-du-Roi - and maybe take a refreshing swim at the beach. We return to Aigues Mortes for the last night on board the boat. Elevation +-185m/610ft

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast the trip concludes in Aigues Mortes.

Meals:  B

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Individual arrival to Aigues Mortes. Boarding begins at 5pm. The striking walled town of Aigues-Mortes is set on the Petite Camargue, a flat marsh and is the last town on the Rhône River before it flows into the Mediterranean near Saintes Maries de la Mer. The town has changed little in outward appearance since the Middle Ages with its watch towers and fortified portes or gates. It was established as a port town with access to the sea via a canal through the marshlands. We recommend you try a "fougasse" which is a traditional pastry made with Brioche dough, sugar and orange blossom.

Meals:  D

Today we discover the Camargue. Cycling through small country lanes between canals, lagoons and small villages, you will have the chance to see the famous black bulls and white horses typical of this region, as well as pink flamingos and other bird species. In the afternoon we reach the charming fishermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi, with the possibility of a refreshing swim at the beach. Return to Aigues-Mortes and own dinner arrangements. Elevation +-185m/610ft

Meals:  B,L

We cruise for a couple of hours up to Franquevaux and then cycle to today's destination: Arles. Arles is known for the richness of its antique and Roman patrimony. The city will fascinate you with its hidden treasures. Getting lost among its small alleys will be like entering a painting by Vincent Van Gogh. In the afternoon you have the opportunity to be welcomed by a local guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town. Elevation +105m/344ft, -110m/360ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's cycle follows a breathtaking route to the Alpilles (hills). We begin by cycling to the town of Le Baux de Provence with its striking position atop the rocky cliffs. Next we descend to Saint Remy de Provence, one of Provence's "must see" villages. Vincent Van Gogh was treated here at Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole and was so inspired by the light and landscape that he created 143 oil paintings and more than 100 drawings. It's a landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees. In the evening we moor in Vallabregues, a pretty Provencal village on the banks of the Rhone. Elevation +335m/1099ft, -340m/1115ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's cycle is along country roads to the town of Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers. From here we continue to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigolet whose grounds are perfect for a picnic. Later we reach the medieval village of Boulbon before returning to the boat. Later we cruise to Aramon, another Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône, with beautiful views to Mont Ventoux. Elevation +-175m/574ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The ride today will take us to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a spectacular architectural work. In the afternoon we will arrive in Avignon, the city of the Popes. The boat moors in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St Bénezet. Elevation +-200m/656ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today we’ll cycle to other side of the Rhone by crossing the island Île de la Barthelasse, and ride through typical Provencal landscapes, between vineyards and orchards. Before returning to the boat we’ll visit Villeneuve Les Avignon, once known as the town of the cardinals. In the afternoon there is time to discover the historical centre of Avignon before our final dinner together. Elevation +-205m/672ft

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast the trip concludes in Avignon.

Meals:  B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Inclusions

What's included

  • 7 breakfast, 6 self made packed lunches, 6 dinners (does not include drinks). Breakfast is buffet style and will usually consist of bread, ham/salami, cheese, butter, marmalade/jams, yoghurt, cereals, milk, tea and coffee. At breakfast you will prepare your packed lunch which will be sandwiches, juice or 1/2L of water. At dinner you can enjoy typical dishes of the simple traditional Provençal cuisine. Dinner is a starter, main course and dessert. On the table there will always be water and bread. For some special dietary requirements a supplement applies.
  • 7 nights on a comfortable barge in a twin share cabin with ensuite facilities
  • Bike rental with gel saddles, puncture resistant tyres, pannier, lock and helmet. A repair kit is provided if self guided. Electric bikes are available on request and an additional supplement applies (limited availability).
  • English speaking tour leader, daily briefings
  • Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks per cabin (smartphone required)
  • Welcome drink
  • Sheets and towels, courtesy kit, daily cabin tidy & mid-week cabin cleaning service
  • Tea, coffee and other hot drinks on board
  • Still & sparkling water and ice (dispenser on board)
  • Guided visit of Arles, some short walking tours, visit and tasting at a typical winery, oil tasting
  • Bike insurance for theft or damage
  • Harbour charges
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to/from Avignon and Aigues Mortes
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks other than afternoon tea & coffee on board
  • Travel insurance
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single cabin
  • Tips
  • Supplement to provide special dietary on board: gluten-free, dairy-free, lactose-free and vegan diets
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Entrance to the Pont du Gard area is free, not included however is entrance to the visitor centre (approx. 10 euro).
  • If you want to cycle independently: to cycle smoothly using the App, we suggest bringing a phone holder to fix to the handlebar, as well as a power bank.
  • Items of a personal nature

Cabins

Estello

The Cabins

There are 10 twin share cabins, 1 has a double bed and the other 9 have twin beds. The cabins are between 7-8 square metres. Each cabin is air conditioned and has ensuite facilities.

Caprice

The Cabins

There are 11 cabins (2 are double, 8 have separate twin beds and 1 has a single bed). Each cabin has three fixed portholes (one is in the bathroom), air conditioning and en suite facilities with shower area; plus ample closet space, a power socket and a full-length mirror.

Bike information

Hybrid Bike

During the trip you will be provided with a 27 speed bike with handbrakes. This will generally be a citybike available in various sizes in unisex models, the bike size will be determined based on your height. You will also receive a pannier to carry your gear for the day, along with a handlebar bag, bike computer, lock and repair kit. Helmets will be provided locally.

Electric Bike

An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below. The electric bike provided has a low-entry frame and a battery with an average range of 90km.

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are designed to make cycling easier. The pedaling ‘boost’ provided by an e-bike opens up more options, allowing people of different fitness levels to cycle together or for cyclists to take on routes they may otherwise consider too tough for their current fitness capabilities. Please note that e-bikes are heavier than normal bikes and given the higher speed possible, should only be ridden by confident cyclists. Minimum age for e-bike rental is 18 years (or 14 -17 years with waiver signed by parent or guardian) and a minimum height requirement is 147cm / 4ft10in.

Suitability

introductory to moderate

2

GRADE 2 - INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE This trip involves 6 days cycling with daily distances between 30 and 55km/19 and 34mi usually along cycle paths and low traffic, secondary roads. There are some short stretches on higher traffic roads particularly when entering and leaving towns. The cycling is in the lowlands during the two stages in the Camargue, while the stages north of Arles include rolling hills. There is one particularly demanding climb to hilltop Les Baux de Provence which involves quite some effort if you are on a regular bike. *For safety reasons, we highly recommend that cycle helmets are worn during cycle sections.

Departure dates


Notes

HS
Holiday Season
M
Mid Season
H
High Season
P
peak season surcharge
DN1
Peak season is from 23 August to 11 October, High season is from 3 May to 21 June and 18 to 25 October, Mid season is from 19 to 26 April and 28 Jun to 16 August. Supplement applies to peak, high and mid season departures.
IT1
Trip begins in Avignon
IT2
Trip beings in Aigues Mortes
Note:
An additional non refundable deposit required to secure a booking on this trip.

Priceper person from

£1370GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Supplement for gluten-, dairy- & lactose-free and vegan dietsGBP£60
  • Electric Bike SupplementGBP£130
  • 2025 Single use of double/twin Cabin SupplementGBP£920
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been walking and cycling the planet for over four decades and are passionate about delivering exceptional service. Combined, we’ve travelled to virtually every corner of Europe, and are eager to share the many benefits of travelling on foot or by bike.

Great Value & Quality

Our well priced trips offer great value for money. Included in your package are comprehensive route notes, maps & guide books along with bag transfers and locally run accommodation. We take the stress out of organising your holiday.

Self-Guided Specialists

We have been operating active self guided holidays since 1973. We handle all the necessary logistics so that you can relax and explore your destination at your own pace. Many of our tours depart daily, giving you even greater flexibility.