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introductory to moderate

Traveller Rating

 

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

ON SALE

£1340 GBP

8 Days£1273GBP

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 6pm (5pm in 2025), with the introductory briefing at 6.30pm 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. Elevation +-205m/675ft

Meals:  B,L,D

We cruise for two hours this morning to the new harbour on the Rhone at Aramon. Back on the bikes 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 the boat cruises to Vallabrègues, another pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. The 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 Frigulet 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 in 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 visiting and exploring Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul on a guided walk. This World Heritage listed site has many important and beautiful Roman ruins. Getting lost among its small alleys is like entering a Van Gogh painting. We will arrive by bike at the wooden bridge which was portrayed by the great painter. Continue on to Saint Gilles, where we will meet the boat for a 2 hour cruise to Aigues Mortes. 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 +0m Note: optional self guided cycle via the coast at Saintes Maries de la Mer to Aigues Mortes (65km 40.5mi)

Meals:  B,L

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. 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

We discover the spectacular Camargue on today's first 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

You will sail for a couple of hours up to Saint Gilles 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 there will be a guided visit of the town to discover the history and interesting sights. Elevation +0m

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's cycle follows a breathtaking route and brings you to the Alpilles Hills. You begin by cycling to the hilltop town of Le Baux de Provence with its striking position amonst the rocky cliffs. Next you descend to Saint Remy de Provence, a "must see" village. 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. A landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees will accompany you as you pedal through this sublime countryside. In the evening you will moor in Vallabregues, a pretty Provencal village on the banks of the Rhone. Elevation +300m/984ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The cycle takes you along country roads to the town of Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers. From here you continue to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigulet whose grounds are perfect for a picnic. Later you continue to the medieval village of Boulbon before returning to the boat at Vallabrègues. Later the boat cruises to Aramon, another pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. Elevation +90m/295ft

Meals:  B,L,D

The cycle today will bring you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a spectacular architectural work. In the afternoon you will arrive to Avignon, the city of the Popes. The boat is moored in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet. Elevation +110m/361ft

Meals:  B,L

Today we’ll cycle to 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 going back 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 +100m/328ft

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

  • 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 consists of a starter, a main course and dessert. On the table there will always be water and bread.
  • 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).
  • Bike insurance for theft or damage
  • English speaking tour leader
  • Digital information pack including route notes, maps and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks per cabin (smartphone required)
  • Sheets and towels, courtesy kit, daily cabin tidy & mid-week cabin cleaning service
  • Harbour charges
  • Tea and coffee on board
  • Guided visit of Arles
  • Welcome drink

  • Travel to/from Avignon and Aigues Mortes
  • Drinks other than tea & coffee on board
  • Entry to museums
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Tips
  • Travel insurance
  • Supplement to provide special dietary on board: gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan diets
  • 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.

Cabins


Bike information


Suitability

introductory to moderate

2

GRADE 2 - INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE This trip involves 6 days cycling with daily distances between 25 and 55km/15.5 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 hill towards 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
IT1
Trip begins in Avignon.
IT2
Trip begins in Aigues Mortes.
Note:
2025 - 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, supplements apply 2024 - Peak season is from 24 August to 12 October, High season is from4 May to 22 June and 19 to 26 October, Mid season is from 20 to 27 April and 29 Jun to 17 August, supplements apply
Note:
An Additional non refundable deposit required to secure a booking on this trip.

Priceper person from

£1273GBP

Options & Supplements*
  • Supplement for gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan dietsGBP£60
  • Electric Bike SupplementGBP£130
  • 2024 Single Cabin SupplementGBP£310
  • 2024 Single use of double/twin Cabin SupplementGBP£870
  • 2025 Single use of double/twin Cabin SupplementGBP£920
*Prices listed are per person

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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.

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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.

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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.