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2
introductory to moderate
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
  • Enjoying the onboard camaraderie and services

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

Carbon Footprint

101kg of CO2-e PP per day

(704kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

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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 and refreshing aperitif at 6.30pm followed by dinner on board.

Meals:  D

Our first cycle is to the other side of the Rhone river via the Île de la Barthelasse and through typical Provencal landscapes. We'll pass vineyards and orchards on our way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. During the trip, you'll have the opportunity to taste the famous Provençal wine. Later, we cross the Rhône at Roquemaure and return to Villeneuve by following the river course. In the afternoon there'll be time to visit the historic centre of Avignon. Own dinner arrangements. Elevation +-285m/935ft

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 +-240m/787ft

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 +-210m/689ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's cycle brings us to Saint Remy de Provence, the birthplace of Nostradamus, and 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. Later 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 +-380m/1246ft

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). UNESCO World Heritage listed, Arles has many important and beautiful Roman ruins. After lunch we reach Franquevaux by bike then cruise 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 +-100m/328ft

Meals:  B,L,D

We discover the spectacular Camargue on today's round cycle. We ride on small country lanes passing by canals, lagoons, and small villages including La Cailar, Marsillargues and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, known for their ancient taurine tradition. In the afternoon, we will visit an organic vineyard and enjoy a special wine tasting experience. We return to Aigues Mortes for the last night on board the boat. Elevation +-160m/525ft

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast the trip concludes in Aigues Mortes.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

Make your way to Aigues Mortes and the boat. Boarding begins at 5pm, with the introductory briefing and refreshing aperitif at 6.30pm followed by dinner on board. 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

On our first cycle day we discover the spectacular Camargue. We have a loop ride on small country lanes passing by canals, lagoons, and small villages including La Cailar, Marsillargues and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, known for their ancient taurine tradition. In the afternoon, we will visit an organic vineyard and enjoy a special wine tasting experience. Return to Aigues-Mortes and own dinner arrangements. Elevation +-160m/525ft

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 is 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 +445m/1460ft, -440m/1444ft

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 +-210m/689ft

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 +-240m/787ft

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 on the way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to taste the famous Provençal wine. Later, we will cross the Rhône at Roquemaure and return to Villeneuve by following the river course. In the afternoon there is time to discover the historical centre of Avignon before our final dinner together. Elevation +-285m/935ft

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast the trip concludes in Avignon.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

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 and refreshing aperitif at 6.30pm followed by dinner on board.

Meals:  D

Our first cycle is to the other side of the Rhone river via the Île de la Barthelasse and through typical Provencal landscapes. We'll pass vineyards and orchards on our way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. During the trip, you'll have the opportunity to taste the famous Provençal wine. Later, we cross the Rhône at Roquemaure and return to Villeneuve by following the river course. In the afternoon there'll be time to visit the historic centre of Avignon. Own dinner arrangements. Elevation +-285m/935ft

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 +-240m/787ft

Meals:  B,L,D

From Vallabrègues, a charming riverside village known for its long tradition of wicker basket making, the loop cycle begins through rich Provençal farmland lined with orchards and quiet country lanes. The route leads to the hilltop village of Boulbon, where the ruins of a 15th century castle crown the ridge, rewarding you with sweeping views across the Rhône Valley. Continuing on, you reach Tarascon, home to one of Provence’s most impressive medieval castles, dramatically set along the banks of the Rhône River. In nearby Beaucaire, another castle invites exploration, with sections of its ramparts still open for panoramic walks. Following a scenic bike path built along a former railway line, you ride toward Remoulins and the remarkable troglodyte Abbey of St. Romain. Carved directly into the limestone cliff, this fortified monastery is a striking reminder of the region’s layered history. After a rewarding day of cycling through villages, vineyards and river landscapes, you return to Vallabrègues for the night. Elevation +-200m/660ft

Meals:  B,L,D

Today's cycle brings us to Saint Remy de Provence, the birthplace of Nostradamus, and 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. Later 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 +-380m/1246ft

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 impressive sights of the town (1hr). UNESCO World Heritage listed, Arles has many important and beautiful Roman ruins including the Amphitheatre which dominates the centre. After lunch we reach Franquevaux by bike then cruise 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 +-100m/328ft

Meals:  B,L,D

We discover the spectacular Camargue on today's round cycle. We ride on small country lanes passing by canals, lagoons, and small villages including La Cailar, Marsillargues and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, known for their ancient taurine tradition. In the afternoon, we will visit an organic vineyard and enjoy a special wine tasting experience. We return to Aigues Mortes for the last night on board the boat. Elevation +-160m/525ft

Meals:  B,L,D

After breakfast the trip concludes in Aigues Mortes.

Meals:  B

Expand all | Collapse all

Make your way to Aigues Mortes and the boat. Boarding begins at 5pm, with the introductory briefing and refreshing aperitif at 6.30pm followed by dinner on board. 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

On our first cycle day we discover the spectacular Camargue. We have a loop ride on small country lanes passing by canals, lagoons, and small villages including La Cailar, Marsillargues and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, known for their ancient taurine tradition. In the afternoon, we will visit an organic vineyard and enjoy a special wine tasting experience. Return to Aigues-Mortes and own dinner arrangements. Elevation +-160m/525ft

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 is 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 +445m/1460ft, -440m/1444ft

Meals:  B,L,D

From Vallabrègues, a charming riverside village known for its long tradition of wicker basket making, the loop cycle begins through rich Provençal farmland lined with orchards and quiet country lanes. The route leads to the hilltop village of Boulbon, where the ruins of a 15th century castle crown the ridge, rewarding you with sweeping views across the Rhône Valley. Continuing on, you reach Tarascon, home to one of Provence’s most impressive medieval castles, dramatically set along the banks of the Rhône River. In nearby Beaucaire, another castle invites exploration, with sections of its ramparts still open for panoramic walks. Following a scenic bike path built along a former railway line, you ride toward Remoulins and the remarkable troglodyte Abbey of St. Romain. Carved directly into the limestone cliff, this fortified monastery is a striking reminder of the region’s layered history. After a rewarding day of cycling through villages, vineyards and river landscapes, you return to Vallabrègues for the night. Elevation +-200m/660ft

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 +-240m/787ft

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 on the way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. During the trip, you will have the opportunity to taste the famous Provençal wine. Later, we will cross the Rhône at Roquemaure and return to Villeneuve by following the river course. In the afternoon there is time to discover the historical centre of Avignon before our final dinner together. Elevation +-285m/935ft

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, afternoon snack
  • 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
  • Supplement applies for special dietary requirements: gluten free, lactose-free, dairy-free and vegan diets (please notify us on booking)
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single cabin
  • Tips
  • 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 (ie self guided): 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
  • water bottle - please bring a refillable water bottle from home

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 touring bike with handbrakes. These come 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 and a lock. Helmets will be provided locally. A handlebar bag and repair kit are provided if you wish to cycle self-guided. In the case of a puncture the assumption is that you can repair. You will be given a puncture repair kit, to fix the issue. Please note: Bringing your own bikes onboard is not allowed.

Electric Bike

An electric bike is available on request. A supplement applies, see below. The electric bike provided has a unisex 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 - This trip involves 6 days cycling with daily distances between 30 and 65km/19 and 40mi 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

M
Mid Season
H
High Season
P
Peak season surcharge
HS
Holiday Season
DN1
2026: Peak Plus season is from 29 Aug to 17 Oct, Peak season is from 2 May to 23 May, High season is from 4 to 25 Apr, 30 May to 20 Jun and 24 to 31 Oct, Mid season is from 27 Jun to 22 Aug. 2027: Peak Plus season is from 28 Aug to 16 Oct, Peak season is from 1 May to 29 May, High season is from 3 to 24 Apr, 5 to 26 Jun and 23 Oct, Mid season is from 3 Jul to 21 Aug. Supplement appliesfor peak plus, peak, high and mid season departures.
IT1
Trip begins in Avignon
IT2
Trip begins 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£70
  • Electric Bike SupplementGBP£140
  • Single Cabin Supplement - Caprice, 1 cabin onlyGBP£360
  • Single use of double/twin Cabin SupplementGBP£1090
*Prices listed are per person

Frequently Asked Questions

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Yes. You may remain onboard the barge while others ride. Keep in mind that during the day the crew will be undertaking regular operations.

Your guide can suggest walking options or help arrange transport to the next mooring point at your own expense.

This trip is graded Introductory to Moderate – Grade 2 .

You’ll cycle for 6 days with distances between 30–65km (19–40mi) per day, mostly on bike paths and quiet secondary roads. The Camargue stages are largely flat, while the days north of Arles include rolling hills. There is one more demanding climb to Les Baux de Provence.

If you cycle recreationally at home and are comfortable riding up to 40 miles in a day, you’ll be well prepared. E-bikes are available if you’d like some extra support.

It’s a guided cycling tour, but you can choose to ride independently using the navigational app .

Each day includes a briefing from your English-speaking tour leader, and route notes and GPS tracks are provided via the app. If you prefer to ride at your own pace, you’re welcome to do so.

You’ll be supplied with a multi-speed hybrid touring bike with pannier and lock. Helmets are provided locally and are required while cycling.

E-bikes are available (supplement applies) and have a range suited to the daily rides. They are ideal if you’d like assistance on hills or simply prefer a more relaxed ride.

You’ll spend 7 nights on a comfortable barge - either Caprice or L''Estello - with ensuite cabins.

Cabins are compact and air-conditioned, with private bathroom facilities.

Onboard facilities include:

Dining area

Salon with bar

Sun deck with seating

Relaxed communal spaces

More details on the barges can be found under the Bike & Boat tab (Vessels and boats) on our website.

Vegetarian and medically necessary diets can be accommodated if advised in advance.

Supplements apply for vegan, gluten-free, lactose-free and dairy-free diets. Please advise at the time of booking. While every effort is made, allergen-free environments cannot be guaranteed.

There are two itinerary directions:

Avignon to Aigues-Mortes

Aigues-Mortes to Avignon

Both are 8-day trips with 7 nights onboard. Check to see which direction of travel is planned for your chosen date.

Trip reviews

Why travel with us

Personal Experience

We've been exploring the world on foot for over five decades, and our passion for walking runs deep. Having hiked nearly every corner of Europe, we take pride in sharing the joy, freedom and perspective that only travelling on foot can bring, all with the exceptional service and care our travellers know us for.

Great Value & Quality

Our trips offer excellent value for money, with everything you need for a seamless walking holiday. Each package includes detailed route notes, maps and navigation app, luggage transfers, and comfortable locally run accommodation. We take care of the planning, so you can simply enjoy the walk.

Self-Guided Specialists

We've been operating self-guided active holidays since 1973, taking care of every detail so you can relax and explore at your own pace. With many walking and hiking tours departing daily, you'll enjoy the freedom and flexibility to travel when it suits you.