Provence Self-Guided Tour

Describing Provence requires the use of every adjective connoting sensory delights! Sun-drenched fields of vibrant sunflowers or fragrant lavender; medieval hilltop towns standing as sentries over fertile valleys of olive groves; flavorful cuisine made from fresh local produce; striking scenery including deep valleys, fertile plains and rocky mountain ranges, graceful, lacy and ominous all at the same time. In short, Provence is a symphony to the senses.

Undoubtedly, experiencing Provence from the seat of a bicycle allows you a most intimate look into this magical land. Wander narrow cobblestone streets of ancient medieval villages and explore some of the greatest Roman architectural sites in Europe. Lose yourself on tiny, rural back roads through lush agricultural valleys. Roam through a lively outdoor market selecting your picnic items for the day, to be savored on a terraced hillside near heavily laden cherry trees or shady town center of a tiny Provençal village.

The cycling in Provence simply cannot be beat. From beginner to advanced, all levels can be accommodated. Cyclists looking for a challenge will have endless options, including the legendary ascent up Le Mont Ventoux. Those wanting to enjoy this cyclist’s paradise at a slower and less arduous pace can choose the easier hubs and options.

Our four Hubs in Provence are concentrated in the less populated, cycle-friendly areas of the Vaucluse and the Bouches du Rhone. Each Hub, though sprinkled with similarities here and there, has a character all its own, expressed through the unique history of the villages, the diverse terrain and the varying agricultural products. Some give you convenient access to larger cities if you desire, either by bike or by car.

When planning your trip with the Vélo Concierge, know that several of the Hubs are within easy driving distance of each other. You may decide to stay in only two hubs (for stays of 3-4 or more days) and take your pick of not only the rides in your immediate hub, but the neighboring one as well. Hubs convenient to each other are noted below.

Hub A - The Vaucluse

Principle villages: Orange, Rochegude, Vaison la Romaine, Buis les Baronnies, Malaucène, Gigondas, Séguret, Sablet.

Highlights: spectacular vistas, heady wines, forested mountains, lacy ridges, a Roman "spa", the fruit basket of France, lavender, lavender, lavender.

Cycling: Easy to challenging. The Vaucluse is situated north and northwest of Le Mont Ventoux. It ranges from some of the more level cycling in Provence for those desiring fewer hills, to some of the most challenging. For the brave cyclists, experience le Mont Ventoux, the Gorges de l'Ardèche or the Gorges de la Nesque! But fear not - you need not go near these if your legs prefer more level cycling!

Hub A has easy driving access to some Hub D spokes.

Hub B - The Lubéron

Principle villages: Gordes, Rousillon, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Lourmarin. Easy driving access to Aix en Provence and the busy Côte d'Azure.

Highlights: perched villages and ruins, unending lavender fields, Peter Mayle's Provence, underground river sources, World War II resistance stronghold. Quite a few of the villages are Plus Beaux Villages, France's most beautiful villages.

Cycling: The cycling is moderate, with challenging options for those desiring them. The Lubéron is a flat valley lined by two ranges to the north and south. The best villages and sights are up into these two ranges. Most climbs are .5 to 1.5 miles in length (with optional longer climbs if desired).

Hub C - Les Alpilles

Principle villages: St. Rémy, Tarrascon, Beaucaire, Les Beaux de provence, Arles.

Easy driving access to Hub D spokes.

Highlights: medievel fortresses, the Impressionist palette, olive groves and sunflowers, Roman ruins, quintessential Provençal villages, lazy outdoor cafés bedecked in bright yellow and blue fabrics.

Cycling: Easy to moderate. Not as hilly as the Lubéron, and quite a few flatter segments, but a nice climb up to Les Beaux.

Hub D - Le Pont du Gard and the City of the Popes.

Principle villages/sites: Castillon du Gard, Chateauneuf du Pape, Tavel, le Pont du Gard, Uzès, Avignon.

Easy driving access to Hub A and Hub C spokes.

Highlights: the Roman imprint and ingenuity, unsurpassed world-renowned wines, countryside rides among the sunflowers, the 13th century playground of the Popes.

Cycling: Easy to moderate. Nice country rides.