Bike and Barge: Provence and Camargue (Avignon to Aigues Mortes)
This tour is a wonderful combination of land and water in the wile Camargue, home to grazing animals and garrigue landscapes. Enjoy medieval fortresses and buildings full of history. Enjoy some truly gorgeous and typical Provencal landscapes in the Rhone Valley, Van Gogh’s Provence, and the Roman Pont du Gard.
Itinerary
From 6pm you can embark on your floating accommodation! At 6:30pm there will be an introductory meeting with your tour guide and group followed by an aperitivo. The barge will be moored in Quai de la Ligne.
Today will start and end in Avignon as you have a chance to visit this incredible city. We will cross to the other side of the river Rhone via the île de la Barthelasse, where we will then enter some typical garrigue landscape, characterised by vineyards and orchards. Another highlight of the day of the Villeneuve Les Avignon, previously known as the town of the cardinals. After your day of cycling, you’ll be back in Avignon for an afternoon of discovery.
You will set off in the morning to the town of Aramon, the route bringing you some interesting sights. To note today is the “Pont du Gard”, this is an incredible piece of work and the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe. Your stop for the night in Aramon is accompanied by a gorgeous view of Mont Ventoux.
The day will begin by sailing to Vallabrègues, a gorgeous typical Provencal village sitting next to the Rhone. From here you will cycle along country roads to Barbentane, sitting on the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers and home to a castle. You will also visit the majestic Saint Michel de Frigolet Abbey and then on to the medieval village of Boulbon. You will end your day in Vallabrègues and stay there for the night.
An interesting point for today is Nostradamus’ birthplace of Saint Remy de Provence, it was also the home to Van Gogh when he was living with mental illness. Another point today is Les-Baux-de-Provence, a village locked into a rock in the Alpilles. Today’s journey is an amazing mix of limestone cliffs and olive trees.
Before leaving Arles, you will have the morning to explore this ancient city which is the old capital of Gaul and home to wonderful Roman ruins. You will really get to know the history of this town as a professional guide shows you around the sights of the town. As you start your cycling you will reach the lock of Saint Gilles after lunch, from where you will sail to Aigues Mortes to stay for the night; dinner is included here.
Today will start and end in Aigues-Mortes, giving you an exciting opportunity to explore the surrounding areas. Head through the narrow country lanes of Camargue via canals, lagoons, and small villages. You will spend the afternoon in the small fishing village of Le-Grau-du-Roi and can even take some time to sit on the beach.
Enjoy one last breakfast and it’s time for your trip to end.
Route overview
Difficulty: Easy – Leisurely
Start point: Avignon
End point: Aigues-Mortes
Total distance: approx. 240km
During the stages in Camarague you will be in the lowlands, but in the north of Arles there are more ups and downs, which are quick and easy. There is one challenging incline towards Les Baux, which is worth it with the amazing landscapes. Mostly on minor roads with low levels of traffic, but some parts with heavier traffic are unavoidable.
What’s included
The Bike & Barge: Avignon to Camargue cycling holiday includes the daily transfer of luggage to the next hotel and local support if required.
Included Services (Subject to confirmation)
- 7 overnights
- Full board (breakfast, dinner and a self-made packed lunch)
- Coffee and tea on board
- Sheets and towels
- Courtesy kit
- Daily short cleaning + mid-week cabin cleaning service and towel change
- Travel guide, Maps, Roadbook
- English speaking tour leader within an international group
- Guided visit of Arles
- Harbour charges
- Emergency van in the area (also available for daily excursions)
Not Included
- Flights to/from the start and finish
- Evening meals (unless stated)
- Local daily taxes (Payable at the hotel)
- Rental Bike Hire
- Helmets
- Water Bottles
- Travel Insurance
- Bike Insurance (unless stated)
- Welcome Meetings (unless stated)
- Transfers (unless included)
Check Availability
We have put a calendar of events together that will provide you with some inspiration of what you can expect on your holiday, and when the best time to jet off is. Now’s your chance to travel further than you can by foot and be part of a memorable and exciting two-wheel journey with us.
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