Cycling tour through Provence

Welcome to your cycling tour through Provence, a region renowned for inspiring countless artists and creatives, offering a perfect backdrop for their work. Your journey begins in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, a charming former fishing village that has transformed into an art and antiques haven. The town is characterized by its numerous wrought-iron bridges, adorned with vibrant flowers, crossing the lively Sorgue River. Wooden paddle wheels have been turning for over two centuries, and the narrow alleyways wind through the picturesque old town. On Sundays, the town comes alive with a bustling Provençal market, featuring more than 260 traders offering local goods and artisan products.

Your first day on the bike takes you to Carpentras located at the foot of Mont Ventoux in the heart of Provence. Here, in this charming town, you'll find the oldest synagogue of France. Continue your bike tour through the picturesque landscape to Beaumes-de-Venise. The town is renowned for its vineyards, and its impressive ruins of a medieval castle. Be sure to visit the 11th-century chapel of Notre-Dame-d'Aubune, a true gem of Romanesque art in Provence. The route then takes you through rugged terrain past several mountain ridges. Here the choice is yours either you'll bypass the hills or challenge yourself and cycle cross to the historic town Vaison-la-Romaine.

Be sure to explore the Roman villas, thermal baths, and the ancient theater, which once seated 6,000 people, in Vaison-la-Romaine before continuing your journey to the lavender capital, Sault. Along the way, you'll pass through the picturesque towns of Mollans and Montbrun-les-Bains, both perched on the Plateau d'Albion and exuding quintessential Provençal charm. As you cycle through the vibrant lavender fields, the landscape bursts with color, offering an authentic Provençal experience. Soon, you'll arrive in Sault, a town perched on a rocky outcrop at the foot of Mont Ventoux. With its narrow streets and inviting cafés at every corner, Sault is the perfect example of a traditional Provençal village.

Today, on your cycling tour through Provence you will explore the enchanting region around Sault. The air is filled with the captivating scent of lavender, the vibrant colors of the landscape are truly breathtaking. Cycle along the rugged Plateau d'Albion to the charming village of St. Christol. Upon returning to Sault, follow the signposted "1 Heure sur les pas du loup" trail, which translates to "An hour on the trail of the wolf." This scenic route takes you through the picturesque streets of the former village center, where you'll discover the remains of the ancient castle, including its ramparts, curtain walls, and entrance gates. You'll also encounter several houses from the Middle Ages, Renaissance, and 18th century, offering a glimpse into the rich history of this beautiful region.

This stage of your cycle tour through Provence takes you through the wild and rugged beauty of the Luberon Nature Park, offering a true taste of the region’s natural charm. You’ll reach your destination, Apt, a town with a rich history as a prosperous Roman colony and one of the earliest episcopal seats in the area. The town is located at the first Roman road in Gaul the Via Domitiain Gaul. Today, it is famous as the candied fruit capital of the world. Wander through its narrow streets, relax in inviting cafés, and soak in the charming ambiance of this quintessentially southern French town.

Today, you have a delightful choice ahead of you. For those eager to explore, a more challenging route will take you through three of the most beautiful villages in the Luberon: Bonnieux, Buoux, and Saignon. These villages, bathed in the warm Provençal sun, glow in shades of ochre and are nestled on the wooded slopes of the Luberon. If you prefer a less strenuous day, we recommend a visit to Gargas, where ochre is still mined today. From there, cycle to the stunning Colorado Provençal. Enjoy a walk beneath clear blue skies, through lush green forests, and immerse yourself in the captivating colors of the ochre quarry—shades of brown, yellow, and red that make this landscape truly unique.

The final day of your cycle tour through Provence promises some unforgettable experiences. You’ll begin by cycling to Roussillon, once the heart of ochre mining. This quaint, peaceful village is the gateway to one of Provence's most stunning natural sites: the ochre quarries. But don't linger too long, as the mountain village of Gordes awaits—one of the most beautiful villages in France. Its charm has inspired many artists, including Marc Chagall. After exploring Gordes, continue to Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, home to France's largest spring. The emerald green waters of the Sorgue spring create a spectacular natural sight that is sure to leave a lasting impression.

After breakfast in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, your unforgettable cycle tour through Provence comes to an end. You will then begin your individual return journey. Should you wish to extend your stay and continue enjoying the beauty of the south of France, we would be delighted to assist in arranging additional nights for you.