This is a special tour in an unusual region, and together they constitute a unique opportunity. Voyage to Haute Provence, a region of the pre-Alps, where the ambiance is definitely Provençal. Climb over low passes, descend with wild mountain streams and pedal through lost villages. But this is France, and the inns are cosy and the food and wine fantastic, even in this back country. Have fun riding through the best of this region.
Location
Vaison-la-Romaine
Vaison-la-Romaine, France
Day 1
Le Poët-Laval
Le Poët-Laval, France
Day 2+3
Buis-les-Baronnies
Buis-les-Baronnies, France
Day 4+5
Sault-en-Provence
Sault, France
Day 6
BĂ©doin
BĂ©doin, France
Day 7
Murs
Murs, France
Day 8+9
Gordes
Gordes, France
Day 10
LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, France
Day 10+11
Whatâs Included in the Cost of Your Trip?
INCLUDED INÂ REGULAR TRIP
10 nights hotels
All breakfasts and 3 dinners
Luggage transfers
Use of a high quality performance hybrid or road bike and accessories
Comprehensive Tour Details with detailed pre-trip information
Detailed route instructions and maps
Personal meet & greet with our local Area Manager
Area manager available on call throughout the tour
Access to Loyalty Program and other exclusive benefits
Particulars
EVENT DATES
Any start date between May 1 to June 30 & September 1 to October 31
We recommend you to start your trip on a Monday so that you can enjoy the Provencal market in Vaison held every Tuesday.
We recommend you to start your trip on a Monday so that you can enjoy the Provencal market in Vaison held every Tuesday.
Custom trips also available and can start any day. Call or email for details.
TOTAL DAYS
11 days / 10 nights, with 9 days cycling
ARRIVE / DEPART
Vaison-la-Romaine / LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Daily distance between 45 km and 65 km (30 to 40 miles).
This is our most challenging tour in Provence.
TERRAIN
Hills every day of moderate or greater difficulty, including some low passes. Some passes are as high as 735 m. Mont Ventoux (an optional ride) is 1909 m.
COST
Classic Accommodation: US$3750
Single Supplement: US$770
Luxe Accommodation: US$4590
Single Supplement: US$1150
Luxe Accommodation: US$5250
Single Supplement: US$1315
Bike Rentals
Hybrid or Racing Bikes: US$460
E-Bikes: US$800
E-bikes are generally available but are on an âon request basis â and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, weâll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable. Â
Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. If you have any questions, please contact us.
Getting There
You start in Vaison-la-Romaine, a delightful town snuggled in green hills in the heart of Provence. Vaison lies about 650 km southeast of Paris, and due east of Orange. Access is via either Avignon or Orange. Both can be reached via the TGV (high speed rail network of France), and are only a three to four hour journey from Paris. These towns can also be reached by air or from other gateway cities such as Lyon or Nice. Transfer to Vaison is via public or private transportation. Weâll provide you with detailed instructions.
1
Day 1
Vaison-la-Romaine
Arrival in Vaison-la-Romaine. Visit the famous Roman ruins, then explore the medieval quarter perched high on the opposite bank.
2
Day 2
Le Poët-Laval
Cycle to Poët-Laval in the heart of the Baronnies mountains, which are part of the pre-Alps. Rated as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Poët-Laval also features an interesting museum of Protestant history in France. Your hotel has a long history entwined with the Knights Templar.
Ride Distance: 60 km, elevation gain 625 m.*
3
Day 3
Le Poët-Laval
Enjoy a second day in Poët-Laval. A delightful day ride takes you to the pottery centre of Dieulefit, then on to Bourdeaux and the ruined castle of Soyans. This route is often on the Dauphin race route.
Ride Distance: 55 km, elevation gain 520 m.*
4
Day 4
Buis-les-Baronnies
Buis-les-Baronnies beckons. This spectacular ride crosses through the valleys of six different rivers, with high hills and two passes in between. Gorges and isolated chapels, plus vineyards, orchards and lavender fields characterize the scenery.
Ride Distance: 56 km, elevation gain 840 m.*
5
Day 5
Buis-les-Baronnies
Spend a second night in Buis-les-Baronnies. In this sun bowl hollowed out of the mountains grow the best Nyons olives. A grand day ride takes you past Brante in the shadow of Mont Ventoux, then on to the spa town of Montbrun-les-Bains. The gorges in the Toulourenc valley are as stunning as the castle.
Ride Distance: 60 km, elevation gain 670 m or 28 km, gain 620 m or 44 km, gain 550 m.*
6
Day 6
Sault-en-Provence
On your way to Sault, there are several routes to choose from. Head east to Mollans-sur-OuvĂšze with its lovely high-arched bridge, marked on each side by a tower and a tiny chapel. Sault is the lavender capital of the region, and also home to Provenceâs Most famous maker of nougat – a tasty confection of honey and almonds. Just right after a long bike ride!
Ride Distance: 47 km, elevation gain 726 m or 37 km, gain 670 m.*Â
7
Day 7
BĂ©doin
Delight in the spectacular Gorges de la Nesque, with its wildly eroded cliffs and curves, as you ride to BĂ©doin, a relaxing town among vineyards and cherry orchards. Or pedal to BĂ©doin over Mont Ventoux, 1909 m at its summit where a cold wind always blows and there are breathtaking views as far as the Alps.
Ride Distance: 50 km, elevation gain 1140 m or 43 km, gain 345 m.*Â
8
Day 8
Murs
Cross over the base of the Plateau de Vaucluse and begin the long steady climb to Murs. Descend over the Col de Murs to the most remote and authentic of the Luberon villages.
Ride Distance: 43 km, elevation gain 520 m.*
9
Day 9
Murs
Explore the back corners of the Plateau de Vaucluse, which is anything but flat. Surprising chĂąteaux and truly charming villages are among the pedalling pleasures.
Ride Distance: 38 km, elevation gain 460 m or 48 km, gain 680 m or 43 km, gain 680 m.*
10
Day 10
Gordes & LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue
Pedal to Gordes, a stunning perched town with artistsâ studios, cosy cafĂ©s, and arcaded medieval lanes. Then enjoy a final look at the orchards and vineyards of the Luberon before arriving at the waterways of LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue, famous for its antique dealers and markets.
Ride Distance: 49 km, elevation gain 320 m or 57 km, gain 210 m or 16 km, gain 40 m.*
11
Day 11
Linger for some souvenir shopping before departing.
*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.
Classic
Hotel Le Burrhus, Vaison-La-Romaine
This hotel overlooks a pretty square right in the heart of Vaison. The hotel has been recently renovated, and often hosts art exhibits in the hotelâs lounges; the owners are very friendly and there is dedicated garage for bike storage. Straight Talk: rooms are smallish and arenât completely sound-proofed, but we have often stayed here and enjoyed.
Hotel Les Hospitaliers, Le Vieux Poët-Laval
This 3-star hotel is of new construction but was built to fit in with its surroundings. There are outstanding views from almost every room and a lovely swimming pool to enjoy. There is an excellent restaurant here, with plenty of produce from the garden and wine from the huge wine cellar. âthis hotel is a gem, set in one of Franceâs romantic, picture-perfect little villages.â Karen Brown Guides
Le Lion d'Or Les Arcades, Buis-les-Baronies
Built in 1661, this 3-star hotel has lovely gardens and swimming pool. The location, in the center of Buis-les-Baroniers, is perfect as there are lots of restaurants to walk to.
Hostellerie Val de Sault, Sault
This 4-star hotel is situated 2 km outside of Sault in a large garden with a tennis court, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, plus a fitness room and Jacuzzi. There is an excellent restaurant here. Recommended by les Guide Rivages.
Hotel des Pins, Bedoin
This 3-star hotel is located just outside (1.7 km) of Bedoin. Guests rooms are individually decorated and there is a swimming pool and gardens to enjoy. The delicious cuisine is direct from nearby Provencal markets.
Hotel Le Crillon, Murs
This small hotel is in a calm area with many walking areas nearby. There is also a restaurant serving the local cuisine.
Located in city center
Mas de Cure Bourse, LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue
This 18th Century property was purchased in 2012 by Sophie and Karin Bajolle. There is over 6 acres of fruit trees surrounding the property so it is quite peaceful and the swimming pool is very inviting. There is a restaurant here with sophisticated home cooking and lots of great restaurants in LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue, 4 km away.
Luxe
Hotel Beffroi, Vaison-La-Romaine
Located in the medieval village, this chateau features lovely gardens, a restaurant and a pool.It is in one of the most beautiful 16th century mansions in the Old City of Vaison; you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.
Hotel Les Hospitaliers, Le Vieux Poët-Laval
This 3-star hotel is of new construction but was built to fit in with its surroundings. There are outstanding views from almost every room and a lovely swimming pool to enjoy. There is an excellent restaurant here, with plenty of produce from the garden and wine from the huge wine cellar. âthis hotel is a gem, set in one of Franceâs romantic, picture-perfect little villages.â Karen Brown Guides
Le Lion d'Or Les Arcades, Buis-les-Baronies *Classic Inn
Built in 1661, this 3-star hotel has lovely gardens and swimming pool. The location, in the center of Buis-les-Baroniers, is perfect as there are lots of restaurants to walk to.
Hostellerie Val de Sault, Sault *Classic Inn
This 4-star hotel is situated 2 km outside of Sault in a large garden with a tennis court, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, plus a fitness room and Jacuzzi. There is an excellent restaurant here. Recommended by les Guide Rivages.
Chateau de Mazan, Mazan
Located in a small village, this 18th century mansion boasts large guest rooms, a gourmet restaurant and large outdoor swimming pool.
Hotel Le Crillon, Murs *Classic Inn
This small hotel is in a calm area with many walking areas nearby. There is also a restaurant serving the local cuisine.
Grand Hotel Henri, LâIsle-sur-la-Sorgue
Our newest discovery, in the historic center of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, this 4-star property boasts an elegance and refinement. There is a restaurant, presided over by Chef Olivier Bouzon.
Premium deluxe
Hotel Crillon le Brave, Crillon le Brave
Located in a tiny hillside village, it is surrounded by vineyards, olive trees and lavender fields. This hotel is part of "Small Luxury Hotels of the World" and is listed by Travel and Leisure as one of the top 500 hotels in the world.
La Maison sur la Sorgue, L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
This 17th-century townhouse with breathtaking architecture that will make your visit unforgettable. This lovely space is a perfect mix of culture and nature. You can expect impeccable service, spacious and comfortable suites, a secret garden with a swimming pool, and an art gallery where artists and designers are showcased alongside items from travels around the world.
Trip Reviews
“The tour was not difficult for those who cycle hills regularly, but a nice combination of scenery and challenge. It’s easy with a self-supported tour for individuals to add kms to the daily route if they want to, as we did on the last day.”
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