Vaison-La-Romaine, Pernes-les-Fontaines and Gordes
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.
Vaison-la-Romaine, France
Day 1
Le Poët-Laval, France
Day 2+3
Buis-les-Baronnies, France
Day 4+5
Sault, France
Day 6
Bédoin, France
Day 7
Murs, France
Day 8+9
Gordes, France
Day 10
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, France
Day 10+11
| Any start date between May 1 to June 30 & September 1 to October 31 |
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Custom trips also available and can start any day. Call or email for details.
Total Days
Arrive/Depart
Activity LevelDaily distance between 45 km and 65 km (30 to 40 miles).
This is our most challenging tour in Provence.
TerrainHills 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.
CostClassic Accommodation: US $3,950
Single Supplement: US $970
Luxe Accommodation: US $5,050
Single Supplement: US $1275
Premium Deluxe Accommodation: US$5725
Single Supplement: US$1425
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: US $560
Racing Bikes: US $660
E-Bikes: US $800
E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ 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, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
| Destination | France |
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| Level | Avid, Moderate |
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. We’ll provide you with detailed instructions.
Vaison-la-Romaine
Arrival in Vaison-la-Romaine. Visit the famous Roman ruins, then explore the medieval quarter perched high on the opposite bank.
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.*
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.*
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.*
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.*
Sault-en-Provence
On your way to Sault, there are several routes to choose from. Head east to Mollans-sur-Ouvèze 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 Provence’s 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.*
Bédoin
Delight in the spectacular Gorges de la Nesque, with its wildly eroded cliffs and curves, as you ride to Bédoin, a relaxing town among vineyards and cherry orchards. Or pedal to Bédoin 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.*
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.*
Murs
Explore the back corners of the Plateau de Vaucluse, which is anything but flat. Surprising châteaux 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.*
Gordes & L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Pedal to Gordes, a stunning perched town with artists’ studios, cosy cafés, and arcaded medieval lanes. Then enjoy a final look at the orchards and vineyards of the Luberon before arriving at the waterways of L’Isle-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.*
Linger for some souvenir shopping before departing.
*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.
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.
*Luxe Accommodation
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. “this hotel is a gem, set in one of France’s romantic, picture-perfect little villages.” Karen Brown Guides
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.
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.
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.
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
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 L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, 4 km away.
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.
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. “this hotel is a gem, set in one of France’s romantic, picture-perfect little villages.” Karen Brown Guides
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.
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.
Located in a small village, this 18th century mansion boasts large guest rooms, a gourmet restaurant and large outdoor swimming pool.
This small hotel is in a calm area with many walking areas nearby. There is also a restaurant serving the local cuisine.
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.
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.
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.
Tour 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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