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+8
| Any start date between May 1 to October 31 |
|---|
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$2845
Single Supplement: US$710
Luxe Accommodation: US$3475
Single Supplement: US$870
Bike Rentals
Hybrid Bikes: US $380
Racing Bikes: US $480
E-Bikes: US $560
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 |
|---|---|
| Level | 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 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.*
Depart from Bédoin for your next adventure.
*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.
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 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.
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.”
“We did have road bikes and we appreciated the quality. The scenic views made the whole experience magnificent! The daily distances were very good. Some of the hills were pretty challenging for me… Mont Ventoux took the cake… but I made it all the way up! My husband is much more skilled cyclist and loved the Mont Ventoux climb the best out of the whole trip! We had a fabulous time! The literature provided by your office was very good. It was very interesting to read about the area ahead of time and your suggestions re: packing, etc. were most appreciated. Our area manager was extremely kind, efficient and considerate. She was very helpful in getting us set up properly with our bikes.”
“We loved getting away for a vacation for the first time in 18 months (after Covid). The area was fab and we would return for sure. Have already recommended to cycling friends. The trip exceeded our expectations- it was a fab trip. The weather added to our enjoyment for sure but we would have liked it otherwise. The Gorge ride was stunning, the cars were respectful of cyclists. Generally the traffic was minimal. Really enjoyed the Sault accommodation. Both dinners were very good. The route instructions and GPS exceeded our expectations, as well as our interactions with both our Area Manager and our Travel Advisor.”
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