Taste of Provence

“La Vie est Belle” — From Avignon to the Alpilles

From Avignon to Saint-Rémy, let the sensory pleasures of Provence revitalize you

Destination

France

Activity

Biking

Level

Athletic Beginner

Duration

7 days / 6 nights

This tour is great for Francophiles and foodies who are looking for a tour on the easier side.

From $5,950 PP 7 days / 6 nights

Book Now

Download Itinerary

Schedule A Call

This tour is great for Francophiles and foodies who are looking for a tour on the easier side.

Experience Provence by bike, from the papal city of Avignon and the Roman ruins of Vaison-la-Romaine to the vineyards of Mont Ventoux, the hilltop villages of the Luberon, and the dramatic landscapes of the Alpilles. Ride quiet country roads through vineyards and olive groves, wind through the spectacular Gorges de la Nesque, and discover Gordes, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, Les Baux, and ancient Glanum. The riding combines peaceful lanes and rolling countryside with dramatic limestone landscapes and optional challenges for those looking to add more miles. Along the way, discover the villages, markets, historic sites, and local traditions that give this corner of southern France its distinctive character. Savor the wines and cuisine of Provence as you experience a region where cycling, culture, history, and everyday life are wonderfully intertwined.

Tour Essence

Explore UNESCO-listed Avignon, the medieval City of Popes
Ride through the spectacular Gorges de la Nesque beneath Mont Ventoux
Discover the hilltop villages of Gordes, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Step back in time at the Roman sites of Vaison-la-Romaine and Glanum
Taste the celebrated wines and olive oils of Provence
Follow quiet roads through the vineyards, olive groves, and dramatic landscapes of the Luberon and Alpilles

Mangia!

Savor the flavors of Provence, from tapenade, fougasse, and goat cheese to ratatouille, Provençal vegetable tian, Cochon du Ventoux pork, and fresh fish. Enjoy the region’s celebrated olive oil, figs, and fresh seasonal produce.

Bevi!

Taste the wines of Provence and the Rhône Valley, from renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape to Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes-de-Venise, and the Côtes du Ventoux. Discover distinctive rosés, reds, and whites from the vineyards around Mont Ventoux and the Rhône.

What to Expect

Terrain

Flat and rolling

Start Location

Avignon

End Location

St. Rémy de Provence

Mileage

Average Daily: 35 miles Total: 200 miles

Elevation

Average Daily: 1,900 feet Total: 11,700 feet

Artichokes at a farmer's market in Divine Provence

Olives at a farmer's market in Divine Provence

Itinerary

Download Itinerary

Start Location

Avignon

Fly Into

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Marseille Airport (MRS)

End Location

St. Rémy de Provence

Fly Out Of

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Marseille Airport (MRS)

Download Itinerary

STYLED MAP

Day1

Avignon

Welcome to France! We meet at our hotel in Avignon at 12:00 pm for introductions, followed by a light lunch at a restaurant in the old town. After a bike fitting and safety briefing, we head out for a warm-up ride on the picturesque Île de la Barthelasse, the longest river island in France. Just across the Rhône from Avignon, the island has preserved its agricultural character, with vineyards, orchards, farms, and fertile fields offering a peaceful contrast to the historic city. Later in the afternoon, before dinner in town, we meet our local guide for a walking tour of Avignon and an introduction to the city’s fascinating history.

Meals Provided

Lunch, Dinner

Average Mileage

10 miles

Elevation Gain

300 feet

Riding Terrain

Flat

Meals Provided

Lunch, Dinner

Accommodations

Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis

The Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis is a charming 4-star hotel established on the site of a Jesuit novitiate. The building dates back to the 16th century and is a listed Historical Monument. It is situated in the heart of Avignon, and the Palais des Papes and Pont d’Avignon are just a 15-minute walk away. The hotel boasts an outdoor rooftop pool with a spacious sun terrace. Some of the elegant guest rooms are located in the historic building, featuring archways and vaulted ceilings.

Luxury Level4-star

Day2

Avignon to Mazan

Today’s ride takes us from Avignon along scenic Vélo routes through the Provençal countryside. We follow the Rhône to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where we regroup in the medieval hill town renowned for its exceptional wines and centuries-old connection to the papacy. From there, we continue through the vineyards and villages toward Sarrians and Mazan, with distant views of the impressive Mont Ventoux along the way. We’ll end the day at our hotel, Château de Mazan, with dinner and perhaps a glass of Provençal rosé as the sun sets.

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Dinner

Average Mileage

40 miles

Elevation Gain

1,500 feet

Riding Terrain

Rolling hills

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations

Château de Mazan

The 4-star hotel is located in the charming village of Mazan, at the foot of the legendary Mt. Ventoux. It features an outdoor pool, landscaped garden, gourmet restaurant, bar, and lounge.

Luxury Level4-star

Day3

Vaison-la-Romaine & Mont Ventoux

Vaison-la-Romaine in home to one of the most important Roman archaeological sites in Provence. On our way, we stop in Malaucène, a lively cycling hub at the foot of Mont Ventoux, with several bike shops where you may find a local jersey or other cycling souvenirs. It’s also the starting point for an optional extra loop to the summit of Mont Ventoux. After lunch, we ride back through the vineyards of Gigondas, Vacqueyras, and Beaumes-de-Venise, three of the region’s best-known wine-producing areas. For those taking on the extra loop, the road climbs to the summit of Mont Ventoux, rising nearly 6,300 feet above sea level. Its exposed summit is famous for the powerful Mistral winds that sweep across the mountain, while its legendary status in cycling comes from its many appearances in the Tour de France. Tonight, we enjoy dinner at one of the town’s excellent restaurants.

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Dinner

Average Mileage

40 / 45 miles

Elevation Gain

2,500 / 6,100 feet

Riding Terrain

Rolling hills on main loop and one mountain climb/descend for the extra loopers.

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations

Château de Mazan

The 4-star hotel is located in the charming village of Mazan, at the foot of the legendary Mt. Ventoux. It features an outdoor pool, landscaped garden, gourmet restaurant, bar, and lounge.

Luxury Level4-star

Day4

Gorges de la Nesque

If the Gorges de la Nesque is new to you, you’re in for a treat. Mont Ventoux provides an impressive backdrop as we follow one of France’s most spectacular cycling roads, winding through dramatic limestone cliffs and rugged Provençal landscapes. With little traffic, smooth pavement, and breathtaking views, it’s easy to see why the gorge is a favorite among cyclists from across Europe. We stop for lunch in the charming village of Monieux before continuing through the quiet countryside. Dinner is at our hotel this evening.

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Dinner

Average Mileage

40 miles

Elevation Gain

4,400 feet

Riding Terrain

Rolling, hilly

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodations

Le Phébus & Spa Relais & Châteaux

Nestled in the charming town of Joucas, Le Phébus & Spa is a haven of tranquility within stone walls. Immerse yourself in absolute luxury in elegantly decorated rooms. The 5-star establishment invites you to an unparalleled luxury experience featuring two restaurants and a Provence Spa for ultimate relaxation. Beyond the refined interiors, guests are invited to enjoy leisure at the heated swimming pool, private tennis court, and 4-hectare park.

Luxury Level5-star

Day5

Gordes, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & St. Rémy

We set out for Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, riding through the scenic landscapes of the Luberon and Vaucluse. We pass through hilltop Gordes before reaching Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, where the Sorgue River emerges from a dramatic natural spring. The village attracted artists and writers for centuries, including the Italian poet Petrarch, who lived here in the 14th century. From there, we continue through the countryside toward the Alpilles and Saint-Rémy. After settling into our hotel, we meet our private guide for a visit to Saint-Paul de Mausole, where Vincent van Gogh spent the latter part of his life. Saint-Rémy, birthplace of Nostradamus, is a historic Provençal town known for its lively markets, celebrations, and festivals.

Meals Provided

Breakfast

Average Mileage

35 miles

Elevation Gain

1,500 feet

Riding Terrain

Flat and rolling

Meals Provided

Breakfast

Accommodations

Le Saint-Remy

Le Saint Remy is a luxurious 5-star hotel that boasts a prime location in the heart of the historic village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. The outdoor swimming pool’s beach features double-deck chairs, making it an ideal relaxing spot.

Luxury Level5-star

Day6

Eygalières, Les Baux & the Alpilles

We leave Saint-Rémy and ride through the peaceful countryside of the Alpilles, passing vineyards, cypress trees, and orchards on our way to Eygalières, a charming Provençal village nestled beneath the limestone hills. From here, we cross the Alpilles, with dramatic rocky landscapes and sweeping views across the surrounding countryside. We stop at a local olive oil mill and vineyard for a tasting of their olive oil and wine, followed by a picnic lunch. We then continue to Les Baux-de-Provence, a spectacular medieval village perched on a rocky outcrop, with panoramic views across the Alpilles and the ruins of its imposing castle. We cross the Alpilles once more on our return to Saint-Rémy. It’s a full day of riding, exploring, and lingering along the way before our farewell dinner in town.

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Average Mileage

30 miles

Elevation Gain

1,600 feet

Riding Terrain

Rolling

Meals Provided

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodations

Le Saint-Remy

Luxury Level5-star

Day7

Au Revoir!

At 9:00 am, a group shuttle will take us to the Avignon TGV train station, where you can catch a train to destinations throughout France.

Meals Provided

Breakfast

Meals Provided

Breakfast

Accommodations

Taste of Provence

Luxury Level

Dates

2027

May 23-29

Available

Sep 19-25

Available

From $5,950 PP 7 days / 6 nights

$1,190 Single Supplement

From $5,950 PP 7 days / 6 nights

Book Now

Download Itinerary

Schedule A Call

Any of our tours can be made private. Contact us to learn more.

Go Private

Once your trip is confirmed, we’ll provide everything you need to prepare for your adventure—from training and packing tips to practical travel information and inspiration to get you excited for the journey ahead. Our Travel Advisors are also available to help you plan your pre- and post-tour travel.

What’s Included

Services of expert local bilingual guides throughout the program
Full van support throughout the tour
Ciclismo Classico Super Snacks with local specialties and fresh seasonal products
Cycling clinics and personalized coaching
Group shuttle at the end of the tour

Cycling Gear Included

Use of our exclusive carbon road bike, La Classica Ribelle (or equivalent)
Garmin Edge Explore GPS preloaded with daily routes and GPX tracks
Ride with GPS navigation and route access for mobile devices
Ciclismo Classico jersey and water bottle
Saddle bag with repair kit
Optional map holder on handlebars

Pedal Options

Flat pedals
Half-toe pedals (without straps)

What’s Not Included

Cycling helmet
Optional clipless/SPD pedals and cycling shoes
Optional personal saddle

Ciclismo Classico high-performance road bike for Italy bike tours, designed for cycling enthusiasts exploring scenic Italian landscapes and iconic routes.

All accommodations
All breakfasts
2 lunches
5 dinners

Guided walking tour of Avignon
Entrance to the Roman archaeological sites of Vaison-la-Romaine
Guided walking tour of Saint Paul de Mausole
One wine tasting featuring regional Provençal wines
Olive oil mill tour and tasting
Entrance to the Greco-Roman archaeological site of Glanum

From the Blog

Visit The Blog

Ciclismo Experience

Custom Group Bike Tours in Europe: Travel Together, Ride Together

Ciclismo Classico

Food & Wine

The Ultimate Italy Foodie Bike Tours: Tuscany, Sicily, Amalfi & Beyond

Ciclismo Classico

Destinations

Two Countries, Two Cycling Worlds: Belgium & The Netherlands

[email protected]

Visit The Blog

Italy

North America

NEW Tours for 2027!

By Collection

By Ability Level

By Activity

Italy

North America

NEW Tours for 2027!

By Collection

By Ability Level

By Activity

Taste of Provence

“La Vie est Belle” — From Avignon to the Alpilles

Download a Detailed Itinerary

Destination

Activity

Level

Duration

Tour Essence

What to Expect

Terrain

Start Location

End Location

Mileage

Elevation

Itinerary

Start Location

Fly Into

End Location

Fly Out Of

Avignon

Meals Provided

Average Mileage

Elevation Gain

Riding Terrain

Meals Provided

Accommodations

Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis

Avignon to Mazan

Meals Provided

Average Mileage

Elevation Gain

Riding Terrain

Meals Provided

Accommodations

Château de Mazan

Vaison-la-Romaine & Mont Ventoux

Meals Provided

Average Mileage

Elevation Gain

Riding Terrain

Meals Provided

Accommodations

Château de Mazan

Gorges de la Nesque

Meals Provided

Average Mileage

Elevation Gain

Riding Terrain

Meals Provided

Accommodations

Le Phébus & Spa Relais & Châteaux

Gordes, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & St. Rémy

Meals Provided

Average Mileage

Elevation Gain

Riding Terrain

Meals Provided

Accommodations

Le Saint-Remy

Eygalières, Les Baux & the Alpilles

Meals Provided

Average Mileage

Elevation Gain

Riding Terrain

Meals Provided

Accommodations

Le Saint-Remy

Au Revoir!

Discover the charms of Italy’s rustic southern region