Is there a more iconic destination in France than the sun-kissed land of Provence? We think not. Whilst the glitzy coastline was the traditional haunt of well-to-do tourists early in the 20th century, the idyllic, slow lifestyle of those living inland, tending to their olive groves and vineyards is now what most visitors come in search of.
This tour takes you on an easy-going journey through not only our favourite pocket of Provence, but the favourite of Vincent Van Gogh too. The colours of the landscape and the soft, hazy sunshine that is so reliably present in summer will make it abundantly clear why. The riding is nice and flat for the most part, so the tour is really accessible for cyclists with a basic level of fitness, making it the perfect way to explore this incredible landscape by bike.
Starting and finishing in St-Remy-de-Provence, where Vincent spent the later years of his life, you’ll take in a loop around the Alpilles, along the Via Rhona and into the Camargue, riding through peaceful countryside and calling into Arles for some time in a bustling city with Roman sites and a vibrant, uniquely Camarguaise atmosphere.
Other attractions of note include the hilltop fortress of Les Baux-de-Provence, a perched village with a spectacular view of the Rhone valley and the quintessentially Provençal market village of Fontvieille, where time really does seem to slow down.
All of these memorable places are linked together by a selection of very easy-going cycling routes that traverse the landscape on a mix of quiet rural roads and cycle paths.
