Provence Bike & Boat
Provence Bike & Boat
Provence Bike & Boat
8 Days Starting in Avignon, France and ending in Aigues-Mortes, France
Visiting: Avignon, Aramon, Vallabrègues, Arles, Camargue, Aigues-Mortes
Tour operator:
Tour code:
PBB
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 21
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Provence with the "Provence Bike & Boat" tour. Cycle through breathtaking landscapes adorned with olive groves, vineyards, and the wild beauty of the Camargue. Explore the historic towns of Arles, Avignon, and St Remy de Provence, and marvel at the timeless scenery that inspired Van Gogh. Witness the architectural splendor of the Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard. Enjoy seven nights aboard a comfortable barge, complete with daily meals, bike rentals, and guided tours. This unique adventure combines the charm of cycling with the tranquility of river cruising, offering an immersive experience in one of France's most picturesque regions.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Avignon
Location: Avignon
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Dinner
Make your way to Avignon. You will find the boat at the Quai de la Ligne next to
the famous Pont St Bénezet. Boarding begins at 6pm (5pm in 2025), with the introductory briefing at 6.30pm on board.
Day 2 : Cycle Near Avignon, Afternoon Visit Centre (30Km/18.5Mi)
Location: Avignon
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's cycle takes us to the other side of the river Rhone by crossing the island Île de la Barthelasse, and we’ll ride in the typical Provencal landscape, between vineyards and orchards. Before heading back to the boat we’ll visit Villeneuve Les Avignon, once known as the town of the cardinals. In the afternoon there'll be time to visit the historic centre of Avignon.
Elevation +-205m/675ft
Day 3 : By Boat To Aramon, Loop Cycle To The Roman Aqueduct, The Pont Du Gard (40Km/25Mi)
Location: Aramon
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We cruise for two hours this morning to the new harbour on the Rhone at Aramon. Back on the bikes we cycle to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe, the Pont du Gard. This UNESCO listed aqueduct is a truly spectacular work of architecture. Later we return to our mooring in Aramon, a typical village on the banks of the Rhone, with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux.
Elevation +-200m/660ft
Day 4 : By Boat To Vallabrègues Then Loop Cycle Through Typical Provence Countryside (35Km/21.5Mi)
Location: Vallabrègues
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning the boat cruises to Vallabrègues, another pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. The cycle takes us along country roads to the town of Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers. From here we continue to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigulet whose grounds are perfect for a picnic. Later we continue to the medieval village of Boulbon before returning to the boat at Vallabrègues.
Elevation +-175m/580ft
Day 5 : Cycle To St Remy De Provence And On To Les Baux De Provence And Arles (55Km/34Mi)
Location: Arles
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today's cycle brings us to Saint Remy de Provence, the birthplace of Nostradamus. This village is one of the "must-sees" in Provence. Vincent Van Gogh was treated here at Monastery Saint-Paul de Mausole and was so inspired by the light and landscape that he created 143 oil paintings and more than 100 drawings. We cycle to the Alpilles hills, with an ascent to the fortified town of Les Baux de Provence. This picturesque village is lodged high in the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees accompanies our journey. Continue to Arles.
Elevation +335m/1105ft, -340m/1122ft
Day 6 : Visit Arles And Cycle To Saint Gilles, By Boat To Aigues Mortes (25Km/15.5Mi)
Location: Arles
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning is dedicated to visiting and exploring Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul on a guided walk. This World Heritage listed site has many important and beautiful Roman ruins. Getting lost among its small alleys is like entering a Van Gogh painting. We will arrive by bike at the wooden bridge which was portrayed by the great painter. Continue on to Saint Gilles, where we will meet the boat for a 2 hour cruise to Aigues Mortes. The striking walled town of Aigues-Mortes is set on the Petite Camargue, a flat marsh. The town has changed little in outward appearance since the Middle Ages, with its watch towers and fortified portes or gates. It was established as a port town with access to the sea via a canal through the marshlands. We recommend trying a "Fougasse", a traditional local pastry made with Brioche dough, sugar and orange blossom. Elevation +0m
Note: optional self guided cycle via the coast at Saintes Maries de la Mer to Aigues Mortes (65km 40.5mi)
Day 7 : Discover The Camargue By Bike (55Km/34Mi)
Location: Camargue
Accommodation Name: boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We discover the spectacular Camargue on today's round cycle. Through small country lanes between canals and lagoons, we'll reach the charming village of Le Grau-du-Roi - and maybe take a refreshing swim at the beach. We return to Aigues Mortes for the last night on board the boat.
Elevation +-185m/610ft
Day 8 : Trip Concludes
Location: Aigues-Mortes
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast the trip concludes in Aigues Mortes.
What's Included
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Meals
7 breakfasts, 6 self-made packed lunches, and 6 dinners (does not include drinks). Breakfast is buffet style and will usually consist of bread, ham/salami, cheese, butter, marmalade/jams, yoghurt, cereals, milk, tea, and coffee.
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Accommodation
7 nights on a comfortable barge in a twin share cabin with ensuite facilities.
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Bike Rental
Bike rental with gel saddles, puncture-resistant tyres, pannier, lock, and helmet. A repair kit is provided if self-guided. Electric bikes are available on request and an additional supplement applies (limited availability).
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Bike Insurance
Bike insurance for theft or damage.
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Tour Leader
English speaking tour leader.
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Digital Information Pack
Digital information pack including route notes, maps, and navigational App (can be used offline) with GPS Tracks per cabin (smartphone required).
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Cabin Services
Sheets and towels, courtesy kit, daily cabin tidy, and mid-week cabin cleaning service.
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Harbour Charges
Harbour charges.
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Beverages
Tea and coffee on board.
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Guided Visit
Guided visit of Arles.
What's Not Included
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Travel
Travel to/from Avignon and Aigues Mortes.
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Beverages
Drinks other than tea and coffee on board.
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Entry Fees
Entry to museums.
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Personal Items
Items of a personal nature.
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Tips
Tips.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance.
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Special Dietary Supplement
Supplement to provide special dietary on board: gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan diets.
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Visitor Centre Entrance
Entrance to the Pont du Gard area is free, not included however is entrance to the visitor centre (approx.
10 euro). -
Phone Holder and Power Bank
If you want to cycle independently: to cycle smoothly using the App, we suggest bringing a phone holder to fix to the handlebar, as well as a power bank.
Grading
GRADE 2 - INTRODUCTORY TO MODERATE
This trip involves 6 days cycling with daily distances between 30 and 55km/19 and 34mi usually along cycle paths and low traffic, secondary roads. There are some short stretches on higher traffic roads particularly when entering and leaving towns. The cycling is in the lowlands during the two stages in the Camargue, while the stages north of Arles include rolling hills. There is one particularly demanding climb to hilltop Les Baux de Provence which involves quite some effort if you are on a regular bike. *For safety reasons, we highly recommend that cycle helmets are worn during cycle sections.
What You Carry
During the cycle day you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone and water. A small daypack which can be kept inside the pannier is useful for sightseeing.
Mode of Transport
Travel includes cycling through scenic routes with provided bikes, and cruising on a barge between destinations such as Avignon, Aramon, Vallabrègues, and Aigues Mortes.
Accommodation
Enjoy 7 nights on a comfortable barge in a twin share cabin with ensuite facilities, complete with sheets, towels, a courtesy kit, daily cabin tidy, and mid-week cabin cleaning service.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of meals are included during the tour?
The tour includes 7 breakfasts, 6 self-made packed lunches, and 6 dinners. Breakfast is buffet style and typically consists of bread, ham/salami, cheese, butter, marmalade/jams, yogurt, cereals, milk, tea, and coffee. At breakfast, you will prepare your packed lunch for the day.
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What kind of accommodation is provided on this tour?
You will stay for 7 nights on a comfortable barge in a twin-share cabin with ensuite facilities.
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Is bike rental included in the tour package?
Yes, bike rental is included and comes with gel saddles, puncture-resistant tires, a pannier, a lock, and a helmet. A repair kit is provided if you choose the self-guided option. Electric bikes are available on request for an additional supplement, subject to limited availability.
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Is there any insurance provided for the bikes?
Yes, bike insurance for theft or damage is included in the tour package.
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Will there be a tour leader during the trip?
Yes, an English-speaking tour leader will be present during the trip.
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What kind of digital support is provided for navigation?
A digital information pack including route notes, maps, and a navigational app with GPS tracks is provided per cabin. The app can be used offline, but a smartphone is required.
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Are there any additional charges for special dietary requirements?
Yes, there is a supplement to provide special dietary options on board, including gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan diets.
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What should I bring if I want to cycle independently?
If you want to cycle independently, it is suggested to bring a phone holder to fix to the handlebar and a power bank to ensure smooth use of the navigational app.
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What is the difficulty level of the cycling routes?
The trip is graded as introductory to moderate. It involves 6 days of cycling with daily distances between 25 and 55 km (15.5 and 34 miles), usually along cycle paths and low-traffic roads. There are some short stretches on busier roads and some ups and downs, particularly north of Arles. The most demanding slope is towards Les Baux de Provence.
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What do I need to carry during the cycling days?
During the cycling days, you will carry your daily requirements in the pannier provided with the bike. This may include your lunch, wet weather gear, mobile phone, and water.
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How fit do I have to be?
Our adventures are first and foremost holidays and can be undertaken by anyone in a reasonable state of health and fitness - however, please carefully read our Terms & Conditions when booking and view the trip grading. We rank our trips according to our honest Trip Grading System. We recommend that you familiarise yourself with our grading system by reading our detailed trip notes (which you can order through this site) and to speak with us about the physical requirements of your chosen trip.
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What happens if something goes wrong?
On our guided tours, you travel in small groups with a local multi-lingual guide whose knowledge of the terrain, flora, fauna and history of the region is exemplary. Our self guided tours give you the freedom to explore at your own pace - but they're not unsupported. We provide detailed route notes and maps and our local partners are on hand throughout the day in the unlikely event that something goes wrong. All we request is that you select a program that matches your level of fitness to ensure that you have a comfortable experience.
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I'm travelling solo on a self-guided trip. Do I pay the single supplement or the single traveller surcharge?
Most of our self guided trips are priced based on twinshare. If you are travelling solo the single traveller surcharge will apply. The single supplement would apply if you were travelling in a party with others and you had chosen to book a single room. You would never pay a single traveller surcharge and a single supplement.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
UTracks allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform utracks, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
UTracks requires a minimum deposit of 250 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of utracks charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.