Provence Tours in May 2026

An excellent trip through rural France in the Cote du Rhone and Provence areas with cultural visits to medieval towns, villages, castles, Roman ruins, and vineyards along the way. I would thoroughly recommend this trip. The first half was based in Avignon, which is steeped in history and the second half in rural Pernes le Fontaines. Most of the cycling was on good cycle tracks (converted disused railways) and quiet minor roads. When major roads needed to be crossed there were designated cycleways that provide right of way. Car drivers were courteous. There were a couple of hill climbs but they were not too strenuous and the sites and views were all worth the effort. The two hotels were of a very good standard, clean, comfortable, and well located. In Avignon the city hotel was close to the ancient city walls, cycle paths and city centre restaurants and tourist sites. In Perne the hotel was “country house” style in a beautiful rural setting. My tour highlights were Avignon, Chateauneuf du Pape, Gordes and the Pont du Gard. Our guide was Erwin Verhagen, who I have travelled with before. He has an excellent knowledge of the local roads, ancient and modern history and boulangerie locations. He shares all his information in a friendly and enthusiastic manner.

It was so much fun. We laughed every day. The staff was so attentive and caring and our fellow bike riders only added to the experience. The boat was comfortable and the food was excellent. Some days the riding was a challenge but it gave you the excuse to have another local beer when we got back to the boat. We really enjoyed the whole experience.

We thoroughly enjoyed our barge and bike tour and would recommend it to anyone. The cycling was generally very easy with only a few rough trails or steep inclines ( we used electric bikes which made this very easy). Our guide, Helmut, was very knowledgeable and made us feel safe during the rides. All the on board staff were very attentive and helpful and a special mention must go to Juliano, our chef for the week who constantly prepared absolutely delicious meals. We would definitely consider booking another tour.

Wonderful experience. The app worked great. I did have one flat, and discovered that a needed tool was missing. Fortunately there was a bike shop nearby. Turned out it was no big deal. The weather was fantastic.

This was a fabulous trip. The organisation was seamless and it was exactly as described in the information provided. We are both in our 60s and the level was perfect for our fitness levels.

They provided excellent facilities and services with bikes, guide, staff, meals, accommodations, daily ride briefings and routes ideal for bikes. We would never find the interesting routes used. The morning and afternoon coffee stops/breaks were interesting locations. The winery, olive oil mill and Arles guided tour were great.