Provence Bike & Boat

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 5pm, with the introductory briefing and refreshing aperitif at 6.30pm followed by dinner on board.

Our first cycle is to the other side of the Rhone river via the Île de la Barthelasse and through typical Provencal landscapes. We'll pass vineyards and orchards on our way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. During the trip, you'll have the opportunity to taste the famous Provençal wine. Later, we cross the Rhône at Roquemaure and return to Villeneuve by following the river course. In the afternoon there'll be time to visit the historic centre of Avignon. Own dinner arrangements.

Elevation +-285m/935ft

We cruise for two hours this morning to the new harbour on the Rhone at Aramon. From here 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 +-240m/787ft

This morning we cruise to Vallabrègues, another pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône. Today's 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 Frigolet whose grounds are perfect for a picnic. Later we continue to the medieval village of Boulbon before returning to the boat at Vallabrègues.

Elevation +-210m/689ft

Today's cycle brings us to Saint Remy de Provence, the birthplace of Nostradamus, and 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. Later we cycle to the Alpilles (hills), with an ascent to the fortified town of Les Baux de Provence. This picturesque village is lodged high atop the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs, lavender and olive trees accompanies our journey. Continue to Arles.

Elevation +-380m/1246ft

This morning is dedicated to exploring Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul. You will be welcomed by a professional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town (1hr). UNESCO World Heritage listed, Arles has many important and beautiful Roman ruins. After lunch we reach Franquevaux by bike then cruise to Aigues Mortes for our overnight stay.

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 +-100m/328ft

We discover the spectacular Camargue on today's round cycle. We ride on small country lanes passing by canals, lagoons, and small villages including La Cailar, Marsillargues and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, known for their ancient taurine tradition. In the afternoon, we will visit an organic vineyard and enjoy a special wine tasting experience. We return to Aigues Mortes for the last night on board the boat.

Elevation +-160m/525ft

After breakfast the trip concludes in Aigues Mortes.