Haute Provence Biking

This is a special tour in an unusual region, and together they constitute a unique opportunity. Voyage to Haute Provence, a region of the pre-Alps, where the ambiance is definitely Provençale. Climb over low passes, descend with wild mountain streams and pedal through lost villages. But this is France, and the inns are cosy and the food and wine fantastic, even in this back country. Have fun riding bike where it is best.

Only Great Explorations:

Small groups, extraordinary guides, and authentic experiences
A ride you will never forget: up Ventoux, should you choose to challenge
Order off the menu at restaurants you won’t find in guidebooks
Distinctive, charming hotels too small for larger groups
We design and operate our own trips so there are only good surprises

Location

Vaison-la-Romaine

Vaison-la-Romaine, France

Starting Location

Poët-Laval

Le Poët-Laval, France

Day 2-3

Buis-les-Baronnies

Buis-les-Baronnies, France

Day 4-5

Sault

Sault, France

Day 6

Bédoin

Bédoin, France

End Location

What’s Included in the Cost of Your Trip?

INCLUDED IN REGULAR TRIP

Services of one or more experienced Great Explorations guides
Support vehicle
7 nights lodging
All breakfasts, 2 lunches, and all dinners but 1
Entrance fees for selected historical sites and museums
Detailed map and route instructions
All baggage transportation
All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off (see arrive/depart cities)

Particulars

EVENT DATES

2023

May 19-26
Sep 15-22

2024

May 17-24
Sep 13-20

Trip can start at any date. Self-guided and custom trips also available. Call or email for details.

TRIP SIZE

4-16 participants

TOTAL DAYS

8 days / 7 nights

ARRIVE / DEPART

Vaison-La-Romaine / Bedoin

ACTIVITY LEVEL

Moderately challenging
Cycling average: 55 km / 33 miles (we list the distances for each day (see Itinerary)- there is always the opportunity to ride additional mileage!)
This trip is not suitable for novice cyclists
Van supported

TERRAIN

Hills every day of moderate or greater difficulty, including some low passes. Some passes are as high as 735 m. Mont Ventoux (an optional ride) is 1909 m.

COST

Land Cost:
US $3,450
Includes 7B/2L/6D

Single Supplement:
US $860

Bike Rental:
US $325

E-Bike Rental:
US $560*

*E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. Rental rates include delivery to the first hotel and pick-up from the last hotel. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. All prices quoted are U.S. dollars but we gladly accept payment in Canadian dollars also. Due to cancellations and waiting lists, trip availability fluctuates daily. If you have any questions or would like to confirm space on this trip before making your reservation, please contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247

Getting there
Our trip starts in Vaison-La-Romaine which can be reached through Avignon, by coach from the TGV station or by taxi. Trains from Paris to Avignon take 2h40.

Day 1

Vaison-la-Romaine

Arrival in Vaison-la-Romaine. We will meet at 4:00 pm to fit bikes and go for a short warm-up ride. Dinner will be at a favourite local restaurant.

Day 2

Poët-Laval

Cycle to Poët-Laval in the heart of the Baronnies mountains, which are part of the pre-Alps. Rated as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Poët-Laval also features an interesting museum of Protestant history in France. Your hotel has a long history entwined with the Knights Templar.
Distance: 60 km, elevation gain 625 m.*

Day 3

Poët-Laval

A delightful day ride takes you to the pottery centre of Dieulefit, then on to Bourdeaux and the ruined castle of Soyans. This route is often on the Dauphin race route (55 km – 600 m of elevation change).
Distance: 55 km, elevation gain 520 m.*

Day 4

Buis-les-Baronnies

This spectacular ride crosses through the valleys of six different rivers, with high hills and two passes in between. Gorges and isolated chapels, plus vineyards, orchards and lavender fields characterize the scenery.
Distance: 56 km, elevation gain 840 m.*

Day 5

Buis-les-Baronnies

In this sun bowl hollowed out of the mountains grow the best Nyons olives. A grand day ride takes you past Brante in the shadow of Mont Ventoux, then on to the spa town of Montbrun-les-Bains. The gorges in the Toulourenc valley are as stunning as the castle.
Distance: 60+ km, elevation gain 670+ m.*

Day 6

Sault

There are several routes to choose from. Head east to Mollans-sur-Ouvèze with its lovely high-arched bridge, marked on each side by a tower and a tiny chapel. Sault is the lavender capital of the region, and also home to Provence’s Most famous maker of nougat – a tasty confection of honey and almonds. Just right after a long bike ride!
Distance: 47 km, elevation gain 726 m or 84 km, gain 1396 m.*

Day 7

Gorges de la Nesque

With its wildly eroded cliffs and curves, as you ride to Bédoin, a relaxing town among vineyards and cherry orchards. Or pedal to Bédoin over Mont Ventoux, 1909 m at its summit with breathtaking views as far as the Alps.
Distance: 45 km, elevation gain 365 m or 97 km, gain 1525 m.*

Day 8

Departure Day

Depart from Crillon/Bedoin for your next adventure.

*Distance and elevation gains may vary depending on hotels chosen for specific departure.

Hôtel Le Beffroi, Vaison-La-Romaine

Located in the medieval village, this chateau features lovely gardens and a pool. It is in one of the most beautiful 16th century mansions in the Old City of Vaison; you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside.

Hôtel Les Hospitaliers, Le Vieux Poët-Laval

Nestled in one of France’s most romantic villages in the hills of northern Provence. Guests can see dramatic countryside across the valley from the terraces or swim in the private swimming pool.

Le Lion d'Or Les Arcades, Buis-les-Baronies

Built in 1661, this unique residence has lovely gardens, a swimming pool and jacuzzi ready for the aching muscles of travelling cyclists.

Hostellerie Val de Sault, Sault

This charming residence is situated in a large garden with a tennis court, outdoor and indoor pools, plus a fitness room and jacuzzi.

Hotel Crillon le Brave, Crillon

Located in a tiny hillside village, it is surrounded by vineyards, olive trees and lavender fields. This hotel is listed by Travel and Leisure as one of the top 500 hotels in the world.

Location

Vaison-la-Romaine

Poët-Laval

Buis-les-Baronnies

Sault

Bédoin

What’s Included in the Cost of Your Trip?

Particulars

Day 1

Day 2

Day 3

Day 4

Day 5

Day 6

Day 7

Day 8

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