Self Guided Cycling Provence & The Luberon - France

Ride through the spectacular rolling hills and lavender fields of the Luberon

Fields of lavender and Forcalquier town, Provence

Provence has been inhabited since ancient times and is so named as it was one of the first provinces outside of Roman Italy. The area stretches from the Rhone River in the west to the Alps and Italy in the east, and the landscape is dominated by rugged mountains and lavender fields. Cycling along the Durance River, we pass through many picturesque market towns and quaint villages.

The Durance flows for 320km from the French Alps into the Rhone River, under the shadow of the Luberon and its national park. Amid the lush colours of the lavender fields we make our way towards the majestic Mont Ventoux. Standing at almost 2000m this mountain has become legendary as one of the most gruelling climbs of the Tour de France and the summit offers magnificent views across the plains of Provence. Nestled between Sault and the mountain range are the beautiful Nesque Gorges with many ancient Roman ruins to explore before heading back to the market town of Cavaillon.

What makes this trip responsible?

Cycling is a fantastic way to travel while minimising your impact on the environment. Pedalling under your own steam we help the economy of the small villages and communities that we pass through and we use a local operator who employs local staff and uses small, family run hotels.

Take the Train

Here at Exodus we feel the need to offer our clients an alternative to air travel within Europe and to destinations where taking the train can be a viable alternative to flying.

Working in cooperation with Rail Europe, our sales team will be happy to reserve your seats and tickets can be booked 3 months prior right up until the day of departure, subject to availability. Suggested train times and further information can be found within the Trip Notes.

Itinerary

[detailed itinerary...]

Countries visited: France

Day 1

Start Cavaillon.

Day 2

Follow the flow of La Durance before the first climb of the day through the historic villages of Merindol and Lauris before continuing to the Provencal village of Cucuron, at the foot of the Grand Luberon.

Day 3

Ride through rolling hills on our way to the lavender fields surrounding the charming market town of Forcalquier.

Day 4

Explore the narrow streets and shady squares of Forcalquier. Alternatively ride a loop to the foot of the Lure Mountain and the village of Saint-Etienne-les-Orgues.

Day 5

A gradual climb on rugged terrain passing through the ancient town of Saint-Christol with its underground caves, and eventually reaching Sault.

Day 6

For an easier day ride, a circular loop through the Nesque Gorges to some of the most beautiful places in Provence. For the ultimate challenge, we are very close to Mont Ventoux, and we have the opportunity to climb almost 1200m to the summit, a legendary

Day 7

Cycle south across the Vaucluse Plateau, then west through some delightful villages to Cavaillon.

Day 8

End.

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Trip Notes contain all the detailed information you need. A full day by day itinerary, accommodation details, guides and other practical information. Download Now

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Images from CYCLE PROVENCE & THE LUBERON

Note: Click on a thumbnail to enlarge.

Cycling Through the Lavender Fields of Provence

Cycling Through the Lavender Fields of Provence

Cycle Provence & The Luberon

What makes this trip responsible?

Itinerary

Images from CYCLE PROVENCE & THE LUBERON