4 of the best Provence bike tours

1. The Alpilles with GravelUp

Best for a short gravel escape combining limestone hills with wild Camargue landscapes.

Descending gravel in the Alpilles (photo credit: GravelUp)

Key information

Route: Gravel riding in the Alpilles around the Opies massif, with a contrasting flatter day out into the Camargue.

Terrain: Mixed gravel terrain, including compact tracks, stony paths, forest trails and quiet backroad links, with limestone hills in the Alpilles and flatter marshy landscapes in the Camargue.

Difficulty: Moderate overall. Daily distances range from around 40 to 80 kilometres, with some climbing, but it is designed to be achievable and enjoyable rather than extreme.

Highlights: White limestone scenery, olive groves, vineyards, Provençal villages, the wild landscapes of the Camargue and plenty of local food and wine.

Logistics: Avignon is the main gateway, with transfers included to the base. This is a short, all-inclusive small-group trip with guide support throughout.

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal, with warm light and pleasant riding temperatures; summer can be very hot.

The riding

This is gravel riding with a distinctly Provençal feel: bright limestone landscapes, quiet farm tracks, pine woods and dusty trails weaving between olive groves, vineyards and hilltop villages. Based in the Alpilles, the routes are varied without being overly technical, making this a good fit for regular riders who want flowing off-road miles rather than an all-out challenge.

Daily distances range from around 40 to 80 kilometres, with enough climbing to keep things interesting, especially on the hillier loops through the Opies massif. One day shifts character completely with a flatter Camargue ride, where lagoons, marshes and open skies replace the rocky hills.

The overall feel is scenic, social and immersive, with a mix of compact gravel, rougher stony sections and quiet backroad links. It is a short trip, but one that packs in a strong sense of place, from cicadas and white rock to big southern light and classic Provençal scenery.

What we love

What stands out here is the contrast packed into a long weekend. One moment you are riding through the rocky, sun-bleached landscapes of the Alpilles, the next you are rolling across the flat expanses of the Camargue past lagoons and wild marshes.

We also love the balance GravelUp strikes between adventure and comfort, with local food, beautiful surroundings and a sociable small-group feel that makes the whole trip feel relaxed and well judged.

What else they offer

GravelUp runs small-group gravel cycling trips across Europe, with destinations including Provence, the Pyrenees, the Alps, Norway and Portugal, all focused on off-the-beaten-track riding in distinctive landscapes. Alongside guided tours, they also offer self-guided trips with pre-designed routes, accommodation and remote support, giving riders the freedom to explore at their own pace.

More information

• GravelUp’s website with details of when this tour departs and how to book.
• Gravel cycling in France, a closer look at Alpilles in Provence.
• Mont Ventoux from Sault from GravelUp, and alternative route to explore.

2. Provence – Le Ventoux a Velo with Saddle Skedaddle

Best for a classic road cycling journey with iconic climbs and a strong point-to-point feel.

Enjoying the descent to Bédoin

Key information

Route: Point-to-point ride from the Luberon to the Côte d’Azur, via Sault, Forcalquier, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Castellane and Vence

Terrain: Quiet country lanes and minor roads, with a mix of rolling terrain, plateau riding and sustained mountain climbs

Difficulty: Moderate. Regular climbing, including Mont Ventoux, with daily distances of around 70–95 kilometres

Highlights: Mont Ventoux climb, Gorges de la Nesque, Verdon Gorge, Plateau de Valensole lavender fields and a finish on the French Riviera

Logistics: Start near Marseille (transfer to the Luberon) and finish in Vence/Nice; guided tour with support, accommodation and meals included

Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn; June–July for lavender, though summer can be hot

The riding

This is a classic point-to-point journey through Provence that blends iconic climbs with quieter, lesser-known roads. From the outset, you’re riding through classic Provençal scenery: vineyards, lavender fields and hilltop villages, before the terrain gradually ramps up.

The route builds towards Mont Ventoux, tackled from Sault on its more forgiving side, making the ascent achievable but still memorable. Beyond Ventoux, the riding continues to mix rolling plateau sections with longer climbs, particularly as you approach the Verdon Gorge, where the roads become more dramatic and the elevation gain more sustained.

Expect a balance of steady climbing and long descents, with some longer days in the saddle. Road surfaces are generally good, though the smaller roads can be a little rough in places. Overall, this is engaging, varied riding that suits cyclists with a solid base fitness who enjoy climbing without it becoming relentless.

What we love

This trip stands out for its sense of journey. Starting inland among lavender fields and finishing on the Mediterranean gives the week a real narrative, with the landscapes shifting noticeably each day.

We also like the mix of headline moments and quieter riding. Mont Ventoux and the Verdon Gorge deliver the big-name highlights, but it’s the smaller roads through the Luberon and the Plateau de Valensole that add depth and variety.

Finally, there’s the classic Provence appeal: reliable sunshine, great food and that unmistakable southern French atmosphere, which makes time off the bike just as enjoyable as the riding itself.

What else they offer

Saddle Skedaddle runs cycling holidays worldwide, from Europe to Asia, Africa and the Americas, covering road, gravel, leisure, mountain bike, family and adventure trips. They offer both small group tours and tailor-made holidays, using decades of experience to create well-organised trips that cater to a wide range of riding styles and abilities.

More information

• Saddle Skedaddle’s website with more information on the itinerary and booking details.
• Cycling Sardinia with Saddle Skedaddle, if you’d rather visit this scenic island for your cycling holiday.

3. Provence – Camargue with Boat Bike Tours

Best for relaxed, sociable cycling with the comfort of a boat-based itinerary.

Chateau Fontainebleau (photo credit: Boat Bike Tours)

Key information

Route: Circular-style journey between Aigues-Mortes and Avignon (or reverse), exploring the Camargue, Arles and the Rhône Valley

Terrain: Predominantly flat, with a mix of quiet country roads, riverside paths and occasional gentle rolling sections north of Arles

Difficulty: Relatively easy. Short daily distances and minimal climbing make it suitable for most riders

Highlights: Camargue wetlands with flamingos and wild horses, Arles and its Roman heritage, Pont du Gard, Provençal villages and vineyard landscapes

Logistics: 8-day boat and bike tour; accommodation on a barge, with meals included and optional guided or self-guided riding

Best time to visit: Spring to early autumn; summer offers long days but can be hot

The riding

This is relaxed, easy-going cycling designed to be as much about the experience as the riding itself. The route is largely flat, especially through the Camargue, where you pedal across wide-open plains, past lagoons, canals and salt marshes.

As you move north towards Provence, the terrain becomes slightly more varied, with a few gentle climbs and rolling sections around the Rhône Valley and Alpilles. However, nothing is sustained or particularly demanding, and distances are kept manageable throughout.

Most of the riding takes place on quiet secondary roads and cycle paths, with a mix of asphalt and occasional unpaved sections. With the support of the boat travelling alongside, there’s also the flexibility to skip a stage or take a rest day if needed. Overall, this is accessible, sociable riding suited to those who want to explore without pushing physical limits.

What we love

The big appeal here is the combination of cycling and cruising. Having a floating hotel means you can unpack once and enjoy a new destination each day, with a relaxed rhythm that’s very different from a traditional point-to-point tour.

We also like the contrast in landscapes. One day you’re riding through the wild, flat expanse of the Camargue with its distinctive wildlife, the next you’re exploring classic Provence with vineyards, Roman sites and historic towns like Arles and Avignon.

Finally, it’s the accessibility that stands out. With gentle riding, flexible daily options and the comfort of the boat, this trip opens up southern France to a wide range of riders, whether you want to cycle every kilometre or simply dip in and out along the way.

What else they offer

Boat Bike Tours offers cycling holidays across 19 countries, mainly in Europe but also in destinations such as Egypt, India and Vietnam. Their trips combine relaxed cycling with the comfort of a floating hotel, with flexible routes, e-bikes and manageable distances making them accessible to a wide range of riders.

More information

• Boat Bike Tours’ website with lots more information on the tour and when you can book.
• Boat and bike tours France: best regions, routes + tours, with more options for a boat and bike holiday in the country.

4. Cycling highlights of Provence with French Bike Tours

Best for an easy-going self-guided loop combining culture, history and varied landscapes.

Typical perched village of Provence

Key information

Route: Circular route from Orange, via Avignon, Arles, the Camargue, Nîmes and Uzès

Terrain: Mostly flat to gently rolling, with quiet backroads, cycle paths and short hills inland

Difficulty: Easy to moderate. Manageable daily distances (around 40–55 kilometres) with limited climbing

Highlights: Roman sites in Orange, Arles and Nîmes, Pont du Gard, Camargue wetlands, Les Baux-de-Provence and Provençal vineyards

Logistics: Start and finish in Orange; self-guided with luggage transfers, route app and accommodation included

Best time to visit: Spring and autumn are ideal; summer offers long days but can be hot

The riding

This is relaxed, varied riding that blends flat river valleys with gentle inland sections. The early stages along the Rhône are easy-going, often following cycle paths or quiet roads, making for a smooth start to the week.

As you head further into Provence, the terrain becomes slightly more undulating, particularly around the Alpilles and towards Uzès, though climbs remain short and manageable. The Camargue section is almost entirely flat, offering a contrast with wide-open landscapes and easy kilometres on quiet tracks and lanes.

Distances are moderate throughout, and surfaces are mostly good, with a mix of paved roads and dedicated cycle routes. Overall, this is accessible riding that offers enough variety to stay interesting without becoming physically demanding.

What we love

This route packs a huge amount of variety into a relatively short distance. You move from Roman cities and historic towns to wild wetlands and vineyard-covered countryside, with each day offering something different.

We also like the balance between culture and riding. Stops in places like Avignon, Arles and Nîmes add real depth to the trip, while the quieter sections through Provence and the Camargue keep the riding relaxed and scenic.

Finally, it’s the food and wine element that stands out. With routes passing through well-known wine regions and classic Provençal towns, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the local cuisine, making this as much a cultural journey as a cycling one.

What else they offer

French Bike Tours offers self-guided cycling holidays across France, with routes designed around local knowledge and cultural highlights. They take care of accommodation, luggage transfers and navigation, combining flexibility with reliable support for independent travellers.

More information

• French Bike Tours’ website including booking information for this specific tour.
• 5 best cycling routes in France, specifically for an easy cycling holiday.

What’s next?

• Cycling in the Alps, including tips on cycling the different regions within the mountain range.
• London to Barcelona cycle route, a guide to an epic cycling holiday between two of Europe’s best cities.
• Cycling holidays in summer, with 8 destinations to choose from.
• Cycling France: 7 best regions, to help you plan a cycling holiday across any part of France.
• 4 of the best cycling tours in France, with different options for each of the tour providers featured in this guide.

Clare Dewey is a cyclist with a passion for travel. She set up epicroadrides.com in 2018 to help make it easy for cyclists to explore the world by bike. Today her mission is still inspiring cyclists to discover new places on two wheels - and doing what she can to make sure they have the best possible time while they're there. Clare has visited 50+ destinations around the world, many of them by bike.

Want to connect with Clare? Find her over on LinkedIn.