Embark on a unique bike and boat journey through Provence, from Avignon to the heart of the Camargue. Navigate, cycle, and explore one of southern France’s most iconic regions. Over eight days, this itinerary lets you discover Provence by bike through hilltop villages, Roman sites, and renowned vineyards before reaching the wide-open landscapes of the Camargue Regional Natural Park.
From your comfortable barge hotel, alternate between peaceful cruising on the Rhône River and accessible cycling stages with guided cultural visits. You will explore Avignon, the City of the Popes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape and its world-famous wines, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Les Baux-de-Provence in the Alpilles, before arriving in Arles and finally in Aigues-Mortes, a medieval town surrounded by ramparts.
This bike and boat trip in Provence and Camargue perfectly combines the pleasure of cycling, rich heritage, and travel comfort. It is a complete experience to discover southern France differently, at your own pace, between culture, nature, and relaxation on the water.
Boarding starts at 5:00 p.m. at Quai de la Ligne in Avignon, ideally located on the Rhône River, near the famous Pont Saint-Bénezet and the city’s historic walls. Boarding the barge marks the beginning of your cycling holiday in Provence, a week filled with heritage, nature, and gastronomy.
At 6:30 p.m., attend a welcome meeting led by your tour leader, guide, and crew. This is when the week’s itinerary, bike setup, safety instructions, and daily routines are presented. A welcome drink closes this first gathering in a friendly atmosphere.
You can take advantage of your first evening to explore Avignon on your own. Once the seat of the Popes, the city boasts remarkable monuments such as the Palais des Papes, the perfectly preserved ramparts, the famous bridge, and a lively pedestrian center. Those arriving earlier in the day may visit the Rocher des Doms, offering a panoramic view of the Rhône and Mont Ventoux.
Depart from Avignon by bike, crossing the Île de la Barthelasse, a vast agricultural area surrounded by the Rhône. The cycling stage continues north through the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a world-renowned wine appellation known for its powerful red blends.
Along winding roads, you will enjoy scenic views of villages and wine estates before reaching Châteauneuf-du-Pape itself. A stop at a local winery will introduce you to the history and winemaking traditions of the region.
After a picnic lunch, cross the Rhône at Roquemaure and pedal along the river toward Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, once home to cardinals during the Papal era. Return to Avignon in the late afternoon. Dinner is at your leisure in one of the city’s many restaurants or brasseries.
After breakfast, the barge cruises to Aramon, a charming town on the left bank of the Rhône. From here, your bike stage begins. You head toward the famous Pont du Gard, one of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 1st century AD, this impressive structure once carried water to Nîmes and remains a masterpiece of ancient engineering.
The route alternates between country roads, gentle hills, and small rural villages. It offers a balanced pace to enjoy the diversity of the Provençal landscape. Fields, garrigue, and limestone ridges line your route. A picnic stop in nature allows for a relaxing break before returning to Aramon.
Dinner is served on board while you enjoy views of Mont Ventoux and the peaceful flow of the Rhône.
In the morning, the barge sails to Vallabrègues, a quiet village on the Rhône and the only inhabited river port in Provence. Your cycling route begins along secondary country roads through orchards, farmlands, and almond groves. Your first stop is Barbentane, perched at the confluence of the Rhône and Durance rivers, known for its elegant 17th-century château. Continue to the Saint-Michel de Frigolet Abbey, founded in the 11th century and still home to a monastic community. Its richly decorated baroque church is worth a visit.
Afterward, cycle down to Boulbon, a medieval village with cobblestone streets and a small castle. Return to Vallabrègues in the afternoon, where the barge awaits for dinner and overnight stay.
This is one of the most diverse and memorable stages of the week. Cycle from Vallabrègues to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence at the foot of the Alpilles. This town is the birthplace of Nostradamus. it is also the place where Vincent van Gogh lived and painted some of his masterpieces.
Continue to Les Baux-de-Provence, one of the most beautiful villages in France, carved into the limestone cliffs. Take time to explore its medieval fortress and the Carrières de Lumières. It is an impressive digital art exhibition set inside former quarries.
The stage ends with a descent toward the Rhône Valley and the city of Arles, rich in Roman monuments and artistic heritage. The barge will be moored there for the night.
The morning begins with a guided visit of Arles, the former capital of Roman Gaul. Explore the amphitheater, the ancient theater, the Baths of Constantine, and other UNESCO-listed monuments with a local guide.
After lunch, set off by bike toward Franquevaux, crossing flat farmland and canals that mark the transition into the Camargue. Rejoin the barge and cruise to Aigues-Mortes, a fortified medieval town founded by King Louis IX in the 13th century. Its ramparts and towers are among the best preserved in France.
Your final cycling day explores the heart of the Camargue. Pedal along quiet roads and small paths bordered by canals, lagoons, and traditional villages. You will pass through La Cailar, Marsillargues, and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze, all known for their bull traditions and rural charm.
The route highlights the region’s distinctive ecosystem of wetlands, salt marshes, and grazing areas where Camargue horses and black bulls roam freely. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit and wine tasting at an organic vineyard. Then you return to Aigues-Mortes for your last dinner on board.
After breakfast, your bike and boat tour concludes in Aigues-Mortes. This eight-day journey between Avignon and the Camargue captures the essence of southern France. You have seen Roman heritage, Provençal villages, vineyards, the Alpilles, and the wild beauty of the Rhône Delta. It is an ideal combination of gentle cycling, cultural exploration, and the comfort of barge travel.
This option features a curated selection of charming 3-star hotels and lovely guesthouses, perfect for cyclists looking for a warm, welcoming place to unwind after a day on the road.
These are authentic, friendly accommodations that truly understand the needs of bike travelers, offering a pleasant setting, reliable comfort, and a genuine sense of hospitality.
The goal is to combine comfort, simplicity, and character.
* Photos for illustration purposes only
(based on double occupancy)
Arrival every Saturday in 2026
Options
By train
Avignon is served by two train stations: Avignon TGV, located about 6 km from the city center, and Avignon Centre, right in the heart of town. From Paris, the TGV journey takes approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. There are also direct connections from Lyon, Marseille, Lille, Nantes, Strasbourg, Brussels, and Geneva. A shuttle train or regional TER service provides quick access from the TGV station to the city center.
By air
Marseille Provence Airport (80 km away) is a convenient alternative, easily reached by train or car.
By car
Avignon is easily reached via the A7 motorway (Lyon–Marseille route) and the A9 (towards Nîmes and Spain). Park-and-ride facilities (P+R) allow you to leave your car on the outskirts and access the city center using buses or trams operated by the Orizo network.
Return travel from Aigues-Mortes is not arranged by us. Each guest is therefore free to organize their departure according to their own schedule and preferences.
If you would like recommendations for arranging your return or extending your stay in Provence, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll be happy to assist.
On the first or second day of your trip, the crew will provide your bikes. They will be adjusted to your height and equipped with:
For this trip, you can choose from the following rental options:
Personal bikes are not allowed on board
For this trip, luggage transfer is not included.
To support you throughout your journey, we provide a dedicated GPS app. It allows you to follow each stage of your cycling itinerary independently, right from your smartphone.
Before departure, you’ll receive a link to download the app and access your routes. Once on site, simply open the day’s ride and let it guide you. Your map, turn-by-turn directions, and points of interest appear in real time.
In addition to the GPS app, you will receive a printed roadbook upon arrival, including maps, practical tips, and sightseeing information. An essential companion to slip into your panniers!
