Cycling tours in Provence

Discover Provence by bike

From lavender and olive groves to vineyards, the region offers a wide range of cycling routes for all levels, on both road and track.

Occitanie, of which Provence is a part, is home to a number of exceptionally beautiful nature parks. Among them, the Parc Naturel Régional du Luberon is a sanctuary of biodiversity, home to endemic plant species and precious habitats. The geological scars of Mont Ventoux, an emblem for cyclists, are the result of a fascinating geological history, offering breathtaking panoramas while supporting ecosystems adapted to its particular conditions.

The Greenways, often built along former railway lines, offer a gentle and environmentally-friendly way to explore the region. They pass through a variety of landscapes, from plains to steep slopes, offering a range of cycling experiences to suit all abilities. These routes not only encourage physical activity but also the contemplation of nature, fostering an authentic connection with the region’s ecological riches.

The region’s iconic lavender fields conjure up violet landscapes stretching as far as the eye can see, releasing their intoxicating scent on hot summer days. These crops are not only visually stunning, but also essential to local biodiversity, attracting a multitude of pollinating insects. Olive trees, symbols of Mediterranean culture, also dot the Provencal landscape. Not only do they provide welcome shade for cyclists, but they also produce precious fruit that forms the basis of a sustainable agricultural economy in the region. These trees, often over a hundred years old, bear witness to a long history of agriculture and the Mediterranean way of life.

The region and its inhabitants

From the foothills of the Alps to the Camargue, Provence is steeped in the presence of the Romans in the region as evidenced by many sites: aqueducts, amphitheatres… More recently, famous painters such as Paul Cézanne or Vincent Van Gogh participated in the fame of Provence, its climate (and its particular light) and its quality of life.

Cinema has also strongly contributed to the promotion of the region and its inhabitants thanks to the films of Marcel Pagnol, Fernandel and Roger Vadim.

Nowadays, the cultural life of Provence is marked by the festival of Avignon, essential for theater enthusiast but the music, cinema or art aficionados will not be left out with the numerous events proposed throughout the season .

Roads and bike paths in Provence

Major efforts have been undertaken by the Provence Alpes Côtes d’Azur Region to develop transportation and bicycle tourism. In the coming years, cycle routes in the region should be linked and offer long secure routes. This effort is accompanied by the development of reception facilities and service dedicated to cyclists.

Weather in Provence

Who thinks of Southern France thinks most often of “beautiful and warm”. Indeed, Provence offers the second sunniest region in France behind … Corsica!

The vegetation is of course a reflection of the Mediterranean climate: olive groves, lavender, vineyards … as well as wildlife with evidently the cicadas that offer a particular sound environment.

In summer, the rain is scarce and the heat is at the rendezvous with variations due to various influences: alpine by the north-east and the nearby Alps but also by the west with the Cevennes, but also maritime by the South.

Points of interest

Discovering Provence requires making choices as there are many things to discover. To guide you, here are some suggestions:

• Avignon, its famous bridge and the Palais des Papes: both fortress and palace, the Palais des Papes is the oldest Gothic building. Dating from the Middle Ages, it will surprise you. The other point of interest on this stage of Provence by bike is the famous Roman bridge in Avignon.
• Orange and its ancient amphitheater: testimony of the Roman era, the ancient theater of Orange is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located not far from the Rhône, it is the best preserved ancient theater in Europe.
• Mont Ventoux: a major stopover for any athletic cyclist who has come to discover Provence by bike, this difficult mountain culminates at an altitude of 1910 m. It was highlighted by the Tour de France.
• Vaison la Romaine: this small town in Provence is known for the wealth of its ancient sites, its medieval town and its castle. Visiting it is a journey through centuries of history.
• The many Roman bridges and aqueducts in the region: over the kilometers you travel, the masterpieces of the past still bear witness to a time when Roman works made it possible to connect the villages and roads of the past.
• The Camargue by bike: a real paradise for slow tourism, the Camargue offers a great stopover for nature lovers. The pink flamingo, mascot of the natural park, enthralls the cyclist.
• The many castles of the Lubéron: if your cycling trip in Provence takes you to the Lubéron, you can take advantage of a vast choice of visits and discoveries of the castles of the region, built between the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
• Vineyards and cellars (a significant part of which are certified Organic Agriculture): between sea and mountains, man has shaped the territory over the centuries to plant vineyards there. Make the most of your adventure to taste wines!
• The Carrières de Lumières of Baux-de-Provence: this former industrial quarry was opened in the 19th century. The stone of Baux was extracted there until 1936 when the place was closed. Now a cultural space, discover immersive exhibitions in the heart of this unique place.