Bike and boat route between Avignon and Aigues-Mortes, between Provence and the Camargue
Cycling and boat tour in the middle of the wild Camargue and the landscapes so dear to Van Gogh. Discover the Provençal villages, vineyards and lavender fields for an unforgettable cruise.
The highlights of the stay:
- the Roman ruins of Arles
- Gard's Bridge
- Saint Remy of Provence
- Avignon, the city of the popes
Day 1 - Avignon
Individual arrival and boarding from 5 p.m. in Avignon. The boat awaits you on the Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont Saint-Bénezet.
Introductory briefing at 6 :30pm with your tour leader, skipper, and crew along with refreshing aperitivo.
Day 2 - Avignon, round trip (30 km)
Today, cross the Ile de la Barthelasse to reach the other bank of the Rhône, and ride through the typical landscapes of the garrigue, between vineyards and orchards. Before heading back, visit Villeneuve Les Avignon, once known to be the city of the cardinals. In the afternoon, discovery of the historic center of Avignon.
Dinner not included, you can enjoy a various choice of restaurants in Avignon.
Day 3 - Avignon - Aramon (40 km)
In the morning, sail to the town of Aramon, where you begin your cycle route to the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: the Pont du Gard, a spectacular work of art. You enjoy today a tasting of the different oils in Provence. Night in Aramon with a beautiful view of Mont Ventoux.
Day 4 - Aramon - Vallabrègues (35 km)
You start your day by sailing towards Vallabrègues, a pretty Provencal village on the banks of the Rhône. Along the country roads, you will arrive in Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhône and the Durance. You then cycle to the magnificent abbey of Saint Michel de Frigolet then to the medieval village of Boulbon. Night in Vallabrègues.
Day 5 - Vallabrègues - Arles (55 km)
This stage will take you to Saint Rémy de Provence, birthplace of Nostradamus. This village is also famous for welcoming Van Gogh when he was ill. You then head to the Alpilles, with Les-Baux-de-Provence, a village nestled in the rock itself. A landscape of limestone cliffs and olive trees accompanies your trip.
Day 6 - Arles - Aigues-Mortes (35 km)
Today, the whole morning is devoted to visiting Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul and its beautiful Roman ruins. You will have the opportunity to be greeted by a professional guide, who will accompany you to discover the jewels of the town. After lunch, you reach the Saint Gilles lock and from there you sail to Aigues Mortes where you spend the night.
Day 7 - Aigues Mortes, circuit (55 km)
By traversing the small country roads of Camargue between canals, lagoons and small villages you will reach in the afternoon the charming fishing village of Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of reaching the beach for a good swim. Visit and wine tasting at a typical winery.
Day 8 - Aigues Mortes
After breakfast, end of the tour.
Note: The program has been planned for navigation along the Rhône and the Rhône-Sète canal. For organizational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to certain changes before and / or during the holidays. Flood and low water issues, as well as logistical hurdles such as officially ordered - not previously announced - repair work on locks or bridges may alter some daily stretches or overnight stays and may even require a bus transfer. These decisions are made only by the captain of the boat.