-Cycle through the evocative plains of the Camargue
?Our route takes us to the very heart of Provence
?Explore the region's amazing heritage including Roman remains

Winelands of Provence
We start our explorations from Roman Orange with a ride south to the celebrated vineyards of Chateuneuf du Pape, where there is time to enjoy a tasting of this famous wine. Returning via the rampart-encircled village of Caderouse, you may decide to visit Orange's famous theatre and triumphal arch. Next we head through more vineyards towards Carpentras which allows an opportunity to take in Gigondas for outstanding views and a chance to enjoy its Grenache wines.

The Luberon: Heart of Provence
Our time in Carpentras gives several options. For those that would like a further ride we can recommend cycling to the east of town where you will find quintessential Provence in the Les Plus Belles Villages. From here it's not far to Senanque to see the Cistercian abbey. Alternatively Avignon is close by, its famous bridge just one of many attractions. Leaving Carpentras we now head southeast through pretty Pernes le Fontaine, where more than 40 ancient fountains can be found, then over the Durance river to the narrow streets of Noves and on to St Remy de Provence.

Into the Carmargue
From St Remy we ride as ever along our favoured minor backroads this time around the base of the Chaines des Alpilles where many orchards are planted. We can pause at the remarkable 2nd century Barbegal Mill and wander through the stunning Montmajour Abbey before we reach Arles, onetime home of Van Gogh. South of the town the Rhone delta forms the wild lands of the Camargue, famous for their pink flamingos, black bulls and wild horses. A fabulous ride takes us southwest through the wetlands to Les Saintes Maries de la Mer - the perfect end to a week discovering the many different faces of Provence.

Itinerary:

Day 1 Join Orange. 2 Cycle Chateauneuf du Pape for included winetasting; return to Orange via Caderouse. 3 Cycle to Cameret sur Aigues to Seguret; short detour to Gigondas for views of limestone pinnacles. 4 Free in Carpentras; optional trip to Avignon or various optional cycle rides. 5 Cycle to St Remy en Provence via Pernes le Fontaine. 6 Continue to Arles via Alpilles; option to visit Barbegal Mill Montmajour Abbey. 7 Optional ride into the Carmargue to Les Saintes Maries de la Mer. 8 End Arles.

Accommodation: 7nts hotel staying at standard accommodation throughout; 7 breakfasts included.
Transport: 21 speed hybrid bicycles complete with pannier, water-bottle holder, lock and map holder.
Comment: Grade B, moderate (with additional optional moderate to strenuous routes) - approx. 164km/4 days (average of 42km/cycling day, a further 80km (over 2 days) are possible. We cycle along quiet country roads through quintessential Provencale scenery enjoying great food and wine along the way. The route is mainly undulating but with several hillier sections, thus you should be a regular cyclist and/or be physically active to get the most from the tour. You can ride independently or with group members. 95% on tarmac and 5% on gravel/clay. The only day that has the gravel/clay section is on the last optional day ride onto the Camargue.
Group: Approx. 12 to 16.
Staff: Explore Tour Leader/driver to assist, advise and co-ordinate.
Trip Reference: CVP