Watch a concert in Orange's Roman Theatre, which was built in the 1st century

Day 1: Arrival in Orange

Despite a train strike we managed to make it to Orange in time to explore this charming old town, and we were even able to catch a musical performance at the Roman Theatre. We were impressed by the detailed route maps and excellent condition of the bikes. We couldn’t wait to get started! 

Cross the mighty the River Rhône on the famous Pont d’Avignon

Day 2: Orange to Avignon

Highlights of our first day of cycling included the gorgeous village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where we stopped for a stroll and enjoyed magnificent views from the castle. We continued to cycle through lovely vineyards and villages as we made our way to Avignon. I loved the walled city of Avignon, with the stunning Pont d’Avignon over the River Rhône, and the impressive Popes’ Palace. 

Collect cherries as you cycle through beautiful cherry orchards

Day 3: Avignon to Arles

Today’s cycle took us through the lovely town of St Rėmy, where we stopped for lunch and a stroll around the beautiful old town. The post-lunch 4km ascent was well worth the effort, as we had stunning views of Les Baux, before free-wheeling down to explore this ancient town! We arrived in Arles in time for dinner, and enjoyed a 2 night stopover in this charming, historic town. 

A horse in the Camargue on France's Mediterranean coast

Day 4: Camargue and Arles

On our third day of cycling, we enjoyed exploring the unique Camargue region and managed to spot some pink flamingos. After sampling the local pastis at lunch, we cycled back to Arles to explore and enjoy a lovely dinner.

Day 5: Arles to Nîmes

We left Arles en route to Tarascon, where we stopped for a delicious morning tea before crossing the Rhône to Beaucaire, another beautiful city. On our afternoon arrival in Nîmes, we could immediately understand why this impressive city is dubbed the most Roman city outside Italy! We enjoyed some refreshments overlooking the magnificent Nîmes Arena, before heading off to visit the stunning Maison Carrėe. 

Take a break from cycling and arrive at the Pont du Gard by kayak

Day 6: Nîmes to Uzès

Just when we thought our trip couldn’t get any better, today we decided to take the ‘sporty’ option and combined some paddling with our cycling, arriving at the Pont du Gard by kayak! Paddling up to, and under this incredible structure was an absolute trip highlight, and it was good to exercise some different muscles. On arrival in Uzės, we were totally charmed by this laid back, beautiful town. 

Day 7: Uzès to Orange

After a morning stroll around beautiful Uzės, our final day of cycling took us full circle back to Orange, through vineyards, cherry orchards and many pretty villages. We made it! After an amazing week of cycling through this stunning region of France we can’t wait to start planning our next trip. 

Kylie and her friend exploring Provence on an 8-day self guided cycle  

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Want to know more about cycling in Provence? Browse our full range of cycling trips:

• Highlights of Provence by Bike | 8 day self guided cycle
• Provence Backroads | 8 day self guided cycle
• Provence Bike & Boat | 8 day guided cycle
• Provence Alpilles by Bike | 5 day self guided cycle
• Cycle Nice to Genoa | 8 day self guided cycle
• Rhone Cycle Path: Lyon to Provence | 8 day self guided cycle

Prefer walking? Check out our walking holidays in Provence:

• French Riviera on Foot | 8 day self guided walk
• Walking in Haute Provence | 8 day self guided walk
• Best of Provence | 8 day self guided walk
• In Van Gough's Footsteps | 7 day self guided walk
• Rambling in the Luberon | 7 day self guided walk
• Alps to the Mediterranean | 8 day self guided walk

The region is famous for its lavender, which blooms from late June to the beginning of August