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Duration
6 days
Activities
  • self guided cycle
Accommodation
  • 5 nights hotels
Meals
  • 5 Breakfasts

Price

$1150USD

 
 

Overview

Trip Code: RLR

Trip highlights


  • Cycling through the stunning landscapes of the south of France from Provence through to the Mediterranean Sea
  • Exploring historic towns and cities of Orange, Arles, Avignon and Aigues Mortes
  • Following a dedicated cycle route
  • Discovering the natural beauty of the Camargue and the saltwater lagoons and beaches of the Mediterranean
  • Experiencing the fabulous cuisine and wines of the region

Connecting the Swiss Alps with the Mediterranean, the Rhone River holds an important place in French history. Serving as an inland trading route where goods were transported as far back as the Greek and Roman civilisations, the Rhone connected many of France's most important cities and subsequently many smaller villages were built alongside it. Today, the cultural and architectural legacy of this period can still be found in many places along the river and can be discovered by cycling sections of the Via Rhona Cycle Path. This section of the dedicated cycle route connects Provence with the Mediterranean at Sète.

Beginning in Orange your journey along the Rhone from Orange will be idyllic, passing by Provençal villages, olive groves, lakes and through the edge of the Camargue nature reserve. Like other sections of this long distance cycle route, it's the cultural remnants that make the journey so special such as the splendid cathedrals and relics from Roman times reminding us of an important era long ago. Reaching the natural landscapes of the Camargue with its abundance of birdlife and the vast beaches and saltwater lagoons of the Mediterranean coast, celebrate the end of the cycle with a dip in the sea and explore the charming port towns of Aigues Mortes and Sete.

Trip Grading

introductory to moderate

More info about grading system

Traveller Rating

 

On arrival in beautiful Orange, make your way to your joining hotel. Of the numerous Roman buildings and monuments originally built, you still can see parts of the City Wall, the Arc de Triomphe and the Theatre (UNESCO heritage listed), the stage wall of which the Sun King, Louis XIV, described as the most beautiful wall in his country. Overnight in Orange. Your bike will be delivered today or by 9am tomorrow morning.

Meals:  Nil

The first stage of your cycle trip takes you into the world-famous wine town Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where a stroll through the town should not be missed. Continue to the city of Avignon along the Rhône Cycle path, a relaxed way to cycle into the city. On arrival in Avignon we recommend visiting the old town including the Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace). +286m/944ft, -306m/1010ft

Meals:  B

Our recommended route today takes you off the Rhone Cycle Way to experience some of the delightful towns of Provence. Taking a quiet cycle route, you leave Avignon and pedal directly to St Rémy, possibly the most beautiful and certainly the most typical town in Provence. Take a break in the shaded square or wander the old centre with its shops and cafes. A visit to the monastery Saint Paul de Mausole, where van Gogh spent a year, is highly recommended. Leaving St Remy, you can admire the Roman Arch as you head to the Alpilles. Enjoy great views of Les Baux, the “city in rock”with its harmonic location and fortress ruins. Continue to Arles, once the second largest city of the Roman Empire. Today, Roman culture and Romanesque heritage characterize the historic centre of Arles. It is also the city of Vincent van Gogh. Make your way to your hotel. +340m/1122ft, -343m/1132ft An alternative route is available on your app today, following the Rhone Cycle way. This route takes you via Beaucaire on the right bank of the river. 58.4km/36.5mi - this route is relatively flat (+59m/195ft, -74m/244ft)

Meals:  B

The cycle route today travels from Arles to Aigues-Mortes. Through picturesque villages there is ample opportunity to explore the Mediterranean charm of the landscape. This stage crosses the Camargue Gardoise (the western, Languedoc side of the Camargue) and you will discover the unique flora and fauna of this nature reserve. You cycle along the former towpaths beside the Canal du Rhône à Sète, crossing through typical marshland to reach the walled port of Aigues-Mortes. Nestled on the Mediterranean coast, Aigues-Mortes captivates with its medieval allure and well-preserved city walls. Explore the charming cobblestone streets, visit the impressive Constance Tower and soak in the maritime ambiance of this historic French town. Aigues-Mortes blends history, architecture and coastal beauty. +155m/511ft, -170m/561ft

Meals:  B

As the ViaRhône route ends, the Mediterranean awaits, with its beaches easily accessible by bike. Cycle along the Canal du Rhône and past Le Grau-du-Roi. Your ride continues along the Mediterranean and its beaches, with lively resorts and activities all around. You will be surrounded by the sea and salt lagoons behind the shore. Between Palavas-les-Flots and Sète, close to Montpellier, the itinerary follows beaches and saltwater lagoons. Visit the Maguelone Cathedrale for a glimpse of the massif of Gardioles covered with scrubland. Sète Harbour on the edge of the Etang de Thau, marks the conclusion of this epic cycle. +251m/828ft, -253m/835ft

Meals:  B

The trip concludes after breakfast in Sète. We can assist with extra nights accommodation if you'd like to further explore Sète, please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B


Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.
On self guided trips, actual route information provided before departure will be more detailed.


Inclusions

  • 5 breakfasts - continental style and generally consist of croissants, breads, jams, cheese, yoghurt, coffee, tea and juices
  • 5 nights 2-3 star hotels on a twin share basis with ensuite facilities
  • Luggage transfer (1 piece of max 20kg per person)
  • Hybrid rental bike (electric bike available on request - supplement applies) equipped with a pannier, anti-theft device, helmet, bike computer, map holder and repair kit
  • Navigational app with digital route book per room booked, GPS Tracks also available on request
  • Tourist tax
  • Emergency hotline

  • Travel to Orange and from Sète
  • Meals not listed as included, drinks
  • Travel insurance - mandatory
  • E-bike hire, supplement applies
  • Guide - this is a self guided tour
  • A supplement will apply if you are travelling solo or book a single room
  • Entrance fees not listed as included
  • Transfers not listed as included
  • Transfers by taxi or public transport if you need to skip a stage
  • Excess Luggage
  • We recommend bringing a handlebar phone holder – to follow the route more easily using the app
  • Items of a personal nature

Bike information


Grading

introductory to moderate  

The cycling is a introductory to moderate (2) grade with daily cycling distances from 35 to 63km/22 to 40mi over relatively flat to lightly undulating terrain. The Rhone cycle path is overall well-constructed and signposted making it easy to follow. The accent is on keeping a relaxed pace to take in all of the attractions, with time to stop and take photos, visit a museum or enjoy the market places in many of the interesting towns visited. *For safety reasons, we insist that cycle helmets be included as a compulsory item on your equipment list. Electric bikes are available on request (supplement applies).


Departure dates

Daily from 1 Apr to 23 Oct

Notes

H
High Season
Note:
High season 1 Jul - 31 Aug. Supplement applies.

Want to organise a private group?

Fundraising events, sporting groups, family treats; learn how you can organise a Private Group from just 6 travellers.

Priceper person from

$1150USD

Options & Supplements*
  • Triple share discount (pp) - standard hotels onlyUSD$-43
  • E-bike supplementUSD$100
  • Optional hotel upgrade - comfort category hotels pp twinshareUSD$170
  • Single Supplement - standard hotels, low seasonUSD$380
  • Solo Traveller Supplement - standard hotels, low seasonUSD$410
  • Single Supplement - standard hotels, high seasonUSD$480
  • Solo Traveller Supplement - standard hotels, high seasonUSD$510
*Prices listed are per person

Trip reviews


Why travel with us

Making Europe Affordable

We offer different levels of accommodation and comfort so that even the most budget conscious can treat themselves to active holidays on Europe's most celebrated tracks and trails. Our trips are great value for money because you only pay for what you want.  

Self-Guided Specialists

Our wide range of self-guided itineraries embody the UTracks philosophy of exploring Europe your way. We handle the logistics so all that's left for you to do is enjoy exploring Europe at your own pace. Most depart daily with a minimum of two people, meaning maximum flexibility.

Our Wide Range

With close to 400 trips in almost 50 countries, including the largest range of bike & boat holidays in Europe, we're confident that we can organise an Alps walk, Camino de Santiago or Via Francigena experience, Food Lovers' trip or a tour in a lesser-known pocket of Europe that you will love. 

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