Via Rhôna Cycle Path: Provence to the Sea

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 9.30am tomorrow.

The first stage of your cycle trip has two options. One follows the Via Rhona, the other 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). Shorter option: 146m/479ft ascent, 167m/548ft descent Longer option: 295m/968ft ascent, 316m/1036ft descent

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 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 hilltop “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. 128m/420ft ascent, 126m/413ft descent An alternative flatter route is available following the Rhone Cycle way, taking you via Beaucaire on the right bank of the river. 58.4km/36.5mi, +59m/195ft ascent, -74m/244ft descent *It's possible to split today and stay overnight in St Remy. Must be requested at time of booking, supplement applies. Avignon-St Remy is 24km/15mi, continuing to Arles the next day.

Today's cycle route takes you 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 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 ascent, -170m/561ft descent

As the Via Rhôna route ends, the Mediterranean awaits, with its beaches easily accessible by bike. Cycle along the Canal du Rhône and past Le Grau-du-Roi. Continue along the Mediterranean and its beaches, with lively resorts and activities all around. You will be surrounded by water, the sea on one side and saltwater lagoons on the other. Between Palavas-les-Flots and Sète, close to Montpellier, the itinerary follows the sandy beaches. 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 great cycle. +55m/180ft ascent, -48m/157ft descent

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.