At a Glance
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Embark on a riveting adventure to France into the heart of Provence. Get lost in the excitement and fresh lavender air as you cycle along the colourful Luberon massif; discover its spectacular landscape, immersive culture and taste the very best cuisines and wines the region has to offer on this 6-day biking tour.
Your adventure begins in Avignon, France followed by a shuttle to the historic town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Cycle through perched villages, seas of vineyards and orchards only to reward yourself in private wine tastings of acclaimed local vintages of the region. Explore the town of Vaison-la-Romaine while learning about its rich history. You’ll be left in awe with incredible views of Mont Ventoux, Giant of Provence, to climbing a former castle of Marquis de Sade in Gordes. Immerse into ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- All meals as specified
- 5 nights accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis.
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfers
- Fully equipped titanium bike, with a helmet and accessories
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio.
- Sightseeing and activities as stated in the itinerary.
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre-trip information.
- Park and other entry fees
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Itinerary
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Level 2, Approx. 34 km (21 miles), 2-3 hours biking, Elevation gain: 305 m (1000 ft) Today, you meet with your tour leaders at 10.30 a.m at the Avignon TGV train station. Please arrive dressed in your biking clothes. Bring your luggage and a daypack with your rain gear, and anything else you may want for today's hike (your luggage will be transported to our first night's accommodations). Following our meeting, we travel to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a historic town that got its name (meaning the new castle of the Pope) when the papacy was relocated to the area by Pope Clement Vin in the early 14th century. Pope Clement V was said to be a great lover of wine, and the town is famous for its spicy, full-bodied reds. Later on, we will have the opportunity to partake in some wine tasting of these renowned vintages. After the tour guides fit your bike and give a brief lecture on the various biking techniques and safety measures, set out on today's route, a great introduction to the allure of biking in Provence as we head through agricultural fields and into vineyards and forests. |
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Bike along the small back roads of the Drôme to Château de Massillan, our home for the night. Located in the heart of Provence on 24 acres of vigorous vineyard in Côtes du Rhône's small village of Uchaux, between Avignon and Montelimar, the Château de Massillan is set inside the former estate and hunting grounds of King Henry II and Diane de Poitiers and offers a taste of 16th-century France while immersing you in modern-day luxury and innovations with everything from organic food and linens to solar-powered energy and hemp-based insulation. Settle into your room, take a stroll through the peaceful gardens or cool off with a swim before we gather for a welcome reception and gourmet dinner at our château. The selection of all certified organic French and international dishes is complemented by an extensive wine list featuring local domaines. |
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FOUR BIKING OPTIONS: This morning we pedal to the venerable Côtes du Rhône, biking through Cairanne and continuing through Rasteau and Roaix. All three of these villages have been awarded Côtes du Rhône Village AOC status for producing a superior-quality wine under strict criteria. Go on to the town of Vaison-la-Romaine, hidden along the banks of the Ouvèze River and the perfect spot for a coffee break. Learn about Vaison-la-Romaine, famous for its elaborate 2nd-century ruins, and now on the former site of the ancient Roman city of Vasio Vocontiorum. Explore the Haute-Ville section of the city, a steep rocky spur in the town's centre crowned by the remains of a mediaeval castle and lined with old stone houses and artists' studios. From here we ride to our lunch spot in the beautiful village of Séguret. |
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Done with lunch, ride up a wooded road into the Dentelles de Montmirail, limestone mountains with dramatic serrated ridges. Getting to the village of Gigondas whose name comes from jocunditas, the Latin word for joy, which you will feel after your first taste of the superb Gigondas wine! After, cycle past magnificent vineyards, promenades of cypress trees, and through Vacqueyras en route to Beaumes-de-Venise, a beautiful market town known for its sweet white muscat. Continue to Hôtel Crillon le Brave, our home for the next two nights. A 5-star resort located in the heart of Vaucluse, Hôtel Crillon le Brave is an elegantly converted hamlet of village houses perched on a hill surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. Tonight, join your leaders for a friendly game of pétanque before we gather for a casual family-style dinner at our hotel. |
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FOUR BIKING OPTIONS: Heading out this morning, you come face to face with incredible views of Mont Ventoux, the Giant of Provence. This mountain is perhaps best known for its occasional appearance in the Tour de France, and with its 20 km (13 miles), 1645 m (5400 ft), average 7.5-percent-average gradient climb, it strikes fear in the hearts of even the most seasoned cyclists. You can choose not to tackle this intimidating challenge. Better still, go on a gorgeous 18 km climb (11 mile climb) that will take you through the Gorges de la Nesque, a deep canyon separating Ventoux and the Vaucluse Plateau. Relish the incredible views from the impressive winding road, as well as the shade provided by several unique tunnels through the mountainside as you go at your own pace, and make sure to drink plenty of water. We would be stopping next at Sault, a place with spacious squares and friendly cafés making it an ideal place for lunch by yourself. |
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If you wish to tackle the daunting climb up Mont Ventoux, let your leaders know and they will set you up with directions and extra snacks to take on this challenge. Head back to the hotel for some R&R this afternoon. Pampering your cycling muscles at the spa might do the trick. But if you want more exploration, continue biking a few more kilometres to return to the hotel on your own bike. Tonight, we will be having an elegant dinner in the hotel’s dining room, where we will delight in exquisite Provençal cuisine. |
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FOUR BIKING OPTIONS: Start the day cycling to the charming village of Venasque while taking in alluring views of vineyards along the way. For some extra distance this morning, tack on an additional loop and get in a hefty climb through limestone geography en route to Le Beaucet before joining back up with the group in Venasque. Thanks to its quaint serpentine streets and tidy homes embellished with flower-filled window boxes, Venasque is listed among Les Plus Beaux Villages de France “The Most Beautiful Villages of France”. Ride on your bike to a short but steep detour to remote 12th-century Abbaye de Sénanque, set amid oak groves and a fragrant sea of lavender. If not, there is more gradual climbing for you as you cycle through a gorgeous limestone canyon to the Vaucluse plateau. |
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After a sumptuous lunch, you can decide to ride more by way of the stunning Lioux Cliffs or pedal directly down and across the Luberon Valley toward our home for the next two nights, La Coquillade. Situated in Gargas in the Vaucluse, near Roussillon, atop a hill with splendid views over the Luberon, Mont-Ventoux, and its wine estate, La Coquillade is a 5-star gem and the perfect place for you. If you're in the mood for some extra TLC, saunter downstairs and select from a decadent menu of services. Alternatively unwind in its picturesque poo, the sauna or bask in the serenity from its garden terrace. You will head to the nearby village perché (perched village) of Roussillon for a tour. Make your own adventure this evening as you amuse your taste buds with traditional Languedoc-Roussillon cuisine for dinner (at own expense). |
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THREE BIKING OPTIONS: Set out this morning to return to the town of Roussillon. Resting on one of the world's biggest ocher deposits and adored by artists for centuries, this village is renowned for its striking natural surroundings, especially the Chaussée des Géants, a canyon radiant with 16 shades of ocher. From here, head to Gordes, a flawless village perché, where old stone buildings cling to the craggy southern face of the high Vaucluse Plateau, and a massive mediaeval castle watches over fields, forests, and neighbouring hilltop towns. Stroll along cobblestone lanes leading to shady squares, historic monuments, chic boutiques, and cafés. Leaving Gordes, we move to Ménerbes, the village immortalised by Peter Mayle's best-selling A Year in Provence. We will be meeting for a picnic at Domaine de la Citadelle Winery, home to the well-known Musée du Tire-Bouchon (Corkscrew Museum), which has more than 1,200 corkscrews on display, some dating from the 17th century.
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Attempt the ride north to Lacoste, a former residence of the controversial 18th-century author, Marquis de Sade. Climb up the ruins of the Marquis’ former castle. Wrap up today's adventure with a ride across the historic Pont Julien. This evening we adjourn to the hotel's elegant restaurant for a farewell dinner overlooking the Luberon Valley. Savour either gourmet modern or traditional cuisine, and delight your palates with vintages from the Aureto vineyard. |
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Level 1, Approx. 21 km (13 miles), 1-2 hours biking, Elevation gain: 213 m (700 ft) Today being the last day of our trip, you can go for one last spin in this cyclist’s paradise or you can choose to spend your day leisurely by the pool, followed by a hearty breakfast. We gather later to say our fond goodbyes and grab a quick packed lunch for your travel day before departing for Avignon. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is avaialble on request.
More Info
The departure and finish point is Avignon, France
Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Avignon. The nearest airport is Avignon Airport which is 8.9 km away. The nearest International Airport is Nimes Airport 56km and Marseille Provence Airport 90km.
Provence is known for its sunny and relatively mild climate. However, July and August are usually quite hot, and humidity is often high in June and September. Rain is possible year-round—don't forget to bring waterproof breathable rain gear. The Mistral, Provence's famously strong wind, can whip up at any moment, so come prepared with a windbreaker and warm layers.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-5.
Level 1, 2-3 hours, 13-35km (8-22 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 305m (1000 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 29-51km (18-32 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 671m (2200 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 42-68km (26-42 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1036m (3400 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 58-87km(36-54 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m (4400 ft)
Level 5, 5-7+ hours, 77-113+ km (48-70+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1341m+ (4400+ ft)
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Touring Bike A proven classic, our custom-designed titanium touring bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. Our most popular bike features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability. This touring bike combines a wide range of gears with the ease of an adjustable upright riding position for comfort and efficiency. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Electric Assist Bike A lightweight yet powerful machine unique in the world of e-bikes. One of the lightest e-bikes available, it provides plenty of power (and then some!) to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance. Other outstanding features include the same comfort as our Touring Bikes and lower top tubes for easier mounting and dismounting. Available for guests 16 or older; not appropriate for pulling a Trailer Bike or a Cub trailer on a Family Trip. Upright handlebars only. Available Accessories: Rear rack and trunk bag and flat pedals or toe-cages included. |
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Performance Bike Custom-designed titanium bike built for cyclists to power up climbs and speed through the countryside. This performance road bike is lightweight and technologically advanced, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork. Responsive, efficient and comfortable for a drop-bar performance bike, it’s an impressive ride suited to avid riders. Drop handlebars only. Available Accessories: Trunk bag, flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals). |
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Carbon Bike The Carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS has been put through its paces at both Paris-Roubaix and the Tour de France by the UCI World Tour team–EF Pro Cycling. Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package—it’s built for hard-core riders, men and women alike, who are looking for a high-performance bike that doesn’t sacrifice comfort. The Synapse is offered in a complete range of sizes. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Not equipped with a rear rack or bag, bring your own pedals, selection of saddle sizes available. |
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Tandem Bike Hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. Suggested for riders with some tandem experience and on trips with flatter terrain. Due to the tandem's size, frequent racking is not realistic, so there may be fewer opportunities to hop in the van. Dropped handlebars for captain position, upright for stoker. Available by request for additional cost on biking trips in Europe, US and Canada. Available Accessories: Rear rack and pannier or trunk bag and Flat pedals or toe-cages included (or bring your own pedals) |
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.