France – Provence Lavender Route Bike Tour

Your adventures begin! Arrive in the early afternoon at your centrally located hotel in the enchanting village of Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, just 35 minutes east of Avignon. Known as the “Venice of Provence” for its meandering canals, this charming town will instantly captivate you with its picturesque beauty and lively ambiance. Perfectly situated, your hotel puts you at the heart of it all—just steps away from quaint streets lined with cafés, antique shops, and boutiques.

This afternoon, you’ll have a personalized orientation where your bikes will be delivered and expertly fitted to ensure a smooth start to your adventure. The remainder of the day and evening is yours to soak in the magic of this unique destination. Stroll along the canals, discover hidden gems, and savor local cuisine at one of the town’s delightful restaurants. For an extra special experience, aim to arrive on a Saturday so you can explore Isle-sur-la-Sorgue’s renowned market the next morning—an unforgettable feast for the senses!

Meals: N/A
Overnight: Isle sur la Sorgues

After enjoying your included breakfast, set out at your leisure for your first full day of cycling through the captivating landscapes of Provence! If it’s a Sunday, consider starting your morning with a visit to the vibrant market in Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, where the bustling stalls overflow with local produce, crafts, and Provençal delicacies—a delightful prelude to your ride.

Your route takes you to the beautiful village of Lourmarin, passing through the charming towns of Robion and Cavaillon along the way. Known for its celebrated melons, Cavaillon is an ideal spot for a refreshing break and a visit to its fascinating 1st-century Roman arch. From there, follow a peaceful cycling path alongside the Durance River, winding through picturesque villages and serene countryside until you arrive in Lourmarin. This enchanting destination, with its narrow streets, charming squares, and vibrant atmosphere, is the perfect end to a rewarding day on two wheels.

Meals: breakfast
Distances: 46km with 521m elev gain or 61km with +683m
Overnight: Lourmarin

Today’s ride takes you through the enchanting southern Luberon, where you’ll visit picturesque villages steeped in history and charm. Begin with Ansouis, home to a remarkable thousand-year-old castle, and continue to La Tour d’Aigues, known for its beautiful ruins of a Renaissance château. Journey onward to Grambois and Bastide des Jourdans, each offering unique glimpses into Provençal life.

Take a well-deserved break in Cucuron, where you can enjoy stunning views and soak in the serene atmosphere of this delightful village. Your scenic route concludes with a return to Lourmarin, wrapping up a day filled with cultural treasures and breathtaking landscapes.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 68km +937m or 32km and +416m
Overnight: Lourmarin

Start your day with a leisurely morning and a delicious breakfast before setting off on your next cycling adventure. Today’s route takes you through charming villages such as Saignan, Bonnieux, and Lacoste, each offering its own distinct character and breathtaking views.

As you approach Roussillon, you’ll cross the impressive 2,000-year-old Roman bridge, a remarkable testament to the region’s history. Arriving in Roussillon, you’ll be captivated by its unique ambiance, created by the ochre-rich rocks that have been mined here for centuries. The striking hues of the town’s buildings, bathed in warm shades of red, orange, and yellow, make it one of the most picturesque stops on your journey. Prepare to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of this unforgettable destination.

For an extra, longer ride we can recommend a trip to Saint Saturnin Les Apt for an additional 24 km and some good climbing, adding another 1.5 hours.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 39km +626m; or 52km +865m
Overnight: Roussilon

Your ride today offers two fantastic options for reaching Mazan:

The first route takes you to the stunning hilltop village of Gordes, perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop. Explore its winding streets and, if time allows, visit the remarkable 12th-century Cistercian Abbey of Senanque, nestled amid fragrant lavender fields. Continuing north, you’ll pass through Vénasque, a beautiful medieval village perched on a sheer cliff, offering tranquility far from the crowds.

For a longer, more adventurous ride, journey through St. Saturnin-lès-Apt and onward to the breathtaking Gorges de la Nesque. This awe-inspiring canyon carves through the Vaucluse plateau, with a thrilling descent along quiet, winding roads that offer spectacular views of the 400-meter-deep gorge and the Nesque River below.

Both routes culminate in Mazan, a charming village overlooking the Auzon River at the foot of Mont Ventoux. Its medieval character shines through the 12th- and 14th-century ramparts that frame the town. End your day soaking in the historic ambiance and preparing for the next chapter of your Provence adventure.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 34km + 593m or 65km +1163m
Overnight: Mazan

Today, you have two distinct options for your ride. For those seeking the ultimate challenge, head to Bedoin, just 10 km from Mazan, to begin the legendary ascent of Mont Ventoux. Known as the “Géant de Provence” and a Tour de France icon, this climb is relentless, with gradients reaching up to 15% as you ascend toward Chalet Reynard. The journey to the summit is demanding but rewards you with breathtaking views and a true sense of accomplishment. Be prepared for variable weather—it could be cold and windy or intensely hot—so plan accordingly, and descend carefully via the lesser-traveled route to Malaucène.

Alternatively, if you prefer a less demanding day, opt for the shorter route, which allows you to explore the stunning surroundings without tackling Mont Ventoux. Both options promise a rewarding and memorable experience tailored to your energy and ambition for the day.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 30km +370m or 68km +1917m
Overnight: Mazan

For your final ride, we recommend a delightful cruise to Sorgues, passing through the fascinating and historic town of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse. Known for its extraordinary spring—one of the most powerful in the world by water volume—this natural wonder emerges from deep underground with a mysterious, unknown source. The town’s rich history dates back to pre-Roman times, with archaeological sites revealing ancient habitation.

For those who didn’t visit earlier, the longer route offers a chance to explore the stunning hilltop village of Gordes once more—a true highlight of Provence. The ride concludes with a return to Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, where your journey began. Here, you can celebrate in one of the town’s charming cafés and take a moment to wander its unique streets. The river-fed canals and traditional waterwheels give Isle-sur-la-Sorgue a special charm, making it the perfect place to reflect on your unforgettable adventure.

Meals: breakfast
Distance: 38km +525m; or 58km +858m
Overnight: Isle sur la Sorgue

Today marks the end of your self-guided Provence bike tour. After enjoying a leisurely breakfast, you can depart at your own pace, with trains to Paris or Paris CDG Airport available throughout the day for your convenience. If you’d like to extend your stay in this beautiful region or explore another unforgettable Pure Adventures tour, let us know in advance—we’d be delighted to assist in planning your next great escape. Safe travels and bon voyage!

Meals: breakfast