Provence by Bike and Boat
Pedal the picturesque landscapes of southeastern France and the Rhone river valley
This spectacular bike and boat tour will take you through the wild Camargue nature, where you'll see its bulls and horses; from the medieval fortress of Aigues Mortes you’ll cycle comfortably on towards Arles.
Following this portion of the ride, you’ll visit the most typical Provence landscape- including the Rhone Valley, Van Gogh’s Provence, the Roman Pont du Gard.
For this tour, you will cycle by day and enjoy comfortable accommodations aboard the barge at night.
Daily Program
This tour departs from both Avignon and Aigues-Mortes. Please see itineraries for each departure below.
Day 1: Arrival to Avignon
Welcome aboard your new home away from home! Boarding begins at 5:00 p.m., followed by an introductory briefing at 6:30 p.m. Here, you will be welcomed by your tour leader, skipper, and the crew while enjoying a refreshing aperitif. The boat will be docked at Quai de la Ligne, offering front-row views of the historic, medieval city walls and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet.
Overnight in Avignon.
Day 2: Round trip of Avignon
28 miles/45 km
Today your cycling adventure kicks off by crossing the Rhône River onto Île de la Barthelasse, a peaceful island. From there, you will pedal through classic garrigue—the fragrant, low-lying Mediterranean scrubland of thyme and wild rosemary—weaving past sun-drenched vineyards and fruit orchards on your way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. While exploring this world-renowned wine village, you will have the chance to sample its prestigious, full-bodied Provençal blends. Later, you will cross back over the Rhône at Roquemaure and trace the riverbank back to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
Overnight in Avignon (dinner not included).
Day 3: Round trip of Aramon
28 miles/45 km
In the morning you'll cruise to Aramon where you will begin biking. The stage today will bring you to the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacular work and the best-preserved ancient Roman aqueduct in Europe. You will spend the night back in Aramon, treated to stunning, distant views of the majestic Mont Ventoux towering over the landscape.
Overnight in Aramon.
Day 4: Vallabrègues round tour
22 miles/35 km
You start your day cruising to Vallabrègues, a pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône that is steeped in the traditional craft of wicker basket weaving. Cycling along country roads, fertile farmlands and orchard-lined paths you will arrive at medieval village of Boulbon. Continue cycling to Tarascon to see its imposing, exceptionally preserved medieval castle standing guard right on the riverbank. Just across the river is the village of Beaucaire, home to another historic fortress that holds sections of the rampart walk that are still accessible. Finally, a dedicated bike path built on a converted railway line guides you toward Remoulins and the unique Troglodyte Abbey of Saint-Roman—a fascinating, fortified monastery carved directly into the limestone cliffs.
Overnight in Vallabrègues.
Day 5: Vallabrègues – Arles
40 miles/65 km
This beautiful segment brings you to Saint Remy de Provence, a quintessential Provençal town famed as the birthplace of Nostradamus. This village is also famous for having hosted Van Gogh at the local asylum, where he painted masterpieces like The Starry Night. Finally, you will climb into the rugged Alpilles mountains to reach Les Baux-de-Provence, a spectacular fortified village carved into the rock itself. Dramatic limestone cliffs, silvery olive groves, and striking vistas will frame the rest of your ride into Arles.
Overnight in Arles.
Day 6: Arles – Aigues-Mortes
19 miles/30 km
Today the whole morning is dedicated to visiting Arles, the ancient capital of Gaul with beautiful Roman ruins. A professional local guide will join you to showcase the town's architectural treasures. After lunch, the group will head to the Franquevaux lock to board the barge. From there, sit back and enjoy a scenic afternoon cruise into the fortified medieval town of Aigues-Mortes for the evening.
Overnight in Aigues-Mortes.
Day 7: Round trip of Aigues-Mortes
30 miles/45 km
Spend the day cycling through the quiet, flat country lanes of the Camargue delta. As you ride past winding canals, shallow lagoons, and sleepy hamlets, you will pass through Le Cailar, Marsillargues, and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze—villages famous for their deep-rooted Camargue bull-fighting and herding traditions. In the afternoon, visit an organic vineyard for an exclusive, authentic wine tasting. It is the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Camargue wetlands, taking in views of salt marshes, coastal dunes, and flocks of pink flamingos, all while catching the ocean breeze scented with warm sand, wild tamarisk, and pine forests.
Overnight in Aigues-Mortes.
Day 8: Departure from Aigues-Mortes
After breakfast, end of tour and departure from the boat. You can book extra nights at a hotel in Aigues-Mortes if you would like (inquire for pricing).
Note: The program has been planned to feature navigation along the Rhone River and Rhone-Sète Canal. Due to organizational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered - previously not announced - repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus. These decisions are only made by the boat’s captain.
Day 1: Arrival to Aigues-Mortes
Individual arrival and boarding after 5:00 pm in Aigues-Mortes, medieval town, ancient military, and commercial port on the Mediterranean. You may board from 6 pm onwards, and then regroup for the welcome briefing at 6:30.
Overnight in Aigues-Mortes.
Day 2: Round trip of Aigues-Mortes
30 miles/45 km
Spend the day cycling through the quiet, flat country lanes of the Camargue delta. As you ride past winding canals, shallow lagoons, and sleepy hamlets, you will pass through Le Cailar, Marsillargues, and Saint-Laurent-d’Aigouze—villages famous for their deep-rooted Camargue bull-fighting and herding traditions. In the afternoon, visit an organic vineyard for an exclusive, authentic wine tasting. It is the perfect opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Camargue wetlands, taking in views of salt marshes, coastal dunes, and flocks of pink flamingos, all while catching the ocean breeze scented with warm sand, wild tamarisk, and pine forests.
Overnight in Aigues-Mortes (dinner not included).
Day 3: Aigues-Mortes – Arles
19 miles/30 km
Enjoy a relaxing morning cruise as you sail up the river for a couple of hours toward Franquevaux. From there, you will hop on your bike and pedal toward today's destination: Arles. Renowned for its rich classical heritage and spectacular Roman architecture, the city is bound to captivate you with its hidden historical treasures. Wandering through its narrow, winding alleys feels just like stepping directly into a vibrant Van Gogh painting. In the afternoon, a professional local guide will join the group to lead you on an insightful tour through the town's most dazzling architectural gems.
Overnight in Arles.
Day 4: Arles – Vallabrègues
40 miles/65 km
Today features a truly breathtaking ride that leads you straight into the rugged Alpilles mountains. You will visit the spectacular, sun-bleached clifftop village of Les Baux-de-Provence before continuing on to the charming streets of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. A classic Mediterranean landscape of dramatic limestone crags and silvery olive groves will frame your entire journey. In the evening, you will dock for the night in Vallabrègues, an enchanting, quiet Provençal village nestled right on the banks of the Rhône River.
Overnight in Vallabrègues.
Day 5: Vallabrègues round tour
22 miles/35 km
You start your day cruising to Vallabrègues, a pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône that is steeped in the traditional craft of wicker basket weaving. Cycling along country roads, fertile farmlands and orchard-lined paths you will arrive at medieval village of Boulbon. Continue cycling to Tarascon to see its imposing, exceptionally preserved medieval castle standing guard right on the riverbank. Just across the river is the village of Beaucaire, home to another historic fortress that holds sections of the rampart walk that are still accessible. Finally, a dedicated bike path built on a converted railway line guides you toward Remoulins and the unique Troglodyte Abbey of Saint-Roman—a fascinating, fortified monastery carved directly into the limestone cliffs.
Overnight in Vallabrègues.
Day 6: Round trip of Aramon
28 miles/45 km
In the morning you'll cruise to Aramon where you will begin biking. The stage today will bring you to the best-preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacular work and the best-preserved ancient Roman aqueduct in Europe. You will spend the night back in Aramon, treated to stunning, distant views of the majestic Mont Ventoux towering over the landscape.
Overnight in Aramon.
Day 7: Round trip of Avignon
28 miles/45 km
Today your cycling adventure kicks off by crossing the Rhône River onto Île de la Barthelasse, a peaceful island. From there, you will pedal through classic garrigue—the fragrant, low-lying Mediterranean scrubland of thyme and wild rosemary—weaving past sun-drenched vineyards and fruit orchards on your way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. While exploring this world-renowned wine village, you will have the chance to sample its prestigious, full-bodied Provençal blends. Later, you will cross back over the Rhône at Roquemaure and trace the riverbank back to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon.
Overnight in Avignon.
Day 8: Departure from Avignon
After breakfast, end of tour and departure from the boat. You can book extra nights at a hotel in Avignon if you would like.
Note: The program has been planned to feature navigation along the Rhone River and Rhone-Sète Canal. Due to organizational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered - previously not announced - repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus. These decisions are only made by the boat’s captain.
Boats
L’Estello
The L’Estello is a Dutch barge originally launched in 1937. The vessel was modernised from head to toe for passenger cruising on the rivers and canals of France. She features an…
Caprice
Welcome on board the Caprice! On deck, you’ll enjoy relaxing in the sun. The deck also has a canopy in case you prefer to relax in the shade. The public space is divided into a restaurant…
Bikes
27-speed touring bike, unisex
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- the only one suitable with children’s accessories
Specifically assembled by the mechanics, the touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour. Furthermore, thanks to the step-through frame, getting on and off your bike is easier.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- repair kit (1 per room)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- lock

27-speed touring bike, men's
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Specifically assembled by our mechanics, our touring bikes feature components and accessories that make it reliable and easy to ride, a perfect companion for your bike tour.
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- repair kit (1 per room)
- lock
- handlebar bag (1 per room)

27-speed standard bike, men's
A sportier, lighter model with thinner tires than the touring bike. Straight handlebars allow a comfortable stance while pedaling.
- 28″ wheel
- 27 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
- suitable for individuals with a body height of 165 cm and above

Electrically assisted bike
- 28” wheel
- 9 speed
- anti-puncture tires
- comfort gel saddle
- speedlifter twist T10 to easily adjust the handlebar height
Our e-bike is the right choice if you do not feel trained enough to spend more days on a saddle. You can easily adjust the assistance of the electric motor: from a mild pedaling support, to a more intense boost, which is especially useful on starts and uphill climbs. The battery charge covers an entire cycling stage, or even more if you don’t use it at full power all the time, and you can recharge it at the end of the day at the hotel .
Standard components
- bike bell
- side kickstand
- cycle computer
- frame lock
- front/rear lights
- front/rear mudguards
- bottle holder
- rear rack
Accessories included
- Ortlieb rear side pannier (12,5 l)
- handlebar bag (1 per room)
- battery charger
- battery key
- repair kit
- lock
*More about electrically-assisted bikes >
Accessories
Children's bikes, seats, trailers and tag-alongs are also available upon request
When cycling self-guided, you will received a handlebar bag and repair kit.
Bike Protection:
Protection against theft and irreparable damage is included in the rental bike price. In case of careless or improper behaviour the insurance will not cover the costs. The insurance covers only the rented bikes, while it is not valid for any bike accessories (lock, helmet, panniers, handlebar bag, child seat, child devices etc…) nor personal belongings left on the bike or in the panniers/handlebar bags. Furthermore, the insurance is not valid for e-bikes used by customers under the age of 18. In case of theft the insurance may be activated only if the client presents: - a police report made at the local police office - the lock key in case of e-bike, or the damaged lock in case of standard bike.
Helmets:
Helmets are available to rent head circumferences 54-61 cm (see pricing chart), but for safety and hygiene purposes we recommend you bring your own helmet or plan to purchase one upon arrival.
Surface and terrain
Route on bike paths and low traffic roads in rural and city areas. There are short stretches that are on unpaved roads, and on some roads with more traffic (in this case, the road with traffic is only option, but the route follows low traffic roads when possible, and uses the roads with more traffic only to connect you to another low traffic road).
The daily rides average about 30-40 miles (50-60 km). There will be some hills, so it is advisable to be comfortable spending a few hours on the bike each day, and cycling up some rolling hills.
Total length: 240 km
Total vertical up: 620 m
Terrain: 90% tarmac, 10% unpaved
You can choose to cycle with the guide and group, or also use the route maps and descriptions to cycle on your own.
How to get there
Avignon
Nearest airports: Marseille Provence (MRS)
Nearest train station: Avignon Centre
The L’Estello is docked at the pier Avignon Quai De La Ligne.
Aigues Mortes
Nearest airports: Marseille Provence (MRS)
Nearest train station: Aigues Mortes
In Aigues Mortes L’Estello is docked by the Quai des Bateliers in Avenue du Pont de Provence.
Both Avignon and Aigues-Mortes are well served by these other airports: Montpellier Mediterranée (MPL), Nimes Garons (FNI), Lyon Saint Exupéry (LYS), and Avignon Caumont (AVN).
You will receive more information on location of the boats in your pre-tour documents, which you receive a few weeks before the tour, once you are booked and confirmed on it.
Tips on getting to and from your tour
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