Getaway between Provence and Camargue
A bicycle-touring trip to encounter the landscapes of the South of France
© G. Vlassis
Duration
8 days and 7 nights
Level
Leisure
ou Fit
Departure date
From March 1st to November 15th
Trip type
Self-guided trip
Trip type
Travelling loop
Key features
- Nîmes and Arles, Ancient and Roman heritage
- Uzès and its famous Provencal market
- The Pont du Gard, masterpiece of the Roman Empire
- The Alpilles Regional Nature Park and its limestone landscapes
- Les Baux de Provence, one of the most beautiful villages in France
- The wild landscapes and fauna of the Camargue
- The gastronomy and easy living of Provence
The story behind the trip
Our travel advisor, David, who has lived near Nîmes for more than 10 years, was keen to share his best addresses for accommodation and restaurants and to introduce you to the most beautiful sites and routes in his region. It is now a done deal this stay of multiple atmospheres, colors and scents.
The easy living and diversity of the South of France by bike
From Nîmes, cycle through the Gard, Provence and the Camargue. A stay that combines exceptional natural sites and Ancient History.
This bike getaway around Nîmes allows you to discover the richness and variety of the landscapes and atmospheres of the South of France. By bicycle, you pedal gently between Gard, Provence and the Camargue. Along the way, you discover cities with a millennial history and you explore landscapes of a rare diversity. With a few pedal strokes, you are transported from the hilly and limestone landscapes of the Alpilles to the ponds, plains and green meadows of Camargue where water dominates the scene. On a route accessible to all, a bike trip rich in contrast, color and fragrance awaits you.
Throughout your cycling trip, you will pass through cities whose long history dates back to Antiquity. The cities of Art and History of Nîmes and Arles have a rich Ancient and Roman heritage. Along the way, you will also discover the charm of Provençal villages. Les Baux de Provence, classified as The Most Beautiful Villages in France, is the most picturesque. The winding alleys of the hilltop city of Uzès, the religious atmosphere of Saintes-Maries de la Mer, and the fortified city of Aigues Mortes famous for its saltworks with a thousand shades of pink, are also sure to dazzle you. And how could we not mention the Pont du Gard? A real architectural feat, the Roman aqueduct will reveal all its secrets during the second bike stage between Uzès and Tarascon.
To start your journey, the Gorges du Gardon and the Alpilles Nature Park welcome you. Sculpted in limestone, the landscape of the Alpilles alternates between rocky cliffs and hills carpeted with thyme, rosemary, pinewood and cedar. In summer, the song of the cicadas set the tempo to your bike getaway within these arid expanses. A place where all your senses are called upon!
The second part of this easygoing getaway crosses La Camargue, whose landscapes of meadows and marshes formed by the Rhône delta offer a unique setting. Untamed, this wetland is home to many animal and plant species. While pedaling on small roads and paths, you observe flamingos, white horses and bulls, the symbols of the Camargue. With its rice fields, vineyards, saltworks and long beaches, La Camargue reveals to you, by bike, a large mosaic of landscapes with water as the common element.
Gard, Provence and the Camargue are also the local products that carry the scent of the sun and breathe the mildness of the Mediterranean climate. In the typical Provencal markets, such as that of Uzès, one of the most famous in the region, you bargain-hunt among the lively, colorful and fragrant stalls of Provencal scents. Fruits and vegetables, olive oil, tapenade, fougasse, wines, goat cheeses, sausages, honeys and of course Provence herbs, there is something for everyone. To overcome the cravings during the stage, fill your panniers with these tasty provisions.
Itinerary
Leisure or Fit From NIMES to UZES 45km 485m 
You ride through the garrigues scrubland, characteristic Mediterranean vegetation. The sounds, the scents, the atmosphere of the south permeate you.
During this stage you will find a cool breeze on the banks of the Gardon and its gorges. We also recommend taking a swim or a canoe trip on the Gardon to enjoy these landscapes. A tributary of the Rhône, the Gardon has its source a little further north, in the mountains of the Cévennes.
On your way, don’t miss the Haribo Museum if you have a sweet tooth.
Uzès, end of this stage, welcomes you for the evening. Built on a promontory surrounded by vineyards, scrubland and olive trees, the main town of Uzège offers a very pleasant charming stopover.
- For a few more km 75km 651m
This elongated variant of the route invites you from the start of Nîmes to cross the Vaunage plain by bike. A beautiful greenway has been created there. Then you quickly encounter the Gorges du Gardon.
From UZES to TARASCON 45km 97m
Before leaving Uzès do not miss its Provençal market (Wednesday and Saturday), renowned throughout the region.Before mid-way, you encounter the Gardon and discover the Pont du Gard which overlooks it. Listed as a UNESCO Heritage site since 1985, the Pont du Gard is built on 3 levels. At a height of 48 meters, it is the highest known aqueduct bridge in the Roman world.
Up to Beaucaire, for about twenty kilometers, the rest of the route follows a peaceful greenway through the Gard countryside. Just before reaching the Rhône , you can go up to the troglodyte abbey of Saint-Roman. From the port of Beaucaire, you then go to Tarascon on the left bank of the Rhône.
- For a few more km 60km 234m
From TARASCON to ARLES 23km 28m
From Tarascon, you take the direction of Arles.
You leave Tarascon via the Beaucaire bridge and its small river port. You ride peacefully to Arles on small marked roads, between plains and vineyards. A few canals intersperse the route to remind you that the Rhône is never very far. The Roman city of Arles then offers itself to you after passing the tunnel under the motorway bridge. A relatively short itinerary today to give you time to discover the city of art and history of Arles, renowned for its extraordinary heritage.
- For a few more km 55km 390m
Variant towards the Alpilles mountain range, outside the ViaRhôna route. Discovery of Saint-Rémy de Provence, the “capital” of the Alpilles and Baux de Provence. Do not miss this site classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. The song of the cicadas and the scents of cedar and thyme confirm that you are riding in the authentic Provence. In Fontvieille, you will discover the Saint-Pierre mill, symbol of the work of “Letters from My Windmill” by the writer Alphonse Daudet. Founded in 948, the Benedictine Abbey of Montmajour is not to be missed at the end of the stage.
- For a few more km 70km 568m
Variation towards the Alpilles massif, off the Via Rhôna route. Discovery of Saint-Rémy de Provence, the “capital” of the Alpilles and the Baux de Provence. Don’t miss this site classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France. The song of the cicadas and the smell of cedar and thyme will confirm that you are driving in the authentic Provence. After Les Baux de Provence, you take a diversion along small roads through the olive groves at the foot of the Alpilles and passing through Les Mouries. It’s magical!
In Fontvieille, you will discover the Saint-Pierre mill, symbol of the work of the writer Alphonse Daudet in “Letters from my mill”. Founded in 948, the Benedictine Abbey of Montmajour is not to be missed at the end of the stage.
From ARLES to SAINTES-MARIES-DE-LA-MER 41km 16m
- For a few more km 65km 23m
Once in Saintes-Maries de la Mer, a path between the sea and the marsh allows you to reach the Gacholle lighthouse. The site houses an exceptional ornithological station. You return to Saintes-Maries de la Mer by the same path by the sea. You can adapt the mileage as you wish.
From SAINTES-MARIES-DE-LA-MER to AIGUES-MORTES 57km 17m
From Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the route crosses the vast expanses of the Camargue regional nature park, famous for its marshes, pink flamingos and wild horses. You’ll pass the Château d’Avignon, a 19th-century estate surrounded by gardens and works of art. Continuing towards the Petite Camargue, the Scamandre nature reserve offers trails rich in biodiversity and bird-watching observatories. The étangs du Charnier, de Crey and de Scamandre are peaceful spots perfect for observing the local wildlife. The charming and typical port of Gallician marks the entrance to the more agricultural area of the Camargue, before reaching the Mahistre et Musette nature reserve. Arrive at Aigues-Mortes, a medieval town with well-preserved ramparts and the famous Constance Tower, offering a glimpse into the history of the region and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- For a few more km 85km 45m
Continuing along the Perrier salt marshes, you reach Le Grau-du-Roi and its fishing port atmosphere, before discovering the Espiguette lighthouse, isolated on a vast stretch of dunes before returning to Aigues-Mortes.
From AIGUES-MORTES to NIMES 55km 245m
At the exit of Aigues Mortes, take the time to contemplate or climb to the top of the Tour Carbonnière set in the middle of the ponds. Built at the end of the 13th century, this watchtower was intended to protect the medieval city of Aigues Mortes. Between Congénies and Caveirac, you pedal on a pretty green way across the plain of Vaunage. You can still see some white horses and bulls there. The vineyard and the fields of olive trees complete this pretty scene. Then Nîmes welcomes you. Take the opportunity to discover or rediscover the ancient sites of the city.
- For a few more km 65km 292m
NIMES
End of stay after breakfast.
They travelled with us
Practical information
Essential Range
You want to enjoy your itinerary without anything fancy. Our ”essential” range offers a simple accommodation for a good night’s rest in a simple hotel, guesthouse, rest house or hostel.
Starting from 1045€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices Accommodation example
Comfort Range
Our quality standard at Abicyclette. This type of accommodation includes 2 and 3 stars hotels. Depending on the itinerary, you might spend some nights in approved guesthouses. You enjoy a double bedroom with private bathroom and toilet and adapted welcome for you and your bikes.
Starting from 1140€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices Accommodation example
Privilege Range
Opt for total comfort in charming 3 and 4 star hotels which offer all the services you need and a special welcome for you and your bikes.
Starting from 2300€/participant in Self Guided option
See detailed prices Accommodation example
Price includes
- Accommodation: 7 nights in a Double room
- 7 breakfasts
- Luggage transfer
- Phone assistance 24/7
- Access to our exclusive travel application to follow your route, inform you about places of interest, restaurants, facilitate your assistance in case of emergency, find all your travel documents and our practical advice.
- Application fee
- Taxes
- The itinerary trackable on the following supports:
- Loan of a Bicycle GPS uploaded with full itinerary of the trip
- Cycling practical guide including restaurant recommendations for lunch & dinner with topo maps
- Day 1 : A personalized greeting with our team at the beginning of the trip to receive your travel documents
Price does not include
- Bike rental (see option)
- Breakfast on day 1
- Lunches
- Dinners not included in "Price includes"
- Drinks, visits & other personal expenses
Homemade and fully tested itineraries
- Routes selected for their cycling and touristic interest entirely tested and away from traffic
- Accomodations selected for their hospitality, atmosphere, services and quality meals
- A flexible organisation to suit you needs and wishes: You choose the date you want to you leave on! We check the availability of each accomodation to make sure it is possible.
Close assistance
- One of our guides greets you on your first day. He will hand out all the needed documents for the trip (hotel vouchers, maps of the area,GPS, practical guide), get you settled on your bikes (for rental bikes).
- Phone assistance, you can reach the Abicyclette team whenever you need
- A Luggage transfer service which respects your hours of rest (we pick them up after 10:00 and deliver them before 16:00)
Follow your itinerary anyway you like – modern, practical, traditional
- We loan you a GPS so that you can easily follow your itinerary without having to look for your way around (bike support included)
- Access to our exclusive travel application to follow your route, inform you about places of interest, restaurants, facilitate your assistance in case of emergency, find all your travel documents and our practical advice.
- A practical cycling guide with all the useful information (addresses, highlights for the day, topo maps, and touristic information)
You can also
- Rent a high end quality bike for real comfort, cycling pleasure and reliability a long trip requires.
- Suscribe to a Cancelation or Multi Risk insurance policy which cover you in case something unexpected comes up.
On our guided tours (for groups on demand), we accompany you every step of the way
- One of our state qualified instructor and professional cycling guide accompanies you every step of the way
- Full board (all meals covered unless asked otherwise)
- A picnic buffet set up for lunch with a wide choice of fresh and local produce
We offer a high-end bike rental service. Our bikes are suited for road and gravel road long-distance cycling. Fully equipped and highly reliable, they are faithful travel companions.
Our rentals include a "breakage and theft guarantee" for peace of mind when travelling. Information and details from your advisor.
Trekking BikeSCOTT SUB SPORT 20 Reassuring and comfortable geometry. Shimano 27-speed Disc brakes Supplied equipment per bike
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EbikeEBIKE SCOTT SUB TOUR ERIDE All the pleasure of cycling without too much effort and accessible to all. Shimano Disc Br-MT200 brakes Bosch ActivePlus 500w motor Weight 25.60 kg Supplied equipment per bike
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Child bikeCHILDREN’S BIKE: 8 to 10 years old; 135-145cm Agile and handy bike and 100% safe for nice family rides Supplied equipment per bike
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Getting here
Departure city : NIMES
Coming by car
- at 6h from PARIS
- at 5h15 from BORDEAUX
- at 2h30 from LYON
Parking*
- Parking les Halles – NIMES
- Parking de la Coupole – NIMES
Coming by train
- Nîmes train station - 3h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Nîmes airport
Taxi : 20 min - Marseille Provence airport
Ter : 35min then Intercités : 25 min
Taxi : 1h15 - Montpellier airport
Taxi : 45min - Lyon Saint Exupéry airport
Train : 1h
Taxi : 3h
Arrival city : NIMES
Coming by car
- at 6h from PARIS
- at 5h15 from BORDEAUX
- at 2h30 from LYON
Coming by train
- Nîmes train station - 3h from Paris
Coming by plane
- Nîmes airport
Taxi : 20 min - Marseille Provence airport
Ter : 35min then Intercités : 25 min
Taxi : 1h15 - Montpellier airport
Taxi : 45min - Lyon Saint Exupéry airport
Train : 1h
Taxi : 3h
*Parking: Since many of our clients travel by train or plane, we do not include parking in our packages. In addition, many accommodations don’t have the capacity to park a vehicle for the duration of your cycling vacation. So if you’re planning to arrive by car, we suggest you check parking options when you make your reservation. If you reserve a parking space at the first or last accommodation of your stay, you must pay the accommodation provider on site.
* Abicyclette Voyages accompanies you on demand, including transportation solutions.
Recommended equipment
Bike
- Hybrid Bike or Touring Bike or Gravel Bike
- 18 to 30-speed transmission
- 26- to 29-inch wheels
- Tires: 35 to 42 section, reinforced against punctures
- Disc brakes recommended
- 2 bottle cages
- Bell
- Front and rear lighting
Clothing and equipment
- Helmet (supplied with bike rental unless otherwise specified locally)
- 1 bike mount for smartphone to use the mobile route planner application
- Suitable cycling clothing:
- bib, shorts or tights: elastic and breathable, to facilitate movement and wick away perspiration
- Breathable T-shirts, synthetic or merino wool
- Breathable windbreaker
- Thermal or fleece jacket
- Waterproof jacket
- 1 pair of sunglasses
- 1 pair of cycling shoes
- 1 backpack or 1 or 2 carrier bags (1 carrier bag supplied with bike rental)
- 1 or 2 water bottles (supplied with bike rental in France)
- 1 lock (supplied with bike rental)
- Technical details, recommended by the team for optimum comfort:
- 1 pair of gloves or mittens, depending on season and destination
- Padded bib (chamois)
- High-visibility vest or fluorescent belt
- Neck warmer and cap
Bike maintenance
- Emergency repair kit: 2 or 3 inner tubes, patches, pump, tire levers, multi-tools
- Maintenance kit: rag, oil, brake pads
Other
- A suitcase for your belongings carried in the vehicle (limited to one per person)
- Street clothes
- 1 pair of evening shoes
- Fleece jacket for the evening
- Toiletry bag
- Telephone and charger
Terms of payment and cancellation
The full terms and conditions of sale are available here: https://www.abicyclette-voyages.com/conditions-generales-de-vente/
Booking and payment
- Departure more than 30 days before your booking: payment of a deposit of 30%, excluding insurance, at the time of booking. If you have taken out travel insurance, it must be paid in full at the time of booking to guarantee its validity.
- Departure within 30 days of your booking: payment of the total cost of your stay. Or payment of the balance of the holiday if you have already paid a deposit.
Cancellation of the Contract
You may cancel the Contract at any time before the start of the Tour, subject to payment of a cancellation fee. Any total or partial cancellation will incur the following costs per participant:
| Cancellation period | Fees |
| From the date of Booking to 60 days or more before departure or the 1st day of the programme | 5% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 100 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Between 59 and 30 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 10% of the total cost of the Tour (including options); a minimum of 120 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer
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| Between 29 and 10 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 30% of the total amount of the Tour (including options) a minimum of 150 euros including VAT will be charged to the Customer |
| Entre 9 à 7 jours avant le départ ou le 1er jour du programme | 45% du montant total du Voyage (options incluses) |
| Between 9 and 7 days before departure or on the 1st day of the programme | 75% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| Less than 3 days to the day of departure or the 1st day of the programme | 100% of the total cost of the trip (including options) |
| No show on day of departure or 1st day of programme |
Custom made trips
You want a custom made cycling tour, or you’ve spotted one of our trips and would like to adapt it ? Tell us a bit about your project and we’ll help you prepare a trip that suits you best.
Starting from 1045€
Book your trip
NIMES
Welcome to Provence in the city of Nîmes, prefecture of Gard.
Take advantage of the end of the day to discover the city and its many wonders dating from the Roman Empire. Do not miss the must-sees of the city namely the arenas of Nîmes, the Maison Carrée and the Jardins de la Fontaine gardens.
Meeting with our local guide
Before your first ride, we invite you to meet one of our guides, at your place of departure. A time of exchange, a privileged moment to give you our last practical tips, must-see places and experiences, to answer all your questions, take care of your bike fitting to begin your trip.