Bicycling Provence to the Pyrenees Plus!
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day cycling tour through the heart of southern France, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes converge. From the ancient Roman city of Nîmes to the medieval charm of Carcassonne, each day offers a unique blend of exploration and adventure. Pedal through picturesque wine villages, traverse the scenic Cévennes Mountains, and bask in the Mediterranean sun along the coast. Discover hidden gems like the Bamboo Forest and the Cathar castles, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French and Catalan cultures. With carefully selected accommodations and delightful local cuisine, this tour promises an enriching experience for all cycling enthusiasts. Join us for a journey that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and history of this enchanting region.
Included
11 days
10 nights accommodation
Novotel Atria Nimes Centre
L'Auberge les 3 Barbus
Hotel La Taverne de l’Escuelle
Hotel Le Guilhaume d'Orange
Grand Hotel de Sete
Hotel La Residence
Hotel du Chateau
Hostellerie Du Vieux Moulin - Duilhac sous Peyrepertuse
Mercure Perpignan Centre
hotel: 10 night(s);
guided visit Carcassonne
meals as noted in itinerary
oyster tasting
wine tasting and visit of artisanal bakery
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Nîmes
- Nîmes - Arrival day
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- Obélisque d'Arles
- temple of Diana
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Begin your journey in the historic city of Nîmes, where ancient Roman architecture stands proudly amidst modern life. Explore the Arena of Nîmes, a testament to Roman engineering, and the Maison Carrée, a beautifully preserved temple. In the afternoon, get fitted for your bicycle and enjoy a leisurely warm-up ride. Conclude the day with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant (or similar), setting the tone for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Nîmes to Anduze
- Nîmes
- Anduze
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- The Bamboo Cevennes
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Cycle westward into the picturesque Languedoc region, passing through charming wine villages. The landscape is dotted with aromatic plants like lavender and rosemary. As you approach Anduze, take a moment to admire the Bamboo Forest, a lush garden with exotic plants. Settle into your hotel in the foothills for a restful evening.
Day 3 – Day 3: Anduze to Alès
- Anduze
- Alès
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- Ambrussum
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Pedal through the scenic foothills of the Cévennes Mountains, where medieval villages appear untouched by time. Enjoy a leisurely pace and take in the breathtaking views. Stop for lunch in Alès, a town with a rich history in the Protestant movement and connections to notable figures like Alphonse Daudet and Louis Pasteur.
Day 4 – Day 4: Alès to St-Guilhem-le-Désert
- Alès
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- Fountain of the Three Graces
- Parc du Domaine de Méric
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Embark on one of the most picturesque rides of the tour, traversing traffic-free roads that wind through the gorge of the Herault River. Gather picnic supplies at a charming outdoor market before descending into the isolated village of St-Guilhem-le-Désert, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Day 5 – Day 5: St-Guilhem-le-Désert to Sète
- Sète
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- Le Pont du Diable
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Take a leisurely ride to the Mediterranean coast, soaking in the medieval charm of St-Guilhem. Visit the Etang de Thau, known for its oyster and mussel beds, before arriving in the vibrant seaside town of Sète via ferry. Enjoy the coastal atmosphere and fresh seafood.
Day 6 – Day 6: Sète to Narbonne
- Sète
- Narbonne
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- Château de Gruissan
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Cycle through vineyards and farmland en route to the ancient Roman city of Narbonne. Follow the historic Canal du Midi, a marvel of engineering that connects the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Discover Narbonne's rich history as a transportation hub and enjoy the local cuisine.
Day 7 – Day 7: Narbonne to Carcassonne
- Narbonne
- Carcassonne
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- Cité de Carcassonne
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Enjoy a leisurely ride across the flat plains of Languedoc to the enchanting medieval town of Carcassonne. Explore the town's narrow alleyways and admire its well-preserved walls, restored in the 19th century. A guided tour will reveal the secrets of this historical gem.
Day 8 – Day 8: Carcassonne and Montagne Noire
- Carcassonne
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- Porte Narbonnaise
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Take a loop ride from Carcassonne towards the Montagne Noire, part of the Massif Central. Experience the transition from Mediterranean to Atlantic vegetation as you explore this diverse landscape. Return to Carcassonne with time to wander its medieval streets.
Day 9 – Day 9: Carcassonne to Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse
- Carcassonne
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- Castle Castelnou
- Grotte de Limousis
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Venture into the wine region of Limoux, famed for its sparkling wines, and explore the foothills of the Pyrenees. Ride through scenic river valleys and past Cathar castles, steeped in history. Arrive in the quaint village of Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse for a peaceful evening.
Day 10 – Day 10: Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse to Perpignan
- Perpignan
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- Perpignan Cathedral
- Our Lady of the Angels Church
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Cycle out of the Pyrenees to Perpignan, a city where French and Spanish cultures blend. Visit the Palace of the Kings of Majorca and St. John's Cathedral, both reflecting the region's rich history. Celebrate the end of your journey with a special dinner.
Day 11 – Day 11: Departure from Perpignan
- Perpignan - Departure day
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Conclude your tour in Perpignan, once the capital of the Kingdom of Mallorca. Consider extending your travels to the nearby island of Mallorca or the vibrant city of Barcelona. Whatever your next destination, we wish you a safe and pleasant journey.
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