| Tour | Bike+Boat |
|---|---|
| Type | Both |
| Skill | Easy–Moderate |
| Length | 8 days |
| From | €1095 Rates |
| Client Reviews |
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Day-To-Day Itinerary
We are already updating for 2019. Itinerary below is for 2018 and is subject to change.
Aigues Mortes to Avignon
Day 1: Arrival in Aigues- Mortes, boarding at 6 PM.
Day 2: Aigues-Mortes, round trip, 34 mi. (55 km)
DAY 3: Aigues- Mortes - Arles, 15 mi. (25 km)
DAY 4: Arles - Vallabreguès, 37 mi. (55 km)
DAY 5: Vallabreguèse - Aramon, 22 mi. (35 km)
DAY 6: Aramon - Avignon, 25 mi. (40 km)
DAY 7: Avignon, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 8: Departure
DAY 1: Individual arrival in Aigues-Mortes
Individual arrival and boarding at 6PM in Aigues Mortes.
DAY 2: Aigues-Mortes, round trip, 34 mi. (55 km)
The name of this town literally translated means "dead waters" probably referring to its location in the heart of the marshy Camargue region on France's Mediterranean coast. Do not be deceived, however, by this description. Cycling along small country roads between canals, lagoons, and small villages, you will have the chance to see the famous black bulls and the white horses typical of this region, as well as the pink flamingos. In the afternoon, you'll reach the charming fishing village of Le Grau-du-Roi in the afternoon. Here, you can enjoy a refreshing swim along the beach.
DAY 3: Aigues Mortes - Arles, 15 mi. (25 km)
The barge will take you to Saint Gilles this morning, where your bike tour will begin. Today's destination is Arles. You'll have time to discover this fascinating city. Getting lost in its small alleys will feel like you've entered a painting by Van Gogh. Enjoy a guided tour around Arles in the afternoon.
DAY 4: Arles - Vallabreguès, 34 mi. (55 km)
This stage will bring you to the Alpilles, with the village of Le Baux de Provence, lodged in the rock itself, to Saint Remy de Provence. The village of St. Rémy is enchanting. Its ancient Gallo-Roman interior is encircled by the remnants of a 14th-century wall and a protective circle of buildings. Located on the plains at the northern edge of the Alpilles and 20 km south of Avignon, this is where Van Gogh painted Starry Night, Nostradamus was born, and Dr. Albert Schweitzer was a prisoner. A landscape of limestone cliffs, fields of lavender, and olive trees will surround you as you cycle. The evening the barge will be moored in Vallabrègues, a village on the banks of the Rhone.
DAY 5: Vallabreguèse - Aramon, 22 mi. (35 km)
Quiet country roads will bring you to Barbentane with its castle at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance rivers. You will cycle to the magnificent Abbey of Saint Michel de Frigulet and afterwards down to the medieval village of Boulbon. In the afternoon, make your way to Aramon where you'll stay overnight with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux.
DAY 6: Aramon - Avignon, 25 mi. (40 km)
Your tour today will lead to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in all of Europe, the Pont du Gard. It is located 25 kilometers from Nîmes, in the direction of Avignon. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1985. The bridge is part of the aqueduct built around the year 50 to transport water from the Eure spring near Uzès to Nîmes, a distance of over 50 kilometers. Cycle back to Aramon where the barge will be waiting to take you to Avignon, the city of the popes. The barge will be moored in Quai de la Ligne next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet.
DAY 7: Avignon, round tour, 28 mi. (30 km)
Today we’ll get to the other side of the river Rhone by crossing the island Île de la Barthelasse, and we’ll ride in the typical garrigue landscape, between vineyards and orchards. Before going back we’ll visit Villeneuve Les Avignon, once known to be the town of the cardinals. In the afternoon there is time to discover the historic centre of Avignon.
DAY 8: Departure
Individual departure after breakfast.
Avignon to Aigues Mortes
Day 1: Arrival in Avignon, boarding at 6 PM.
Day 2: Avignon, round tour, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 3: Avignon - Aramon, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Aramon - Vallabrègues, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 5: Vallabrègues - Arles, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 6: Arles - Aigues Mortes, 15 mi. (25 km)
Day 7: Aigues-Mortes, round tour, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 8: Departure from Aigues-Mortes
*All distances are approximate. Daily itinerary is subject to change by a decision of the captain due to adverse weather (high or low water issues) or other unforeseen circumstances.
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Travel Details
This tour is run by Girolibero.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.
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Provence - Wilderness of Camargue Boats + Barges
L’Estello France Comfort Class Boat L'Estello was built in 1937. It is a classic Dutch passenger barge that has been converted to today's standards of comfort. The boat measures 39 meters long and 5.2 meters wide. The inviting atmosphere on board will make you feel immediately comfortable. The large lounge area has large picture windows with plenty of natural light. French doors give access to the inviting sun deck. The dining area has large windows and comfortable seating and the living room and bar area is spacious and air conditioned with comfortable sofas chairs.
Caprice France Comfort Class Boat The Caprice is a beautiful Dutch boat that has been in operation since 2009. Its freshly varnished wood and bright colors will welcome you. The large sun deck is inviting from where there can be nothing better than to sit comfortably while cruising the canals of France.
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Customer Feedback
Clive P. 2 weeks ago
My main disappointment was that we did not go to Chateauneuf du Pape, that was one off the considerations in picking this tour. I understand the reasoning for the change in itinerary but it should be removed from the description if it is not being included. The gearing on the bikes could be better, higher top gear, lower bottom gear, for this tour. I hope this doesn't sound too negative as we did enjoy the tour. Most memorable sites were Les Beux/Les Carrieres de Lumieres and Pont-du-Gare.
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Peggy S. 2 weeks ago
It's hard to choose a most memorable part of the trip. Aigues Mortes was a big surprise -- the history, the walls and the tower, and the special celebration -- the bull games -- taking place while we were there. The Camargue was amazing, with the waterways and the vineyards, the distinct breeds of horses and the bulls. Provence was beautiful with the olive groves and apple orchards, and of course more vineyards. It was exciting to visit the sites where Van Gogh had painted in Arles, and Hugo's commentary was superb. Singing Starry Starry night on deck under the starry night was lovely. The visit to Les Baux, with the spectacular scenery and Les Carrieres des Lumieres in the quarry were fabulous. We enjoyed visiting the Pont du Gard and singing Sur Le Pont d'Avignon as we cruised passed the bridge itself.
Now the areas for improvement: The bikes were not good enough for the Provence segment. We understood that we would be provided with 27 gear bikes, but had an infinite gearing system instead, and the lowest gear wasn't enough for the hills we encountered. Those with electric bikes were happier. Also, through some poor communication between Tripsite and the tour operator, Girolibero, a part of the trip route that our group had been particularly interested in -- a visit to Chateau Neuf du Pape -- was no longer included. Hugo did his best, with a vote (which came out even) to see whether we should go to Chateau Neuf du Pape or take the shorter route that had been promised to the others on the trip. Then he flipped a coin. We accepted the decision as appropriate, but were disappointed that we had not got what was advertised through Tripsite.
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Patrick S. 4 months ago
The most memorable part for me was the camaraderie formed within the group. Mainly because our guide, Helmut, was so personable and caring. Also, Tripsite did a great job filling our time with memorable adventures. I'm so glad I chose to use an e-bike.
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Jenny D. 5 months ago
The trip was amazing!! From pink Lakes, to Pink Flamingos, White Sandy Beaches, to the Punta Du Gard, Castles, Sunsets, Fields of Lavender, and Van Gough. This trip was a feast for the senses. What a fun trip. I've already booked my next one. This was excellent!!
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Debbie S. 6 months ago
The Italian barge staff and guide Carlos made the group feel like family. We laughed so much every day. It was sad to leave at the end of the week. Cycling, scenery was all very nice.
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Judith K. 6 months ago
The bike tour was terrific and exactly what our group was looking for. Biking along quiet country lanes and through vineyards. Our Italian cabin crew was fabulous.
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Gilles P. 10 months ago
Loved the "flag" system. Excellent guide (Antonella) that made it possible to stop and discover the sites. Adored stopping in bistros and similar. Great suppers.
I would recommend splitting a group of 21 in two or even three smaller parts when on public roads; the flag system assures you that you will not get lost from your group.
OK, when do we leave?
Gilles XX
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Gloria P. 11 months ago
The Itinerary was very well planned out and the staff were all amazing!!!! This was the perfect trip for our group!!!!
Reply
Pete & Norma T. 1 year ago
Guide, Antonella, crew, food, tour and route were fine, but the Estello was not, surely not "comfort plus". The boat is tired, lounge furniture was dirty, lead to believe the boat was not equivalent to Ave Maria but close, Girolibro providing better boats than FR companies. Were tied up close to a FR boat, was better. Cabins in comparison to other boats we have booked are poor, shower was not separate from remainder of the head so everything was soaked after shower. Since we booked the entire boat for Coastal Cruisers, even though no one seemed to complain, we expected better. Your bike and barge tours continue to be good value with folks who provide services compensating for "tired boat".
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Janet A. 1 year ago
Wonderful experience
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Nancy R. 1 year ago
Most Memorable Part: Cycling itself throughout southern France
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Beverly P. 1 year ago
Amazing scenery - good guide, manageable route, fantastic food. Only thing that could have been improved was wifi on the boat. If more than two or three people were using it, it was impossible to connect and always very slow.
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Michelle S. 1 year ago
We really enjoyed our trip. It was nice to have our own group on the boat. Everyone had a great time, the crew was great, the food was awesome and you can't beat the places we visited. Thank you for a great trip!
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Gloria P. 1 year ago
The routes of this trip were fantastic, even though the Lavender was not in bloom the fragrances hung in the air as we rode by the harvested fields. We rode to some of France's National Monuments which was special in of itself. I thought the routes and itineraries were great. I always looked forward to what they had planned for us next. Our guide and all the staff on the barge were all wonderful and so happy to share this journey with us! The food was excellent - who knew there would be such fine dining on the barge! This is an adventure not to be missed!
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Robert M. 1 year ago
Our bike guide was terrible. He was lost several times each day and didn't the happenings of each town so we all missed the running of the bulls and he shouted & criticized all riders.
Boat: Caprice
Reply
Linda johnson 10 months ago
Would appreciate the name of your guide
Reply
Linda johnson 10 months ago
Would appreciate the name of your guide
Reply
Jehiel from Tripsite 10 months ago
Hi Linda,
We have followed up with this feedback and wanted to let you know the guides name was Arie and he no longer works as a guide.
Reply
Gail F. 1 year ago
Ah...The trip was memorable for so many reasons, the people, the sites. Bikes were amazing to ride. Loved the infinity gears. We loved the Soleo, however it sunk due to some submerged metal. The staff did their level best to help the passengers continue vacation, get to their embassy to get new passports, medications, and put us up in hotels. The Estello was brought up to continue our trip. There were some circulation/moisture issues on the Estello so we didn't enjoy that boat as much. One suggestion would be to do a short first day clinic to ensure riders understand basic group riding etiquette. Rounding the city round about would have been better/safer had we all gathered and taken the lane to go as a group rather than single file around in such an extended line. Then resume to single file along country/city roads. The sites were amazing but there were some areas that must have required more city riding. Loved the Carmarge horses, fields of poppies, flamingos, roman stadium and aquaduct. Loved the group of people and the crew. Peter and Sheena did a great job despite their loss of the boat. Marco was awesome, he was our single contact after the barge sunk he helped organize us and processed us thru what had to be done. Arie also was a huge help during this process.. (the owner of the boat was in and out, he didn't even recognize any of the passengers try to apologize for the situation or see how we were doing.. not a fan of the owner of the boat) Oh the folks at Tripsite who I contacted did try to see what they can do. We have separate insurance as suggested but I'm not sure if Tripsite will try to make any reparations for our interrupted trip.. we missed 2 days of cycling.. I wouldn't mind a discount on a future trip.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Lynn L. 2 years ago
I really enjoyed the off-road trails and quiet back roads near Aigues Mortes.
Reply
N. Foley 2 years ago
My travel advisor (Carla) is already aware that, although we registered as two vegans and sent a reminder a week or so before we left for Europe, the information had not been transferred to the chef. So we ate as vegetarians (eggs and dairy) for the trip rather than eschewing all animal products as is our preference.
Our trip leader was not experienced on the route, having only travelled it once before in the opposite direction, and this meant a few wrong turns to be corrected... But Ronnie was as pleasant, friendly, encouraging, and multilingual as you could ask for! The only problem I encountered with the bikes was the lack of suspension -- which meant for a bruised tail bone after the first day when we travelled a very bumpy, broken pavement back road on the return from Chateauneuf de Pape ;-)
Boat: Soleo
Reply
C. Slater 2 years ago
Nothing bad or ugly. Scenery got better as we moved north. Group on our trip (both crew and guests) were great. Enjoyed the Soleo.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
J. Farina 2 years ago
The trip was great! Mostly all positive. Tom and I would like to have the pace a bit faster....that was the only negative.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Charles Hancock 3 years ago
I was greatly appreciated to allow us to drink and enjoy the wine we purchased without any extra charge.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Margot Horan 3 years ago
Barge/cycling trips are a fantastic way to explore the countryside and towns - you see so much more when you are cycling. One vivid memory of a cycling trip through northern France was stopping to look at poppies growing along the side of the road. I love the fact that you do not have to pack up each day - it is a very relaxing experience. The diversity of people who do these trips also adds to the experience. The trips that I have done in the last three years had fantastic staff who were very friendly and knowledgeable. I have done two barge/bike trips and look forward to doing more in the future.
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Ross Densky 3 years ago
This is the second barge and bike trip we took with Tripsite and I would have to say we liked the scenery more on the Taste of Burgundy than we did with Provence. Riding the in the Camargue got a little boring. Other than that we enjoyed the overall trip.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Rebecca Posante 3 years ago
My main concern about this particular trip is that we did not know ahead of time that staying on the barge and not biking was not an option unless one was sick. The winds were pretty bad (25-50 miles per hour) so that some of us did not feel up to the rides. On the particularly difficult day, it would have been nice to just remain with the boat.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Carla 3 years ago
Hi Rebecca - Your concern has been voiced and heard! In 2016 it will no longer be policy that you cannot stay on board. You are welcome to stay on board and there will even be suggestions on activities for non-bikers.
Reply
Robert Burt 3 years ago
The Soleo was a disappointment in all respects.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
George Bibeau 3 years ago
More time in certain areas would have been nice. There were instances where it felt like we were being pushed along, and I appreciate that we had 22 people of varying age, skill experience and physical ability, and that we have to get back to the boat. Our guide was very good, but you needed to try and understand his manner, which could be short at times. He was knowledgeable, insightful and caring, but his manner did not necessarily reflect that. Meals were good but thought it would reflect more French cuisine of the Provence area, not a complaint, just an observation.
Staff was excellent and I continue to recommend this bike trip and company to friends."
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Peter Monahan 3 years ago
The trip exceeded my expectations. My wife and I especially enjoyed the company of the other travelers, and we all got along very well.
Boat: L’Estello
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Pam Crespi 3 years ago
This was our 4th trip with Tripsite - very reliable and good value.
Boat: Soleo
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Francis Duckworth 3 years ago
We have done several bike barge trips in france and europe and other places. This one was just too crowded with tourists. Of course it was August, so that explains a lot. Our least favorite that we have done.
Boat: Soleo
Reply
Joan Farina 3 years ago
I recommended it to Dave Ford who is joining you in September 2016 with his large gang. Do I get a free shirt?
Boat: Soleo
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Howard Jay 3 years ago
Our guide was awesome!
Boat: Soleo
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Christel Mikelic 3 years ago
The bike part was more challenging than in the discription. You have to be a strong biker used to hills. There are many hills and one very challenging hill. So I would not consider this an easy tour as in the description. However it was well worth the effort if you are well trained. Our guide Wiro was awesome and kept us together and on time which was very much appreciated. I would recommends this trip in spring or early summer. By the time we went end of August the vegetation was all dried up and there were no flowers because they had such a hot dry summer. I prefer a comfort plus boat as you have more space in your cabin. These cabins were very small. However all in all it was a beautiful, historic and worth while tr which I would recommend to avid cyclists.
Boat: Soleo
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Suzanne Triplett 3 years ago
Everything about the trip was as described, well planned and executed.
Boat: Soleo
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Francis Duckworth 3 years ago
Not my favorite part of France. 6th bike tour there and the least scenic and inviting.
Boat: Soleo
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Andrew Burt 3 years ago
Food was substandard...cabins stink and are excessively damp and basically the trip plan was an underwhelming experience. WE stayed on the boat for the first night and then as I recall stayed again the second night. We could have stayed at 5 star hotel in town and enjoyed a great meal instead of a barge in need of many repairs.
Boat: Soleo
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Laurie Hurowitz 4 years ago
We have just returned from this bike and barge, our 2nd trip arranged by Tripsite. We were on the E'Stello (sister ship of the Soleo), and went from Aigue Mort to Avignon. We had a wonderful time! The trip was as described in terms of mileage, terrain, and sights along the way. The barge crew were all excellent, as was our guide. We were a group of 20, including Americans, Canadians, and Brits. I highly recommend this tour.
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
J. Geraerdts 4 years ago
At first we were hesitant to book another bike and barge trip-- how could it ever compare with the 2012 tour on the Ave Maria, with Hein as guide, which set the bar so high?
The Provence trip did look very interesting and, after fretting about the significant uphills, we did go ahead and book, adding the ebike option.
We were able to board the Soleo as, apparently there was a cancellation. We had asked you to request a transfer from the other boat-- thanks.
The trip was excellent! The crew was very capable and accommodating. Our guide, Martina, especially helped make the trip memorable. She maintained her sense of humor throughout. Any setbacks were met only with a "mama mia" and difficulties, either overcome or anticipated, were "a piece of cake".
The cycling was, as compared to the Venice trip, both more challenging and more interesting. The weather did not always cooperate but there was no complaining . We think we have come to realize that those who book into this type of travel are a little more adventurous and require less pampering than the typical big boat cruise passengers.
We are in our 70's and were probably the oldest couple on the barge but we had no more difficulties than anyone else. Our Tripsite shirts made us look to be very veteran riders. Everything, in the final analysis, was "a piece of cake".
Suggestions: The museum at Pont du Gard is very worthwhile. Giro Libero should consider making a little more time available for this and to stress its value. Likewise, we enjoyed the Lumieres at Les Baux. Many in the group did not have much awareness of this very interesting and innovative show. It would be helpful to promote this attraction.
Boat: L’Estello
Reply
Ritchie Baggs & Liz MacDonald 6 years ago
We loved the trip. The food was better than advertised, and the barge was more comfortable than expected. Our suggestion for improvement would be a second guide OR better overall maps for a breakaway group.
Boat: Soleo
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William Adams 7 years ago
Excellent trip. Great weather, great guide, nice boat. Great group of people, both other bikers and staff. Took some great pictures.
Boat: Soleo
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Cynthia Adams 7 years ago
I cannot say enough about how much we enjoyed this tour. My husband and I and 2 friends sailed on the Soleo in September 2011. The weather was perfect. Although nothing fancy the boat had everything we needed. Our room had a private bath and never ran out of hot water for showers! Our tour guide was great, fun and really brought the group of Americans, Brits, Aussies, and Germans together. The country side, vineyards, beaches, small towns were like traveling in a postcard at every turn. Some of the biking was more challenging (more hilly) than I had expected, but the ebike was wonderful. This trip has my highest recommendation!
Boat: L’Estello
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