French Riviera
France Bike Tours
A sun drenched bike tour along the Côte d’Azur
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€863 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
A bike tour in the French Riviera? Sounds elegant, charming, romantic, and SUNNY! Did you know that the Côte d'Azur (Azure Coast) has over 300 days of sun per year? Once the hotspot of the rich and famous, the allure of this captivating region goes far beyond that reputation.
This is an all-around stunning place with an aristocratic history, beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and forests of oak and pine. Its clarity of light, vibrant colors, and temperate climate, have inspired famous artists, writers, and thinkers such as Picasso, Matisse, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Your tour begins in Hyères - Plages, on the peninsula of Giens, providing a relaxed rural start.
Throughout your cycling days, you will discover medieval towns, romantic, small fishing villages, and dreamy bays outlined by the turquoise blue of the sea. You will finish your French Riviera vacation in the fashionable metropolis of Nice, France's 5th largest city. Here you can enjoy strolling the ochre-colored streets, the Promenade des Anglais, and world-famous beaches.
Highlights
- Old town of Hyères
- Porquerolles Island
- Le Lavandou and the old village of Bormes-les-Mimosas
- Antibes, the cultural heart of the Côte d' Azur
- Nice
- Provençal cuisine
- Sun, sun, and more sun!
Want to see more bicycle tours in France?
Itinerary
Day 1: Hyères - Plages
Day 2: Roundtrip around Hyères or cycle onward to Pierrefeu, 9 - 38 mi. (15-62 km)
Day 3: Porquerolles Island, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 4: Roundtrip Le Lavandou, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 5: Train ride Hyères - Nice / Nice (day of rest)
Day 6: Nice, day or rest or city sightseeing by bike, 6 mi. (10 km)
Day 7: Roundtrip to Antibes, 25 to 31 mi. (40 to 50 km)
Day 8: DepartureAll distances are approximate. Due to circumstances beyond control, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday. For example, along the way you may find temporary deviations/detours caused by roadwork, In this case, please follow the directions posted on site.
Day 1: Hyères - Plages
Individual arrival to your first hotel, located in close to the town of Hyères, close to the beach. Hyères-Plage is located 6km from the town of Hyères and consists of a sand beach on the border of pine woods. It is among the numerous seaside resorts located in the vicinity either on the coast or on the offshore islands, collectively called the Hyères.Day 2: Roundtrip around Hyères or cycle onward to Pierrefeu, 9 - 38 mi. (15-62 km)
The medieval old town with its narrow alleys and colorful houses is small, charming, and typically French. A special highlight is the Villa Noailles, built in the 1920s for a French patron of arts, this example of the modern architectural heritage is now an art center of national interest and presents exhibitions, festivals, and workshops. Picasso, Giacometti, and Jean Cocteau all spent time at Villa Noailles. The mansion has an awesome setting, near the highest point of the town, and boasts a Cubist Garden and lovely views all around. If vistas are your thing, you can also visit the medieval ruins of Château d'Hyères which dates to around the 1000s. Nestled on a hilltop, the landscapes here are exceptional and there are special platforms from where you can gaze out over the wooded Maurettes hills to the north. Alternatively, those that want some distance can cycle through the remote hilly hinterland on tiny country roads to the small village of Pierrefeu in the middle of the "Côte de Provence" wine growing area and through endless vineyards back to Hyères. Though known by tourist as a hotspot, Hyères also lies at the center of a rich agricultural area, where fruits and flowers are grown and wine is producedDay 3: Porquerolles Island, 19 mi. (30 km)
Are you ready for paradise? It awaits! At the harbor, La Tour Fondue, you (and your bike) will enjoy a 10-minute boat ride away from the coast to this magical island world with white sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and forests of oak and pine. (Ferry tickets are not included and may be purchased on the spot). 80% of the island is part of the Parc National de Port-Cros, and was once privately owned. The island is car-free, characterized by olive plantations and vineyards, drenched in sun, and infused with romance, your bike is the best way to explore. Well worth visiting are the beach of Notre Dam, Fort Sainte Agathe, built in the 14th century, and the lighthouse. The interior of the island has several paths shaded by Eucalyptus trees that make for a lovely scented hike.Day 4: Roundtrip Le Lavandou, 31 mi. (50 km)
Via well-developed cycle paths, you bike over the old saltworks, past vineyards, and olive groves with the sea as your constant companion to the fishing village of Le Lavandou, at the foot of the Moorish massif. With a little perseverance or by e-bike, you can take a detour inland up to the old village of Bormes-les-Mimosas, built into the hills. The streets are steep, many with built-in steps. and cobblestones. The bright Provencal pastel houses and little squares add to the charm.Day 5: Train ride Hyères - Nice / Nice (day of rest)
Today you will not only change your hotel, but you will also find yourself in a whole new world. From the unspoiled coast, you travel by train (included) to the charming capital of the Côte d’Azur, Nice. Elegant, simple, graceful, city of art and culture, this has always been a hot spot for the world's elite.Day 6: Nice, day or rest or city sightseeing by bike, 6 mi. (10 km)
In the morning you have the opportunity to take part in an interesting city tour by bike (optional) or explore on your own by bike or on foot. The Principality of Monaco is only 25 minutes away by train.Optional city tour by bike
You will enjoy a unique perspective of the city, different from the typical tourist experience. It’s an introduction to "the Best of Nice" on roads that are mostly flat and smooth. There is one hill climb to climb up to Chateau Hill, where you’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views of Nice. The pace of the tour is very relaxed. Daily departures are offered April 15 to October 15 beginning at 10 am.
Duration: 3 hours
Price: €35Day 7: Roundtrip to Antibes, 25 to 31 mi. (40 to 50 km)
The famous Promenade des Anglais, one of France's best known and iconic seafronts, takes you along the Mediterranean coast to Antibes. Be sure to visit the Old Town, surrounded by 16th-century ramparts and crisscrossed in a maze of ancient streets. Some call it the cultural heart of the Côte d' Azur. Visit the Musée Picasso, formerly the Grimaldi Castle, where Picasso worked for two months drawing and painting, many of which he left for the city. for its splendid artwork, sculpture terrace, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.Day 8: Departure
Official end of tour, but you will not want to depart. Be sure to stock up on Provençal specialties at the famous market, Cours Saleya and drink a café au lait before you start your return journey. Or, extend your tour. Nice and the surroundings have a lot to offer and the sun and beaches beckon.You can view all of our bike tours in Europe or look at our featured bike trips, specials, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
Accommodations
On this tour, you will be accommodated in two hotels. In Hyères, the preferred hotel is Hotel La Potiniere, located next to Port de Plaisance, facing Porquerolles island, featuring its own private beach. Decorated in typical Provençal style the guest rooms are functional, comfortable, and peaceful. Many rooms feature a balcony or terrace with a sea view and free Wi-fi. In Nice, the preferred hotel is Hotel Villa Rivoli, a privately-run villa in a 19th Century Belle Époque Building in the historic center, just a short walk from the beaches and Promenades des Anglais. All rooms feature flatscreen TV and free Wi-fi. Some have a balcony and a view of the garden and the surrounding area. Please note, and this is very important, hotel accommodations are based on availability and the above hotels are provided to you as an example of the level of accommodations used on this tour.
Bicycles
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights with breakfast (4 nights on the Giens Peninsula & 3 nights in Nice)
- 1 train ride: Hyères – Nice
- 1 transfer from the hotel in Hyères Plage to the train station
- 21-speed hybrid touring bike with an aluminum frame, upright riding position, equipped with comfort gel saddles, mudguards, &Schwalbe Marathon puncture-resistant tires
- Bike accessories: One Ortlieb pannier (20 liters), repair kit, helmet, and lock
- Route book, maps, and tourist information material (one set per room)
What’s Not Included
- Lunches & dinners
- 1 roundtrip boat ride La Tour Fondue – Porquerolles & back (approx. €30)
- Bike protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Daily arrivals are possible between March 1 to October 31, 2023
Season 1: March 1 to March 31, 2023
Season 2: October 1 to October 31, 2023
Season 3: April 1 to May 31, 2023
Season 4: June 1 to June 30 | September 1 to September 30, 2023Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2023
Regular room
Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Season 4 Double/twin $ 1429 £ 779 $ 1,313 € 863 ₪ 3467 ¥ 125514 NZ$ 1536 NOK 9996 kr 9856 $ 957 $ 1776 £ 969 $ 1,632 € 1073 ₪ 4310 ¥ 156056 NZ$ 1909 NOK 12428 kr 12254 $ 1,190 $ 1842 £ 1005 $ 1,693 € 1113 ₪ 4471 ¥ 161873 NZ$ 1981 NOK 12891 kr 12711 $ 1,234 $ 2041 £ 1113 $ 1,876 € 1233 ₪ 4953 ¥ 179326 NZ$ 2194 NOK 14281 kr 14082 $ 1,367 Single $ 2207 £ 1204 $ 2,028 € 1333 ₪ 5355 ¥ 193870 NZ$ 2372 NOK 15439 kr 15224 $ 1,478 $ 2538 £ 1384 $ 2,332 € 1533 ₪ 6158 ¥ 222958 NZ$ 2728 NOK 17756 kr 17508 $ 1,700 $ 2604 £ 1420 $ 2,393 € 1573 ₪ 6319 ¥ 228775 NZ$ 2799 NOK 18219 kr 17965 $ 1,744 $ 3034 £ 1655 $ 2,788 € 1833 ₪ 7363 ¥ 266589 NZ$ 3262 NOK 21230 kr 20934 $ 2,032 Seaview room in Hyeres
Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Season 4 Double/twin $ 1554 £ 848 $ 1,428 € 939 ₪ 3772 ¥ 136567 NZ$ 1671 NOK 10876 kr 10724 $ 1,041 $ 1935 £ 1056 $ 1,778 € 1169 ₪ 4696 ¥ 170018 NZ$ 2080 NOK 13540 kr 13351 $ 1,296 $ 1985 £ 1083 $ 1,824 € 1199 ₪ 4816 ¥ 174381 NZ$ 2134 NOK 13887 kr 13693 $ 1,329 $ 2167 £ 1182 $ 1,991 € 1309 ₪ 5258 ¥ 190379 NZ$ 2329 NOK 15161 kr 14950 $ 1,451 Single $ 2405 £ 1312 $ 2,210 € 1453 ₪ 5837 ¥ 211322 NZ$ 2586 NOK 16829 kr 16594 $ 1,611 $ 3034 £ 1655 $ 2,788 € 1833 ₪ 7363 ¥ 266589 NZ$ 3262 NOK 21230 kr 20934 $ 2,032 $ 3084 £ 1682 $ 2,834 € 1863 ₪ 7484 ¥ 270952 NZ$ 3315 NOK 21578 kr 21277 $ 2,065 $ 3431 £ 1872 $ 3,153 € 2073 ₪ 8327 ¥ 301494 NZ$ 3689 NOK 24010 kr 23675 $ 2,298 Extra Options
Electric bike rental $ 132 £ 72 $ 122 € 80 ₪ 321 ¥ 11635 NZ$ 142 NOK 927 kr 914 $ 89 City bike tour in Nice (Tuesdays and Fridays) $ 63 £ 34 $ 58 € 38 ₪ 153 ¥ 5527 NZ$ 68 NOK 440 kr 434 $ 42 Extra night in Nice Season 1 Season 2, 3 & 4 Double/twin $ 152 £ 83 $ 140 € 92 ₪ 370 ¥ 13380 NZ$ 164 NOK 1066 kr 1051 $ 102 $ 195 £ 107 $ 179 € 118 ₪ 474 ¥ 17162 NZ$ 210 NOK 1367 kr 1348 $ 131 Single $ 271 £ 148 $ 249 € 164 ₪ 659 ¥ 23852 NZ$ 292 NOK 1899 kr 1873 $ 182 $ 329 £ 180 $ 303 € 199 ₪ 799 ¥ 28942 NZ$ 354 NOK 2305 kr 2273 $ 221 Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
This self-guided bike tour in France based in two hotels is rated easy. Every cycling stage takes place on Asphalted cycle paths or side roads with very little traffic. Your daily distance can be adjusted to your level!
Airport Info
Fly to Nice (NCE) or Marseille (MRS)
Local Travel
There are direct TGV train connections between the city of Nice and Toulon and onward to Hyeres (approx. 2 hours) and regional trains as well. Travel time is from 2 1/2 to 3 hours. If you are coming directly from the airport, there are several bus services (some direct) that run to Hyères From Marseille Airport you can travel by bus and train to Hyères which takes approx. 2 1/2 hours with two transfers. Upon arrival to Hyères, please use a taxi service to arrive to your first hotel in Hyères Plage. You will be sent more detailed travel information before your tour.
Climate
Please check local conditions before your arrival. There are many good websites to use to research regional weather including average high/low temperatures, average rainfall, and more. The Côte d’Azur is protected by hills in the west and the Mercantour Alps in the northwest, meaning a mild Mediterranean climate year-round. This is an area known for its amount of sun per year. In March, well before the tourist season begins, the average high temperatures is 60° F. In June, before the peak of the season, the average high is 77° F. September and October are lovely as well with 77° and 70° F as the average high temps.
Day of Rest
This itinerary features one rest day but also roundtrip rides in which you can opt to stay off the bike and stroll the town or beaches.
Remarks
You will be receiving two different bike rentals on this tour. One in Hyères, and the other in Nice.
Important to know
DOCUMENTS
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
*Important note: Please check the status of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) as once implemented, will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Extra Stay
We are confident that you will want to book extra nights either before or after your tour!
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Rad und Reisen.
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.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Photos
Reviews
Brian O.
10 months agoVerified Reviewer
Tripsite Customer Reviews
Brian O.
10 months ago
Verified Reviewer