Region Overviews: France Travel Guide: Overview
Long considered a global center of art, science, philosophy and sophistication, France boasts incredible diversity in its offerings to travelers.
Couples, Friends & Solos
6 days 5 nights
Activity Level: 2-5
Premiere Hotels
From: $5,499 - $5,849 pp dbl occ
($1,450 - $1,550 for sgl occ)
Cherry orchards that come to life in the breeze. The flavor of the wines and the scent of lavender. The breathtaking clifftop villages of Gordes, Lacoste and Bonnieux. And the brilliant red colors of Roussillon. Indulging in local specialties at outdoor markets. A classic journey through Provence will make this your new list of favorite things.
Start/End Avignon
Start/End locations may vary. Do not book flights until your trip details are confirmed.
Bike through Côtes du Rhône wine country, tucked away between an alpine landscape and vast river-fed plains | Set off from the famous wine mecca of Châteauneuf-du-Pape past picturesque hamlets and vineyards | Peaceful back roads lead to our splendid 16th-century castle-hotel | Linger on the terrace with an apéritif and outstanding views | Celebrate with a gourmet French meal paired with vintages crafted at nearby wineries.
With elegant contemporary interiors and outstanding organic cuisine, this castle nestled in Côtes du Rhône vineyards was built in 1555 for a mistress of Henry II. (pool, spa)
Wander through the medieval city of Vaison la Romaine | On the way to the viticulture towns of Séguret, Gigondas and Beaumes de Venise, bike along a wine route beneath the Dentelles de Montmirail, dramatic limestone mountains | Ride through the scenic foothills of Mont Ventoux, known as the Giant of Provence | Be charmed by Gordes' cobblestone lanes, shaded squares and chic cafés | Climb through the stunning Gorges de la Nesque canyon or tackle a pro route on majestic Ventoux | Discover the friendly squares and cafés of Sault, the lavender capital of France | Relax, play pétanque and revel in fresh Provençal fare at our exquisite hotel.
Flawlessly combining rustic charm and luxury, an "evocative country house hotel crowning an ancient hamlet, backdropped by Mont Ventoux," according to the Hideaway Report. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)
Bike past atmospheric hamlets to Venasque, listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France | The region's signature lavender perfume welcomes you at every turn | Ascend a spectacular limestone canyon to the village perché of Murs | Cycle to ocher-hued Roussillon, adored by artists for centuries | Stroll stalls of fresh produce and locally made crafts on market day | Explore the Provençal treasures of Lacoste and Ménerbes, immortalized by Peter Mayle's A Year in Provence | The Luberon's plains and foothills line your route to our tasting at a favorite winery.
Set in the heart of the Luberon and surrounded by vineyards, this hotel features exceptional views and refined elegance. A Relais & Châteaux member. (pool, spa)
The earlier you book, the more choice you'll have and the lower your price. And you can always change your mind — you won't be charged to transfer to a different trip before your final payment is due. View cancellation policy.
Click on dates for pricing, itinerary variations and to book your trip. Price is per person, double occupancy.
Our Private Trips are best for groups of 6 or more. We suggest joining a scheduled trip.
Group size is required to show per-person pricing. Your group size can be approximate and can change.
Share your adventure #MyBackroadsTrip
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Several routes and a range of levels are offered each day so you can choose how much or how little activity you want to do. Learn more about how we determine activity levels.
The key to a stellar day's ride is a bike that's perfectly in tune with your cycling style… Backroads has you covered with the best bike fleet in the world! Please note that bike requests are subject to availability and prioritized based on the date they're submitted.
Click the arrow to see all bike options.
Included in your trip price
This custom-designed titanium bike is lightweight and responsive, featuring Shimano Ultegra Di2 electronic shifting, 11-speed compact gearing, a premium Mavic Ksyrium Pro wheelset and a full carbon fork.
Included in your trip price
A proven classic, this custom-designed titanium bike is suited for a wide range of cyclists. It features a comfortable ergonomic seat and a long wheel base that add to the bike’s control and stability.
Included in your trip price
Keep pace or zip ahead, pedaling with an electric boost. This bike provides plenty of power to flatten the hills and more than enough battery range to cover the distance.
Min. age to ride e-bike: 16+
Ride like a pro with the top-of-the-line carbon Cannondale Synapse Hi-Mod Red ETAP AXS. Delivering phenomenal acceleration and handling in a light and powerful package.
$650 rental fee; subject to availability
This hand-built frame features Co-Motion's custom-designed cro-moly steel tubeset, powerful Avid disc brakes, Shimano Ultegra drive train, and a custom, upgraded wheelset. For experienced tandem riders.
$400 rental fee
Long considered a global center of art, science, philosophy and sophistication, France boasts incredible diversity in its offerings to travelers.
Stay up to date on the latest Backroads news. You’re free to opt out at any time.