provence-cycling-the-luberon

Self-guided

Cycling

lvl. 3
New
Mon Roadbook App
Hotel
Multi-day hike
Réf : E3V2
6 days from 920 € Book / Enquire

Our trip

  • An easy loop on picturesque roads to discover the Luberon massif.

  • A visit to the iconic villages of the Luberon: Lourmarin, Bonnieux, Lacoste, Ménèrbes, Oppède-le-Vieux.

  • Spectacular landscapes: cliffs, olive groves, lavender fields, and perched villages.

  • Breathtaking viewpoints from Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire.

  • Delivery and pickup of your bike at your hotel with an included bike briefing.

"Mon Roadbook" app is available for this trip.
More info >>

A route through the Provençal region that inspired Jean Giono and the film Manon des Sources... Departing from Cavaillon, you embark on a loop through the heart of the Luberon Regional Nature Park, discovering magnificent landscapes of olive groves, lavender fields, hills, and occasional cliffs. Perched villages mark each stage of the cycling tour, where the Provençal way of life, gastronomy, and rich heritage are undoubtedly the highlights of this sun-drenched region.

Your choice of lodging + Bike

Hotel from april to november

Hotel from april to november

With your own bike From 920 €* Book / Enquire Devis
Bike rental From 1250 €* Book / Enquire Devis
e-bike From 1370 €* Book / Enquire Devis

* Minimum price for the current season, subject to availability based on 4 participants. (Price incl. VAT)

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Itinerary

Level 3: 4 to 6 hours of riding per day (40 to 70 kilometers) on hilly roads or paths; a maximum of 800 meters of vertical gain. Hills up to 1 kilometer long and/or long distances on flat terrain (up to 70 kilometers). Accessible to anyone who regularly rides a bike on hilly terrain.

Cycling : another way to enjoy the trails and back roads. For beginners and experts, a bike allows you to explore a wide variety of places and landscapes in one trip and at your own pace. Our selection of self-guided bike tours also offers the possibility of using an electric bike to make them easier and more accessible to as many people as possible.
Mon Roadbook app: designed for the self-guided trips, "Mon Roadbook" travel assistant guides you throughout your journey via a mobile application to download on your smartphone.
Duration : 6 days
Luggage transfers : With luggage transfer
Lodging : Hotel, Bed & Breakfasts
Guiding : Self-guided
Group : Minimum 2 persons
Season : from april to november

Day by day

Day 1

Welcome in Cavaillon !

Lodging : hotel. Meals not included.
Cavaillon, nestled in the heart of Provence, is a charming little town that welcomes you with its picturesque streets and rich historical heritage, not to mention its majestic Saint-Véran Cathedral and panoramic views from the top of Saint-Jacques Hill. Its Provençal markets in the morning are also renowned throughout Provence! Check-in at your hotel.
Day 2

From Cavaillon to Cucuron via Lourmarin

Distance : 48 km (29.8 mi) - Ascent : 600 m (1,968 ft). Descent : 320 m (1,050 ft). 3,5 hrs to 4 hrs of cycling.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
This first day of cycling begins with the sun rising behind the hills, illuminating the lavender fields of Cavaillon. You venture along winding roads, passing orchards and vineyards. The scent of wildflowers fills the air as you pass through Lauris, a small, picturesque village where time seems to have stood still, exuding a peaceful atmosphere. You pedal through olive groves and cypress trees towards Lourmarin, famous for its medieval castle, lively market, and narrow, colourful streets lined with charming cafés and craft shops. The next part of the route leads you along paths bordered by stone walls and sunflower fields, offering splendid views of the surrounding countryside. Upon reaching Cucuron, you can pause by the peaceful pond, admiring the ancient plane trees and the shimmering reflections of the water, before heading to your accommodation for a first stop in the Luberon.
Day 3

From Cucuron to Manosque via La Bastide-des-Jourdans

Distance : 46 km (28.5 mi) - Ascent : 725 m (2,378 ft). Descent : 690 m (2,263 ft). 4 hrs of cycling.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
In Cucuron, the quiet streets slowly come to life with the morning market, filling the air with the aromas of fresh bread and ripe fruit. On your way to Cabrières d'Aigues, the landscape gradually unfolds before you, from undulating vineyards to fragrant lavender fields. In Vitrolles en Luberon, time seems to stand still, inviting contemplation in front of the old mills and peaceful rivers. La Bastide des Jourdans offers a peaceful haven, where stone facades harmoniously blend with tall cypress trees. Conversations with locals reveal ancient stories and traditions passed down through generations. Your day concludes in Manosque, bathed in the golden light of dusk, where narrow streets unveil the authentic soul of Provence. Settle into your comfortable accommodation before the next day's more challenging stage toward Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire.
Day 4

From Manosque to Apt via Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire

Distance : 60 km (37.2 mi) - Ascent : 870 m (2,854 ft). Descent : 1030 m (3,379 ft). 5 hrs of cycling.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.
The day gently rises over Manosque, lighting up the colorful façades of the old town. On your way to Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire, as the road climbs, the hills unfold, revealing a mosaic of greens and ochres under the Provencal sun. Umbrella pines dot the landscape, offering welcome shade during your ascent for a refreshing break.
The viewpoints along the route and at the summit offer stunning panoramas, allowing you to admire the Durance Valley stretching as far as the eye can see, framed by the majestic peaks of the Alps. With Saint-Michel-l'Observatoire behind you, you continue along small roads to Reillanne, with its sunlit stone houses, then on to Céreste, where its medieval castle dominates the landscape, bearing witness to the region's glorious past. You end your stage in Apt, a picturesque town in the Luberon, charmed by its lively market and medieval streets. Known for its sweet delights, particularly candied fruits, Apt offers an authentic immersion in the Provençal way of life.
Day 5

From Apt to Cavaillon via Bonnieux

Distance : 44 km (27.3 mi) - Ascent : 600 m (1,968 ft). Descent : 750 m (2,460 ft). 3,5 hrs to 4 hrs of cycling.
Lodging : hotel. Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.

Saddle up for your last day's cycling, and you'll be riding along bucolic roads through vineyards and olive groves, passing through a series of villages, each more charming than the last. In Bonnieux, this perched village offers a spectacular view of the Luberon Valley, inviting a contemplative pause. Next, you'll visit Lacoste, dominated by the ruins of the Marquis de Sade's castle, where history blends with the beauty of the landscape. Ménèrbes unfolds its golden stone houses, bearing witness to a rich medieval past, while Oppède-le-Vieux reveals its narrow streets and vaulted passages, inviting exploration. Finally, you complete your journey in Cavaillon, where you can savor the local delicacies and reminisce about your adventure through the enchanting paths of the Luberon. 

Day 6

Good-bye Cavaillon and the Luberon

Included meals : breakfast. Meals not included : lunch, dinner.

Your trip officially ends after breakfast.

If you wish to arrive earlier or extend your stay, it's essential to book your accommodation in advance. We can arrange one or more extra nights at one of our partner hotels. Just ask!

The active times are given as an indication and may vary depending on several elements (eg. weather conditions, terrain, etc.). Transfer times may also vary depending on road and traffic conditions. If necessary (eg: weather conditions, decision of local authorities, etc.), we may also be required to adapt the program for the smooth running of your trip and in the interest of the participants.

Pricing

Prices (incl. taxes) from march to november 2025

Hotel
Price per person		With your own bikeBike rentale-bike
Low seasonPeak seasonLow seasonPeak seasonLow seasonPeak season
2 people 1 double room1090 €1230 €1460 €1590 €1590 €1720 €
3 people 1 room with 3 beds980 €1100 €1320 €1450 €1450 €1580 €
4 people 2 double rooms920 €1050 €1250 €1390 €1370 €1510 €
5 people 1 double room, 1 room with 3 beds880 €1000 €1200 €1340 €1330 €1470 €
6 people 2 rooms with 3 beds860 €980 €1180 €1320 €1300 €1440 €
  • Low season : From 16 October 2025 to 09 November 2025
  • Peak season : From 13 April 2025 to 15 October 2025

Prices (incl. taxes) from march to november 2026

Hotel
Price per person		With your own bikeBike rentale-bike
Low seasonPeak seasonLow seasonPeak seasonLow seasonPeak season
2 people 1 double room1150 €1290 €1540 €1680 €1670 €1890 €
3 people 1 room with 3 beds1030 €1160 €1390 €1530 €1530 €1660 €
4 people 2 double rooms970 €1090 €1320 €1460 €1450 €1590 €
5 people 1 double room, 1 room with 3 beds930 €1060 €1280 €1410 €1410 €1540 €
6 people 2 rooms with 3 beds890 €1020 €1250 €1380 €1380 €1510 €
  • Low season : From 10 March 2026 to 12 April 2026, from 16 October 2026 to 09 November 2026
  • Peak season : From 13 April 2026 to 15 October 2026

Pricing

The price includes / does not include

The price includes

  • Accommodations as described.
  • Breakfast for days 2 through 6.
  • Dinner at the hotel at Apt on day 4 (as the hotel is not in the city center).
  • Transportation of your bags every night.
  • According to the chosen option: rental of a trekking bike; electric trekking bike; otherwise, you use your own bike.
  • The roadbook (as well as a map and reservation vouchers) for a 2-to-4-person group.
  • Access to the new mobile phone application (including GPS guidance).
  • 24/7 Emergency telephone support from our office.

The price does not include:

  • Transportation to the meeting point at the start of the trip and from the point where the trip officially ends.
  • Insurance for trip cancellation/interruption, lost/stolen baggage, or assistance.
  • Lunches and dinners (except on day 4).
  • For reservations made less than 15 days before the start, all additional fees for priority processing.
  • Anything that is not specified in the "included in the price" list.

Other expenses

  • Tickets to any visit, monument, museums or activities during the tour.
  • Drinks and tips.

Currencies

France is part of the Euro zone. You may find ATMs easily in the main cities and towns.
Better to have cash in the most remote areas to purchase extras (ex.: for drinks). Huts do not always accept credit cards.
Exchange rate

 

Access

Access

Getting to the departure point:

All of our self-guided tours are sold on a Land Only basis allowing you the most flexibility.

This trip starts and ends in Cavaillon. The nearest international airport for this trip is Marseille airport. From the train station of Marseille Saint Charles, you may have direct train to Orange (approximately 1h of train).

If a direct flight to Paris or Lyon is more convenient, it's also easy with connections, to reach Cavaillon.
Journey time from Paris is estimated at 5,5 hours (at least 1 connection in Avignon), 4,5 hours from Lyon (at least 1 connection) and 4,5 hours from Geneva (at least 1 connection).
To plan your journey, do not hesitate to check the official website of the French rail company (SNCF Connect), or feel free to ask us!

Meeting times:

As the first day is a non-bike day, you will arrive at your leisure depending on your route. Please note that rooms are usually available mid-afternoon depending on your accommodation. Please, let us know if you are arriving late.

During your trip

Travel documents

You will receive the following documents for this trip:

  • The Mont Blanc Experience roadbook with a step-by-step description of each day.
  • GPX tracks for each day.
  • The list of accommodations for your tour and the contact details of the service provider for luggage transfers.
  • Useful contacts with telephone numbers in case of emergency.

Transfers

No transfers are required during your stay. You move only by bike.

Lodging

Particular attention is paid to the selection of accommodation. The emphasis is on location, welcome and quality services. Whether in a 2 or 3-star hotel or a bed & breakfast, you'll be comfortably accommodated!

Please note:

  • Accommodation availability is subject to seasonality. In some cases, we may be able to offer you alternative solutions. Depending on availability, we may also be able to suggest accommodations usually offered on other tours, possibly of a different standard.
  • A swimming pool is not guaranteed every night.
  • If you're traveling with friends or family but prefer your own room, single rooms are subject to availability and a supplementary payment.

Meals

Breakfasts are included. Generally consisting of pastries (pain au chocolat or croissant), fresh bread, fruit, yogurt and cereals. Some accommodations also offer savory dishes with cheese or ham and eggs. If you have any special dietary requirements, please let us know when you book.

We have chosen not to include lunches and dinners to give you more flexibility and freedom during the day :

  • For dinners: some of our accommodations have their own restaurant. If not, there are always restaurants nearby. You'll be in halfboard at Apt on day 4 as the hotel is not in the city center.
  • For lunch: you'll always pass by a village, a market or a bakery. Your roadbook will contain suggestions of places where you can buy supplies.
    You should also bear in mind that, as a general rule, shops in small villages are closed on Sundays and Mondays. That's why we suggest you carry a small snack with you at all times.

There are drinking water points along the route where you can fill your water bottles during the day. Be sure to think ahead when it comes to water, and follow the sanitary instructions given.

Luggage transfer

You will carry only what you need for the day. Your bags will be transferred between your accommodations as per your itinerary. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 23kg maximum per person and a maximum size of 158 cm (total height + width + length).

Mont Blanc Experience reserves the right to charge an additional fee if your luggage exceeds the specified size or weight limits. 

Trails

The routes have been designed by our team. They take in a mix of cycle paths, quiet country roads and a few short segments on busier roads, usually with a narrow cycle lane or shoulder. Your regularly updated travel documents (roadbook and maps or map extracts) ensure that you can complete the program with complete peace of mind.

We also provide you with GPX tracks via our smartphone navigation application. Simply download the routes to your phone for offline use, and you're ready to go.

The "Mon Roadbook" app allows you to centralize all the necessary information for your trip:

  • The identification of service providers operating during your stay
  • GPS guidance on a map background
  • Photos of crossings
  • The various points of interest on the hike: natural or heritage.

This application, included for this trip, must be downloaded before your departure and works offline (without network).
To learn more, feel free to read our article: Mon Roadbook, your digital travel guide.

Itineraries

Our elevation gains are calculated based on altitude differences provided on maps, not by GPS, which, for technical reasons (GPS altitude inaccuracies + statistical dispersion), often give overestimated elevation gains, sometimes by up to 20%.

Bikes

According to the chosen option:
  • With your own bike: bike rental is not included in our services; you use your own bike.
  • Bike provided: you can reserve a VTC bike. We generally work with the Scott Sub Sport 20 model. Of course, if the model is unavailable, we will ensure to offer you a similar model.
    Frame full carbon, 11 speeds (50/34 and 11/32 cassette), alloy wheels.
    The bike will be equipped with a pump, 1 inner tube, 1 puncture repair kit, 3 tire levers, and 1 multi-tool.
  • You can also reserve a trekking electric bike, usually the Scott Sub Tour eride 20 unisex model, with a 500Wh Bosh battery, 9 speeds.
    E-bikes are equipped with a small motor to help with pedaling, allowing the rider to use less effort than with a regular "human-powered" bike to cover the same distance. Every evening, plug your bike into a wall or designated electric socket at your accommodations to recharge your bike. The next day you will enjoy a full battery for your ride.

Your bike will be delivered to you on day two in the morning. A security deposit is required. Remember to provide us with your height when filling out the reservation form. Then, drop off your bike at your hotel on the last day of your tour.

NB:

  • In France, wearing a helmet is mandatory for cyclists under 12 years old.
  • The bike will be equipped with a pump, 1 inner tube, 1 puncture repair kit, 3 tire levers, and 1 multi-tool. You will also have a removable rear pannier, a removable handlebar bag, an adjustable helmet, and a bottle holder.
  • Of course, if these models are not available, we will ensure to offer you a similar model.

Required before leaving

Formalities

Please check with your embassy.

Health

Vaccinations

Required vaccinations

No vaccinations are required.

Recommended vaccinations

Please check to make sure that all your vaccinations are current: DPT, whooping cough, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, hepatitis A and B.

Dentist and general physician

We recommend a checkup with both before leaving on your trip.

Getting ready

Physical fitness level 3

To take full advantage of your trip, make sure that you stay in good shape by walking or hiking least once per week (around 15km) on a trail with considerable vertical gain (250m/hr) or by participating in a moderately intense athletic activity for 1 to 1.5hrs.

Your first aid kit

For the medication and pain relievers listed below, we recommend that you check with your doctor beforehand, adding what you need based on personal requirements and the specificities of your trip.

  • An analgesic.
  • An anti-inflammatory (pills or gels).
  • An anti-diarrheal tablets
  • A disinfectant, band aids (several sizes), mole skin, sterile compresses, medical tape, Steri-Strips,

Gear list

Luggage
All your luggage must be distributed in two bags: a backpack or saddlebag and a travel bag:

1/ Backpack (or saddlebag)
This is the bag or saddlebag (saddle or handelbar) you use every day while cycling, if you choose to take a picnic lunch (see paragraph "Food"). This bag should not be too large (up to 20 litres).
It will contain: a picnic for lunch, snack food, camera, waterproof and extra clothing and sunglasses...

2/ Travel bag
This is the bag that will be transported from one accommodation to the next by vehicle. It will contain all the belongings you will not use during the day. You will find it at the accommodation in the evening (or sometimes for lunch).

Important: all items carried from one accommodation to another must be in a single bag, which must not exceed 23 kilos and a maximum size of 158 cm (total height + width + length).

Mont Blanc Experience reserves the right to charge an additional fee if your luggage exceeds the specified size or weight limits. 

List of equipment to pack:

For your head:

  • A cap or other head protection against the sun
  • A hat or sweat band
  • A bicycle helmet (mandatory)

For the body :

  • Two cycling jerseys or technical t-shirts (made of synthetic or natural breathable fabrics)
  • A warm shirt or sweatshirt
  • A fleece
  • A waterproof jacket and pants
  • Two good quality cycling shorts (avoid triathlon shorts)
  • A pair of warm cycling tights or leg warmers
  • Pants
  • Casual short
  • A pair of biking shoes
  • Sport socks
  • A pair of shoes suitable for the evening
  • Sandals (not compulsory, but nice for warm evenings...)

 Miscellaneous

  • A pair of bike specific gloves
  • A headlamp with batteries
  • A toiletry kit and towel
  • 2 bike bottles 75 cl (or camelbak)
  • A pocket knife
  • A few plastic bags to protect your belonging
  • A swimsuit
  • A needle and thread
  • A small individual pharmacy: sunscreen (face and lips); band aids + double skin (Compeed); Immodium; pain killers, earplugs, other personal medication.

Safety

The Mont Blanc Experience promise

No region in the world is 100% safe and without danger.

Mont Blanc Experience keeps you informed and is fully transparent when it comes to the potential risks. We gather security risk information from multiple sources: in-house research, monitoring specialized websites, meetings with the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, "safety and security" trips in the field, constant contact with our regional specialists, local teams on the ground, and France's travel agency federation.

Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind that we cannot make any decisions for you.

If there is a clear and elevated risk, we reserve the right to:

— Reinforce our guide team (for guided trips).
— Modify the itinerary for our tours.
— Place a tour or destination on hiatus for an extended period of time when we consider the level of risk to be too high.

Your safety and your enjoyment are our priority.