girolibero Cycling holidays- 2024
Departures - 2025
Departures
Guided/Self-guided Bike and Barge / Original tour
Web code FR030
France / Provence and Camargue
From Aigues Mortes to Avignon
- 28 Client reviews
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Day by Day
1. Aigues Mortes
Individual arrival and boarding after 5 p.m. in Aigues Mortes, medieval town, ancient military and commercial port on the Mediterranean.
2. Aigues Mortes round tour (55 km)
Going through small country lanes of the Camargue 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 will reach the charming fishermen’s village Le Grau-du-Roi. Possibility of a refreshing bath on the beach. Free dinner in Aigues Mortes.
3. Aigues Mortes – Arles (35 km)
You will sail for a couple of hours up to Franquevaux and then cycle to today’s destination: Arles, known for the richness of its antique and Roman patrimony. The city fascinates you with its hidden treasures. Getting lost among its small alleys will be like entering a picture by Van Gogh. In the afternoon you will also have the opportunity to be welcomed by a professional guide, who will accompany you around the jewels of the town.
4. Arles – Vallabreguès (55 km)
This is a breathtaking stage, which brings you to the Alpilles, with the perched village of Les-Baux-de-Provence and then to Saint Rémy de Provence. A landscape of limestone cliffs and olive trees will accompany the trip. In the evening you will moor in Vallabrègues, pretty Provençal village on the banks of the Rhône.
5. Vallabrègues – Aramon (35 km)
Along country roads you will arrive 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 Frigolet and afterwards down to the medieval village of Boulbon. In the afternoon navigation to Aramon for the overnight, with a beautiful view over the Mont Ventoux.
6. Aramon – Avignon (40 km)
The stage today will bring you to the best preserved Roman aqueduct in Europe: Pont du Gard, a very spectacular work. Back to Aramon in the afternoon you will sail to Avignon, the city of the Popes. Your mooring place is in Quai de la Ligne, next to the famous Pont St. Bénezet.
7. Avignon round tour (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.
8. Avignon
After breakfast, end of services.The programme has been planned to feature navigation along the Rhone River and Rhone-Sète Canal. Due to organisational reasons, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during the holiday. Issues with high and low water, as well as logistic obstacles such as officially ordered - previously not announced - repair work on locks or bridges can modify some of the daily stretches or overnight stays and may even request a transfer by bus. These decisions are only taken by the boat’s captain.
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Route profile
Total Length: 250 km
Terrain: 90% asphalt, 10% unpaved
The tour is totally flat in the lowlands during the two stages in Camargue, while the stages north of Arles present some ups and downs, which are however easy to overcome. There is just one more demanding slope towards Les Baux de Provence, but you will be fully repaid with an extraordinary landscape. The itinerary is mostly on secondary roads with low traffic; some short stretches on more busy roads are however inevitable. There will also be some navigation stretches to make the stage more enjoyable.Leisure cycling in mostly flat areas, with only a few short ups and downs. Little effort required, suitable for everyone.
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How to get there
Aigues Mortes is connected with the following airports:
Montpellier: 40 Km, Marseille: 140 Km, Lyon: 300 Km
TRAINS
For information on timetables and prices you can consult the following website: www.sncf.com. -
Accommodation and meals
The boat Caprice is equipped with:
11 cabins (1 Single, 2 Doubles, 8 Twins) measuring 7/8 m2.
Each cabin has two fixed portholes, air conditioning, en-suite facilities and safety box; plus ample closet space, a power socket and a full-length mirror. Bed sizes: 1.90 m x 0.80 m (Singles) and 1.90 m x 1.40 m (Doubles).
The living area measures 12.50 x 4.10 m, is air-conditioned and is divided into two areas: the restaurant (up to 22 seats) and the lounge with an open bar. A total of 10 windows gives plenty of natural light.
Extra features:- Free hot drinks machine
- Free WiFi in the restaurant/bar area
- Large 55” screen in the lounge for video
- Dedicated bike storage
- Hair-dryers (one in each cabin)
- Complimentary courtesy kit
- Sundeck with seating accommodation and fixed awning
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The boat L’Estello is equipped with:
10 cabins (1 Double, 9 Twins) measuring 7/8 m2.
Each cabin has two fixed portholes, air conditioning, en-suite facilities and safety box; plus ample closet space, a power socket and a full-length mirror. Bed sizes: 1.90 m x 0.80 m (Singles) and 1.90 m x 1.40 m (Double).
The living area measures 13.90 x 4.60 m, is air-conditioned and is divided into two areas: the restaurant (up to 21 seats) and the bar area with comfortable benches. A total of 12 windows gives plenty of natural light.
Extra features:- Free hot drinks machine
- Free WiFi in the restaurant/bar area
- Large 55” screen in the lounge for video
- Dedicated bike storage
- Hair-dryers (one in each cabin)
- Complimentary courtesy kit
- Sundeck with seating accommodation and fixed awning
Watch L'Estello photo gallery.
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Bikes and accessories
Girolibero bikes are available in different sizes in unisex model:
- Touring bike 27-gear Shimano Deore
- E-bike 9-gear Shimano
Features:- aluminium frame
- mudguard
- rear rack
- comfort gel saddle www.selleroyal.com
- anti-puncture Schwalbe tyres
- ergonomic bicycle grips
- Speed Lifter system
All rented adult bikes are equipped with:
- 1 cycle computer
- 1 Ortlieb one-sided saddlebag
- 1 combination bike lock
- 1 helmet suitable for head circumferences from 54 to 61 cm
Own bicycles are not allowed on board.
Limited availability for E-bikes.
Only for self-guided:- 1 front bar bag per cabin
- 1 repair kit per cabin: 1 spare inner tube, glue, patch, a pump, 2 allen keys and tyre levers
All our helmets have a certification mark according to the DIN EN 1078 (CE) European norm.We recommend that you bring your own reusable water bottle with you.
Important notes if you want to cycle independently:
In order to cycle smoothly following our App, we suggest that you bring with you a holder for your mobile phone to be fixed on the handlebar, as well as a power bank (even if the App can be used offline, too). -
Accompanying material
Before your arrival, you will receive an email from us with the digital information material. It contains:
1. Link to download the App including maps, roadbook, points of interest and GPS tracks (you can use the App offline, too)
2. Link to download the tour information material in Pdf:- Tour notes
- Final tour details
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By your side
Welcome briefing
At your arrival on Saturday at 6.30 p.m. you will meet the tour leader and the crew. Every evening the guide will present you the cycling program of the following day.
This tour offers the chance to choose if pedalling alone or with the whole group, following the tour leader. When booking the tour you need to specify which option you prefer.
If you want to cycle independently, you are free to do it by following the App you have been given. In case of an emergency you can contact the tour leader over the phone. If you change your mind during the week and you want to join the guided tour, please inform the tour leader the evening before. If you choose the guided option, the tour leader will be always present during breakfast and included dinners and will cycle every day with you.Tour leader
Our tour leaders are carefully selected and rigourously trained by Girolibero. They are experienced enthusiastic travelers who have a true passion for sharing their love of the outdoors, peoples, cultures and local food. Thanks to their knowledge of the territory, they can give you useful hints and help you appreciate the place you are visiting. Of course they love cycling and will be happy to give you some advice on how to correctly use the bicycle gears and whenever necessary they can fix a flat tyre. As we like to say, our tour leaders are AOC (Controlled Designation of Origin), and will help you explore the land and live an unforgettable experience.
Staff support
In the Final Tour Details you will find the contact phone numbers you can call during the tour in case of emergency.
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28 Client reviews
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Helen
Departure 10-17 June 2023
Online from 22 June 2023
A wonderful tour led by Weiger who was so knowledgeable about the areas. He was an amazing guide, who was patient and considerate. I had a great time! -
Judy
Departure 17-24 September 2022
Online from 29 October 2022
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Patricia
Departure 17-24 September 2022
Online from 18 October 2022
This trip was all I expected and more. The staff and accomodations were perfect. The itinerary was well laid out. Riding through the Camargue was very interesting and the hills of Provence were challenging. Loved it! -
Corey
Departure 03-10 September 2022
Online from 20 September 2022
We thoroughly enjoyed our tour through southern France. Our crew was top notch. Our tour guide, Alex was enthusiastic, fun, knowledgeable, safety conscious and very patient. Our chef Dani created the most amazing meals, keeping us looking forward to dinner each night. Our hostess Laura was attentive, friendly and eager to assist in any way and Captain Ludo skillfully navigated our way to each destination. Each day was filled with historic towns and buildings, breathtaking views and some unexpected treats such as wine tasting, olive oil tasting and expertly guided tours through a few of the cities. We would highly recommend Girolibero. -
Steven
Departure 20-27 August 2022
Online from 04 September 2022
Great vacation. Michela Bresciana as the tour leader was fantastic. She is funny, engaging and kept the group together. Sarah as the chef on the barge was a great cook. Meals were wonderful. -
John
Departure 25 June - 02 July 2022
Online from 21 July 2022
We thoroughly enjoyed the trip. The crew were simply fantastic - tour leader, chefs, boat captain - all seemed determined to make sure we all had the best time possible. -
Ursula V.
Departure 25 June - 02 July 2022
Online from 08 July 2022
My very first Cycle Barge Tour in Southern France.
I enjoyed a wonderful trip.It exceeded all expectations.
The whole staff were so inviting and personable.
Many THANKS to Fillipo,Dani, Irene and Carlos. -
Sherry
Departure 25 June - 02 July 2022
Online from 08 July 2022
Your company did a fabulous job in creating a very special cycling experience for our group. The entire staff, Carlos our tour guide, Filippo our captain, Irene our amazing chef as well as Dani our sous chef and Jack-of-all trades offered exceptional service with humor and entertainment. I highly recommend your tour company! -
Andrew
Departure 30 April - 07 May 2022
Online from 16 May 2022
The holiday exceeded our expectations both in terms of the itinerary and the accommodations. The tour leader was very friendly and knowledgeable of local history and biker safety. The captain was friendly, approachable and very responsive to our questions, as well as the overall safe operation of the boat. The chefs in the kitchen helped to make our meal times an enjoyable social affair. The other passengers were great as we quickly bonded over the course of our biking travels together. We will be booking another trip for sure, just need to figure out the next destination. -
Elisa
Departure 21-28 August 2021
Online from 08 September 2021
La mia settimana sulle strade di Camargue e ovest Provenza con appoggio sulla Caprice è risultata sopra le aspettative. Ottimi gli ormeggi serali, la navigazione tranquilla per le poche ore ma più che sufficienti, l insieme del servizio. Consiglio a chi ama la bicicletta come mezzo senza estremizzare. -
Annamaria
Departure 21-28 August 2021
Online from 04 September 2021
originale -
Antonella
Departure 21-28 August 2021
Online from 02 September 2021
Ok -
Angela
Departure 21-28 August 2021
Online from 02 September 2021
Il massimo dei voti; una menzione particolare a Filippo il capitano, a Sara la shef x l'amore e l'attenzione che ci metteva nei piatti alla nostra guida Melanie e l'assistente Nicola ! -
Valentina
Departure 08-15 August 2020
Online from 20 August 2020
Bellissima esperienza!! -
Maurizio
Departure 08-15 August 2020
Online from 20 August 2020
un plauso a tutto l'equipaggio. Bravi -
Paul
Departure 18-25 May 2019
Overall, the trip was great. I would have liked the opportunity to even purchase one of the blue bike bottles. I have one from a previous trip that is wearing out and I’m unable to find the same style online anywhere.
Thanks Paul! Since 2020 we don't provide water bottles anymore and we always invite our guests to bring their own. This helps us reduce plastic usage.
Girolibero risponde -
Josie
Departure 21-28 September 2019
Online from 04 October 2019
Bike and barge travel fits my nature very well. Experiencing sites, country side, history, and small villages in Europe by "having my feet on the ground". I love to bike at home, therefore biking for my travels gives me joy!
I really like the small barge and small group atmosphere also! -
Michael
Departure 13-20 July 2019
Online from 25 July 2019
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Roberto
Departure 2019
Online from 15 July 2019
Siamo tornati felici e soddisfatti della bellissima vacanza che ci avete proposto.
Complimenti all’equipaggio della nave Filippo, Sara e Melanie molto competenti e professionali.
Un applauso alla tour-leader Elena sempre disponibile e sorridente …insomma tutto bene!
Infine un ringraziamento a te per la collaborazione costante che mi hai riservato. -
Robert
Departure 04-11 May 2019
Online from 08 June 2019
This is a wonderful tour through some incredible beautiful countryside, small villages and historic towns. But what made it unique was the staff. Our four Girolibero hosts were all friendly, fun to be with and helpful. All of them were delightful people that clearly enjoyed being there.
Carlos, our guide, had a wealth of experience as a guide and with this region on particular. He was attentive to our needs, had a lot of great information to share, and had a wonderfully relaxed attitude which made it impossible not to enjoy the trip. -
Sharon
Departure 20-27 April 2019
Online from 29 May 2019
Our first bike and barge holiday and it was absolutely perfect.
Early season may be cool for some, but we enjoyed being a bit ahead of the tourist season and the cooler weather was better for us.
The crew and tour guide were both excellent in service and so very friendly. The gourmet meals were over the top. We liked being able to make our lunches each day, having the coffee available at all times, and the wine options were fantastic.
Antonella was absolutely perfect as a tour guide!!
Thank you again for a great holiday experience! Sharon & Mark -
William
Departure 20-27 April 2019
Online from 23 May 2019
Fun, educational and a little challenging. -
Karen
Departure 20-27 April 2019
Online from 20 May 2019
Great holiday! -
Monica
Departure 20-27 April 2019
Online from 13 May 2019
Consiglio i gruppi internazionali che permettono di conoscere persone di altri paesi che come sempre risultano interessanti e garantiscono un'esperienza arricchente! -
mario
Departure 11-18 August 2018
Online from 25 September 2018
Un'esperienza da fare: vacanza al 100% -
Eileen, San Diego (USA)
Departure 2017
Online from 21 June 2017
Thank you for all your work to see that we had a wonderful time in Provence.
The bull ranch was the best! It was so much better than the one Mike and I went to before. They put on an actual bull fight for us. I got a bouquet of flowers and a companion on a horse marched me in the ring with two other ladies. Then he took the flowers and the other men on horseback tried to get them away. It was a splendid display of horsemenship. They released the bull and about 5 young boys tried to get the ribbon off it’s horn. It was the highlight of the trip for me. Next they gave us a marvelous lunch with plenty of sangria. We all enjoyed it very much. I would suggest you plan it for other groups.
We were worried about the two separate groups but we went on the Estello each night and dance together and it went very well.
The only complaint I got was the Estello had two bathrooms that backed up two days but that was a problem that could be solved.
The buses you ordered arrived on time and were great. We really needed it to get to the TVG train station in Avignon. We had 29 people on the fast train to Paris and that all went smoothly.
Again, thank you for your attention to detail and all the extra help you gave me in planning this wonderful adventure. We look forward to Amsterdam to Brudge in 2019. -
ATTENZIONE
Le seguenti impressioni sono state pubblicate prima del nuovo sistema di ratingRuth, Berlin
Departure 2016
Online from 05 September 2016
Liebe Maddalena,
die Boat und Bike-Reise Camarque und Provence war ein rundherum wunderbares Erlebnis. Alan, Cobey, Paolo und Marco sind eine tolle Crew, die mit Freude, Spaß, Humor und großer Herzlichkeit zusammen arbeiten. Und Marco war ein hervorragender guide: kompetent, tolerant, freundlich, umsichtig, humorvoll. Auch Ihnen, liebe Maddalena, herzlichen Dank für alles, was Sie im Vorfeld der Reise organisiert und kommuniziert haben.
Ich freue mich auf eine nächste Reise mit girolibero.
Herzliche Grüße aus Berlin -
Gisela, Berlin
Departure 2016
Online from 05 September 2016
Liebe Maddalena,
ich möchte dir kurz erzählen, wie schön die Tour in der Provence war. Marco hat uns excellent begleitet und gut auf uns aufgepasst. Wir haben die höheren Berge geschafft und hatten Spaß beim runterfahren. Der Kapitän war sehr in Ordnung, und seine Frau sehr herzlich und hilfsbereit. Der Koch Paolo war wunderbar, also rundherum eine tolle Crew . Und ein wunderschönes Land. Ich habe Frankreich ein wenig lieben gelernt. Sonst gehört meine Liebe natürlich Italien.
Ich hoffe, es geht dir gut.
Alles Liebe
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