Provence and French riviera bike tour from Avignon to Cassis

Set out southwards through orchards and farmlands, before reaching the awe-inspiring Alpilles mountain range. The Alpilles have been enticing people since Roman times, and the many ancient remnants in this part of Provence are a testament to its longstanding draw. Maussane is a typical commune with warm-weather vegetation and architecture that spans the ages. Provençal-style blue shutters and red-tiled roofs are more modern” additions to the scene.

Olive trees and cicadas?! Yes, no doubt about it, you’re in Provence! Don’t expect to keep to your average speed as you are bound to stop again and again and again for picture taking. Of course, you can spend the day as you wish, and the possibilities are endless! For example, you could choose to visit a Marseille soapmaker today, one whose family business started back in 1900 and hasn’t stopped since. Your ride will then take you to one of Provence’s liveliest and most beautiful cities, Aix-en-Provence. The elegant avenue lined with sunshine-colored homes is straight out of a dream. No need to rush to see ‘everything’ as you’ll be here for two nights.

Today is yours to organize the way you want. Whatever your interests are, you’ll have a wide choice of things to do, taste, smell, and explore! Just walking around through the winding side streets and beautiful squares of Aix is a treat. You’re bound to run into one of the colorful neighborhood markets — even those who hate shopping can’t resist perusing. Art lovers can visit Cézanne’s workshop or spend time searching for a ‘masterpiece’ of a scene to capture for your photo album.

Following the “Cézanne road” — so named since the painter could often be found here painting “Sainte-Victoire” mountain – you’ll soon discover the beauty that drew him and many others to this fascinating region. The white of the limestone, the red of the clay, the blue of the sky, and the green of the pines all play off each other, creating a festival of colors for the eyes. Your destination is Saint-Maximin-La-Sainte-Baume, a very special place in Christianity — the impressive gothic basilica was built where Mary Magdalene’s relics were found.

If you’ve read Marcel Pagnol’s delectable stories like My Father’s Glory and My Mother’s Castle, you’re already familiar with the scenery you’re about to encounter today. Pagnol succeeded in describing what this short description fails to convey — the true spirit of Provence. Stress is a  naughty word in this part of France, so let all your worries go as you exhale. A nice downhill ride will bring you at last to Cassis and the  Mediterranean Sea.

After 5 days of cycling in Provence, you should be totally relaxed – in the right state of mind to experience Cassis! Hiking along the coast, canoeing around the calanques, or taking boat rides are some of the activities you can partake in today. Even after an unforgettable cycling itinerary, this day  in Cassis is one that will stand out in your memory.

Departure from Cassis. Regular trains from Cassis to Marseille