Baskets & Markets

Avignon – Arles – Arles – Nîmes – Nîmes – Pont-du-Gard – Avignon

Imagine waking up amidst the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence, the air buzzing with the anticipation of market day. Hop on your E-Trike and glide through market towns and charming villages like Vaison-la-Romaine, Arles, and Nîmes.

Mornings: Immerse yourself in the sensory feast of local markets. Peruse stalls overflowing with freshly baked bread, sun-ripened fruits, fragrant herbs, and local crafts. Fill your basket with the vibrant bounty of Provence, the perfect fuel for your day’s adventures.

Afternoons: The open road beckons! Explore the rolling countryside on your E-Trike, the gentle hum of the motor propelling you past lavender fields and ancient olive groves. Discover hidden gems tucked away in the picturesque landscapes, or simply find a scenic spot to enjoy a delicious picnic with your market finds.

Every market tells a story: From the bustling stalls of Nîmes to the charming village market of Vaison-la-Romaine, each location offers a unique taste of local life. This tour is your gateway to experiencing Provence like a true insider.

Beyond the markets: This adventure is just the beginning. With ample free time, you’ll have the opportunity to delve deeper into Provence’s cultural treasures and hidden corners, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

Day 1: Greeting and fittings / Distance travelled: Less than 10km

Imagine gliding effortlessly through the charming streets of Avignon, the intoxicating scent of lavender filling your senses as the melodic hum of local conversations washes over you. This is where your E-Trike adventure begins!

Your hotel pick up will bring you to the E-Trike Tours headquarters. Here you will be taken through your E-Trike fitting, as well as our briefing on riding an E-trike, and the relevant ‘rules of the road’. We will also make sure you have the route guides you need, and the kit you want. Once that is done you’ll hop on your fully-kitted E-Trike and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a curious first-timer, our comprehensive riders briefing and handling tips will ensure you feel confident and comfortable.

Your ‘home base’ Avignon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering a captivating blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and undeniable French flair. Discover Avignon your way:

• Palais des Papes: Witness the grandeur of this majestic palace, once the seat of papal power.
• Pont Saint-Bénézet: Explore the iconic half-bridge, a symbol of Avignon’s intriguing past.
• Musée du Petit Palais: Indulge your inner art lover with a magnificent collection of medieval and Renaissance masterpieces.
• Rocher des Doms gardens: Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramic views and soak in the Provençal atmosphere.

As the sun dips below the horizon, Avignon awakens with a magical display of lights. Charming cafes transform into vibrant outdoor wine bars, the perfect setting to savour local wines and fresh produce while basking in the lively ambience.

Day 2: Avignon market and picnic afternoon (Thursday) / Distance travelled: 45km

Your first full day of riding is designed to ease you into your tour, as you spend the morning perusing the vibrant Avignon market. Immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of colours and enticing aromas. Luscious fruits and vegetables, fragrant herbs, plump olives, and enticing regional specialties – a culinary adventure awaits!

Fully stocked, and ready to roll, hop on your E-Trike and embark on a scenic afternoon of cycling through rolling vineyards and charming countryside. For the perfect picnic spot, we can’t go past the picturesque village, and wine lover’s paradise of Châteauneuf-du-Pape.

Unwind amidst the serene beauty of Parc du Château, nestled beside the village’s historical castle ruins. This enchanting park offers the perfect picnic haven, complete with breathtaking vineyard views. Spread your blanket beneath the warm sun and enjoy the treats purchased earlier in the day.

Day 3: Avignon to Arles (Friday) / Distance travelled: 40km

Gear up for Day 3: a journey through the heart of Provence, where charming villages unfold like hidden treasures. Today’s E-Trike adventure takes you on a picturesque exploration of:

• Barbentane: Immerse yourself in the medieval allure of this village, dominated by the imposing 12th-century Château de Barbentane. Take a break in the village square, soak up the local atmosphere, and perhaps uncover hidden gems in the quaint shops.
• Graveson: Meander through narrow streets and charming squares in this quintessential Provençal village. Indulge in a moment of relaxation at a local café, sipping a refreshing drink and experiencing the slow pace of life.
• Tarascon: Brace yourself for the grandeur of Château de Tarascon, a magnificent medieval fortress guarding the banks of the Rhône River. Explore its well-preserved walls and step back in time to a bygone era.
• Beaucaire: Cross the bridge and discover the architectural charm of Beaucaire. Admire its medieval castle and the beauty of the church, then wander through the enchanting old town and along the bustling quays of the Rhône.
• Arles: As you approach your final destination, the iconic Roman amphitheatre rises majestically, a testament to the city’s rich history. Delve into the heart of Arles, exploring the amphitheatre, the Roman theatre, and the Place du Forum, all favourite subjects of Vincent Van Gogh.

Day 4: Arles markets and picnic afternoon (Saturday) / Distance travelled: 25k

Today, awaken your senses at the vibrant Arles Markets held in the heart of Place du Forum. Prepare to be dazzled by stalls overflowing with fresh, seasonal produce, aromatic cheeses, and handcrafted treasures. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and load up on local delights to fuel your afternoon adventure.

Your next stop? We suggest the historic Alphonse Daudet Mill in Fontvieille. Perched atop a hill, overlooking the charming village, this windmill immortalised in the writings of Alphonse Daudet offers the perfect setting for a quintessential Provençal picnic.

Spread your picnic blanket beneath the warm sun, savour the freshness of local produce, and breathe in the breathtaking views. This afternoon is yours to unwind, reconnect with nature, and create lasting memories.

Day 5: Arles to Nîmes (Sunday) / Distance travelled: 45km

Today’s ride takes you on a journey further into the history and culture of the region.

Your first stop: Saint-Gilles. Prepare to be awestruck by the Abbey of Saint-Gilles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its imposing Romanesque architecture. Immerse yourself in the grandeur and artistry of this historical landmark.

Continue your journey to Nîmes through the picturesque villages of Generac and Beauvoisin. Weave through narrow streets lined with traditional houses, soaking up the authentic Provençal atmosphere.

In Beauvoisin, step back in time as you encounter the medieval castle and historic architecture.

In Nîmes itself you’ll discover a town as Roman as it is Provencal; as historic as it is modern and vibrant. As evening falls, enjoy Nîmes’ charming old town and a delightful array of restaurants offering everything from traditional Provençal cuisine to modern French dishes.

Day 6: Nîmes market and picnic afternoon (Monday) / Distance travelled: 5km

Begin today’s short ride at Nîmes’ renowned market. This is more than just a shopping destination; it’s a pulsating hub of local life. Here, locals and visitors mingle as they explore colourful stalls overflowing with fresh produce, unique crafts, and local specialties.

Embrace the lively atmosphere, engage with friendly vendors, and stock up on delicious treats for your afternoon picnic.

For a tranquil afternoon escape, we recommend you head to the Jardin de la Fontaine. This stunning public garden offers a haven of peace amidst the city’s bustle. Stroll through manicured gardens, admire cascading waterfalls, and soak in the calming atmosphere.

Spread your picnic blanket under the shade of a tree, delight in your local market finds, and breathe in the serenity of this captivating garden.

Day 7: Nîmes to Pont-du-Gard (Tuesday) / Distance travelled: 35km

As you depart Nîmes, cycle through the charming village of Garrigues Sainte-Eulalie. Breathe in the fresh air of the countryside as you continue your ride towards Saint-Gervasy, a peaceful haven nestled amidst rolling vineyards.

Your path winds through Remoulins, a quaint town leading you to the highlight of the tour: the majestic Pont-du-Gard. This breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site, a perfectly preserved ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, stands as a testament to human ingenuity.

Take time to marvel at its grandeur, explore the visitor centre, and unravel the secrets of its construction. If the weather permits, indulge in a refreshing swim in the Gardon River beneath the watchful gaze of this historical marvel.

As you cycle towards your final destination, soak in the charm of Vers-Pont-du-Gard. Finally, arrive at Castillon-du-Gard, a village overlooking the serene Gardon River.

For a truly unforgettable finale, ascend to the Castillon Gardens and witness breathtaking panoramic views. Savour the tranquillity of this picturesque setting, the culmination of your adventure through Provence.

Day 8: Pont-du-Gard to Avignon (Wednesday) / Distance travelled: 30km

As you depart Castillon-du-Gard, the beauty of Provence continues to unfold. Pass through the village of Rochefort-du-Gard, then meander through the scenic countryside towards Gaujac. This peaceful area, dotted with vineyards and olive groves, offers a glimpse into rural Provençal life.

Continue your journey through Sauveterre, another charming village along your route. For a final dose of history, consider a detour to Villeneuve-lès-Avignon on the opposite bank of the Rhône River. Explore historical sites like Fort Saint-André and the Chartreuse du Val de Bénédiction.

Finally, you return to Avignon, your home base throughout this captivating adventure. After you have returned your now beloved E-Trike, and have been transferred to your hotel, take this opportunity to reminisce about the memories you’ve created and savour the unique charm of this city one last time.

Whether you wander the vibrant markets, explore the historical sites, or simply relax in a charming cafe, embrace the essence of Avignon and bid farewell to Provence.

Day 9: Tour ends (Thursday) / Distance travelled: 0km

Your last night in your Avignon accommodation brings your E-Trike Tours holiday to its end. As you transfer onward, don’t forget to make plans for your next E-Trike Tours holiday.

At E-Trike Tours, we believe accommodation plays a crucial role in shaping your holiday experience.

With two ‘levels’ of accommodation to choose from, you’ll experience unique stays in B&Bs, hotels, chateaus, and guest houses.

We make every effort to book in the towns and villages outlined in our itineraries. Where availability requires it, we may book accommodation in nearby locations.

As an sustainable tourism company, we also strive to support locally owned and operated accommodation providers and those who share our commitment to low impact tourism.

Customers can also book an extra night’s accommodation in Avignon at the start or end of any booked tour.

Once you’ve chosen your desired level of accommodation and tour, you’re almost there!
Your next move is to decide whether you want a ‘choose your own adventure’ style of travel or you want to follow the lead of an awesome local guide.

Self-guided E-Trike tours allow you a more independent style of travel, ideal for self-discovery and contemplation.

Our guided tours offer local insider tips, insights, and advice, plus your guide will also help you overcome any obstacles and organise your day.

To find out about the specific inclusions of each tour,and what you need to bring yourself, click the “Inclusions” tab on this tour page, or scroll to the next section.

Inclusions

• A choice of two different custom-built E-Trike bike rental for the duration of the trip (see our gear page(opens in a new tab) to learn more)
  • Atomic No. 3 – California Cruiser
  • Atomic No. 3 – Esprit de Ville
• Accommodation (depending on the level of your tour) – based on double occupancy
• Buffet-style breakfasts
• One food holder and picnic set per couple
• Helmet – Helmets aren’t compulsory when riding in France, but we recommend it for our customers. You can always bring your own
• Phone holder and charging cable
• Combination chain lock
• Hand pump
• We offer our weather proof suitcases to riders to ensure your luggage fits well into your E-Trike.
• Secure strap for your luggage
• Excess and valuable baggage storage
• Repair kit
  • Tools
  • Inner tube
  • Puncture repair kit
• Electronic route maps for smartphones
• Hotline support

What You’ll Have To BYO

Here’s a list of items we suggest you bring with you to ensure your cycling tour is the best ever!

• A smartphone with access to local data plans
• A suitcase to fit the dimensions of approximately 50cm x 45cm x 70cm – if you want to use your own suitcase.
• Weather appropriate clothing
• A sense of adventure!

Add Ons

You can also rent or buy:

• Wet weather riding gear
• Go Pro holder
• No spill coffee cup holder
• Rider comfort options – for an even smoother ride
  • Silicone seat padding
  • Extra wide saddle
  • Suspension seat posts

Self-Guided E-Trike Tours

Crave the freedom of the open road, but prefer to chart your own course? This tour is for you. We equip you with everything you need for an unforgettable journey, minus the restrictions of a guide.

Before you embark:

• We’ll thoroughly explain your chosen route, ensuring you feel confident and prepared.
• We’ll provide recommendations for must-see landmarks and hidden gems along the way.

Hit the road with confidence:

• Detailed maps with your daily routes marked will be your trusty companions.
• Upgrade your navigation: Upon request, we will send GPS guidance directly to your phone.

Be prepared for basic maintenance:

• We’ll provide a basic repair kit so you can tackle flat tyres and other small issues.

For more significant problems:

• A 24/7 hotline connects you to our local support team. We’ll talk you through fixing any problems you have, replace any major malfunctions, or for a minimal fee we can come to you for minor repairs.

Travel light, explore freely:

• We offer secure storage at the tour’s start and end, allowing you to pack light and move with ease.

Embrace the freedom of self-discovery:

• Explore at your own pace: Stop and savour the scenery, or conquer the miles as you please.

Guided E-Trike Tours

Love the idea of exploring by E-Trike, but crave the expertise of a local guide? Look no further! For an additional €329 per day, regardless of group size, you can upgrade your E-Trike tour to a personalised adventure led by our knowledgeable guide!

Here’s what you get:

• Expert insights and tips: Your guide will unlock the secrets of the south of France, sharing fascinating stories and hidden gems.
• Smooth sailing: Say goodbye to navigation worries! Your guide will handle any obstacles, ensuring a seamless journey.
• Personalised planning: Need help crafting the perfect day’s itinerary? Your guide is here to assist, tailoring the experience to your interests.
• Constant support: From start to finish, your guide will be at your disposal, answering questions and ensuring you have an unforgettable experience.

Ready to get started on your E-Trike adventure? Book a guided tour today!