French Riviera
France Bike Tours
A sun drenched bike tour along the Côte d’Azur
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8 days
- Prices from€913 Rates
Overview
A bike tour in the French Riviera? Sounds elegant, charming, romantic, and sunny! Did you know that the Côte d'Azur (Azure Coast) has over 300 days of sun per year? Once the hotspot of the rich and famous, the allure of this captivating region goes far beyond that reputation.
This is an all-around stunning place with an aristocratic history, beautiful architecture, stunning beaches, limestone cliffs, and forests of oak and pine. Its clarity of light, vibrant colors, and temperate climate have inspired famous artists, writers, and thinkers, such as Picasso, Matisse, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. Your tour begins in Hyères - Plages on the peninsula of Giens, providing a relaxed rural start.
Throughout your cycling days, you will discover medieval towns, romantic and small fishing villages, and dreamy bays outlined by the turquoise blue of the sea. You will finish your French Riviera vacation in the fashionable metropolis of Nice, France's 5th largest city. Here, you can enjoy strolling the ochre-colored streets, the Promenade des Anglais, and world-famous beaches.
Highlights
- Old town of Hyères
- Porquerolles Island
- Le Lavandou and the old village of Bormes-les-Mimosas
- Antibes, the cultural heart of the Côte d' Azur
- Nice
- Provençal cuisine
- Sun, sun, and more sun!
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Itinerary
Day 1: Hyères - Plages
Day 2: Roundtrip around Hyères or cycle onward to Pierrefeu, 9 - 38 mi. (15-62 km)
Day 3: Porquerolles Island, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 4: Roundtrip Le Lavandou, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 5: Train ride Hyères - Nice / Nice (day of rest)
Day 6: Nice, day or rest or city sightseeing by bike, 6 mi. (10 km)
Day 7: Roundtrip to Antibes, 25 to 31 mi. (40 to 50 km)
Day 8: DepartureAll distances are approximate. Due to circumstances beyond control, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday. For example, along the way you may find temporary deviations/detours caused by roadwork, In this case, please follow the directions posted on site.
Day 1: Hyères - Plages
Individual arrival to your first hotel, located in close to the town of Hyères, close to the beach. Hyères-Plage is located 6km from the town of Hyères and consists of a sand beach on the border of pine woods. It is among the numerous seaside resorts located in the vicinity either on the coast or on the offshore islands, collectively called the Hyères.Day 2: Roundtrip around Hyères or cycle onward to Pierrefeu, 9 - 38 mi. (15-62 km)
The medieval old town with its narrow alleys and colorful houses is small, charming, and typically French. A special highlight is the Villa Noailles, built in the 1920s for a French patron of arts, this example of the modern architectural heritage is now an art center of national interest and presents exhibitions, festivals, and workshops. Picasso, Giacometti, and Jean Cocteau all spent time at Villa Noailles. The mansion has an awesome setting, near the highest point of the town, and boasts a Cubist Garden and lovely views all around. If vistas are your thing, you can also visit the medieval ruins of Château d'Hyères which dates to around the 1000s. Nestled on a hilltop, the landscapes here are exceptional and there are special platforms from where you can gaze out over the wooded Maurettes hills to the north. Alternatively, those that want some distance can cycle through the remote hilly hinterland on tiny country roads to the small village of Pierrefeu in the middle of the "Côte de Provence" wine growing area and through endless vineyards back to Hyères. Though known by tourist as a hotspot, Hyères also lies at the center of a rich agricultural area, where fruits and flowers are grown and wine is producedDay 3: Porquerolles Island, 19 mi. (30 km)
Are you ready for paradise? It awaits! At the harbor, La Tour Fondue, you (and your bike) will enjoy a 10-minute boat ride away from the coast to this magical island world with white sand beaches, limestone cliffs, and forests of oak and pine. (Ferry tickets are not included and may be purchased on the spot). 80% of the island is part of the Parc National de Port-Cros, and was once privately owned. The island is car-free, characterized by olive plantations and vineyards, drenched in sun, and infused with romance, your bike is the best way to explore. Well worth visiting are the beach of Notre Dam, Fort Sainte Agathe, built in the 14th century, and the lighthouse. The interior of the island has several paths shaded by Eucalyptus trees that make for a lovely scented hike.Day 4: Roundtrip Le Lavandou, 31 mi. (50 km)
Via well-developed cycle paths, you bike over the old saltworks, past vineyards, and olive groves with the sea as your constant companion to the fishing village of Le Lavandou, at the foot of the Moorish massif. With a little perseverance or by e-bike, you can take a detour inland up to the old village of Bormes-les-Mimosas, built into the hills. The streets are steep, many with built-in steps. and cobblestones. The bright Provencal pastel houses and little squares add to the charm.Day 5: Train ride Hyères - Nice / Nice (day of rest)
Today you will not only change your hotel, but you will also find yourself in a whole new world. From the unspoiled coast, you travel by train (included) to the charming capital of the Côte d’Azur, Nice. Elegant, simple, graceful, city of art and culture, this has always been a hot spot for the world's elite.Day 6: Nice, day of rest or city sightseeing by bike, 6 mi. (10 km)
In the morning you have the opportunity to take part in an interesting city tour by bike (optional) or explore on your own by bike or on foot. The Principality of Monaco is only 25 minutes away by train.Optional city tour by bike
You will enjoy a unique perspective of the city, different from the typical tourist experience. It’s an introduction to "the Best of Nice" on roads that are mostly flat and smooth. There is one hill climb to climb up to Chateau Hill, where you’ll experience breathtaking panoramic views of Nice. The pace of the tour is very relaxed. Daily departures are offered April 15 to October 15 beginning at 10 am.
Duration: 2.5 hours
Price: €38Day 7: Roundtrip to Antibes, 25 to 31 mi. (40 to 50 km)
The famous Promenade des Anglais, one of France's best known and iconic seafronts, takes you along the Mediterranean coast to Antibes. Be sure to visit the Old Town, surrounded by 16th-century ramparts and crisscrossed in a maze of ancient streets. Some call it the cultural heart of the Côte d' Azur. Visit the Musée Picasso, formerly the Grimaldi Castle, where Picasso worked for two months drawing and painting, many of which he left for the city. for its splendid artwork, sculpture terrace, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.Day 8: Departure
Official end of tour, but you will not want to depart. Be sure to stock up on Provençal specialties at the famous market, Cours Saleya and drink a café au lait before you start your return journey. Or, extend your tour. Nice and the surroundings have a lot to offer and the sun and beaches beckon.You can view all of our bike tours in Europe or look at our featured bike trips, specials, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
Accommodations
On this tour, you will be accommodated in two hotels. In Hyères, the preferred hotel is Hotel La Potiniere, located next to Port de Plaisance, facing Porquerolles island, featuring its own private beach. Decorated in typical Provençal style the guest rooms are functional, comfortable, and peaceful. Many rooms feature a balcony or terrace with a sea view and free Wi-fi. In Nice, the preferred hotel is Hotel Villa Rivoli, a privately-run villa in a 19th Century Belle Époque Building in the historic center, just a short walk from the beaches and Promenades des Anglais. All rooms feature flatscreen TV and free Wi-fi. Some have a balcony and a view of the garden and the surrounding area. Please note, and this is very important, hotel accommodations are based on availability and the above hotels are provided to you as an example of the level of accommodations used on this tour.
Bicycles
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodation for 7 nights with breakfast (4 nights on the Giens Peninsula & 3 nights in Nice)
- 1 train ride: Hyères – Nice
- 1 transfer from the hotel in Hyères Plage to the train station
- 21-speed hybrid touring bike with an aluminum frame, upright riding position, equipped with comfort gel saddles, mudguards, &Schwalbe Marathon puncture-resistant tires
- Bike accessories: One Ortlieb pannier (20 liters), repair kit, helmet, and lock
- Route book, maps, and tourist information material (one set per room)
- 7-day service hotline
What’s Not Included
- Lunches & dinners
- 1 roundtrip boat ride La Tour Fondue – Porquerolles & back (approx. €30)
- Bike Protection
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Daily arrivals are possible between March 1 to October 31, 2024
Season 1: March 1 to March 31, 2024
Season 2: October 1 to October 31, 2024
Season 3: April 1 to May 31, 2024
Season 4: June 1 to June 30 | September 1 to September 30, 2024Arrivals during the summer, July and August are not possible.
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024
Regular room
Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Season 4 Double/twin $ 1534 £ 795 $ 1,369 € 913 kr 139598 ₪ 3709 ¥ 156688 Mex$ 17038 NZ$ 1690 NOK 11045 zł 4034 S$ 1356 kr 10946 $ 993 $ 1786 £ 926 $ 1,593 € 1063 kr 162533 ₪ 4319 ¥ 182431 Mex$ 19837 NZ$ 1968 NOK 12859 zł 4696 S$ 1579 kr 12744 $ 1,156 $ 1853 £ 961 $ 1,653 € 1103 kr 168649 ₪ 4481 ¥ 189295 Mex$ 20584 NZ$ 2042 NOK 13343 zł 4873 S$ 1638 kr 13224 $ 1,200 $ 2055 £ 1065 $ 1,833 € 1223 kr 186997 ₪ 4969 ¥ 209890 Mex$ 22823 NZ$ 2264 NOK 14795 zł 5403 S$ 1817 kr 14663 $ 1,331 Single $ 2307 £ 1196 $ 2,058 € 1373 kr 209932 ₪ 5578 ¥ 235632 Mex$ 25622 NZ$ 2541 NOK 16609 zł 6066 S$ 2039 kr 16461 $ 1,494 $ 2559 £ 1327 $ 2,283 € 1523 kr 232867 ₪ 6187 ¥ 261375 Mex$ 28421 NZ$ 2819 NOK 18424 zł 6729 S$ 2262 kr 18259 $ 1,657 $ 2626 £ 1362 $ 2,343 € 1563 kr 238983 ₪ 6350 ¥ 268240 Mex$ 29168 NZ$ 2893 NOK 18908 zł 6905 S$ 2322 kr 18739 $ 1,700 $ 3080 £ 1597 $ 2,748 € 1833 kr 280267 ₪ 7447 ¥ 314577 Mex$ 34206 NZ$ 3393 NOK 22174 zł 8098 S$ 2723 kr 21976 $ 1,994 Seaview room in Hyeres
Season 1 Season 2 Season 3 Season 4 Double/twin $ 1618 £ 839 $ 1,443 € 963 kr 147243 ₪ 3912 ¥ 165269 Mex$ 17971 NZ$ 1783 NOK 11650 zł 4255 S$ 1430 kr 11545 $ 1,048 $ 1954 £ 1013 $ 1,743 € 1163 kr 177823 ₪ 4725 ¥ 199593 Mex$ 21703 NZ$ 2153 NOK 14069 zł 5138 S$ 1728 kr 13943 $ 1,265 $ 2021 £ 1048 $ 1,803 € 1203 kr 183939 ₪ 4887 ¥ 206457 Mex$ 22450 NZ$ 2227 NOK 14553 zł 5315 S$ 1787 kr 14423 $ 1,309 $ 2223 £ 1153 $ 1,983 € 1323 kr 202287 ₪ 5375 ¥ 227052 Mex$ 24689 NZ$ 2449 NOK 16004 zł 5845 S$ 1965 kr 15861 $ 1,439 Single $ 2475 £ 1283 $ 2,208 € 1473 kr 225222 ₪ 5984 ¥ 252794 Mex$ 27488 NZ$ 2727 NOK 17819 zł 6508 S$ 2188 kr 17660 $ 1,603 $ 3080 £ 1597 $ 2,748 € 1833 kr 280267 ₪ 7447 ¥ 314577 Mex$ 34206 NZ$ 3393 NOK 22174 zł 8098 S$ 2723 kr 21976 $ 1,994 $ 3147 £ 1632 $ 2,808 € 1873 kr 286383 ₪ 7609 ¥ 321442 Mex$ 34953 NZ$ 3467 NOK 22658 zł 8275 S$ 2782 kr 22455 $ 2,038 $ 3601 £ 1867 $ 3,212 € 2143 kr 327666 ₪ 8706 ¥ 367779 Mex$ 39992 NZ$ 3967 NOK 25924 zł 9468 S$ 3183 kr 25692 $ 2,331 Extra Options
Electric bike rental $ 134 £ 70 $ 120 € 80 kr 12232 ₪ 325 ¥ 13729 Mex$ 1493 NZ$ 148 NOK 968 zł 353 S$ 119 kr 959 $ 87 City bike tour in Nice (Tuesdays and Fridays) $ 64 £ 33 $ 57 € 38 kr 5810 ₪ 154 ¥ 6522 Mex$ 709 NZ$ 70 NOK 460 zł 168 S$ 56 kr 456 $ 41 Extra night in Nice Season 1 Season 2, 3 & 4 Double/twin $ 160 £ 83 $ 142 € 95 kr 14526 ₪ 386 ¥ 16304 Mex$ 1773 NZ$ 176 NOK 1149 zł 420 S$ 141 kr 1139 $ 103 $ 200 £ 104 $ 178 € 119 kr 18195 ₪ 483 ¥ 20423 Mex$ 2221 NZ$ 220 NOK 1440 zł 526 S$ 177 kr 1427 $ 129 Single $ 277 £ 144 $ 247 € 165 kr 25229 ₪ 670 ¥ 28317 Mex$ 3079 NZ$ 305 NOK 1996 zł 729 S$ 245 kr 1978 $ 180 $ 344 £ 179 $ 307 € 205 kr 31345 ₪ 833 ¥ 35182 Mex$ 3826 NZ$ 379 NOK 2480 zł 906 S$ 305 kr 2458 $ 223 Extra night in Hyères Season 1 & 2 Season 3 Season 4 Double/twin $ 109 £ 57 $ 97 € 65 kr 9939 ₪ 264 ¥ 11155 Mex$ 1213 NZ$ 120 NOK 786 zł 287 S$ 97 kr 779 $ 71 $ 143 £ 74 $ 127 € 85 kr 12997 ₪ 345 ¥ 14588 Mex$ 1586 NZ$ 157 NOK 1028 zł 376 S$ 126 kr 1019 $ 92 $ 176 £ 91 $ 157 € 105 kr 16055 ₪ 427 ¥ 18020 Mex$ 1959 NZ$ 194 NOK 1270 zł 464 S$ 156 kr 1259 $ 114 Single $ 176 £ 91 $ 157 € 105 kr 16055 ₪ 427 ¥ 18020 Mex$ 1959 NZ$ 194 NOK 1270 zł 464 S$ 156 kr 1259 $ 114 $ 227 £ 118 $ 202 € 135 kr 20642 ₪ 548 ¥ 23169 Mex$ 2519 NZ$ 250 NOK 1633 zł 596 S$ 201 kr 1619 $ 147 $ 277 £ 144 $ 247 € 165 kr 25229 ₪ 670 ¥ 28317 Mex$ 3079 NZ$ 305 NOK 1996 zł 729 S$ 245 kr 1978 $ 180 Extra night in Hyères Seaview Season 1 & 2 Season 3 Season 4 Double/twin $ 126 £ 65 $ 112 € 75 kr 11468 ₪ 305 ¥ 12871 Mex$ 1400 NZ$ 139 NOK 907 zł 331 S$ 111 kr 899 $ 82 $ 165 £ 85 $ 147 € 98 kr 14984 ₪ 398 ¥ 16819 Mex$ 1829 NZ$ 181 NOK 1186 zł 433 S$ 146 kr 1175 $ 107 $ 210 £ 109 $ 187 € 125 kr 19113 ₪ 508 ¥ 21452 Mex$ 2333 NZ$ 231 NOK 1512 zł 552 S$ 186 kr 1499 $ 136 Single $ 227 £ 118 $ 202 € 135 kr 20642 ₪ 548 ¥ 23169 Mex$ 2519 NZ$ 250 NOK 1633 zł 596 S$ 201 kr 1619 $ 147 $ 296 £ 153 $ 264 € 176 kr 26910 ₪ 715 ¥ 30205 Mex$ 3284 NZ$ 326 NOK 2129 zł 778 S$ 261 kr 2110 $ 191 $ 370 £ 192 $ 330 € 220 kr 33638 ₪ 894 ¥ 37756 Mex$ 4106 NZ$ 407 NOK 2661 zł 972 S$ 327 kr 2638 $ 239 Extra Info
Skill Level — Easy
This self-guided bike tour in France based in two hotels is rated easy. Every cycling stage takes place on Asphalted cycle paths or side roads with very little traffic. Your daily distance can be adjusted to your level!
Airport Info
Fly to Nice (NCE) or Marseille (MRS)
Local Travel
There are direct TGV train connections between the city of Nice and Toulon and onward to Hyeres (approx. 2 hours) and regional trains as well. Travel time is from 2 1/2 to 3 hours. If you are coming directly from the airport, there are several bus services (some direct) that run to Hyères From Marseille Airport you can travel by bus and train to Hyères which takes approx. 2 1/2 hours with two transfers. Upon arrival to Hyères, please use a taxi service to arrive to your first hotel in Hyères Plage. You will be sent more detailed travel information before your tour.
Climate
Please check local conditions before your arrival. There are many good websites to use to research regional weather including average high/low temperatures, average rainfall, and more. The Côte d’Azur is protected by hills in the west and the Mercantour Alps in the northwest, meaning a mild Mediterranean climate year-round. This is an area known for its amount of sun per year. In March, well before the tourist season begins, the average high temperatures is 60° F. In June, before the peak of the season, the average high is 77° F. September and October are lovely as well with 77° and 70° F as the average high temps.
Day of Rest
This itinerary features one rest day but also roundtrip rides in which you can opt to stay off the bike and stroll the town or beaches.
Remarks
You will be receiving two different bike rentals on this tour. One in Hyères, and the other in Nice.
Important to know
DOCUMENTS
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
*Important note: Please check the status of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) as once implemented, will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.
Extra Stay
We are confident that you will want to book extra nights either before or after your tour!
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Rad und Reisen.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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