Compare Electric Bike Luxury Exclusive Tour In Provence by Ride and More Travel vs Normandy, Brittany & The Loire Valley - Classic Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
0 | Poor
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 3 days | 9 days |
| Price From | $ 4,483 | $ 3,375 |
| Price Per Day | $ 1,494 | $ 375 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Cities and Attractions | N/A |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
A sport based discovery of Provence on an electric assisted mountain bike. Between the vineyards and the lavender fields our E bikes will open up new horizons, spectacular panoramas including the legendary Mont Ventoux. The holiday is kept to small groups, starting at 4 people with our qualified guide to ensure you enjoy his vast local knowledge and discover “la Provence”, its gastronomy and its secrets. |
Enjoy the sights and smells of France during this 8-day guided tour. Travel to Normandy and stand on the 100-foot-tall Pointe du Hoc, overlooking the beaches where soldiers fought in World War II — and walk with a Local Expert through the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach, where Allied Forces landed on D-Day. Drive through the Loire Valley to the glorious fragrant gardens of Château de Villandry, stopping to smell the basil, rosemary and other herbs grown in its gardens. You’ll remember those scents at a celebration dinner featuring a farm-to-table feast and sparkling wine. See Paris’ top attractions, from the glistening pyramids of the Louvre to the gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, then watch as the City of Light illuminates at dark. |
Day 1: Welcome to Provence, hosted by the Hôtel Crillon
When you arrive on Sunday morning we will accompany you to the Hôtel de Crillon, first stage of the holiday. Your guide will ensure you receive the correct bike and equipment and help with the necessary tasks of setting up the bike for you. During lunch, the Ride & More team will be there to fully explain how the week will function including safety aspects. After then, off to the base of Mont-Ventoux to test the bikes and enjoy the rocky ochres formations and the grapevines. On our way back a local winegrower will be waiting to propose a degustation of local wines.
The evening of your arrival, Restaurant du Vieux Four will be expecting you with a menu both gourmand and generous
Day 2: Dentelles de Montmirail and the vineyards
Leaving the village of Crestet, you will pass through the incredible Massif des Dentelles de Montmirail all the way to Gigondas.
After a lunch “bistronomique” at the restaurant Oustalet your guide will take you on to the village of Beaumes-de-Venise and its famous Muscat.
The evening dinner of your second day will be a discovery of savours based around our “black diamond” – the truffle of Provence.
Day 3: Mont-Ventoux the south face
It will by the south face of this unique mountain, worldwide symbol of cycling in Provence, that you will enjoy a full day of its diverse and stunning landscape. The ride up will take place underneath the tree canopy following the forest tracks whilst enjoying the unprecedented views of Provence. The Ride & More team will be waiting at the summit.
After lunch the Giant of Provence will offer up a descent with both breathtaking views and sensational scenery that will take you back to the rocky ochres of Bedoin.
The evening will be a dinner and cookery course rolled into one with a guest chef.
Day 4: From La Coquillade to the home of the lavender fields / Wednesday
Leaving the Coquillade the ride will see you climb to la Garde d’Apt accompanied by beautiful views and culminating in the spectacular colour and perfume of our lavender fields.
The Chef de cuisine of the 1 Michelin star restaurant, Bistrot de Lagarde will be there to welcome you for an unforgettable lunch. The beginning of the afternoon will be a fantastic descent including a visit to the “abandoned village” of Aiguiers all the way to the castle in Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt.
The second part of the afternoon and evening leaves you free to enjoy the hotel and facilities, however the team will be at your disposition for all matter of advice or simply reserving a restaurant for the evening.
Day 5: Mont-Ventoux North face
The day will be spent on the trails of the “Géant de Provence” and its awe-inspiring views. On arrival at the base of the mountain the adventure will start in the small village of Aurel where the climb will begin with easygoing tracks that meander through stunning landscapes up to the summit where a spectacular 360° view of Provence and the Alps awaits you.
After a very nice picnic and refreshments the afternoon’s exploits will commence.
The descent will take place on the north face where the sinuous single tracks will deliver views of the valley and the distant Alps all the way back to the village of Aurel.
The evening dinner will be inspired by the abundant local produce, chosen by the Coquillades chef and served in the Hotels main gastronomic restaurant Le Gourmet.
Day 6:The mini Colorado Provencal / Friday
For the last day of your stay with us in Provence we leave the choice to you, maybe you’d prefer to visit one of our local markets or maybe a last chance to enjoy a ride through the flaming red rocks near the mines of Gargas.
After lunch the Ride & More team wish you goodbye until the next time and will shuttle you back to the TGV at Avignon.
Day 1: Welcome to Paris
On arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, transfers leave for the hotel at 08:30, 11:00 and 13:30. After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. At 17:30, join your Travel Director and fellow guests for a Welcome Dinner at Rural, a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by country recipes.
Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Rouen, Honfleur and Deauville
Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral - a masterpiece of Gothic style and the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the narrow streets beneath the Great Clock to the Old Market Square. Here, a superb modern church commemorates the burning of Joan of Arc on this very spot in 1431. Continue to the charming fishing town of Honfleur and to your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.
Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville.
Breakfast
Day 3: Normandy Beaches and D-Day Landings
Follow the route of the Rangers and visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Then with a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent, near Omaha Beach. Explore Normandy with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Alternatively, visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy becoming the King of England. This evening you are treated to a delightful dinner, which promises creative cuisine, seasonal ingredients and delicious wines.
Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 4: Mont-Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo
Journey through Bocage country and explore the hilltop abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. Situated on an island, the abbey is reached by a bridge across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defences huddles the small town - it's one street containing shops, cafes and hotels. Continue along the Emerald Coast to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, home of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers. At your leisure, you can wander around the ramparts of the thick city walls, offering fantastic views over the old town and the bay. By night, the town’s medieval maze of winding streets is abuzz with quaint bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may wish to join an Optional Experience to Cancale, known throughout France of its oyster beds, for a delicious meal of fresh seafood and other Breton specialties?
Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde, St Malo.
Breakfast
Day 5: Villandry Experience
Head south to follow the valley of the Loire, passing the moated Angers Castle. Cross the Loire to Saumur, where a local vintner will guide you through tastings of the region's delicious wines. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Ensure you don't miss the water, ornamental and kitchen gardens. This stunning sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages and purple basil which has been grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Continue to your chateau hotel, where you can relax like royalty in sumptuous surroundings.
Château De Rochecotte, Saint Patrice, Loire Valley.
Breakfast
Day 6: Scenic Drive Along the Loire Valley
Journey to the fairy-tale Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, considered one of the best representations of French Renaissance architecture. Having recently undergone extensive restoration, your Local Expert will show you the subtle blend of French tradition and innovative Italian decor within this 16th century icon of the Loire Valley. Return to your superb chateau for relaxation and free time. This evening, your Celebration Dinner starts with a glass of local sparkling wine and continues with excellent service and delicious Farm-to-Table dishes in the most wholesome setting, ensuring the memory of your meal will linger long after you've returned home.
Château De Rochecotte, Saint Patrice, Loire Valley.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 7: La Beauce and Chartres to Paris, City of Light
Travelling through the vast wheat fields of the the Beauce region, Chartres Cathedral, nicknamed the 'Acropolis of France' by August Rodin, looms large on the horizon. Enjoy a guided tour of this architectural delight.From here, return to the French capital where your Travel Director introduces you to all the fabulous sights, including the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral and the immense facades of the Louvre. Behold the vast Place de la Concorde, where the guillotine once stood, then travel down the Champs Élysées to Napoléon's Arc de Triomphe. After dark, the City of Light really lives up to its name, when the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour, don't miss the chance to experience one of the world-famous cabaret shows.
Pullman Paris Centre Bercy.
Breakfast
Day 8: Au Revoir Paris
Your departure transfer will arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 or 11:00.
Breakfast
