Avignon & Trails of the Côtes-du-Rhone

Self Guided - 8 Days / 7 Nights

Provence is rich in colour and contrasts with vivid sprays of scented lavender, bright green vines, ochre-coloured villages and white limestone hills. The area has attracted artists and writers for centuries. There are dozens of enchanting villages to explore, ancient forts, spectacular abbeys and countless other fascinating geographical and historic sites.

Not far from Avignon is the famous Côtes-du-Rhone wine region. This walking tour explores part of Provence that is away from the crowds. You visit and stay in the wine villages of Gigondas, Vacqueyras and Beaume de Venise around the Dentelles de Montmirail where vines have been growing since Roman times. Red Syrahs, white Grenache and rose wines are waiting to be tasted!

Your Journey

Day 1: Arrive Avignon

Explore this walled medieval town with its landmark Pope’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 2: Seguret – Vacqueyras (5hrs, 17 km)

Walk from Seguret, voted one of France’s most beautiful villages to Gigondas, a village surrounded by vineyards with a beautiful 11th century church. Continue to the charming wine village of Vacqueyras at the base of the Dentelles.

Day 3: Vacqueyras – Le Barroux (5.5 hrs, 15 km)

Walk into the heart of the Dentelles de Montmirail. Enroute pass through Beaumes de Venise. Continue through this range of hills that forms a lace work of limestone peaks until you arrive at Le Barroux, a hilltop village dominated by a 12thC castle. Just outside the village is the Abbey Sainte-Madeliene du Barroux which is known for the monks who preserve the art of Gregorian chant.

Day 4: Le Barroux – Malaucène (4.5 hrs, 13 km)

Walk in the foothills of Mont Ventoux (1,912m), the prime climb for the Tour de France, through pine and cedar forest. Set your sights on Malaucène’s hilltop fort.

Day 5: Malaucène – Vaison la Romaine (6 hrs, 18 km)

Discover little tucked-away villages on your route today. Crestet’s ancient alley ways adorned with historic buildings and fountains will charm you. At Vaison la Romaine the largest Roman archaeological site in France awaits.

Day 6: Vaison la Romaine - Avignon

Morning free to explore the superb market flaunting the irresistible fragrances of colours of South of France or visit the town's Jardin des Neuf Damoisells. Afternoon transfer to historic Avignon.

Day 7: Avignon

Today is yours to explore the rich and varied history of Avignon – the Papal Palace, museums, galleries and antiques are waiting for you….

Day 8

Arrangements end.

Terrain

Moderate 4 days walking from 4.5 to 6 hrs that does not exceed 500m in ascent. For this walk you need to enjoy regular exercise and be able to cope with walking uphill for up to 2 hours at a time.

Meals

Breakfast daily.

Price 2023

Please note that price is per person in Euros.

1 Mar - 25 Apr, 1 Oct - 15 Nov (excludes Easter): Twin share €1094, Single Supplement €284, Solo traveller supplement €290

26 Apr - 30 Sep: Twin share €1203, Single Supplement €294, Solo traveller supplement €260

Surcharge applies for Easter and Avignon Festival of Theatre - €58 per person + additional sgl sup €53 

Schedule

2023: Every day from March to 15 November.

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The above is a short synopsis of this tour. This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for a more detailed itinerary and trip notes.

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    Auckland 0622, New Zealand
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A Walker’s World has been offering walking holidays in Europe and around the world since 1991.

  • Our experienced team can advise and coordinate your travel arrangements to your personal requirements.