Au fil du Comtat (Through the Comtat Venaissin)
With a distance of 33km, intermediate level circuit with great variety
The Comtat Venaissin (County of Venaissin), often called the Comtat for short, dates back to the middle ages and was politically significant throughout the 16th and 17th centuries.
This intermediate cycle itinerary leads you through the County and its varied agricultural landscapes: strawberries, asparagus and of course vines. It also encompasses several historical cities, Pernes-les-Fontaines and Carpentras, where cyclists can discover some of the historical monuments of the county, Of particular significance in the city of Carpentras is the oldest synagogue in France, built in the 14th century.
Other examples of Roman architecture and engineering can be seen along the way, as well as the many pretty courtyards, town squares and fountains. The Château in Saint Didier was built in the 15th century and extended in the 18th century, it was transformed into a hydrotherapy center in the last century. Whilst you are unable to visit the inside (it is now a private clinic) the outside and gate area are magnificent and add to the charm of this very Provencal village.
More information available on this leaflet.
Distance : 33km
Time : 3hr
Vertical Gain : 190m
What to bring
IGN Map 164 (Carpentras Digne-les-bains) covers this area.
- Water - One of the biggest problems in Provence in the summer is the heat. Fit two bottle cages to your bike and take 750ml bottles with electrolyte drinks.
- Sun Cream - The hot southern summer sun means you will burn quicker here than at home. And remember the backs of your hands if you are not wearing cycling gloves!
- Windbreaker - Although it may be warm in valleys temperatures can drop rapidly as you climb, weather can chage quickly and the fast descents can cool you down fast.
- Snacks - Energy Bars and gels are a very good idea if you are planning a day on the roads.
- Mobile Phone - Being able to contact someone to pick you up if your chain breaks is helpful.
- Money - You may need it in an emergency or just for a beer at the end of the day.
- Basic Repair Kit - You can't fix everything by the side of the road but not all breakdowns require the day to end.
What to see
Sights in Provence
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La Synagogue, Carpentras
The synagogue of Carpentras is the oldest synagogue still in activity in France.
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Saint Siffrein Cathedral, Carpentras
Pope Benedict XIII ordered the reconstruction of this building after the original Romanesque church collapsed, in 1404.
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Chateau du Barroux, Carpentras
A wonderful castle to explore in the heart of the Vaucluse department, offering wonderful views over the surrounding areas.
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Baptistry, Venasque
Once connected to the cathedral by a semicircular vaulted corridor, the baptistery is a beautiful building situated in the narrow streets of Venasque.
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Abbaye du Barroux, Le Barroux
This monastery was founded and built in the 1970's and is now famous for its monks broadcasting their Gregorian chants live throughout the day.
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Les Grottes de Thouzon, Isle sur la Sorgue
You will be able to walk along the fossil bed of an ancient underground river, and discover the richness and diversity of this cave and eco-museum.
Where to lunch
Restaurants in Carpentras
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Hibiscus Restaurant, Carpentras
With innovative presentations and recipes, this restaurant offers seasonal produce combined in creative dishes that mix traditional cuisine with an innovative flair. It is part of the Safari Hotel.
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Camille Restaurant, Carpentras
Enjoy a peaceful place, customer parking, terrace ready to provide sixty covered seats, greenery all over and a safe place for children to play.
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Chez Serge Restaurant, Carpentras
Nestled into the breath-taking country side of Provence France is a city called Carpentras. This is where the dream began for one young couple who had a vision, Serge and Sophie Ghoukassian.
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Le Grenache Restaurant, Carpentras
Grenache offers plates of cold cuts, Antipasti, Tapas and cheese with a large selection of wines of the Rhone Valley, Languedoc Roussiillon, Provence, Burgundy, Loire, Bordeaux, South West.
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Domaine de la Camarette Restaurant, Pernes les Fontaines
Located at the Mont Ventoux foothills, main mountain in Provence, the estate is implanted in the old capital of the Comtat Venaissin: Pernes Les Fontaines.
Where to stay
Hotels in Carpentras
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Lou Cardalines B&B, near Bedoin
Set in a traditional Provencal building, and carefully renovated, Lou Cardalines offers two guest houses with direct garden or terrace access.
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L'Escapade Hotel, Bedoin
Located in a charming small village, with free parking and bike storage.
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Hotel des Pins, Bedoin
Hotel des Pins has 25 rooms and suites, a restaurant, a terrace, and a garden.
