Cycling the canals of Carpentras
An easy, signposted circuit along the waterways
Most of this circuit follows the canal tow paths to the north of Carpentras, within sight of Mont Ventoux.
It's signposted on the way around and you'll pass through a few small towns and villages, including Baumes de Venise which is famous for its sweet Muscat wine, fields and some interesting buildings along the way.
It should take the average rider around 3 hours to complete the 34 kilometre circuit.
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What to bring
IGN Maps 163 (Avignon Nimes) and 164 (Carpentras Digne-Les-Bains) cover 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.
Cycle hire
Bike Hire in Provence
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Road bike hire
This company offers a wide range of leisure and sports bikes for hire, perfectly located for exploring Mont Ventoux.
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Town bike hire
This shop offers electric bikes for hire in Vaison-la-Romaine, Bonnieux, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
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Road bike hire
This shop offers a variety of brands and bikes to choose from, including road bikes, e-bikes, mountain bikes, children's bikes, and tandems.
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Mountain bike hire
This cycle hire shop is located in the centre of Bédoin village, just across the street from the tourist office.
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Town bike hire
Located in the centre of Avignon, this company offers electric bike hire and guided bike tours of the city.
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Town bike hire
This shop rents a selection of town bikes, both standard and electric, for adults and children, and also offers bike repairs.
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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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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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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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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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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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.
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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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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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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.
Where to stay
Cycling Hotels in Carpentras
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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
27 September 20257 NightsHotel des Pins has 25 rooms and suites, a restaurant, a terrace, and a garden.
Price: €1,498
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Lou Cardalines B&B, near Bedoin
27 September 20257 NightsSet in a traditional Provencal building, and carefully renovated, Lou Cardalines offers two guest houses with direct garden or terrace access.
Price: €667
