Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided French Riviera and Coastal Provence Bike Tour
This French Riviera cycling holiday is a perfect mix of seaside charm, Provençal culture, and relaxed adventure.
You’ll start in Hyères-Plage, a sun-soaked coastal town, and explore nearby vineyards, medieval villages, and castles along the scenic Route de Vins. A ferry takes you to the dreamy, car-free island of Porquerolles with its white beaches and olive groves.
The ride continues past salt flats and fishing villages to Le Lavandou, before hopping on a train to glamorous Nice. There, you can stroll the Promenade des Anglais, cycle to Antibes, or simply enjoy the cafés and markets. Each day offers flexible routes, ideal for both casual and sporty riders, with comfortable hotels close to the beach.
Expect good food, coastal views, and plenty of Provençal flair. Whether you’re after gentle rides or full days in the saddle, this trip lets you experience the French Riviera at your own pace.
Self-Guided
casual hotels
Hyères-Plages
Nice
easy to moderate
35 km / 22 mi
5
Min. 2, Max. 12
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE)
Highlights

Golden Island Paradise: Porquerolles
Cycle your way to the stunning, car-free island of Porquerolles, known for its turquoise waters, olive groves, and white sandy beaches. You’ll pass flamingo colonies on the way and have time to explore charming spots like Plage de Notre Dame and the island’s historic lighthouse.

Glamour & Culture in Nice
Experience the sophistication of Nice, cycling along the iconic Promenade des Anglais and exploring its old town, markets, and museums. You can also take a short train ride to Monaco or enjoy a relaxed city tour by bike.

Charming Provençal Villages & Vineyards
Ride through the picturesque countryside of Hyères and along the Route de Vins, where rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and traditional wineries invite you to taste the region’s famous rosé wines and olive oils. It’s a perfect blend of scenery, culture, and flavor.

Scenic Coastal Adventures
From the salt flats and fishing harbors of Le Lavandou to the elegant shores of Antibes, every route offers breathtaking sea views. Well-paved bike paths and flexible daily routes make it easy to enjoy the Côte d’Azur’s natural beauty at your own pace.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Hyères-Plage | Hotel La Potinière | |||
| DAY 2 | Hyères-Plage | Hotel La Potinière | B | 39 km / 24 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Hyères-Plage | Hotel La Potinière | B | 30 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Hyères-Plage | Hotel La Potinière | B | 50 km / 31 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Nice | Hotel Villa Rivoli | B | ||
| DAY 6 | Nice | Hotel Villa Rivoli | B | 10 km / 6 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Nice | Hotel Villa Rivoli | B | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Nice | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Hyères-Plage
Arrive individually in Hyères-Plage, easily reachable by train from Nice or Marseille airports. Your seaside hotel, Beach Hotel La Potinière, is just steps from the beach and marina. Settle into the relaxing Provençal atmosphere and enjoy a stroll along the coast.
If time allows, explore the historic center of Hyères, filled with charming alleys and views of the sea. Spend the evening unwinding by the water or enjoying a local dinner on your own at one of the beachfront restaurants.

Day 2: Hyères-Plage
After breakfast, set off on your first cycling adventure through vineyards and along the famous Route de Vins. Choose between an easier or longer route, both filled with beautiful views of Provence’s rolling hills.
Visit local wineries and castles, where you can sample rosé wines and olive oil. Pass through small villages and enjoy the peaceful countryside. Stop for a picnic or a light lunch at a local café. Return to Hyères-Plage for a relaxed evening near the coast.

Day 3: Hyères-Plage
Enjoy breakfast before cycling past salt marshes and flamingo colonies to the ferry terminal. A short boat ride (ticket payable locally) takes you to Porquerolles, a car-free island paradise. Cycle through olive groves, vineyards, and pine forests to discover its highlights, the Lighthouse, Fort Sainte Agathe, and Plage de Notre Dame.
Relax on white sandy beaches or swim in turquoise waters. Have lunch at one of the island’s cozy cafés before returning by boat. End your day with dinner on your own back in Hyères-Plage.

Day 4: Hyères-Plage
After breakfast, follow scenic cycle paths past vineyards, olive groves, and the sea to reach the fishing village of Le Lavandou. Enjoy the lively harbor atmosphere and the colorful old town. If you’re up for a challenge, make a detour to Bormes-les-Mimosas, a hillside village famous for its flowers and panoramic views.
Take a leisurely lunch at a seaside café before cycling back. Spend your last evening in Hyères-Plage relaxing at the hotel or enjoying a sunset walk by the water.

Day 5: Nice
After breakfast, board your included train transfer from Hyères to Nice. Check into your new accommodation, the Romantic Hotel Villa Rivoli, located near the Promenade des Anglais. The afternoon is free to explore Nice at your own pace. Visit museums, stroll the beach, or discover the old town’s markets and boutiques.
You can also take a short train ride to Monaco for a quick excursion. Dinner is on your own, with plenty of local restaurants offering Niçoise specialties.

Day 6: Nice
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. You can join an optional guided cycling tour of Nice (extra cost) to discover landmarks like Castle Hill, the Old Port, and Cours Saleya Market. Alternatively, spend the day exploring at your leisure.
Visit the Matisse or Chagall Museums, go shopping, or take a short train ride to Monaco. Relax at a seaside café or take a swim in the Mediterranean. End the day soaking in the city’s vibrant evening atmosphere.

Day 7: Nice
After breakfast, ride along the famous Promenade des Anglais following the coastline to Antibes. Explore its charming old town, marina, and the Picasso Museum housed in a historic château. Cycle around Cap d’Antibes, where luxury villas and botanical gardens overlook the sea.
Stop for lunch at a seaside bistro or enjoy a picnic on the beach. Return to Nice for your final evening perhaps celebrate your last night with a special dinner overlooking the Mediterranean.

Day 8: Nice
After your final breakfast, take some time to explore Nice one last time. Visit the Cours Saleya market to pick up souvenirs or enjoy a relaxing coffee at a café. Depart according to your onward plans. Nice Côte d’Azur Airport is the nearest airport to fly our for your departure.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hotel La Potinière

Hotel Villa Rivoli
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $680
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $230
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

Atlanta Women's Bike or similar
Included in your trip price

Atlanta Men's Bike or similar
Included in your trip price

Velo de Ville or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Hyères-Plage, located on the beautiful southern coast of France. The nearest airports are Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) and Marseille Provence Airport (MRS). From either airport, you can take a TGV train to Toulon or Hyères, which offers convenient connections several times a day.
From Hyères station, local taxis are readily available to reach your seaside hotel in Hyères-Plage, just a short drive away. Estimated taxi fares range from 15–25 EUR depending on distance and time of day. Alternatively, car rentals are available at both airports if you prefer more flexibility during your stay.
Departure
Your tour ends in Nice, the vibrant heart of the Côte d’Azur. For your onward journey, the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) is conveniently located only 7 km (4 miles) from the city center. You can book a taxi, airport shuttle, or tram (Line 2) directly from central Nice to the airport; travel time is about 20–30 minutes.
Taxis typically cost 30–40 EUR, while the tram is a budget-friendly option at just a few euros. Be sure to allow extra time for check-in, as the airport can be busy during peak travel seasons.
Weather
The Côte d’Azur enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it ideal for cycling most of the year. The best months are April to June and September to October, when temperatures range between 18–26°C (64–79°F) with plenty of sunshine and light coastal breezes. These periods offer clear skies, pleasant warmth, and blooming landscapes.
March and November can still be good for riding, though cooler mornings and occasional rain are common. July and August are hot, reaching 30°C (86°F) or more, while December to February are the off-season months, with cooler days, around 10–15°C (50–59°F), and limited tourism activity.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Best
May
Best
June
Best
July
Offseason
August
Offseason
September
Best
October
Good
November
Mixed
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is on completely paved surfaces cycle paths or side roads.
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Reviews from our friends
You may also like

Popular
Self-Guided Classic Provence Bike Tour
8 daysfrom$1,995/person
