Secret Provence Cycling

Highlights

Choose from an 8 or 10 night version of this popular cycling holiday in timeless and sun-drenched Provence. You'll cycle through picturesque villages and vineyards, and past hidden castles and churches. Two nights are spent by the Gorges de Verdon.

Hostellerie de L'Abbaye, Le Thoronet

The 19 bedrooms at the Hostellerie de l'Abbaye are decorated in Provencal colours, they are simply furnished and set over 2 floors (ground floor and 1st floor).

The light and airy bedrooms are all en-suite (all rooms have a bath) plus air conditioning, direct telephone line and satellite television.

Further details on the hotel website.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor.

Hotel le Rouge Gorge, Ponteves

Ponteves is a typical Provencal country hamlet and, we think, a perfect place to unwind.

We are really pleased to have found this lovely hotel; the friendly owners will make your stay a memorable one.

The hotel has a lovely pool, very appealing after a days cycling!

Hotel les Cavalets, Bauduen

The Hotel Les Cavalets sits in a fantastic location overlooking Lac de Ste Croix and the mountains of the Haut Var.

The hotel's restaurant boasts a large terrace and amazing panoramic views.

There's simply so much to do here that we are proposing two additional nights (making four nights in total) in order that you can really get the most out of your stay.

Stroll or cycle around the original hilltop village - tiny streets, artisan craft shops, tempting cafes and restaurants - then take a sailing boat to explore the hidden creeks surrounding the lake and village.

There are gentle walks and challenging hikes through the lower Gorges du Verdon, or you can kayak through the gorge before visiting the excellent Museum of Pre-history.

Other options include cycling to Les Salles-sur-Verdon, following the fascinating botanical walk, or taking a taxi to the wonderful Grand Canyon. Riding is also possible near the hotel.

L'Auberge St Pierre, Tourtour

Formerly a 16th century coaching inn, the Auberge St Pierre is a beautifully converted 16-bedroom hotel set in a wonderfully green 90-hectare estate and offering a wide range of amenities: swimming pool, tennis, sauna, walks and fresh water fishing. There is a lovely beamed dining room (closed Wed - we arrange for you to eat at a nearby restaurant and provide transport), with open terrace for al fresco meals in the summer.

The hotel is located a few kilometres outside Tourtour so guests wishing to spend extra nights here will need a car to fully explore the area.

Further details on the hotel website.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor.

Hotel Carre Vieux Port, Marseille

Superbly located 49-room hotel in centre of Marseille just a couple of minutes walk from the old port. Lovely modern, air-conditioned rooms (free Wifi throughout) and bar where buffet breakfast is served. We've arranged for Headwater guests to eat at Le Fetiche restaurant, just 5mins walk away.

Further details on the hotel website.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor

Hotel Le Grimaldi, Nice

Le Grimaldi has 46 individually decorated rooms all equipped with air-conditioning, satellite tv, minibar, safe and hairdryer.

Ideally situated in the heart of Nice the hotel is just 3 minutes walk to the pedestrian area of the city with its vast choice of bars and restaurants, 10 minutes walk from the Promenade des Anglais and 15 minutes walk from the Old Town.

Further details on the hotel website.

Hotel Normandie , Auxerre

This hotel was originally a maison bourgeoise until it was converted into a hotel by an ex-patissier! It has now been in Mme Ramise's family for over 45 years.

The hotel only provides breakfast, although a la carte room service is possible (very reasonably priced and a good selection of hot and cold dishes). However, it's fun to explore the lovely town of Auxerre and there are plenty of good restaurants in all price ranges within 5-15 minutes walk.

There's a public swimming pool in the town and a sauna at the hotel (approx 7€). There is a secure closed garage behind the hotel (5€ per day) or free parking in front (ask at reception).

Further details on the hotel website.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor

Hotel Le Senat , Paris

Le Senat is a 3 star hotel but with a 4 star feel! There are just 41 rooms, all stylishly furnished and a couple of suites with terraces, if you really fancy splashing out! All have satellite television, mini bar, air-conditioning, safe and hairdryer, plus Internet access.

The hotel has its own small bar - adorned with photographs of eminent artists, being in the heart of the artists' quarter - plus a reading room with complimentary internet access.

Breakfast is taken in the basement, where you'll find a copious buffet of viennoiseries, cereals, fruit salad, ham, cheese, bread, yoghurt, bacon, eggs, sausage, fruit juices, tea or coffee. If you prefer, you can have a continental breakfast served to your room at no extra charge.

Le Senat is perfectly located on a quiet side street just a stone's throw away from the Luxembourg Gardens and metro, 5 minutes walk from the vibrant Latin quarter, where you'll find a plethora of restaurants to suit all budgets.

Further details on the hotel website.

Independent hotel reviews on Trip Advisor