Aureille: Les Civadières, Roquemartine, and Les Opies by bike

Exploring the Alpilles by Bike: A Detailed Look at the Aureille: Les Civadières, Roquemartine, and Les Opies Tour

If you’re after a way to see the South of France that combines adventure, nature, and a touch of local charm, this electric bike tour around the Alpilles might just be your perfect match. Hosted by UNUSUAL RIDE, the experience promises three hours of cycling through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region, including cliffs, olive groves, vineyards, and scenic viewpoints. It’s designed to be accessible, fun, and filled with authentic sights that bring Provence to life.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances stunning scenery with a relaxed pace, making it suitable for a broad range of travelers. The electric bikes make climbing hills easy and allow you to focus on the views rather than the effort. One possible consideration is the need for participants to be comfortable on a bike, as the tour doesn’t cater to those with mobility issues or very young children. This tour appeals most to those seeking an authentic, active experience in the heart of Provence, accompanied by knowledgeable guides who know the area intimately.

Key Points

• Breathtaking Views: Expect panoramic vistas of Les Opies and the surrounding plains that are perfect for photography.
• Easy Cycling: Electric bikes make it accessible to all levels, even if you’re not used to riding regularly or tackling hills.
• Authentic Landscape: Discover olive groves, vineyards, cliffs, and forests that highlight the rural charm of the Alpilles.
• Expert Guidance: With a qualified guide leading, you’ll learn about the local sights and natural features along the route.
• Short but Rich: The three-hour duration offers a compact yet fulfilling exploration without feeling rushed.
• Local Touch: The tour ends with a chance to unwind in the village of Aureille, an authentic Provençal village with local products and a friendly atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Initial Safety Briefing
The tour kicks off from AVENUE DES ALPILLES in Aureille, a picturesque village that feels like stepping into a postcard. The guide, Nicolas Joseph, begins with a quick safety briefing—an essential step to ensure everyone feels confident before setting off on what’s mainly an easy ride with some gentle climbs. His friendly approach and clear instructions help set a relaxed tone for the adventure.

First Stop: Tour des Opies
Just a few minutes into the ride, you reach the Tour des Opies, the highest point in the Alpilles, offering a fantastic photo opportunity. We loved how the guide pointed out key features of the landscape and shared a bit of local lore. Standing there, the views stretch across the plains towards the distant mountains—it’s a perfect spot to appreciate the region’s natural beauty. It’s a quick stop but a highlight for its panoramic scope.

Olive Groves and Cliffs of Civadières
Next, we head towards the Falaise des Civadières, a dramatic cliff face where, if luck’s on your side, you’ll spot Bonelli’s eagles soaring overhead. Nicolas explained that these raptors are quite rare and protected, making sightings special. Cycling through olive groves along quiet paths, the landscape exudes the quintessential Provençal charm—think silvery leaves, gnarled trunks, and the scent of fresh olives in the air.

Forest Road of Roquemartine and the Castle View
The descent along the forest road of Roquemartine is a delight, especially on a bike with e-assist. The gentle downhill allows for a relaxing cruise with views of the Roquemartine castle visible in the distance. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, sharing stories about the history of the estate and the area’s agricultural heritage.

Vineyards and Canal des Baux
Cycling through the vineyards of Domaine Oddo, you’ll get a chance to observe the working of local wineries and maybe even spot workers in the fields. The route then takes you to the banks of the Canal des Baux, where the waterway adds a tranquil element to the landscape. Here, the calm reflections and lush greenery offer a peaceful pause before heading back.

Return via the GR Trail and Scenic Views
On your way back to Aureille, you’ll traverse the GR trail, which offers sweeping views of Les Opies and the Plaine de la Crau. Passing by a 16th-century sheepfold, there’s an opportunity to glimpse some local goats, like Virginia or Aurélie—a fun and authentic touch. The final stretch combines farmland, vineyards, and open sky, leaving you with a deep appreciation for the area’s rural beauty.

Ending with Local Flavors
Back in Aureille, the tour wraps up with a stop at a village bar, where you can refresh yourself with a drink and soak in the Provençal village vibe. Across the street, the former priory now hosts a charming grocery store specializing in regional products—perfect for picking up some souvenirs or snacks to prolong the experience.

The Practicalities: What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price ($94 per person) are the e-bike, helmet, water bottles, and a passionate guide eager to share the secrets of the Alpilles. These details are all about comfort and convenience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the ride without worry. The small pockets on the bike frame are handy for your essentials—smartphones, sunglasses, sunscreen—making it easier to capture moments or stay protected from the sun.

What’s not included are transportation to Aureille, food, drinks at the village bar, or purchases at the grocery store. This means you’ll want to plan how to get there and perhaps bring some snacks or plan for a meal afterward.

Timing and Group Size
The tour lasts about three hours, including a safety briefing, the ride, and a break at the village. It operates in small groups or private arrangements, which means a more personalized experience. Starting times vary, so checking availability is recommended.

Accessibility and Suitability
This experience is best suited for those comfortable on a bike, as it involves some gentle climbs and descents. It’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or health issues. The guide emphasizes safety and ensures the route stays within a manageable difficulty level.

What Travelers Say

From reviews, we learn that many find the views truly breathtaking—the kind you’ll want to photograph from every angle. The guide’s local knowledge adds value, with insights about the area’s history and geography. One reviewer mentioned, “The route’s mix of scenery, history, and wildlife made it unforgettable,” highlighting the diverse appeal of the tour. Others appreciated the relaxed pace and the chance to “really take in the landscape without rushing.”

Some noted that the descent along Roquemartine was a highlight, especially on a quiet morning, and many enjoyed ending the ride with a cold drink in Aureille’s charming village square. The proximity of the start point to the countryside makes it easy to combine this tour with other Provence activities.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you enjoy gentle physical activity combined with fantastic scenery, this bike tour offers a great way to see the best of the Alpilles without strenuous effort. It’s ideal for those who appreciate nature, photography, and learning about local landscapes directly from someone passionate about the region. The use of electric bikes means you’ll cover a lot more ground than on a regular bike, making it suitable even for those who aren’t avid cyclists.

However, if you have mobility concerns or prefer a more leisurely, car-based tour, this might not be the best fit. It’s also not suited for children under 10 or travelers with certain health restrictions. But for most active travelers or families with older children, this experience provides a memorable slice of Provence that’s both accessible and visually stunning.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This electric bike ride in the Alpilles is a wonderful way to explore Provence’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced experience of adventure and tranquility, with ample opportunities for photos and quiet reflection. The tour offers excellent value, combining guided insight, comfortable bikes, and access to some of the most scenic spots in the region—all within a manageable three-hour window.

Travelers who love authentic landscapes, appreciate expert guides, and enjoy light physical activity with spectacular rewards will find this tour very rewarding. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or families with children over 10 who are comfortable on a bike and eager to experience the true essence of Provence’s countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?
Not at all. The electric bikes make it easy to manage climbs and descents, and the guide ensures everyone feels comfortable before starting the ride.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, outdoor clothing suitable for the weather, and some personal essentials like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hair tie if needed. The bike offers small storage pockets for your valuables.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for children over 10 years old. The route involves some gentle hills, so younger children or those with mobility issues might find it challenging.

Can I join if I have health limitations?
People with mobility impairments, heart problems, or recent surgeries should consult the organizer before booking, as the route may not be suitable.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The starting location is in Aureille, accessible via a dirt parking lot on Avenue des Alpilles, 300 meters before Le Panorama des Alpilles when heading towards Eygalières.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible to adjust your plans.

In essence, this bike tour offers a fantastic, authentic glimpse into Provence’s stunning landscapes, with enough comfort and guidance to make it accessible and enjoyable. Whether you’re a keen cyclist or a curious traveler wanting to see the region without the hassle of driving, it’s a worthwhile addition to any Provençal itinerary.