The Luberon: Visit the hilltop villages by electric bike

Travelers seeking a mix of stunning scenery, charming villages, and a touch of local gastronomy will find this electric bike tour of the Luberon a compelling choice. It offers a well-paced 8-hour journey through some of France’s most picturesque hilltop spots, complemented by a visit to Ridley Scott’s unique winery. Whether you’re after scenic views, cultural insights, or a relaxed cycling experience, this tour packs all that into a manageable day.

One of the things we love most about this experience is how accessible it makes the area’s hills and scenic routes—thanks to the electric bikes—giving everyone the chance to enjoy the countryside without excessive exertion. The chance to taste wine in such an unusual setting adds a layer of authentic indulgence. However, a key consideration is that the day involves a fair amount of cycling, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness and comfort on a bike.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy small-group experiences, cultural visits, and beautiful landscapes. If you’re looking for an active day out that combines sightseeing with local flavors and interesting stories, this could be just what you need. But if you’re less comfortable on a bike or prefer more flexible, less structured days, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Scenic villages: Visit Goult, Ménerbes, Bonnieux, and Lacoste, each with their unique charm and historic sites.
• Comfortable cycling: Electric bikes make navigating hills easier, ideal for a relaxed but active day.
• Authentic wine tasting: Enjoy a visit to Ridley Scott’s Mas des Infermières winery—an experience blending top-quality wine with a distinctive setting.
• Cultural and natural highlights: From ancient dolmen to lavender fields, the landscapes are breathtaking.
• Small-group intimacy: Limited to just 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Flexible booking: Cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This tour begins with a pickup from one of three convenient locations—either Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, or Beaumettes. The van transfer takes around 45 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get a quick briefing before hitting the scenic roads. Once on your electric bike, the adventure truly begins.

The First Stops: Goult and Notre-Dame De Lumières

Your journey starts along the Calavon cycle route, passing by the Ubac dolmen, one of three in Vaucluse, highlighting the area’s ancient history. The first village, Goult, is a jewel perched high in the Luberon, often less crowded than its more famous neighbors. We loved the way Goult’s narrow streets and stone houses whisper stories of centuries past. The visit includes a look at its monuments, giving a sense of the local heritage.

Following Goult, you’ll head towards Notre-Dame De Lumières—another cultural highlight with its charming architecture. The route here offers a gentle climb, made effortless by the bikes, and provides some stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Crossing the Pont Julien to Bonnieux

Next, you’ll ride across the iconic Pont Julien, a Roman-era bridge that’s both a marvel of ancient engineering and a beautiful photo opportunity. It’s a highlight for many, and we agree—standing there, you can almost hear the footsteps of Roman travelers.

Bonnieux’s Provençal market is a lively stop where you can browse local produce, cheeses, and crafts. It’s a great chance to soak in the local vibe and perhaps pick up a snack for later. We appreciated how the guide shared stories about the village’s history and architecture, making the visit more engaging.

Lacoste and the Château du Marquis De Sade

From Bonnieux, you’ll cycle to Lacoste, a hilltop village with a fascinating history linked to the Marquis de Sade. The visit includes some free time to explore its charming streets and shops. The highlight here is the visit to Les Carrières and the Château du Marquis De Sade—owned by fashion icon Pierre Cardin—adding an extra layer of intrigue to the day.

We loved the peaceful atmosphere of Lacoste, with panoramic views over the Luberon valley. While the picnic area isn’t provided, bringing your own packed lunch here allows you to enjoy a scenic break in a truly picturesque setting.

Ménerbes and the Winery Experience

Continuing the day, you’ll visit Ménerbes, often praised for its authentic Provençal charm and well-preserved medieval structures. The guide points out key monuments and shares stories about the village’s past.

The grand finale is the visit to Ridley Scott’s Mas des Infermières winery. Here, you’ll sample some exceptional wines in an environment that feels both exclusive and down-to-earth. The guide mentions that the winery’s atmosphere is quite unusual, set in a setting that might remind you of a film set—fitting, considering the Hollywood director’s influence.

Scenic Return Along the Road to Apt

The day wraps up with a scenic ride back towards the starting point, passing through Les Beaumettes and enjoying views of orchards, olive groves, and lavender fields. We loved the relaxed pace, giving us plenty of chances to soak in the landscape and snap photos.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Pricing and Value: At $92 per person, this tour offers a full day of varied experiences, including bike rental, guide, and wine tasting. Considering the cost of individual village visits, wine tasting, and transport, it’s a reasonably priced way to explore the region.
• What to Bring: Pack essentials such as sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water, and a packed lunch. The day involves some physical effort—so sports shoes and a daypack are recommended.
• Physical Requirements: The tour isn’t suitable for children under 16, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility issues, back problems, or heart concerns. Be sure you’re comfortable riding an electric bike for several hours.
• Group Size and Guides: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. The guide, Denis, is noted for being friendly and knowledgeable, adding value through engaging commentary.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

One of the real strengths of this tour is how it balances touristy highlights with authentic Provençal charm. For example, the visit to Goult and Lacoste reveals villages that aren’t always crowded, offering genuine glimpses into local life.

The winery visit is particularly memorable, not just for the wine but also for the setting—an unusual, stylish environment that elevates the tasting experience. Reviewers mention how the guide’s storytelling made the visit more meaningful, adding personal touches that go beyond a typical tasting.

Final Thoughts

This electric bike tour of the Luberon offers a wonderful blend of scenery, culture, and gastronomy. With well-chosen stops, engaging guides, and a relaxed pace, it’s ideal for those wanting to see the region without rushing. The inclusion of a wine tasting at Ridley Scott’s vineyard adds an exclusive touch that sets it apart.

We find this experience especially suited for active travelers who enjoy small-group outings, picturesque villages, and local wine. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the best of Provence’s landscapes and villages, all while riding comfortably on an electric bike.

If you’re after a day of discovery, beautiful views, and a hint of luxury, this tour delivers on all fronts—ensuring a memorable Provençal adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, you can be picked up from your accommodation in Lacoste, and transportation to the starting point is included in the tour.

How long is the cycling portion?
The guided tour lasts about 7 hours, with the cycling spread throughout the day. The bikes are electric, making hills easier to manage.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, water, a packed lunch, sports shoes, a daypack, and ID. It’s also advised to wear closed-toe shoes for safety.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 16 or anyone with mobility issues or certain health conditions listed in the requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility to plan your trip.

What kind of wine is tasted?
The tasting at Ridley Scott’s Mas des Infermières winery includes various wines produced on the estate, set in a distinctive environment.

How physically demanding is the tour?
Thanks to the electric bikes, the tour is accessible to most, but some cycling experience is recommended.

How big are the groups?
The small-group size, limited to 8 participants, ensures a more personalized experience and better interaction with the guide.

What happens if it rains?
Weather conditions are not specified, but it’s best to check the cancellation policy if rain is forecasted, as the tour might be canceled or adapted.

The Luberon electric bike tour offers a fantastic way to explore Provence’s iconic hilltop villages without the hassle and fatigue of traditional cycling. It’s a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and culinary delight that suits active travelers eager to experience the genuine charm of the region.