Tour Review - A Week In Provence
Riding difficulty:
A frequent question often asked of us here at Diamond Cycle Tours is whether or not the prospective guest will be able to cope with the riding. As most riders experience of cycling in France is watching the Tour de France and other major French cycling events and have seen the daunting aspects of such races such as Galibier or the Alpe d’Huez.
Our response is simple, with our tour you aren’t racing up them! It is Diamond Cycle Tours philosophy to allow all levels of riders to participate in our tours. We promote regular stops along the way to allow our riders to soak up the scenery or shoot a photo. Climbs are ridden at no one else’s but the rider’s tempo ensuring that all riders make it over the big climbs. Typically each day there will be one or two climbs but also include some magnificent decants and runs along valleys making for a balanced riding experience.
Highlights of Diamond Cycle Tour's Southern France Cycling Tour:
The Diamond Cycle Tours Provence tour takes in two stages of the Tour de France. This year's tour will also include a ride to Mont Ventoux to watch the stage that finishes on the top of the mythical mountain, which will be a historical occasion, given the Tour De France is celebrating it's 100th year . This is a must see event and on the wish list of all roadies that follow the Grand Tours. The other stage the tour follows finishes in Gap and you will be perfectly positioned to see the peloton race into town.
Of course there is more than just the Tour de France to see in Provence. This is one of the great tourist destinations in France. The villages that are taken in are sensational on or off the bike. Ancient stone villages with their clay tile roofs, surrounded by fields of lavender and vines. The food and wine of course is another highlight.
Accommodation & Additional Information:
Rating:
3 star accommodation or where that is not available very good 2 star. All hotels are well suited to cyclists with hearty breakfasts and excellent restaurants with regional cuisine.
Inclusives:
Diamond Cycle tours are 8 days duration with transfers provided at beginning and end of tours. Most meals are provided so once on tour only incidentals need to be purchased. All rides have lead and trail guides as well as van support.
** Experience:**
Regular road riders with some bunch experience can successfully complete and enjoy these tours.
Approx. Cost:
$3,600 with discounts to BikeExchange bookings before end March 2013 of 10%
** Tour Availabilities:**
Book throughout the year, for travel between June to August 2013
