Along the Calavon river by bike
an adventure for the whole family
Looking for an outing that is suitable for the little ones and their parents, young and old alike? A colourful route exploring the Luberon’s stunning spring landscapes?
Cycle the véloroute (designated cycle route) along the Calavon: a relaxed bike ride guaranteed for all.
Duration:
1 day
Type:
Walk
Parking :
free
A relaxing bike ride for all ages
Equipment
Don’t forget: bikes (and make sure tyres are pumped up), helmets, first-aid kit, bike repair kit, flasks filled up with water, and plenty of suncream on sunny days.
Don’t have your own bikes? There are a number of bike rental companies located nearby.
Bikes adjusted, helmets fastened, and rucksacks filled with food… everyone can safely cycle at their own pace.
Happiness is gently pedalling along, far from noisy traffic: it’s a way to get some exercise and some rest all at once! While little ones race ahead, parents can chatter away without a care!
Foodie break at Apt Market
As you approach Apt, head in the direction of the town centre.
Make the most of the market and pick up delicious produce – ideal for a picnic. Characterised by its truly Provençal atmosphere, Apt and its market are not to be missed: you will find stalls bursting with colourful tomatoes and courgettes and fragrant cheeses and local spices. The passionate farmers will tempt you with their freshly picked asparagus, juicy strawberries, and patiently cured meats.
Everyone can choose what they like, depending on what takes their fancy… On the menu: 2 Banon cheeses, a generous punnet of juicy strawberries, and some slices of Ventoux ham.
A firm favourite
Apt Market takes place every Saturday from 8am to 1pm.
It is a colourful, fragrant festival boasting a variety of local produce.
Take a break and picnic at the water’s edge
Weighed down with your tasty market purchases, hop on your bikes and cycle along the green waterfront of Riaille Lake – the perfect spot to enjoy a rustic picnic.
In the refreshing shade of a majestic willow tree, tuck into your recent market finds. The children won’t want to sit down for long – instead they’ll be off making the most of the space to play: running on the grass, mimicking the fishermen, and laughing together while the parents enjoy some peace and quiet by the lakeside.
Worth a visit
Carry on further down the ‘voie verte’, and you’ll find Apt Lake and a 10 hectare space providing activities and a place for relaxation, picnic areas, and a small sports course complete with fitness equipment.
At Pont Julien: venture into Antiquity!
As you approach the Pont Julien, cycle slowly over the bridge to reflect on the 2,000 years of history beneath you. The stone bridge spans the Calavon river with its 3 sturdy and slender arches.
To admire the bridge from all angles, cross it and then head down to the edge of the Calavon. Here, toddlers will be off before you know it – barefoot, they will clamber from stone to stone in order to cross the river. Finish off your day with a well-deserved snack, and you’ll already be on to planning your next nature trail for discovering the varied landscapes of Provence.
Did you know?
The Pont Julien dates from 3 BC. It replaced an older bridge whose traces are still visible near the columns.
Summary
- A safe route for the whole family
- Apt Market: not to be missed
- Colourful and varied landscapes
- Pont Julien – see a Roman monument along the way