Vertical Escapade – Climbing & Gravel biking in the Alpilles
In summary
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Sports
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Duration4 days
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LevelIntermediate
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DestinationBouches-du-Rhône / French Alps
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AgeFrom 18 - 70 years
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CO₂-Emissions18.02 kg CO2
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Type of stayIn a group
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Languages
French
English
German
In a few words
Discover the Alpilles from a new perspective during a four-day getaway focused on sustainable mobility . Based in a verdant setting at the Orgon base camp , this trip perfectly combines sport climbing and cycling .
Along the small roads of Provence, cycle touring becomes the soul of your itinerary. This eco-friendly mode of transport smoothly leads you to the foot of the iconic cliffs of the massif, while winding through typical villages , immense olive groves , renowned vineyards and impressive limestone landscapes .
The main objective lies in this harmonious alliance between the verticality of the rock and the freedom of cycling. By combining two days of climbing on a natural site with contemplative journeys, the transport becomes an essential component of the experience.
A truly accessible and exotic outdoor adventure , ideal for exploring Provençal heritage in a different way, reducing your carbon footprint without sacrificing any sporting pleasure.
The highlights
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An original way to discover the Alpilles by alternating between cycling and climbing
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The iconic cliffs of Orgon and the Alpilles
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A trip entirely feasible by train and bicycle
Photos
Sport
Level
Summer multi-activity
The expert's opinion
Level: 2 to 3 / 5
To be able to climb indoors at a level between 5b and 6b .
This trip is for climbers wishing to discover or improve their sport climbing skills. Good physical condition is necessary for the cycling days (30 to 60 km depending on the routes).
The main objective of the trip is progression, discovery and the pleasure of climbing outdoors.
In figures
Rock climbing
- Average duration/day: 3h
- Predominant type of road : Cliff/Rack
Gravel
- Average duration/day: 4h30
- Average distance/day: 48 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 350 m
- Predominant type of road : Cliff/Rack
Management
French
English
German
Passionate about mountains and outdoor activities, Théo is a state-certified mountain guide and multi-sport instructor. Based in the Hautes-Alpes, he designs trips that combine hiking, climbing, packrafting and mountain biking, with an accessible, friendly and environmentally conscious approach.
A skilled teacher who is attentive to everyone, Théo likes to pass on much more than just a sporting activity: he shares his knowledge of the territory, the fauna, the flora and the local heritage, while ensuring that everyone progresses at their own pace, in complete safety.
His motto? To experience an authentic adventure, to take the time to explore, learn, share, and leave with a head full of memories. With him, each outing becomes a true immersion in the landscapes of the Hautes-Alpes and a convivial moment in a small group.
Program
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Installation & first climb
- Activity Rock climbing
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Predominant type of road Cliff/Rack
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner included
Meet at 1:30pm at Orgon train station.
Setting up at base camp followed by the first climbing session on the cliffs of Orgon.
This first half-day allows us to discover the rock, review safety procedures and assess each person's level in order to adapt the stay.
Day 1 -
The Alpilles by bike
- Activity Gravel
- Duration of the activity 6h
- Distance 60 km
- Positive elevation gain 700 m
- Predominant type of road Cliff/Rack
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
A long cycling loop in the heart of the mountain range.
Approximately 60 km and 500 to 700 m of positive elevation gain , through olive groves, Provençal villages and the limestone landscapes that make the Alpilles famous.
Picnic in the great outdoors and discovery of local heritage.
Day 2 -
Climbing & Discovery
- Activity Gravel
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 35 km
- Activity Rock climbing
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Predominant type of road Cliff/Rack
- Accommodation Camping
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner included
Departure by bike towards a second climbing area (Eyguières or Mouriès depending on the conditions and the level of the group).
Approximately 30 to 40 km of cycling per day.
Another day of climbing to discover a different style of cliff and continue technical progression.
Day 3 -
Last routes & return
- Activity Rock climbing
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Predominant type of road Cliff/Rack
- Breakfast included
- Lunch included
- Dinner not included
Last morning of climbing on the cliffs of Orgon.
Lunch then return to Orgon station.
End of stay around 5:00 PM .
It is advisable to book a train from 5:30pm onwards .
Day 4
Note
The itinerary presented is provided for guidance purposes only and may be adapted depending on weather conditions, as well as the technical level and expectations of the group. The primary objective remains to offer you the best possible experience, ensuring your safety while prioritizing the exploration of the area.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at the campsite in Orgon. A tent, sleeping bag, mattress, and pillow are required. Please let us know if you do not have these items.
Access
The meeting point at the start and end of your stay will be at Orgon train station. We may experience delays due to unforeseen circumstances. Please allow for some flexibility and anticipate any potential changes to your train tickets.
Go to the starting point
The accommodation is fully accessible by public transport.
Go :
- Meet at 1:30pm at Orgon train station.
Back :
- Arrived at Orgon station around 5:00 PM .
- Plan to take a train from 5:30pm onwards .
Price details
The price includes
- The complete supervision and organization of the stay by a qualified professional
- Camping accommodation for 3 nights
- Renting a touring bike with helmet and panniers
- All meals from dinner on Day 1 to picnic lunch on Day 4
- Group climbing equipment (ropes, quickdraws, safety equipment)
- The communal kitchen equipment
The price does not include
- Transportation to the meeting point
- Drinks and personal expenses
- Individual camping equipment
- Anything not listed under "Price includes"
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment provided on site
If you do not have your own equipment, it is possible to borrow:
- Touring bike
- Bicycle panniers
- Bike helmet
- Harness
- Climbing helmet
Equipment to bring
- Climbing shoes
- Harness (if you have one)
- Small backpack (20 to 30 L)
- Water bottle (minimum 2 L)
- Headlamp
- Camping equipment
Clothing to bring
- Comfortable shoes for walking
- Clothing suitable for autumn
- Waterproof jacket
- Polar
- Lightweight down jacket
- Toiletries
- Personal matters
