Picturesque Provence - self-guided cycling in the Luberon

After spending your first night in Pernes-les-Fontaines you cycle through pretty L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, famed for its waterwheels and the Sunday antique market. From here you ride via the mediaeval village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse with its beautiful springs to Les Imberts, situated just below the gorgeous hilltop town of Gordes.
The next day is left free and you can spend it walking up to Gordes to explore its streets, alleyways and castle, or cycle or hike to l’Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque where from late June through July the fields of lavender may give you a wonderful photographic opportunity.
Ride on to pretty Roussillon where you can walk the Ochre Trail, wander up to the top of town for a marvellous view, or indulge in ice cream or coffee. Along quiet lanes and past vineyards you reach Saint-Saturnin-les-Apt, set on a hill, before riding into the bustling town of Apt. if you timed it right the Saturday market in Apt is worth a visit. Otherwise explore the old town or make a side trip to pretty Saignon, a picturesque hamlet offering great views over the Luberon, along with some good restaurants.
Crossing Roman Pont Julien you next cycle along quiet country lanes to the delightful villages of Bonnieux and Lacoste, En-route you pass Château la Connorgue, famous from the movie A Good Year.
A free day in Maubec allows you to explore further afield: the pretty villages of Lagnes, Taillades and Robion, historical Saint-Remy-de-Provence, Roman Glanum or the monastery of Saint Paul de Mausole are all options.
Your final cycling days will have you reach the hilltop town of Thouzon where a fortified monastery and caves are begging to be explored.