We start with a hike, we finish with a canoe! Discover this original micro-adventure that will take you from canal to canal to Barthelasse Island, the largest river island in Europe! An (almost) 100% Grand-Avignon adventure, which will allow you to discover our territory from Vaucluse to Gard, between Rhône, Sorgues and Ouvèze.
nature trail
Day 1 > From Velleron to Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon: 12,5 km on foot (10mD+)
For this very first day, we take you to Velleron: our easternmost town in the region. Renowned for its famous farmers market (which takes place every evening, except Sunday, from 18 p.m. to 19:30 p.m.), Velleron will seduce your taste buds as soon as you arrive there. We recommend arriving the day before, so you can drop off your bags, enjoy the market and its open-air café, and stock up on fresh, local produce for your picnic on Day 1!
Allow 1 hour by bus from Avignon – Gare Centre. More information on the Orizo website
There are several nice accommodation options. (Please feel free to check out our accommodation recommendations, or contact with us!).
Early in the morning, head to Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon! A fairly easy and straightforward first day to get your legs going. When you arrive at your destination, don't hesitate to make a slight detour to the old washhouse and the old mill, vestiges of times gone by that are well worth a look.
You'll probably have time left to enjoy this beautiful little village and stroll through the flower-filled streets, between painted facades and stone buildings. In the evening, the Place des Cafés, with its lively bistro terraces, is a must-see meeting point. It's a great way to recharge your batteries for the second day of hiking that awaits you tomorrow!
Where to sleep in Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon
Canals and hiking
Day 2 > Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon to Barthelasse Island: 17,5 km on foot (120mD+)
We're starting the day with a focus on canals! These little marvels of Roman engineering still irrigate fields and create a unique network across the landscape. Cool fact: here, they're called "filioles"!
Then we head towards Jonquerettes by the Mule path, which winds through the vineyards to Morières-les-AvignonOnce you arrive at the village square, take a well-deserved coffee break.
We continue along the Canal de l'Hôpital, towards Montfavet and Avignon, via the famous “chemin des Canaux” which takes us straight to the ramparts of the City of the Popes. This section from Morières to Avignon is very urban (no magical landscapes but a real immersion in the heart of the region).
Once you arrive in Avignon, go through the Thiers Gate to enter the city walls and the Rue des Teinturiers, with its water wheels still in operation, a corner steeped in history that will not leave you indifferent.
As you travel through Avignon, you'll have the pleasure of strolling through the shopping streets, along Les Halles (the covered market) and the famous Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), all the way to the Porte de l'Oulle and the Pont Daladier. There, crossing the Rhône, you can admire the famous Pont Bénézet (yes, the one from "Sur le Pont d'Avignon"), which once connected the papal city to the Kingdom of France. Today, this bridge marks the border between Vaucluse and Gard.
And there you have it, welcome to Gard! Before joining Villeneuve lez Avignon, you will have a superb view from the bridge on the Philippe le Bel Tower, which once marked the end of the Pont d'Avignon.
Next, head to the Chemin des Castors, which runs along the Rhône to the Sandaya – Île des Papes campsite, your spot for the night. Here, a little nature bonus: it's an area where the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (CNR) is working hard to preserve biodiversity.
We recommend you spend the night at Sandaya Campsite, Green Key certified (pay attention to opening dates and rules for single nights). If you wish to stop a little further up the route, the Pont d'Avignon Campsite will be the ideal spot for you (special hiker rate + open 8 months a year). As for the Camping Bagatelle, it is, for its part, open all year round! Be careful, however, in July; we strongly advise against this period due to the high temperatures and the Avignon Festival (where campsites quickly fill up).
Adventure and canoeing on the Rhône
Day 3 > From Barthelasse Island to Avignon: 7 km on foot and 12 km by canoe
A gentle awakening, lulled by the chirping of birds. We continue our adventure on Barthelasse Island, a true river paradise. This is an opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of this unique island, the largest river island in Europe, with its orchards, trails, and breathtaking views of Avignon.
Small recent bonus: the new Himalayan footbridge, open since the beginning of 2023, now allows you to cross from one bank to the other with a touch of adventure thrown in. An experience not to be missed for lovers of gentle sensations and beautiful views of the Rhône!
Next, head to the Chemin des Confines, which takes you to the starting point for a canoe trip. In total, it's barely a 2-hour walk to reach the pier!
Here we go 12 km of autonomous navigation, quiet and without difficulty, about 2h30 of paddling. The route will take you from the Ouvèze to the Rhône, with a spectacular view of the Palais des Papes and the Pont Bénézet. The arrival on the Rhône is simply majestic, a moment to savor to the fullest.
Book your canoe in advance!
To end the day in style, we strongly advise you to sleep at Villeneuve lez Avignon. This way, the next day, you'll have time to discover the city's other heritage treasures, such as Fort Saint-André or the Chartreuse. A great way to round off this adventure in style!
Velleron
Renowned for its farmers' market, stock up on local produce for your picnics!
Saint-Saturnin-lès-Avignon
Perfect blend of provencal charm and local history! Between his old wash and his period mill, this village immerses you directly in the authentic atmosphere of Vaucluse.
Jonquerettes
Jonquerettes is a small village nestled in the heart of the vineyards, ideal for a quiet break. The Smugglers' Trail which crosses its lands offers superb views on the surrounding vineyards. Here, the atmosphere is peaceful, perfect for lovers of nature and tranquility.
Morières-lès-Avignon
Morières-lès-Avignon is a lively and welcoming village, known for its local markets and cultural events. Surrounded by typical Provençal landscapes, it is perfect for a gourmet break or a leisurely stroll. With its natural heritage and proximity to Avignon, it's an ideal spot for nature and culture lovers.
Avignon
Avignon, the famous City of the Popes, is a true jewel of French heritage, where history and culture meet on every street corner. With its imposing Palais des Papes and its iconic Pont Bénézet, the city offers a fascinating medieval atmosphere to explore. Not to mention its vibrant festivals and Provençal gastronomy, Avignon is a must-see for all lovers of art and good food!
Barthelasse island
Barthelasse Island is a true haven of peace, nestled between the arms of the Rhône. It is the largest river island in Europe, offering a unique blend of orchards, bucolic trails and exceptional panoramas over Avignon. Perfect for a bike ride or a nature break, it is the ideal spot to recharge your batteries far from the hustle and bustle of the city while remaining a stone's throw from the city of the Popes.
Villeneuve lez Avignon
It's a charming little gem just across the Rhone from Avignon. Less touristy than its big sister, but just as cool and quieter, this village will transport you with its cobbled streets, old buildings, and hidden gardens. The imposing Fort St-Andre offers a crazy view of the region, while the Charterhouse of Villeneuve is a haven of peace to explore. With its tranquil atmosphere and charming little spots for eating or drinking, it's the perfect spot for a relaxing moment away from the hustle and bustle of Avignon.
A palette of experience
Need adventure?
There are many other micro-adventures and other trails to discover in the region, whether on foot or by bike! The Provençal trails, with their varied landscapes, offer countless possibilities for hikers. The cycle paths allow two-wheel enthusiasts to explore the local wonders while enjoying the fresh air. Prepare to experience unique moments in the heart of Provence and create unforgettable memories during your next getaway!
