PROVENCE - THE ALPILLES - GETTING AROUND

By Bus

Bus services in Provence (www.info-les.fr) is fairly good along the coast, but traveling inland is not quite as easy because the bus services are infrequent and not that extensive. Most villages in the Alpilles have a limited bus service. The main hub is Apt, which has buses to local villages, and a regular bus link to Cavaillon and Avignon. Check the website for details of the different lines. For timetables on the Vaucluse region visit: www.vaucluse.fr/fr/deplacements/transports-cars-transvaucluse/horaires-lignes-transvaucluse

By Car

A car is the best way to get around the Alpilles region. Car rentals are available at all arrival points in France (airport, train station, port, etc.). The network of country roads and highways are easy to navigate.

There are several car parks around the Alpilles, many just outside the towns and villages. You will park your car and then walk a few minutes to the center of town. It is fairly easy to drive and park in the area. You will just need to pay attention to where the parking locations are.

Car Rentals: To rent a car, you`ll need to present a passport, a driver`s license, and a credit card. You will also have to meet the company`s minimum age requirement; 21 or above at most rental agencies. The biggest agencies have pickup spots all over Southern France, including Budget (www.budget.com; Tel. 800-472-3325); Hertz (www.hertz.com; Tel. 800-654-3001); and Europcar (www.europcar.com; Tel. 877-940-6900 in the U.S. and Canada).

By Bicycle

Cycling in the Luberon is a very popular way of exploring this destination. The region can be hilly and many of the villages are on top of a short hill, but the villages are not far apart. Cycling the area will bring you past vineyards, orchards, sunflowers, wineries, ochre valleys, and lavender trails while offering the most spectacular views.

There are some signs posted cycling routes in the Alpilles, but you may want to build your own route. Visit: www.veloloisirprovence.com/frto learn more about cycling in the Alpilles.

By Walking

The Alpilles offers an extensive and accessible network of walking paths and trails, linking villages that are often just a few miles apart. There are trails for people of all abilities, including many hikes which are very suitable for families with younger children. These trails are extensive, well-maintained and reasonably marked. The walking paths will take you through farms, vineyards, orchards and woods offering the most breathtaking views.

Winter, spring and fall are ideal times to use these walking trails. If you hike the trails in the summer, try to walk/hike in the early morning or late afternoon and be sure to drink plenty of water. Summer is typically a dry time of year, and some areas may be closed for hiking due to the risk of fires.

By Taxi

Taxis and private car hires are available to help you visit the Provence - the Alpilles region. Some taxi services will offer you a choice of several tours and can accommodate larger groups as well.