Avignon- the cycling begins

Avignon was once the home of the Catholic Church. It has the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) adjacent to the cathedral, Notre Dame des Doms d'Avignon. The entire city is a mix of original or restored buildings and some newer ones. It has the wall all around though the gates remain open and a few more access points cut through.

The city lies adjacent to the River Rhone which we followed all the way down from Lyon. On the northern side of the city lies another and most recognizable landmark, the Pont d'Avignon, a bridge now only reaching 2/3 across the River.

The day started with our cycling group collecting and adjusting our bikes, then setting off on a leisurely ride on mostly secluded roads through farmland. We passed through a number of villages before returning to Avignon. Most notable of these was Villeneuve Les Avignon, famous for its cake shop. It also has a cathedral Notre Dame du val de Benediction and the castle Fort Saint Andre, which was the home of the Cardinals.Read more