At the heart of the countryside once painted by Vincent Van Gogh, and at the foot of the Montmajour Abbey, you’ll find the Alpilles Rail Biking Experience, a unique railway attraction connecting the city of Arles to the town of Fontvielle. This activity is perfect for families wanting to explore the countryside, taking you through the sunflower and rice fields of the Montmajour Valley.
What is the Alpilles Rail Biking Experience? What are the main sights to see along the railway and the best things to do nearby? That’s what we’re going to discover in this post.
What is the Rail Biking Experience and How Does it Work?
The Alpilles Rail Biking Experience takes place along the old Gare de Fontevielle – Abbaye de Montmajour railway line. Built in 1875, the railway line is located between Arles and the town of Salon-de-Provence, and these old tracks hold many stories. Back in the day, the railway was used to transport goods such as local quarry stones, wine and olive oil. It was also used to transport passengers between the two stations. However, thanks to the growing popularity of the automobile, and of the bus network, passenger transport on the railway stopped in 1933. After the Second World War, the railway line ceased operations altogether until 2001, when it was refurbished and used as a sightseeing train – the Alpilles sightseeing train – until 2013. In 2021, the railway line started offering a new and unique service: the Alpilles Rail Biking Experience!
The idea is simple: visitors board a vehicle that can seat up to five people and pedal along the old railway line. It’s a relaxing activity that the whole family will enjoy!
A Journey Through the Alpilles Countryside
The Alpilles Rail Biking Experience departs from two different stations: from Arles, or from Fontvielle. The 4.5-kilometre route takes you on a journey of discovery though a variety of environments. If you start your adventure in Fontvielle, you’ll first pass under the branches of a dense forest, which leads out to farmland. From there, you can admire the vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, as well as a rice paddy and fields of rapeseed, sunflowers and even melons, all at your own pace.
Further along the route, you can admire the silhouette of a large statue of a horserider and his steed standing atop Cordes Mountain. Beyond the mountain, you’ll be treated to an unrivaled view of the Montmajour Abbey and its ruins. The abbey, which was founded in 948 by Benedictine monks, has since become a national protected monument. As you return to Fontevielle, above the pine forest, you’ll see the Saint-Pierre Windmill, known to be an inspiration for writer Alphonse Daudet, author of The Secret of Master Cornille. Please note that, during your trip, you cannot get off the rail bike. The railway line is monitored by a guard at the level crossing.
Must-See Sights During the Alpilles Rail Biking Experience
There are a number of must-see sights along the rail biking route. First, you won’t want to miss the Montmajour Abbey, a majestic building whose crypt dates back to the 12th century and offers a panoramic view at its highest point. In the distance, you’ll notice the Barbegal Roman Aqueduct, a historic sight that you can visit after your rail biking experience.
During your adventure, near Fontvielle, you’ll see the Daudet Windmill, a windmill that owes its popularity to author Alphonse Daudet, whom the windmill was named after. Along the route, as well as the different monuments to see, you’ll also be surrounded by fields and farmland, adding a touch of natural charm to the experience.
Nearby Activities to Enhance Your Experience
The rail biking experience is not the only thing to do in the Alpilles region. Why not enhance your visit by discovering the other towns and monuments that the region has to offer, such as the nearby city of Arles? A city full of art and history, take some time to wander around the city and discover its Roman and Romanesque monuments, such as the ancient theatre, arenas and even the Arlaten Museum, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
If you’re interested in Gallo-Roman monuments, why not visit the Barbegal Roman aqueducts, which are not far from the Alpilles Rail Biking Experience? The aqueduct dates back to the 11th century and was built to transport drinking water from the Alpilles mountain range to Arles and to provide water to a local flour mill.
If hiking is more your thing, why not take a walk through the Alpilles Natural Regional Park, a fantastic mountainous nature reserve offering several marked trails perfect for hikers, bike riders and horseriders alike? Basically, if you enjoy outdoor activities, Alpilles is for you, with enough activities to keep you busy for your entire stay!
Some Recommendations For Making the Most of Your Rail Biking Experience
The Alpilles Rail Biking Experience is best enjoyed with family and friends. There are many visitor facilities available to help you make the most of your adventure. If you’re arriving by car and are starting your journey from Fontevielle, you can park in the car park opposite the Fontvielle Tourist Office. From there, head to Rue de la Gare, which is easily accessible on foot. If you’re setting off from Arles, that is easy too: there is a free car park available close to the rail biking experience and another close to a bus stop, where lines 2, 4, 5 and 12 can take you to and from the rail biking experience.
Tickets for the rail biking experience cost €14 for adults and €8 for children aged 5-17 (under 5s travel for free).
The Alpilles Rail Biking Experience: A Unique Adventure Not to be Missed
Looking for a place to relax and enjoy a quiet moment in nature at your own pace? Hop on board the Alpilles Rail Biking Experience and discover the surroundings of Arles, spending time with your closest family and friends in the South of France! All you need to do is find the perfect accommodation for your stay, and that’s where we come in!
Visit our website to compare different accommodation options and find the one that is best for you!
