Cycling UK Forum

I did this journey in July 2009 and I booked a through ticket on the main Eurostar site without a problem. There are far fewer journeys changing at Lille so be sure to check all times. You may have a problem if you are trying to book too far in advance [3 months?] as the SNCF 'portion' may not be available.

The change at Lille is very, very staightfoward - lifts +trolleys are available. Do not even consider a Paris change unless you will be visiting the city.





When I booked, the first class advance fares were actually cheaper than standard advance.

I bagged the bike using a TISO survial bag- double size [£4?] and some 'FRAGILE' tape [wheels are removed & placed in frame triangle]. Fits in Eurostar +TGV racks + through X-RAY scanners - pas de problem. On arrival I rolled TISO bag up and put in saddlebag and used it as groundsheet during trip. THERE ARE NO LEFT LUGGAGE LOCKERS AT AVIGNON TGV.




The TGV will 'dump' you outside the Avignon ring-road but look out for a cycle path/pavement on the east side of the main road leading into Avignon. This will take you to the old city walls.

I could not find cheap accommodation in Avignon. However, I would recommend the HI Hostel at FONTAINE DE VAUCLUSE [near La Isle sur sa Sour]. It's not more than half a day from Avignon but a beautiful, traditional Provencal Hostel.