The Dutchman’s 32:25 was a full 22 seconds clear of the field, and catapulted him to the top of the standings, taking the leader’s jersey from Andre Griepel, winner on stage one.
Maxime Monfort (RadioShack Leopard) took second place behind the Blanco Pro Cyclign rider, while Anthony Roux (FDJ), 14 seconds further adrift, completed the top three.
Nicolas Roche of Ireland finished eighth on the day.
Stage three of the race, which finishes on Sunday, continues with a 140km route from the outskirts of Marseille to St Remy de Provence.
