recommended route
Mont Ventoux Summit
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Photo: AbenteuerWege Reisen GmbH
'Beast of Provence' also known as the 'Bald Mountain', is the highest in the region at 1912m (though the sign states (1911m). Known for it's high winds, Ventoux has become one of the most testing climbs on the Tour de France circuit. averaging a a 7.5% gradient from Bedoin, the 22km climb reaches 10% on some stretches of the climb. After the 'Chalet' where the route from Sault joins, forested landscape givesway to a bald moonscape and this is where winds can add to the challenge of the ascent. On approach to the last KM you may wish to stop (if you can think you can get going again), at the Tom Simpson Memorial. One of Britains greatest professional cyclists, Simpson collapsed and died on the 13th stage of the 1967 Tour de France just 1KM from the summit of Mont Ventoux.
On arrival at the summit, take your time to enjoy the far reaching views of Bedoin and beyond. Your descent will be quick and fast as you head to Malaucene. On arrival at Malaucene take a few mins to find 'Le Teron Fountain'. Centuries old, the fountain has been rebuilt over the years to resemble the original.
Rolling back to Bedoin, there are plenty and cafes and bars to enjoy a post ride coffee with fellow riders all returning from the triumph of cycling Mont Ventoux.
Author’s recommendation
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Show elevation profileSafety information
Known for it's windy conditions at the summit, please always check locally for weather conditions before cycling Mont Ventoux. If neseccary, do not ride and always heed local conditions and advice. It isn't unsual (owing to the altitude), for Mont Ventoux to experience snowfall during summer months.Tips and hints
This ride is available on: SGRCMVP, SGRCMVW, SGRCMVILStart
Turn-by-turn directions
If you are staying at Crillon le Brave please proceed to Bedoin.
To start the Mont Ventoux climb you will need to proceed to the town centre of Bedoin.
0.00km - You begin your Mont Ventoux summit day by the fountain, in front of the Tourist Information building, at the north end of Bedoin. Take the D974 to le Mont Ventoux off the roundabout. Continue STRAIGHT ON on this road right to the summit.
4.00km - After 4kms you cycle STRAIGHT ON through the small village of Saint Colombe. There is a boulangerie here if you decide that you can fit just one more Pain au Raisin into your pocket! Youwil now start you're long ascent to the top.
When you're 4kms from the summit there's a fountain where you can top up your water bottle.
22.0km Congratulations, you've reached the top! Have a well earned rest, take some photos and enjoy the view. When you're ready to go, or the wind's too chilly, head STRAIGHT ON down the road on the north side (opposite to where you came up from) and begin the fantastic decent. Initially you cycle down through the trees and then it opens up to a long, winding road to the valley.
28.30km - If you're in need of any refreshments then can stop at a bar/restaurant here.
28.50km - At the roundabout, by a big stone sign for Station du Mont Serein, TURN LEFT on the D974 for Malaucene. Continue descending along this road for 15kms. Just before you reach the end, at le Groseau, there is a cafe and lovely picnic spot in the trees by the river.
43.40km - At the Stop sign go STRAIGHT ON, then BEAR LEFT onto Rue du Theron, and cycle through the low archway. There is a fountain here with drinking water. If you fancy 10 minutes off your bike you could lock your bike by the fountain and walk up the steps to 'Site Panoramique'. When ready, TURN LEFT in front of the fountain and TURN RIGHT just before the old church. Then TURN RIGHT again.
43.70km - At the junction go STRAIGHT ON and TURN LEFT on Chemin de Cremessiere. At the T-junction TURN RIGHT and then TURN LEFT up the short, steep hill.
44.50km - At the Stop sign TURN RIGHT onto the D938.
46.90km - The road tat you're on takes and sharp bend to the right but BEAR LEFT on the D1a to Bedoin.
49.20km - After a gentle ascent you will pass over Col de la Madeleine. Continue on this road until you arrive back at your starting point in Bedoin.
55.80km - At the Tourist Information Office, you have completed today's route.
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Equipment
Besides cycling in the kit you are used too, we'd also suggest taking the essentials of water bottle(s), nutrition, an extra layer, cash/credit cards and mobile together with emergency telephone numbers.
Always wear a helmet and pack a spare tube, puncture repair kit, tyre levers and handpump. You may also like to take a multi-tool.
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