Vaucluse is a cyclist’s paradise. No doubt about it, cycling through the Vaucluse is one of the very best ways to drink in the contrasting landscapes, enjoy the winding country roads, and feel the life and beauty here. Mountain-biking trails abound in the hills and mountains in Vaucluse, … Discover all the circuits: for exploring the Côtes du Rhône vineyards, the lavender fields and highlands in the Sault area, the range of hills known as the Dentelles de Montmirail, the Roman presence in Vaison-la-Romaine, the beautiful hilltop villages in the Luberon, the Sorgues area, the Nesque river canyons, …
Mount Ventoux is legendary as one of the most grueling climbs in the Tour de France. It is here that legendary British cyclist Tom Simpson collapsed. It is also the one stage Lance Armstrong really wanted to win but never did. The mountain is the biggest in Provence. It is located approximately 20 km north east of Carpentras in the Vaucluse, and is bordered by the Drôme department in the north. Mont Ventoux is geologically part of the Alps, but is often considered to be separate from them due to the lack of mountain range of similar height anywhere nearby. The mountain stands alone to the west of the Luberon valley and to the east of the Dentelles de Montmirail, the foothills of Mount Ventoux.
The mountain is a must for cyclists, and can be climbed by three separate roads. The most famous and difficult ascent is the road south from Bédoin (22 km over 1610 meters). The second is the road north from Malaucène (21 km over 1570 meters). This road is better sheltered from the wind than the road from Bédoin. The last road is the easiest route and can be taken east from Sault (26 km over 1220 meters). The best months to make the climb are May, June and September. The downhill ride is great if you like speed.
There are numerous cycle rental shops in the area, the largest being in the village of Bedoin.