Mont Ventoux Cycling Holidays

Highlights of Mount Ventoux Cycling Tours

Mont Ventoux, often dubbed the “Giant of Provence,” is an iconic peak that has earned legendary status largely thanks to its dramatic role in the Tour de France. Cycling Mont Ventoux is a rite of passage for any avid cyclist. Its punishing gradients and exposed summit have tested cycling’s greatest champions. Rising to 1,909 meters, it dominates the Provençal landscape and offers three distinct and challenging routes up, via Bédoin, Malaucène, and Sault, each offering its own mix of steep climbs and breathtaking views. The ride to the summit weaves through fragrant forests, lunar-like terrain, and panoramic vistas of the stunning Provence countryside, making it a bucket-list ascent for cyclists and a symbol of endurance in the sport.

Mount Ventoux Climbs We Offer

Mont Ventoux Climb from Bedoin.

Cycling Mont Ventoux from Bédoin is the most iconic and challenging route, climbing 21.5 km with around 1,600 meters of elevation at an average gradient of 7.5%. The ride starts gently through the Provençal village of Bedoin before hitting a long, demanding forest section that tests both legs and mind. Stop at Chalet Reynard or contniue pushing up. As you emerge into the exposed, barren upper slopes, the infamous winds and the haunting Tom Simpson memorial mark the final push toward the summit’s weather station, making this a legendary and unforgettable climb.

Read more about the Mt Ventoux climb from Bedoin.

Mont Ventoux Climb from Malaucène.

Cycling Mont Ventoux from Malaucène is a quieter yet beautiful ascent, matching Bédoin in length (around 21 km) and averaging a 7.2% gradient, with steeper pitches up to 12%. Leaving the charming historic village, famed for its weekly cherry market, you quickly enter peaceful countryside before the route opens up to spectacular Provençal panoramas . Though less trafficked, the climb challenges riders with its varied terrain and grand views, making it a top choice for those seeking beauty and tranquillity on Ventoux.

Read more about the Mt Ventoux climb from Malaucène.

Mont Ventoux Climb from Sault.

Cycling Mont Ventoux from Sault is generally considered the easiest way up the mountain. It's also much less crowded and more tranquil than the other 2 routes up to the weather station.

Read more about the Mt Ventoux climb from Sault.

Mount Ventoux Club des Cingles

The Club des Cinglés du Mont Ventoux, or “Ventoux Crazies Club,” was founded in 1988 by Christian Pic and celebrates riders who ride all three main ascents of Mont Ventoux—Bédoin, Malaucène, and Sault—within a single 24-hour period, earning membership with a stamped brevet card and official certification.

The challenge spans roughly 137–140 km and climbs about 4,300–4,400 m, with most riders completing it in 7½ to 10 hours, though full-day pacing is essential. It’s a true test of endurance with the most common sequence of ascents being Bédoin → Malaucène → Sault.