Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque cycling route

This challenging cycling route incorporates both Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque. Whilst it may only be 110km/68mi in length you will be embarking on a ride that not only includes the difficult climb of Mont Ventoux (via Bedoin) but also then explores more of the surrounding Luberon region. A ride with plenty of climbing but also some of the most breathtaking scenery as well.

Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque – the best of the Luberon

The ride begins with firstly tackling the ascent of Mont Ventoux via Bédoin before descending down the Malaucéne side. Once there you will return to Bedoin via Sault and the stunning balcony road of the Gorges de la Nesque. The majority of the climbing for the ride of course comes straight away as you ride the climb of Ventoux. As the ride profile suggests, from the summit the remainder of the ride is predominantly downhill. Whilst a challenging route this is definitely achievable by riders of reasonable fitness and one we would recommend taking on.

Jean-Marc Rosier from http://www.rosier.pro, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Suggested cycling route

Food and water

There are numerous places to restock on food and water. These include:

• Bédoin
• Chalet Reynard
• Mont Ventoux Summit
• Malaucéne
• Sault
• Villes-sur-Auzon

Highlights

• Reaching the summit of one of the most iconic climbs in France – Mont Ventoux

• The long descent back to Malaucéne

• The smell and sight of lavender from the farms near Sault

• Riding along one of France’s most stunning balcony roads – The Gorges de la Nesque.

• A ride which incorporates both Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque

The iconic red and white striped aerial tower at the summit of Mont Ventoux.

This challenging cycling route of both Mont Ventoux and the Gorges de la Nesque is just one of many great rides you can discover whilst you stay in the Luberon and Provence regions of France. We have mapped out several other rides which you may also wish to consider and you can read more about them here.

If you are interested in a holiday in this area of France then check out our destination guide. We have listed out lots of helpful information such as traveling to and from the region, accommodation available as well as other attractions and activities to explore.