Mont Ventoux, the 1,910 m "Giant of Provence" in the Vaucluse department, is one of the most famous climbs in road cycling and a regular feature of the Tour de France. The classic ascent starts in the village of Bédoin, about 45 km northeast of Avignon, near the Place de l'Eglise, and follows the D974 for 21.5 km with roughly 1,600 m of climbing. The final six kilometres above the tree line, through the pale, barren limestone of the summit slopes, are exposed and often windy, and they finish at the weather station and the memorial to the British rider Tom Simpson close to the top.
This is a demanding effort. Riders should have strong fitness and some experience of long climbs, as the average gradient is around 7.5 percent and the section through the Forêt des Cèdres, known as the Chalet Reynard stretch, sits at about 9 to 10 percent. Most recreational cyclists need three to five hours to reach the summit and about an hour to descend. There is no formal age limit, but the climb is unsuitable for young children, and riders under 18 should be accompanied. Electric bikes make the climb accessible to less experienced riders.
There is no single operator; the ascent is self-organised. Bicycle shops in Bédoin rent road bikes at about EUR 35-50 per day and e-bikes at about EUR 50-70. Riders bring a helmet, two full water bottles, food, and a windproof jacket and gloves for the summit, where the temperature can be 15 to 20 degrees below that at the base even in July. Guided and supported rides are offered by local cycling companies for those who want logistics handled.
Safety depends on preparation. The road is open to traffic and shared with motorists, motorcyclists and many other cyclists, so riders should keep to the right and take care on the fast descent, where strong gusts from the mistral can destabilise a bike. There are no formal rescue stations along the climb, but the road is busy and the number for emergency services is 112. Riders should carry a phone, tell someone their plan and descend in warm clothing, because hypothermia is a real risk after a sweaty climb.
The best window is June to September, when the summit road is clear and daytime conditions are most stable. Early morning starts avoid both heat on the lower slopes and afternoon thunderstorms. The summit road is usually closed by snow from about November to April, and the climb should be avoided during strong mistral winds or storm warnings.
| Price | Road bike rental about EUR 35-50 (~$40-58) per day; e-bike about EUR 50-70 (~$58-81) |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 to 5 hours up, 1 hour down |
| Difficulty | hard |
| Season | June-September |
| Address | Place de l'Eglise, 84410 Bédoin, France |
Activity facts
- Where
- Bédoin, Vaucluse (about 45 km northeast of Avignon)
Equipment
Road or e-bike with low gears, helmet, windproof jacket for the summit, two bottles of water, food
Location
Place de l'Eglise, 84410 Bédoin, France
44.1233, 5.1788 View on map
Highlights
- Climb 21.5 km and about 1,600 m to the 1,910 m summit of Mont Ventoux
- Ride through the Forêt des Cèdres before the exposed lunar summit slopes
- Pass the Tom Simpson memorial near the top
- Enjoy panoramic views over Provence and towards the Alps from the summit
Tips for visiting
- Start early, ideally before 8 am, to avoid heat on the lower slopes and afternoon storms.
- Carry a windproof jacket and gloves for the summit and the long descent; it can be far colder than Bédoin.
- Check the forecast for mistral winds and the road status before setting out, as the summit road closes in snow.
- Rent a road bike or e-bike in Bédoin early in the day in July and August, as shops can run out.
- Refill water at Bédoin before departure, since there are few reliable refill points on the climb.
When to visit
June to September is the most reliable window. Start at dawn in midsummer to avoid heat and storms, and avoid days with strong mistral winds.
Accessibility
The climb requires riding a road bike or e-bike on a public road and is not suitable for wheelchair users. Visitors with limited mobility can drive to the summit when the road is open.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the Bédoin ascent?
It is a hard climb of 21.5 km with about 1,600 m of ascent and sections near 10 percent. Strong fitness and some climbing experience are advised.
How long does it take?
Most recreational riders take three to five hours to reach the summit and about an hour to descend.
Can an e-bike be used?
Yes. E-bikes can be rented in Bédoin and make the climb more accessible, though battery range should be checked before setting out.
When is the summit road open?
The road is generally open from late spring to early autumn and is closed by snow from about November to April. Check local road status before leaving.