Mont Ventoux

Mont Ventoux is the highest peak in the Vaucluse department of Provence, about 60 km northeast of Avignon, rising to roughly 1,900 metres above the surrounding plains and famous both as a Tour de France climb and as a viewpoint. The drive takes about 1 hour 15 minutes via Carpentras and Bédoin on the D974, and no public transport reaches the summit, so a car is required; summit parking is free. The road is closed in snow, so it is usually open from late spring to autumn, and conditions should be checked before setting out. The summit area is bare limestone with a weather station tower, and on clear days the view takes in the Alps, the Rhône valley and, at times, the Mediterranean; wind and cold are common even in summer, and temperatures can be much lower than in Avignon. A suggested day starts early, driving to Bédoin for a coffee, then climbing the D974 to the summit in the morning when visibility is best and clouds are less likely to gather. Walkers can follow trails from the summit area or the slopes, and cyclists attempt the ride from Bédoin, one of the classic routes, which is a serious effort of several hours for fit riders. For most drivers the summit stop takes one to two hours. The descent through the Sault side or back via Bédoin leads to village stops for lunch, with cafés and bakeries in Bédoin and Sault, the latter known for its lavender fields in summer. The pre-dawn or early start and the altitude push the classification toward hard for anyone cycling or hiking. The best period is June to October, with the clearest light in early autumn; snow limits access in winter. A windproof layer, sun protection and water are essential at the top.