Three Iconic Routes to Mont Ventoux Summit
🚵 Three Iconic Routes to Mont Ventoux Summit
1. Bédoin Route (South Side)
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Distance: ~21 km | Elevation Gain: ~1,610 m
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Average Gradient: ~7.5% overall (first 5.5 km gentler at ~4.4%, then ~9% in the forest, rising above 11–12% near the summit) Charlotte Plans a Trip+14Freewheeling France+14marvellous-provence.com+14wheelale.co.uk
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Highlights: The most iconic and challenging ascent featured in the Tour de France; very exposed wind-swept summit. Noted for its steep forested section to Chalet Reynard and sweeping lunar terrain above it Cyclingnews+4Wikipedia+4France Vélo Tourisme+4.
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Legend: Site of British cyclist Tom Simpson’s tragic death in 1967, a memorial shrine stands near the summit The Times+4wheelale.co.uk+4The Independent+4.
2. Malaucène Route (North-West Side)
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Distance: ~21 km | Elevation Gain: ~1,570 m
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Average Gradient: Similar to Bédoin but more variable and slightly less crowded Freewheeling France+14Freewheeling France+14marvellous-provence.com+14.
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Experience: A quieter alternative with expansive views across Provence, appreciated for being visually scenic yet similarly tough France Vélo Tourisme+10Freewheeling France+10The Times+10.
3. Sault Route (East Side)
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Distance: ~26 km | Elevation Gain: ~1,145–1,220 m
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Average Gradient: ~4.4–5.0% overall; gentler start transitioning into the steep final segment from Chalet Reynard (~8–10%) Cyclingnews+6Freewheeling France+6France Vélo Tourisme+6.
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Preferred For: A more moderate and scenic climb through lavender fields, suitable for less experienced cyclists, though still challenging near the summit
| Route | Start Point | Distance | Elevation Gain | Avg Gradient | Difficulty | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bédoin | South | ~21 km | ~1,610 m | ~7.5% | Very Hard | Tour classic, winds, memorial, exposure |
| Malaucène | North-West | ~21 km | ~1,570 m | ~7.5% approx | Hard | Quieter, scenic climbs |
| Sault | East | ~26 km | ~1,145–1,220 m | ~4.5% | Moderate | Lavender valleys, gentler initial pace |
🌍 Significance in Cycling & as Tourist Attraction
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Mont Ventoux remains a mythic climb in Tour de France history, often dubbed the “Giant of Provence” or “Bald Mountain” The Times+1wheelale.co.uk+1Charlotte Plans a Trip+1Le Rêve Provençal+1marionbarral.com+12Cyclingnews+12The Guardian+12.
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It returns as a summit finish in Stage 16 of the 2025 Tour after a four-year hiatus, reaffirming its legendary status Cyclingnews+2Cyclingnews+2Cycling Weekly+2.
🧭 Planning Tips & Insights
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Maps and GPX files are available for each route from sources like Freewheeling France, Komoot, and WheelAle Bikemap+6Freewheeling France+6Freewheeling France+6.
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Experience levels:
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Bédoin for experienced climbers seeking Tour-worthy challenge.
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Malaucène for a similarly tough but slightly quieter route.
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Sault for a more accessible but still rewarding ride with scenic rewards.
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🧗♀️ Bonus Option: Hiking Trails
There are long-distance hikes (GR4, GR9) around Mont Ventoux that offer trekking routes near the summit (e.g., a 20 km hike with ~900 m climb) and showcase wild flora and fauna and scenic views across Provence
