© Vaucluse en Provence
© Veronique Pagnier
© Ventoux Sud OT
© Mairie-aurel.fr
© Veronique Pagnier
Le Plateau de Sault, Mont Ventoux
A scenic 33km circuit around the lavender fields of Mont Ventoux
This delightful ride takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the area; vast Sault highlands, fields of lavender and golden crops. Along the way you can admire the magnificent views of Mont Ventoux and Montagne de Lure Mountain. You’ll pass through four charming old villages; each one crammed with ancient churches, crooked alleyways, splashing fountains and quaint little squares.
Our journey starts in Sault, one of the most popular stops on the lavender tours of Provence. If you’re here in summer then try to visit mid-August when they host annual lavender festivals. Sault’s beauty is such than it has been recognised and chosen for protection by UNESCO, one of only six sites in France to have been awarded the privilege.
Start at Sault tourist office and follow the D942 north for about 5km to reach the peaceful village of Aurel. The old stone houses of Aurel are nestled around a massive 12th century church, belonging to an old chateau. Aurel is extremely popular with painters, partly due to the inspiring landscape but also because of the quality of the light.
In Aurel, go around the village centre, turn right onto D95 and continue uphill in the direction of Saint Trinit. Take a right on the D1 toward Sault, Saint-Trinit and Saint-Christol, then pick up the D950 to Saint Trinit.
Saint Trinit is a tiny little village, surrounded by vast and awe inspiring views. Lavendar fields stretch out as far as you can see, contrasting against the golden crops of barley and spelt, the view is at its finest in July. Another 12th century church is at the heart of the village, and there are plenty of traces of years gone by in the streets and buildings. From the village centre, continue along the D95 then on to the D30 (militarised zone) until you reach Saint-Christol d’Albion.
Saint-Christol is fairly unique for two reasons; caves and animals. The area has many caves, hidden away from view, most with their fairy story of piece of folklore attached. Famous caves to be explored include the Aven de La Cervi, Aven Autran and Trou Souffleur. And as for the animals, well, just keep your eyes open! Creatures of all kinds decorate the village; you’ll find serpents, lions, mythical beasts and existing species hidden amongst the architecture. Finding them all makes a great game to keep children entertained. Surprisingly enough Saint Christol also has a 12th century church, this one built by Benedictine monks in 1119.
On leaving the village, turn right onto the D34 and climb steadily uphill for about 3km, the view expanding in all directions as you rise above the plains. Look out for a turnoff on your right, marked with a green cycle route sign. Turn right here onto the D245 and follow this road all the way back to Sault.
What to bring
Your camera, the views are unbelievable if you come during peak lavender season! There is not much shade on this route, so consider sun protection and plenty of drinking water as well.
What to see
Blue fields of lavender and golden fields of corn in summer, Mont Ventoux and medieval villages all year round.
Where to lunch
All of the villages are small and reasonably non-touristy, despite their location, so there isn't a massive choice of restaurants. Le Bistrot Saint-Trinit has a good reputation though for traditional Provencal cuisine, fresh seasonal ingredients and good local wine. Alternatively, you could stock up on supplies from the market and have a picnic en route. Sault holds a market on Wednesday mornings and Saint Christol has one on Sunday mornings.
