The Foothills of Mont Ventoux, Bedoin

Pleasant half day ride through Provencal villages

featured in Cycling routes Updated 19 April 2017

Mont Ventoux is famous for being one of the toughest climbs on the Tour de France, keen cyclists come from all over the world to pit themselves against the long steep ascent to the summit. This route gives you a gentle tour of the area surrounding the “windy mountain” without actually battling your way to the top.

The ride starts from the charming village of Bedoin, a popular destination for cyclists with lots of bike shops in case you need to pick up any bits and pieces before you set off. At the centre of the village is a car park with a petrol station opposite; starting from here we head west out of Bédoin in the direction of Mont Ventoux until we reach a fork in the road, turn right and stay on the Chemin de la Montagne.

Continue cycling west until you reach Chemin des Demoiselles Coiffées then turn right and carry on to the small hamlet of Les Baux. From Les Baux we head south along the Route des Baux, turning left onto the D19 to Flassan.

Flassan is a pretty little place, with colourful houses and a 12th century church. Once at Flassan, turn left and circle round the village until you get to the war memorial. Turn right here to reach the square in front of the Town Hall (“Hotel de Ville”). Heading south again, follow the Chemin du Château, briefly join the D184, and then take the first left along a forested road towards Mormoiron. You’ll pass the lake of Salettes on your left, a popular swimming and sunbathing spot with sandy beaches surrounded by pine forests. If you’re looking for a good picnic spot then you can stop here and cool your feet in the water at the same time!

Head north out of Mormoiron along the Chemin des Oumettes until you reach the D14, which brings you back to Bédoin after a ride of about 23km.

Watch out for

Some of the roads around this area can get busy during the peak summer months, so be aware of traffic when turning from small country roads on to bigger roads.

Who should go

Although being so close to the mighty Mont Ventoux, this ride has very little ascent. What climbing there is, is done in the first half and then it's mostly a downhill cruise back to the start. It is ideal for people who are more interested in admiring the lovely scenery than in powering up steep climbs.

Dining in [locality]

You'll find a nice mix of restaurants in Bedoin, from pizzas and pasta to more traditional local cuisine. Try "Pasta e Basta" for carb-loading meals or "Lily et Paul" for some good Mediterranean food in a nice courtyard setting.

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Hotels in [locality]

There are a handful of small hotels and B&B's in and around Bedoin. The Hotel des Pins is one of our favourites, with an outdoor pool and beautiful gardens.

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What to bring

Much of this route is very exposed, so be careful to protect yourself from the sun. High factor sun cream, sun glasses and a hat are essential as is plenty of drinking water.

What to see

As well as passing through a handful of pretty little villages, this route will take you past orchards growing typical Provencal crops such as cherries, olives and grapes.

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