Ventoux may be a Holy Grail for road and sports cyclists, but there are plenty of other routes around this part of Provence for cyclicts of all abilities.
Click routes on the map above for GPX downloads (click here for Ventoux itself)
We've got lots of information on the site about climbing Ventoux – see here for some top tips, and here for an overview of what to expect. We even have this article from Paul Lamarra, who climbed the thing on his folder.
But that's not what this page is about. (Click here for GPX downloads for the three bike routes to the top of Mont Ventoux).
This page covers a bunch of other great routes around the Géant of Provence. There are routes here for all abilities – from gentle leisure routes to harder warm up rides before taking on the main event of Ventoux itself.
Click the routes on the map above for more information and GPX files for each route. These tend to be local day rides that are gentler than the ride to the Ventoux summit, though there are exceptions with some more moderate and challenging routes thrown in (especially around the hilltop villages).
If you need a little boost, there is a network of electric bikes available for hire to help you up the hills. We road-tested it here.
Ventoux in the distance. Photo: Alain Hocquel-Coll ADT Vaucluse Tourisme
The area around Ventoux is rich in vineyards, orchards, river routes and lavender fields. It's also plentiful in Medieval villages, Roman ruins and Templar history.
And while the Giant of Provence may prove a pedal too far for many leisure riders, this page proves it is possible to find easier and more moderate routes at the foot of the Ventoux (many of them fully signposted). You just need to know where to start. This is particularly good news for families and newer cyclists who want to ride in the area while mum or dad are off pedalling Ventoux.
Many of these route suggestions and GPX downloads (click individual routes on the map above for downloads) come via the Vaucluse Tourist Board – downloadable route notes are available here in PDF format fo rmost of them.
Bespoke supported Ventoux rides
Organised rides throughout Provence
More on cycling in Provence
Tips for climbing Ventoux