Mont Ventoux 3 in 1
The notorious Mont Ventoux stands proud in Provence, southern France. Famous for its barren landscape and unrelenting heat, this is truly one of the great ‘classic climbs’. We attack the mountain on day two of a three day ride with the aim of joining the Club des Cingles du Mont-Ventoux, climbing all three routes in one day.
This route offers plenty of flexibility and isn’t limited to the example shown here. There are many different ways to do this journey, and we can adapt it to your requirements. The options are endless, what you’ll find below is simply a typical itinerary.
Mont Ventoux 3 in 1 Itinerary
Day 1 Travel – 47km, 789m
Fly from the UK to Marseille Airport, with a transfer to the town of Vaison-la-Romaine where we will be based for the next few days. Flight times permitting, a warm up ride follows in the afternoon, before heading back for dinner and a good night’s sleep.
Day 2 – 157km, 4675m Elevation
After an early breakfast, briefing and the ceremonial handing over of the cingle brevet card and plate to affix to your bicycle, you will be heading to the start at the base of Mont Ventoux. The first climb starts off from Malaucène which has an average gradient of 7.2% over 21km ascending to 1550m. Once your first ascent has been completed it is down to Sault to attempt the second ascent. This side is regarded as the easier ascent because over the first 20km there is an average gradient of 3.6%. With every uphill there is a downhill, and we are soon on our way back down. The third and final route up is regarded as the classic way up the mountain from Bedouin. With an average gradient of 7.5% over 21.5km, you will be hoping for a tail wind to get you over the last few kilometres as you pass the Simpson Memorial. Once you have reached the top for a third and final time you will be able to take in the view and appreciate your exertions and achievements. The final descent is down to the base at Malaucene and the short journey back to the hotel, where you can toast your achievements.
‘Simply the best. Brilliant routes, charming support staff, knowledgeable guides, great coffee stops, good lunches, spot on hotels.’ – Tim, Badgers
Day 3 – 63km, 596m Elevation
For a warm down after yesterday’s exertions we head south, towards the town of Carpentras. The route will look familiar to some as you enter the towns of Malaucène. The rolling hills at the foot of Ventoux act as reminder of yesterday’s achievements. The route crosses back and forth over the L’Ouveze river with amazing views throughout of the Beast of Ventoux. We arrive back to our hotel for a well earned shower and meal before the transfer back to Marseille airport.
