In our series Classic Rides We take you along the most iconic climbs in the world. From legends from the Tour de France to new classics. This time, it’s all about one of the most famous cols in Europe: the Col d’Iseran. Mont Ventoux. The duo Erwin Visser and Erwin Reijneveld – better known together as the Mountain High Chasers – is on a mission to complete fifty legendary climbs before their 50th birthday. And of course, the Mont Ventoux Not to be missed on their list. This bald giant of Provence is an ultimate test for many cyclists. The Cycling on Mont Ventoux Means climbing 21 kilometers with long, straight sections, a lot of wind, and a legendary lunar landscape at the top. In this episode you’ll read all about them climb of the Mont Ventoux – and why you should have driven this classic giant once too.
Every story has a beginning
Every story has a beginning. Our story began on the ‘bare mountain’, that is, Mont Ventoux. The mountain that speaks to everyone’s imagination, whether you are a cyclist or not. The mountain that intimidates many tourists and the mountain that is a goal in itself for many.
Of Mont Ventoux It has three routes up (more about them later), all of which lead to the iconic tower at the top. Whether you start in Malaucène, Sault or Bédoin, the fact is that you have to climb quite a few meters to get to the top. To get there, you have to climb at least 1515m up! Mont Ventoux is truly the giant of Provence.
Bédoin
When you decide to start in Bédoin, the village has clearly indicated where exactly you should be located, with a sign that is not to be missed. Handy if you want to set a good segment. Once clicked, the road immediately starts to climb towards what is set to be a unique climb. In addition to the climbing statistics available for the Ventoux, there are other important factors to consider. The Ventoux wouldn’t be the Ventoux if the weather conditions remained calm. In our case, it was 23 degrees with a nice sun shining on us. On top of that, it was only 4 degrees with snow. So be prepared well before you embark on the climb!
Rap in red
When you leave Bédoin, your legs are quickly exhausted. We really don’t know what causes this. This is a pitfall for many climbs. The Mont Ventoux is no exception; for this classic in particular, you’ll encounter the hammer man as soon as you start too fast. The first 5.5 kilometers of the Ventoux are quite manageable, but remember what’s coming next. After these first kilometers, turn left at Saint-Estève and it seems as if you’re starting with a new climb.
The ascent rates are accelerating and the friendly rural landscape transforms into a mercilessly hot forest. What is characteristic of the Ventoux and certainly of this stretch is that there are few bends to take, which often allows you to see far ahead. Whether this is an advantage or a disadvantage is up to you to decide; when you have enough power in your legs, of course it is nice to be able to drive from one wheel to the other.
Many people say that Bédoin is the ‘real’ side to climb. It is the classic side. That is because this side, with an average of 7.2%, is the steepest. This certainly does not make it the only side to climb.
Travel to the Moon
As soon as you leave the forest behind, you’ll find a parking spot by the Chalet Reynard Where many riders even take a ride around to get the tension out of their legs before starting the final stretch. As soon as you pass the Chalet, you realize why you started doing this in the first place. A unique piece of landscape reveals itself where even the top becomes visible. It’s as if you have booked a trip to the moon where you get to see the destination in sight for the first time. Rocks, barren plains, and a beautiful road with the characteristic black/yellow poles leading to the top appear before the wheels. You get increasingly beautiful (if the clouds allow it) views of the surroundings while still working hard. Here is where the Ventoux really lives up to its name. (Mont Ventoux, the windy mountain).
The summit
The last kilometer is quite steep, but with the end in sight you’ll be on your way to the top. The last sharp right bend takes you to the entrance of the observatory, which can be seen from a distance. In the season there will be plenty of people there who will help you scream your way up the hill to get the wheels over the finish line. From the top you can choose to take a different route down; if you want to make a nice round, the descent to Malaucène is beautiful, and from Malaucène you can easily drive back to Bédoin. If you have arranged to meet for a drink in Sault, you’ll descend the first stretch as you came up, and turn left at Chalet Reynard. If you have to return to Bédoin from Sault, you’ll be on the road for a while, so keep that in mind. The shortest route is up!
Cinglés du Mont Ventoux
Since 1988, Le club des Cinglés du Mont-Ventoux has existed. A club for true ‘cycling enthusiasts’. If you would like to become a member of this club, no problem! All you have to do is climb all three sides of the Ventoux in one day and prove it by stamping your name on your stamp card. Once this is done, you are a member of Le club des Cinglés du Mont-Ventoux, or the Malloot of the Ventoux. Only for the real enthusiasts.
Truly a classic
If you happen to come across and still doubt the ‘fact’ that the Ventoux is a classic? We have an answer for that. Apart from the elements we have already mentioned (profile, weather and phenomenal views), cycling history contributes to the fact that this mountain is a true classic. Furthermore, the tragic story of Tom Simpson cannot be overlooked. At 1.4 kilometers before the top, you can view the monument or pay tribute to Simpson, who may have come to symbolize this mountain. Because the Mont-Ventoux, treat it with respect.
Mont Ventoux Cycling Route Climb – From Bédoin
https://www.komoot.com/nl-nl/tour/2148134566?share_token=aeeVm7ieMANk2ePvDXFY8cLmkvFBkruHbIwnsyO53w9tQB5Alo&ref=wtdRead also: 4 times the Mont Ventoux: Jeffrey talks about his monster ride on the ‘bare mountain’
Would you like to climb Mont Ventoux again at your own pace and with a group of like-minded people? Then take a look at the Mont Ventous.tes event in France. It looks fantastic!
More about the Ventoux? You'll find that here here!
Questions & tips
Do you have any questions about this route, or have you been there yourself? Share them here. We read everything and usually respond within a few days.