Challenges

Gravel

Gravel riding in the Ventoux region is nothing like gravel riding elsewhere. First of all, you ride all day amidst unique and unforgettable natural beauty, with Mont Ventoux ever-present. It reveals itself breathtakingly in all its facets. You ride through vastly different landscapes, each vying to be the most beautiful.

Which challenge will you choose?

Around Mont Ventoux, the landscape changes character every few kilometres: jagged rocky ridges, rolling vineyards, fragrant pine forests, lavender fields and red ochre quarries. You can tailor your own adventure by combining the loops as you wish. This allows you to cycle 30, 60, 90 or even 120 km, with a choice of between 780 and 2,760 metres of elevation gain, depending on the loops you choose. After every 30 km loop, there’s a refreshment stop in Malaucène or Bédoin, where you can refuel and decide whether to add another loop

Loop 1 | 30km & 780HM

A warm-up ride with real charm. You’ll wind your way through woods and vineyards at the foot of the Dentelles de Montmirail, the jagged limestone peaks that rise above the vines like a lace frill. Take in the panoramic views, breathe in the scents of Provence and save your legs for what’s to come.

Loop 1 | 60km & 1500HM

The highlight of your ride. You’ll follow the sunny southern slope of Mont Ventoux, passing lavender fields, olive groves and pine forests, whilst the white peak of the Giant of Provence towers above you throughout.

Loop 3 | 30KM & 560HM

You trace the southern flank of the Ventoux before plunging south towards Mormoiron. There, the landscape suddenly turns red and orange, with glowing rock and old ochre quarries as a spectacular finale.

NOT YOUR AVERAGE RIDE

The gravel challenge lies not only in the elevation changes, both uphill and downhill, but also in the very unique surface.

The vast majority of the route runs over beautiful small agricultural roads, which were once paved, but over time acquired a true gravel character with irregularities in the road surface and covered with pebbles and grit. As a result, these roads are no longer suitable for road bikes but are ideal for gravel riding.

Additionally, the route runs over classic unpaved forest roads, but there are also several sections with cobblestones and rocks, typical of the Ventoux region. These sections demand good, sturdy, and wide tires, especially for some very beautiful but rocky descents. There’s nothing more annoying than repeatedly getting a flat tire. Riding with classic Low Countries gravel tires is therefore strongly discouraged: that’s asking for trouble. We suggest 45-50mm wide tires with reinforced sidewalls and sufficient lateral grip.

BEFORE YOU RIDE

ROUTE & GPX

Route & GPX

The indicated distances are good guidelines but may be adjusted due to circumstances. Participants will receive the GPX files a few days before the event. The route will not be marked and can only be ridden using GPX.

BIKE & EQUIPMENT

Bike & equipment

Participants are responsible for the good condition of their gravel bike. The sometimes very rugged terrain places demands on both the rider and the bike. The route is specifically designed for gravel bikes and not for MTBs, but the bike and its tires must be prepared for rocky descents and sharp stones.

TECHNICAL SUPPORT