Climbing Mont Ventoux from Malaucène

What makes the climb from Malaucène special?

Malaucène is one of the well-known starting points for Mont Ventoux. The northern route combines woodland with open mountain scenery higher up. Its changing gradients make pacing important: a comfortable start helps you save energy for the longer and steeper sections.

Vaucluse Tourisme describes approximately 21 kilometres, 1,535 metres of climbing and a 7.3% average gradient, with short stretches close to 13%. Totals depend on the precise start and finish. Villa Nova Ventoux is about 500 metres from the start, so you can prepare at home and ride out without a long transfer.

Preparing your ride: route, equipment and weather

Study the profile and choose a plan suited to your experience. Leave time for descending and stops, rather than setting only a summit target. Check tyres, brakes, gears and the supplies you need. Suitable gearing matters on the steeper slopes; discuss your planned route and riding experience when renting a bike.

Weather and wind on the mountain may differ considerably from Malaucène. Check conditions and road access on the day, bring clothing for the descent and change your plan when necessary. Agree whether your group rides together or at individual speeds, and choose a meeting point so slower riders do not feel pressured.

Bike rental in Malaucène

Ventoux Bikes offers rental bicycles in Malaucène at 1 Avenue de Verdun. Check its website for current bike types and sizes. Reserve ahead if you want to climb on a particular day, especially during popular holiday periods. Prices and availability should be checked directly with the rental company.

Discuss pedals, fit, helmet and accessories before collecting your bike. Establish what is included and what you need to bring. A shorter familiarisation ride lets you try the position, gears and brakes before tackling a long mountain ascent.

More cycling routes around Mont Ventoux

There is more to the region than summit days. Routes between villages, vineyards and smaller hills offer a different pace. Consider elevation as well as distance: a short route here is not necessarily flat. The Malaucène and Le Barroux area can suit a discovery ride.

For a longer outing, explore route options around Bédoin or towards the Dentelles de Montmirail. These are planning ideas rather than fixed itineraries. La Provence à Vélo provides regional routes and practical information. Use an up-to-date map or provider GPX, checking exact roads, gradients, traffic, works and closures before departure.

Lockable bike storage at your holiday base

Villa Nova Ventoux has lockable bike storage, giving bicycles and equipment their own place after a ride. A washing machine and drying rack are useful for cycling kit. Two bathrooms with walk-in showers, air conditioning and a kitchen make different departure times and early breakfasts easier to manage.

The villa sleeps up to eight in three bedrooms: two with double beds and one with two bunk beds. Agree the room arrangement before booking as a cycling group. The covered terrace is a comfortable place for a shared meal or a quiet pause after returning.

After the climb: shower, terrace and time to relax

Leave space for relaxation alongside the ride itself. Back at the villa, shower, eat together and spend an unhurried afternoon on the covered terrace or by your private pool. You do not need to organise another outing to enjoy the rest of the day.

A rest day can start with coffee in Malaucène and end with a meal from the outdoor kitchen. Other guests can walk, visit villages or stay by the pool while you cycle. Our local guide offers markets, walks and family outings to plan between riding days, so one sporting goal need not dictate the whole holiday.

GOOD TO KNOW

Frequently asked questions