Visible from afar, Mont Ventoux dominates the plains and villages around its massif. Its stony summit, natural habitats and cycling roads form an emblematic landscape that remains an exposed mountain environment.
The summit and Ventoux landscapes
The Mont Ventoux, nicknamed « Giant of Provence », is a famous mountain which rises to about 1,910 metres above Provence.
The Mont Ventoux is the first great summit of the south-western Alps. It stands isolated, massive and dark, crowned by a desert of stone, an immaculate white summit.
From the top, we can admire a fantastic panorama : in clear weather, it is possible to see the Mediterranean Sea to the south, and Mont Blanc to the north.
The massif has been recognised as a UNESCO biosphere reserve since 1990. Differences in altitude and exposure support a variety of habitats. At the summit, cold and wind create mountain conditions even when temperatures are mild in the villages below.
An emblematic cycling mountain
Cycling made the Mont Ventoux’s legend, it is a mythical stage of the Tour de France.
In the Mont Ventoux region vines have been cultivated since Roman times. The label "Côtes du Ventoux" was created in 1973.
Planning your visit
Before heading to the summit, check weather, road conditions and seasonal closures. Wind and cold can be severe even in summer. Bring suitable clothing and distinguish a road-accessed viewpoint from hiking or cycling ascents, which require their own preparation.
Accommodation
Selection
of B&B around the Mont Ventoux
Coming to the Mont Ventoux
GPS coordinates 44°10'24'' N - 5°16'43'' E
Location : about 1,910 meters above sea level, 13 miles from Bédoin, 13 miles from Malaucène, 15 miles from Sault, 34 km from Carpentras, 35 miles from Orange, 36 miles from Avignon
Getaway · Guest Houses in Provence PortalAt the summit of Mont Ventoux
Explore further with my articles in the Getaways section of the Guest Houses in Provence Portal: At the summit of Mont Ventoux.