Conquering the Mont Ventoux on Gravel

Words

Ivo Koenen

Photos

Eva Jansen

The Mont Ventoux is legendary among cyclists, but taking on its rugged gravel paths, specifically the Route Forestière, is a whole different challenge. This lesser-known side of the Giant of Provence offers a raw and untouched experience—an adventure for those willing to embrace the unpredictable. And those who aren’t afraid to get a little dusty.

It was about ten in the morning when we set out from the central parking, the crisp mountain air a perfect companion as we rolled through the town of Bedoin, the starting point of many Ventoux ascents. Unlike the smooth tarmac of the traditional routes, the gravel roads promised a day of pure exploration. Our goal: to climb Mont Ventoux via its wild, lesser-traveled paths, reaching the summit through the dense and winding Forestière Route.

The first part of the ride was deceptively gentle. We glided through shady woods, the trees towering over us. The first part is the very same as the first 7 k’s from the Bedoin side. It has an easy slope until you hit the forest. After some kilometers of tarmac, the exit towards the gravel path gloomed.

The gravel beneath our tires crunched rhythmically, and for the first moments, the ride felt peaceful. But as we climbed, the trail grew steeper, and the loose rocks turned the ascent into a battle of balance and endurance. Each pedal stroke demanded focus, as the surface changed from compact dirt to sections scattered with loose stones that threatened to halt our progress.

Halfway through the climb, we emerged from the forest canopy, revealing breathtaking views of Provence below. The sun had started to heat up, and with every twist of the trail, the mountain’s iconic limestone cliffs loomed closer. It was here that the magic of gravel riding truly came to life—no cars, no crowds, just you, your bike, and the raw beauty of nature.

The Route Forestière kept us on our toes. While the paved routes offer steady, predictable climbs, the gravel path was a sequence of switchbacks, uneven terrain, and moments that tested both body and bike. As we approached the famous moonscape of the upper Ventoux, the trees thinned out, giving way to the barren, rocky terrain the mountain is known for. The final stretch was nothing short of epic. For the last 4,5 k’s we got back on the tarmac, this time from the Malaucene side. A long push on the 45 mm tires to reach the summit.

The wind, which the Ventoux is notorious for, howled across the summit. Reaching the summit of Mont Ventoux is always a triumph, but doing it via the Route Forestière felt like something special. The solitude, the challenge, and the rugged beauty of the gravel path made this climb more than just a physical accomplishment—it was an adventure that left me with a wider appreciation for this legendary mountain.

Descending from Mont Ventoux back to Bedoin was intense. The wind was strong, causing the bike to sway with every gust. It took full concentration to stay steady. But once I re-entered the forest, the descent became much smoother and more enjoyable. The wider tires provided noticeably better grip, giving me confidence to handle the twists and turns with ease. A quick stop at the first supermarket we saw for cold cokes and chips was a great closure.