
Mont Ventoux
Private Driver to Mont Ventoux, the Giant of Provence
Rising to over 1,900 metres, Mont Ventoux towers over Provence. Its bare white summit can be seen from miles around. Made famous by the Tour de France, it draws thousands of cyclists from all over Europe every year.
What you'll see
- The summit: on a clear day, views from the Alps to the Mediterranean.
- Chalet Reynard: the classic stop, where the bare, rocky section begins.
- The three starting villages: Bédoin, Malaucène and Sault.
- Cedar forests and landscapes that change with altitude.
For cyclists
- Transfer from Avignon TGV station or the airport to Bédoin, Malaucène or Sault, bikes included, by van.
- Pick-up at the summit or at the bottom of the descent.
- Return to your accommodation.
Our options
- Avignon ↔ Bédoin (about 45 min): from 114 €
- Summit trip (half day, return): on request
- Cyclist + bike van transfer: on request
Tip: the summit road is usually closed in winter, roughly from mid-November to spring. It is often much colder and windier at the top: bring a jacket, even in summer.
How long does it take to drive from Avignon to the top of Mont Ventoux?
Allow about 1.5 hours from Avignon to the summit via Bédoin: around 45 minutes to the village, then about 40 minutes up a winding mountain road. For a sightseeing trip by car, plan on half a day in total, including photo stops at Chalet Reynard and the top.
Bédoin, Malaucène or Sault: which Mont Ventoux climb should you ride?
All three roads meet at the 1,910-metre summit, but each has its own character.
From Bédoin: the legendary climb
About 21 km, the most famous and the hardest. After an easy start, the gradient steepens through the forest up to Chalet Reynard, then the road leaves the trees for the final, wind-exposed kilometres across white scree. Just below the summit, a memorial honours British rider Tom Simpson, who died on the climb during the 1967 Tour de France.
From Malaucène: the north face
A long, tough ascent with some very steep sections, passing the Mont Serein ski area. Quieter than Bédoin.
From Sault: the gentlest
About 26 km with a steadier gradient as far as Chalet Reynard, where it joins the Bédoin road. The best choice for a first ascent, and in July it starts among the lavender fields of the plateau.
The most determined riders tackle all three in a single day, a challenge known as the "Cinglés du Mont-Ventoux".
What your driver does for cyclists
- Outbound transfer from Avignon TGV station, the airport or your accommodation to your starting village, with bikes loaded in the 7-seat van depending on the volume.
- Pick-up at the summit or at the bottom of the descent, at an agreed time, which is handy if someone would rather not ride down in strong wind.
- Non-riding companions can travel up by car and meet you at the top for the photo.
- Return to your accommodation, bikes included.
When you ask for a quote, tell us how many bikes and passengers you have so we can plan the right vehicle.
When is the best time to visit Mont Ventoux?
- Summer: start early. It gets hot quickly at the bottom, while the summit is often around 10 °C cooler than the plain.
- Spring and autumn: ideal riding temperatures, but check that the summit road is open at the beginning and end of the season.
- Sunset: on a clear evening the view reaches the Alps. Your driver waits and brings you down safely after dark.
- Wind: the mistral can be extremely strong at the top. On very gusty days, it is wise to adjust your plans.
The massif is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, so please stay on roads and marked trails.
What to see around Mont Ventoux
On the way back, several stops fit in well: Vaison-la-Romaine on the north side, the Nesque gorges and the Sault plateau to the east, or the lavender fields in July. Bédoin and Malaucène both have cafés popular with cyclists, perfect for a break.
Whether you need a bike transfer or a summit day trip, we confirm a fixed price per vehicle before you book.
Frequently asked questions
Do you carry bikes?
Yes, by van.
Is the summit road open all year?
No, it is usually closed in winter.
Can you pick us up at the summit?
Yes, at the agreed time.


