Whether you’re a passionate cyclist chasing legendary climbs or a leisure rider seeking scenic routes through sun-drenched landscapes, Provence is a true paradise on two wheels. With its winding roads, iconic mountains, and charming hilltop villages, the region offers a rich variety of experiences for every level of rider.
At Veymont Travel, we know that cycling isn’t just a sport — it’s a way to connect with the land, its culture, and its people. In this article, we’re sharing our top 5 favorite spots in Provence that every cycling lover should experience at least once. Ready to ride?
Mont Ventoux, Provence, France – The Giant of Provence
Mont Ventoux – © Veymont Travel
Mont Ventoux is a must for cyclists looking for a legendary challenge. Nicknamed the “Giant of Provence”, it towers over the whole of Provence at an altitude of 1912 metres. First climbed by the Tour de France in 1951, Mont Ventoux offers three routes to its summit. Starting from Bédoin, the route is 21.5 km long, with an average gradient of 7.5%, making it the most difficult side. From Malaucene, cyclists take the north face of the Mont, 21.2 km, with an average gradient of 7.2%. Finally, the village of Sault offers the most accessible ascent, 25.5 kms, 4.5%. The lunar landscape at the summit and the sense of accomplishment make this one of the most rewarding climbs in Europe.
Highlights:
- Iconic Tour de France climb
- Stunning views over Provence
- The summit offers a singular landscape
Châteauneuf-du-pape vineyards, Provence, France – The Pope’s wine
Châteauneuf-du-Pape – © Veymont Travel
When they settled in Avignon in the 14th century, the Popes revealed the terroir of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Under the reign of John XXII, the village, some 20 km north of Avignon, became the papacy’s summer residence. The wines produced here became known as “Vins du Pape”, opening the way to the greatest courts of Europe.
Highlights:
- The remains of the Château des Papes
- Visit a winery
- Taste one of the world’s most famous wines
Avignon, Provence, France – The city of the Popes
Avignon – © Veymont Travel
From its glorious past as the capital of Christendom, Avignon has preserved an exceptional heritage, much of which is listed as a World Heritage Site by Unesco. By settling in this strategic location, at the crossroads of political interests in the 14th century, the 9 popes who sat in Avignon (between 1305 and 1429), contributed to the history and legend of what is still known as the City of the Popes.
Highlights:
- Le Palais des Papes / The Pope’s Palace & Notre-Dame-des-Doms Basilica
- Le « Pont d’Avignon »/ The « Avignon bridge »
- The Ramparts
Gordes, Provence, France – The beauty of Provencal villages
Gordes – © Veymont Travel
Les Baux-de-Provence, Roussillon, Gordes, Ménerbes, Lourmarin, Venasque and Séguret are all villages with unique characteristics, ranked among France’s most beautiful villages. Gordes was even named “most beautiful village in the world” by Travel + Leisure magazine in 2023. These villages, with their narrow cobbled streets and colorful shutters, often perched on promontories with Mont Ventoux and lavender fields in the background, are ambassadors of the Provencal way of life. Linking them every day by bike, taking small country roads through orchards and olive groves, is part of the magic of Provence.
Highlights:
- Picturesque villages in the heart of Provence
- A rolling countryside of many scents
- The beauty of lavender fields in June and July
Sénanque Abbey, Provence, France – 900 years of history
Sénanques – © Veymont Travel
A few kilometers from the village of Gordes, deep in a valley, lies Notre-Dame de Sénanque, a Cistercian abbey founded by monks in 1148. Burnt down during the Wars of Religion in 1544, it was abandoned and re-invested in 1988 by a small community of monks, thus reviving centuries of Cistercian tradition.
Highlights:
- One of Provence’s most emblematic sites
- The possibility of a spiritual retreat
- The abbey is still in use
Final Thoughts
Provence is a paradise of endless possibilities for cyclists in search of adventure. Whether you want to challenge yourself to a legendary climb, discover a rich heritage or explore picturesque country roads, Provence offers the perfect blend of experience, beauty and culture.
Ready to start your next cycling adventure? Let us help you plan a custom bike tour in Provence tailored to your preferences with the Veymont Travel team !
