1. STROLL THROUGH THE VILLAGES AROUND MONT VENTOUX
The Ventoux area has dozens of charming villages that are ideal for a stroll.
These include 21 authentic hilltop villages that are much quieter than the Luberon villages which, let’s face it, can sometimes be invaded by tourists in summer …
These are perfect places to stretch your legs, gain a bit of elevation and enjoy outstanding views of the magnificent landscapes that surround the “Giant of Provence”.
As for Malaucène, our lovely medieval village, you can enjoy a stroll in the maze of small streets interspersed with fountains and washhouses, around the main courtyard lined with plane trees and shops or through the Wednesday market which, with its rich history spanning 7 centuries, is one of the oldest markets in Provence.
2. WALK IN THE WOODS AT THE VENTOUX REGIONAL NATURAL PARK
From simple family walks to the challenging athletic hikes, there are a GREAT NUMBER of circle trails of all levels offering a delightful escapade into the heart of a mountain range that is still wild and has fortunately been protected (see our article “Le Ventoux – Biosphere and Regional Natural Park”).
The most remarkable hike in terms of originality is undoubtedly the nighttime ascent of Mont Ventoux, offered by local guides in summer. This challenging 12-km hike takes a good 5 hours to complete… but what a reward to watch the sun rise from the roof of Provence!
Here, you will find files for the Top 10 walks & hikes around Mont Ventoux and 2 magnificent walks in the Dentelles de Montmirail:
→ bit.ly/rando-dentellesdeMontmirail
3. PEDAL TO YOUR HEART’S CONTENT
When we talk about cycling in Ventoux, we immediately think the legendary climb to the summit. However, not everyone can give it a go, as you must be well trained and in good physical shape! We prefer the marked routes in the plains and plateaus where the spectacular landscapes can be explored with much less physical effort.
To find the circuits that suit you best, we recommend the “Provence by Bike” website and its “Destination Ventoux” section:
→ bit.ly/itinéraires-vélo-MontVentoux
4. TAME THE SLOPES OF MONT VENTOUX ON A MOUNTAIN BIKE OR KART
During the summer, at Mont Serein, the second highest point on Ventoux, you can go mountain karting (known locally as dévalkarting), which means hurtling down the ski slopes behind the wheel of an all-terrain kart. Thrills guaranteed!
More adrenaline is on the menu when you ride down the north face of Mont Ventoux on a mountain bike. While the ride is certainly a bit perilous for beginners, it offers a breathtaking view of the valley below.
5. GET CLOSER TO THE SUMMITS BY ROCK CLIMBING
Mont Ventoux and the Dentelles de Montmirail are two very popular rock-climbing spots, for free climbers and guided groups alike. The number and variety of routes (some 650 at Les Dentelles alone) means everyone – from children and beginners to occasional climbers and experts – can find something to suit them.
6. TAKE WING IN A PARAGLIDER
Taking off from Mont Ventoux and soaring above the terrain in a two-seat paraglider is quite an extraordinary experience. Ideal for discovering the most beautiful landscapes in the area, such as the Sault Valley. Even more magical when the lavender is in bloom! An activity that offers you maximum pleasure with minimum effort!
7. CONTEMPLATE THE SKY AND THE STARS
An hour’s drive from Malaucène on the Albion plateau, the Sirène Astronomical Observatory allows you to explore the heavens day and night. At an altitude of 1,100 meters, with a sky free of light pollution and a 360-degree panorama, the experience is unforgettable!
8. COOL OFF IN A LAKE
While Le Prieuré offers you the tranquility of its swimming pool, taking a break and having a splash in one of the nearby lakes can be a real treat when strolling under the hot Provence sunshine in summer. You have several options, including the Salettes Natural Lake in Mormoiron, Paty Lake and dam in Caromb or Monteux Lake and its many nautical activities.
9. LET THE GOURMET IN YOU RUN WILD
The range of gourmet foods in the area is immense: from sun-ripened fruits and vegetables, wines and beers from the Ventoux, olive oils and truffles to biscuits and confectionery, Berlingots of Carpentras and sacristains (a delicious pastry typical of the Vaucluse area made of almond frangipane in crispy puff pastry) to nougats and more. By the way, just know that true Vaucluse locals eat only black nougat that comes from nearby Sault! Montélimar? Never heard of it!
Gourmet experiences to be enjoyed right on local farms, at local Provençal markets or simply on a café terrace when the time to sit back and relax comes. A true privilege.
10. PAMPER YOURSELF AT MALAUCÈNE’S SPAS
The Ventoux Provence and Clos Saint-Michel spas guarantee your well-being. Both are ideally located in Malaucène near Le Prieuré La Madelène. On the menu: massages, body care, scented baths, a hammam, a jacuzzi and much more. The idea place to unwind.
For more info:
→ https://www.spa-ventoux-provence.
→ https://www.le-clos-saint-michel.com
The Mont Ventoux area is an outstanding destination for leisure, pleasure and relaxation. We will reveal to you the many other facets of this charming region when you come to stay at Le Prieuré La Madelène.
Bruno and Olivier
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