Hiking in Mont Ventoux: 6 Half-Day Itineraries to explore
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking diversity of Mont Ventoux! This legendary mountain invites adventurers to explore its stunning landscapes and trails. Here are six captivating hikes that promise to ignite your passion for the outdoors and unveil the enchanting beauty of this iconic region.
©Damien Rosso 1. The Crests of Mont Ventoux from Chalet Reynard
Duration: 4 hours round trip
Distance: 12 km
Elevation Gain: +535 m
Difficulty: Moderate
This hike along
the ridges of Mont Ventouxallows you to discover two distinct faces of the legendary mountain. As you traverse beautiful beech and fir forests, you'll encounter grazing herds of goats and sheep, immersing yourself in the pastoral traditions of the slopes of Ventoux.
2. From Mont Serein to the Summit of Mont Ventoux via GR4
Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes (one way)
Distance: 4.3 km
Elevation Gain: +490 m
Difficulty: Accessible to all levels
Starting at Mont Serein station, this hike along GR4 offers breathtaking views over the Baronnies Provençales as you ascend through pine trees to the rocky summit. The steep final stretch rewards you with an awe-inspiring vista—truly a view worth the effort! Extend your effort by starting from the hamlet of Valettes, where the GR4 also runs.
3. The Tour of the Dentelles de Montmirail
Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 7.5 km
Elevation Gain: +300 m
Difficulty: Easy
Departing from the chapelle Saint-Christophe in Lafare, this accessible hike leads you through wooded paths adorned with Provençal vegetation, revealing stunning views of the northern massif of Grand Montmirail, with Mont Ventoux as a striking backdrop. Along the way, make a stop at the Rocher du Midi de Gigondas.
The guide book Le P'tit Crapahut Pays du Ventoux et Dentelles de Montmirail is available at the Ventoux-Provence and Ventoux-Sud Tourist Offices.
4. From the Combe du diable to Malemort-du-Comtat
Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 14 km
Elevation Gain: +450 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Several trails begin in the charming village of Malemort-du-Comtat, nestled between Carpentras and the Mont de Vaucluse, at the end of the Gorges de la Nesque. This
circuit de la Combe du Diable weaves through garrigue landscapes to the riverbed of the Nesque. You will be able to spot bories, these dry stone huts that reflect the pastoral heritage of the region, and enjoy beautiful views of the villages and the surrounding nature.
5. The Nesque Gorges from Monieux
Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 8.8 km
Elevation Gain: +455 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Nestled between fields of lavender and spelt, the medieval village of Monieux is the gateway to an iconic natural wonder in Provence, both breathtaking and captivating. This hike through the gorges of the Nesque runs through a wild, stunning landscape teeming with diverse flora and fauna. At the end of the gorges, the Saint-Michel chapel awaits, dramatically positioned beneath a towering rocky overhang.
6. Sault the Tower of Durefort
Duration: 3 hours 30 minutes
Distance: 9.8 km
Elevation Gain: +270 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Starting from the hamlet of Saint-Jean-de-Sault, this beautiful walk showcases the typical landscapes of the Ventoux area. Cross lavender and helichrysum fields and oak forests, with stunning views of the Giant of Provence, the plateau d’Albion, and the Southern Alps.
Insider tip : The hike Serre de la Garde to Cairanne !
Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
Distance: 7.6 km
Elevation Gain: +240 m
Difficulty: Moderate
This circular route leads you to the heights above the picturesque village of Cairanne, offering spectacular views of Mont Ventoux and of the Dentelles de Montmirail. The highlight awaits at the summit, where a 360-degree panorama reveals the stunning landscapes of Upper Vaucluse and the Enclave des Papes.