Conquering Mont Ventoux
A few days away with the bikes is tough to turn down and with the potential for one of the biggest races of my life in just four weeks it made sense to hop in the car with some fellow, local cyclists on a little cycling adventure in Provence. The funny thing was, I’d missed the memo and thought I was off to Alpe d’huez. Being a careful packer, I’d also religiously been checking the weather so had packed for a chance of skiing.
As we drove further south, chatting in the car about the climb it unravelled we were cycling Ventoux, not Alpe d’huez!
Our adventure kicked off after a 12-hour drive through France under sunshine with a short spin to check the bikes out and a drink in the local bar.
We woke on the first morning to heavy rain. Undeterred by the weather, we pedaled through the charming villages and rolling hills of Provence, through beautiful lavender farms. Despite the dampness, camaraderie kept spirits high as we embraced the serenity of the French countryside.
As if on cue, the clouds parted for day 2, unveiling Provence in all its sun-kissed glory. With two days of radiant weather ahead, we savored every moment, cycling through sun-drenched vineyards and along winding roads lined with cypress trees. Each turn revealed a new vista, a testament to the region's natural beauty.
Day 3: The Ultimate Challenge - Mont Ventoux
On the third day, we faced our pièce de résistance: Mont Ventoux, the legendary Giant of Provence. Standing at 1912 meters, this iconic mountain beckoned with its steep ascents and awe-inspiring views. With hearts pounding and determination fueling our legs, we embarked on the ascent, ready to test our mettle against one of cycling's greatest challenges.
As we climbed higher, the landscape transformed, the lush green forest, giving way to rocky terrain and barren landscapes. With each pedal stroke, we inched closer to the summit, our bodies pushed to the limit but our spirits soaring. Riding on a 34 chainring was a sure-fire way to increase some climbing muscles in my quads. Anyone doing this should certainly consider their gearing, it is a tough climb.
Mont Ventoux is not for the faint of heart. With an average gradient of 7.5% and maximum gradients reaching a punishing 12%, it demands both physical prowess and mental fortitude. The ascent from Bedoin spans approximately 21.5 kilometers, while the total elevation gain exceeds 1600 meters. As we reached the summit, exhaustion mingled with exhilaration, our efforts rewarded with panoramic views stretching as far as the eye could see.
Provence: A Cycling Paradise
Surrounded by vineyards, lavender fields, and quaint villages, Provence is a cyclist's dream. Its diverse terrain offers something for every rider, from gentle rolling hills to challenging mountain passes. The region's rich history and cultural heritage add an extra layer of charm, with medieval castles and Roman ruins dotting the landscape.
The Tour de France Connection
Provence has long been intertwined with the Tour de France, with Mont Ventoux featuring prominently in the race's history. From epic battles between cycling legends to dramatic summit finishes, the mountain has witnessed countless moments of triumph and despair. Cycling enthusiasts flock to Provence each year to trace the footsteps of their heroes and tackle the iconic climbs immortalized in cycling lore.
Conclusion
Our cycling adventure in Provence was a testament to the region's allure and the indomitable spirit of camaraderie. From wet beginnings to sunny triumphs, we embraced every twist and turn of the journey, culminating in the ultimate conquest of Mont Ventoux. As we cycled through vineyards, lavender fields and climbed mountain passes, we were reminded of the timeless appeal of cycling in Provence, where every ride is an adventure waiting to unfold.
