Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux Beaumes de Venise

Mont Ventoux is a mythical mountain which has earned a reputation as one of the toughest climbs of the Tour de France and thousands of cyclists are drawn to its barren slops every year, eager to follow in the pedal stroke of Chris Froome, who triumphed on the Giant of Provence to sow the seeds of his 2013 Tour de France victory.

The Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux Beaumes de Venise is part of the prestigious Grand Trophée series, which also includes La Marmotte, and sees sportive riders go head-to-head with the climb on a 170km course.

The climb from Bedoin to the summit Mont Ventoux features early on the route and is followed by a succession of smaller climbs, before the second major ascent of the day from Sault to Chalet Reynard and a series of punchy ascents, including the Col de la Chaine, to ensure there’s nothing left in the legs by the time you arrive back at the ride HQ in Beaumes de Venise.

A shorter 102km route is also available, and still includes the full ascent of Mont Ventoux, while on the following day a 21km time trial also takes place on the climb.

Date: Saturday May 31
Routes: 170km, 102km
Price: €38
Website: Gran Fondo Mont Ventoux Beaumes de Venise