The best cycling routes around Sault

There are over 60 touring cycling routes around Sault, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You can find routes varying from easy to difficult, with many traversing the iconic landscapes of Provence.

Sault benefits from an extraordinary climate with around 300 days of sunshine annually, making it ideal for road cycling for much of the year. The lavender fields are particularly beautiful when in bloom during July and August, offering a vibrant and fragrant backdrop for your rides. However, mountain weather, especially on Mont Ventoux, can change quickly, so always be prepared.

Yes, while Sault is known for challenging climbs, there are routes suitable for beginners and families. Out of the over 60 routes, 8 are classified as easy and 21 as moderate. These routes often explore the scenic Plateau de Sault, offering gentler terrain through lavender and spelt fields. For example, the Plateau de Sault Bike Route is a popular choice for its scenic views and varied terrain.

Sault is a renowned starting point for one of the ascents of Mont Ventoux, known as the 'Giant of Provence'. The most challenging routes often involve this legendary climb. For instance, the Summit of Mont Ventoux – Mont Ventoux Road loop from Sault is a difficult 77.9 km route with over 2000 meters of elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Summit arrival 🥳 – Mollans-sur-Ouvèze loop from Sault, which is over 100 km long and features significant climbing.

Absolutely! Sault is known as the 'capital of lavender', and many touring cycling routes pass directly through extensive lavender fields, especially beautiful when in bloom during summer. The ascent of Mont Ventoux from Sault, for example, begins by winding through these fragrant fields before reaching higher altitudes.

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Sault are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Popular circular routes include the challenging Sault – Mont Ventoux Road loop from Sault and the scenic Madeleine Pass – Nesque Gorge loop from Sault, which takes you through dramatic gorges.

The routes around Sault offer stunning natural landmarks and viewpoints. You can experience the iconic Mont Ventoux summit with its unique lunar landscape. Other notable features include the dramatic Gorges de la Nesque, various mountain passes like Col de la Ligne and Fontaube Pass, and the picturesque lavender fields of the Plateau de Sault.

The touring cycling routes in Sault are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 398 reviews. Cyclists often praise the iconic climbs like Mont Ventoux, the beauty of the fragrant lavender fields, and the dramatic scenery of the deep gorges. The varied terrain and options for different ability levels are also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Gorges de la Nesque is a highly recommended and scenic route for touring cyclists. The Madeleine Pass – Nesque Gorge loop from Sault is a popular option that leads through this dramatic canyon, offering challenging yet rewarding terrain and beautiful views.

While Mont Ventoux is very popular, many routes through the broader Luberon and Plateau de Sault regions offer a more tranquil experience. These routes traverse charming hilltop villages, olive groves, and pre-Alpine valleys, providing a chance to enjoy the scenery away from the busiest climbs. Exploring the numerous moderate and easy routes can often lead to less crowded paths.