Vaucluse MTB Grand Traverse

A classic Provence crossing on dirt. This GT VTT route links the best of Vaucluse: the flanks of Mont Ventoux, the Dentelles de Montmirail, and the Luberon. Expect a mostly off‑road mix of forest tracks, rocky singletrack, and gravel farm roads, with short stretches of quiet lanes between villages.

It’s a big, punchy ride with plenty of climbing and rough limestone sections, so it suits fit, confident riders. Highlights include lavender country around Sault, the ochre cliffs near Roussillon, vineyards around Gigondas, and perched villages like Gordes and Bonnieux. On clear days you’ll get wide views toward the Alps.

Best seasons are spring and autumn; summer can be oven‑hot and dry. Resupply is easy in towns like Avignon, Carpentras, and Apt, plus lots of smaller villages along the way. A hardtail or short‑travel MTB with tough tires (2.2–2.4) is ideal. The traverse follows established GT VTT signage in places, but bring a GPS track for the links and variations. Watch for temporary closures near Ventoux in fire season and be cool with hikers and local farm traffic.

Tackle the full traverse over a few days, or pick signature sections: Ventoux’s lower slopes from Bédoin/Malaucène for techy fun, or Luberon loops from Apt for fast rolling trails and big views.