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Sports,
Nature and Local Characteristics
Mount Ventoux
Can’t get through to the Vaucluse without making a detour to Mont Ventoux, which offers visitors breathtaking, almost lunar landscapes! Visible for kilometers around, this mountain—also known as Mont Chauve —rises to 1,910 meters.
At its summit, which appears to be snow-capped year-round, lies a deforested area spanning more than 350 km², topped by an iconic tower. A legendary mountain in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, climbing it is even a must-see stage of the Tour de France.
From the Luberon, at La Rivière campground, take the roads of the Drôme Provençale to enjoy the majestic scenery and the surprises that this “Giant of Provence” has in store for you.
The Kingdom of Athletes
Whether you’re looking for a hiking trail for a family outing or a route for an extraordinary adventure, head to Mont Ventoux. Hiking, horseback riding, rock climbing, biking, mountain biking, paragliding, hot-air ballooning, caving… active travelers will be spoiled for choice. Experienced cyclists can take on the challenge of the legendary 20-kilometer climb to the summit of Mont Ventoux.
On its north face, starting from the Mont Serein resort, you can go skiing and take winter snowshoe hikes.
A Nature Lover’s Dream
The mountain, located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Alps, is home to an exceptionally rich variety of flora and fauna. This remarkable natural site has been designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The Mont Ventoux Regional Nature Park organizes tours to explore this protected ecosystem. Depending on the slope, you can observe one of the 1,200 species of plants and trees (beech, juniper, etc.). It is also a habitat for more than 1,400 species of butterflies and nearly 120 species of birds (eagles, falcons, owls, etc.). Many animals have also been reintroduced here (chamois, deer, mouflon, wild boars, etc.).
As you wander along a path, you’ll be captivated by the Dentelles de Montmirail, shaped by erosion. The village of Gigondas, surrounded by its medieval ramparts, also offers a unique sight.
At the summit, enjoy a 360° panoramic view of the Rhône Valley, the Provençal Baronnies, and the Vaucluse Plateau.
A Foodie’s Paradise
The Giant of Provence also promises wonderful getaways to discover local specialties (Carpentras strawberries, Ventoux Muscat grapes, black figs from Caromb, apricots from Barroux…). Be sure to take the time to savor black truffles—the “black pearl of the Comtat”—paired with a wine from the Rasteau AOC vineyards. Wine lovers will appreciate this smooth, velvety wine made from vines planted at an elevation of nearly 300 meters on the sunny foothills of the Baronnies Mountains.
Events for the Most Curious
At the foot of Mont Ventoux,L’Enclave-des-Papes invites you to discover the region’s history and local crafts, and promises a wide variety of activities and recreational options. History buffs won’t want to miss the treasures of the Templar Commandery in Richerenches, the ruins of Vaison-la-Romaine, or the hilltop medieval villages.
Others will set out to explore the lavender distilleries of the Pays de Sault or the 41 fountains of Pernes-les-Fontaines.
Families will prefer the lively town of Monteux, with its lake, theme parks (Wave Island, Spirou), and the “Traversée des Arts” trail.
Mont Ventoux is about 80 kilometers from Saint-Maime—why not take advantage of the campground’s ideal location near Mont Ventoux to explore the region?
