At the foot of Mont Ventoux, follow in the footsteps of a sixteenth-century legend: a man of war whom King Henri IV considered to be the greatest captain in the world. Louis de Balbes de Berton, born in Murs on 15 March 1541, was a young man of fiery temperament who was forced to leave his Vaucluse stronghold following a violent brawl in Avignon and join the King's armies. At the age of seventeen, in 1558, he took part in the famous battle that saw Calais retaken from the English. His bravery and military prowess were quickly noticed by his officers, and the years that followed would only confirm their judgement. It was in 1571, after helping secure victory at the naval Battle of Lepanto against the Ottomans, that his legend was truly born. He was personally entrusted with carrying news of the victory to Pope Pius V in Rome. The King held him in the highest esteem, and the two maintained close ties throughout his life. Louis de Balbes de Berton would go down in history as "Crillon the Brave". Today, a picturesque Provençal village bears his name: the final stop on this colourful and historic route.

At around 35 km, this short loop is designed for the day after a long effort and presents no major difficulties. Within just a few pedal strokes, it immerses you in the magic of a region with many stories to tell.

From Flassans to Villes-sur-Auzon, the quiet roads wind through the vineyards of the Ventoux Appelation d’Origine Contrôlée. These vineyards are swept by the Mistral, a wind that blows from north to south and can reach average speeds of 50 km/h. Its gusts exceeding 100 km/h are said by the Provençals to drive people mad. The winegrowers, however, have no complaints. They call it the manjo fango – the "mud eater" – for its ability to dry the rainwater left behind after storms, protecting the vines from the diseases that thrive in damp conditions. It also clears away insects and brings back blue skies. Some believe that the name Mont Ventoux refers to this wind. In fact, it does not, despite the fact that the Mistral often blows across its summit with rare violence. But that’s a story we’ll return to another time.

After passing through Mormoiron, known for its striking yellow-orange ochre deposits, a truly remarkable geological phenomenon, you arrive in the village of Crillon-le-Brave. The statue of the famous army captain stands proudly in the square outside the town hall. Acquired by the municipality in 1980, it is a tribute worthy of the man. Today, much of the village is occupied by a luxury hotel that has gradually extended its estate by acquiring many of the finest manor houses and transforming them into unique and luxurious suites, promising an exceptional experience for those who stay there. The village exudes a genuine sense of tranquillity, while its restaurants and cafés (owned by the hotel) perfectly cultivate a refined Provençal charm. Be sure to stop and enjoy them..

The ride ends back in Bédoin, after a gentle historical exploration of the understated beauty of Provence's villages.

Visiting Ventoux this summer? Find out more about other routes to ride near our Bédoin store here! 

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