Provence Gravel Explorer 2024
Embark on a 7-day gravel odyssey in the Mont Ventoux area, discovering incredible gravel options both up and around the iconic peak. Traverse diverse terrains, from challenging ascents to scenic routes, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes. This adventure promises a week of exploration, showcasing the remarkable gravel paths that make the Mont Ventoux region a cycling paradise.
Our Provence Gravel Explore is anchored by two cycle-friendly hotels and cherished partners in exploration. Connecting the dots between these bases and weaving in loops promises a rich tapestry of gravel riding adventures. With these accommodations as hubs, riders can immerse themselves in the diverse and scenic landscapes that define the best of our captivating region.
Team Members on this Tour
Rachel Andersen -
First cycling memory:
I was six years old when my superhero mom chased me down a steep hill and miraculously caught me before I entered into heavy traffic, back before I knew how to brake (backpedal, baby!).
Favourite bike:
My custom Casbah gravel bike. Works like a charm on those nasty, Umbrian roads and I designed the color scheme myself.
Top climb:
The ride from Port de Pollença to Cap de Formentor (Mallorca) with 1000m of climbing packed into 40km is epically stunning with its endless views out to sea.
One thing on your bucket list:
The Khangai Mountains Traverse in Mongolia with my sweetheart.
A special skill you bring on tour:
Being able to know what you will love as an experience before you do. I also have a passion for teaching yoga, plant-based diets, bike mechanics, and singing.
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
Homemade and seasonal pumpkin tortelli from Reggio Emilia with grated, fresh parmigiano reggiano. OMG.
Languages:
English, Italian, un peu de Français
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
Hannibal: Barcelona to Rome or go home!
Guido Gazzaniga -
First cycling memory:
My first ride without training wheels, I was four and I was riding in my parents’ house corridor. I clearly remember I saw the sky one second before crashing into a door.
Favourite bike:
My Bice Bicycle steel gravel bike.
Top climb:
I love the alps, so any climb in the alps would fit, but if I have to pick one I would say the Gavia pass.
One thing on your bucket list:
Two things: the Carrettera Austral and a biking trip across Japan
A special skill you bring on tour:
I’m a stress-free person since 2015, at least when I’m on a bike, but I’m doing pretty well also when not riding.
Favourite Ride and Seek tour gastronomic experience:
There is a gelateria in Pienza that is simply one of the best I’ve ever experienced - and I've had lot of gelato in my life!
Languages:
Native Italian, fluent English and French, conversational Spanish and basic Portuguese
Ride and Seek tours you lead:
the 3 Islands Epic, and Hannibal
Provence Gravel Cycling
• Traverse the stunning Gorges de la Nesque, a gravel rider’s paradise with breathtaking scenery.
• Conquer the iconic Mont Ventoux via gravel trails, offering a unique perspective on this legendary climb.
• Discover the charm of the Luberon and its quintessential Provencal charm
• Sample local wines combining the joy of cycling with exquisite culinary experiences.
• Enjoy hearty, rustic cuisine in Bédoin, refuelling with local flavours after tackling Mont Ventoux’s gravel trails.
• Explore the enchanting Dentelles de Montmirail region, navigating gravel paths through picturesque vineyards.
Provence Gravel Cycling 2024
| Stage | Start Date | End Date | Days/Nights | Cost (Euros) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Provence Gravel Explorer | 5th June | 11th June | 7 (6 nights) | €3250 (MVCC members €2,950) |
What’s Included?
• Meals – hotel breakfasts, snacks en route and pre/post-ride nutrition, lunches including the famed Ride and Seek picnics, multi-course group dinners with a focus on the local cuisine.
• Ride and Seek jersey
• Garmin 1030 use with all routes preloaded
• Ride and Seek water bottle
• Kit laundry service once a week
• Passionate, experienced and knowledgeable guides always on hand to help
Not Included
• Alcoholic beverages
• Bike hire
• Pre & post tour accommodation
Supplements
•Single supplement – Our prices are based on twin/double occupancy. If you wish to have your own room then a supplement is applicable.
Deposit
To reserve a place on a stage of this tour we ask for a deposit of €500 (or your local currency equivalent). We also accept payment in GB£ and AU$. The final invoice will include any applicable single supplements and bike hire costs.
Provence Gravel Cycling Food and Wine
With a strong Italian and Spanish influence, the cuisine of Provence has a distinctive flair that sets it apart from more classic French fare. Blessed with an abundance of natural ingredients that flourish in the region, Provence is unsurpassed for the freshness of its produce and variety of its dishes. What better encapsulates the flavours of Provençal cuisine than the region’s herbs? Containing rosemary, marjoram, basil, savoury and thyme, as well as a variety of other aromatic plants, you’ll be awakened to their presence not just in the food but also in the air as you cycle along. And what about the tapenades? These go so well spread on fougasse – a flat bread with herbs, fig, olive and walnut. We like the original made of capers, black olives and anchovies but why not try the myriad of other options and discover your own favourite?
Provence is also one of France’s serious fine wine regions, on a par with Bordeaux and Burgundy. In contrast to the cultured power of Bordeaux and the elegance of Burgundy, Provençal red wines are earthier with an almost rustic flavour. In this respect, they are really interesting since quality commercial wine making is balanced by a real sense of identity. Our tour takes us into the heart of some of the regions finest wines and we’ll have the chance to compare and contrast the relative merits of Côtes du Rhône, Les Baux and Côtes du Ventoux. For dessert, we recommend the excellent Muscat de Beaumes de Venise – an almost floral, citrus bouquet making them both refreshing and full-bodied.
Provence Gravel Cycling Hotels
Our Provence Gravel Explorer is anchored by two cycle-friendly hotels, cherished partners in exploration. Connecting the dots between these bases and weaving in loops promises a rich tapestry of gravel riding adventures. With these accommodations as hubs, riders can immerse themselves in the diverse and scenic landscapes that define the best of our captivating region.
Hotel des Pins (Bedoin) – This Logis Hôtel is situated at the base of Mont Ventoux and has a wonderful gourmet restaurant. Its name comes from the pine trees that surround it and reflects the fact it is slightly outside the hustle-bustle of the village which is a 10-minute stroll away. With a lovely swimming pool and shaded courtyard, it provides a wonderful sanctuary from which to explore the surrounding area. The massages offered by our ex Tour de France soigneur are an added bonus.
Maison des Ocres (Roussillon) – Located in Roussillon, one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’, our hotel is perfectly positioned to explore the village and the Luberon. Family run it has an intimate charm and offers a great buffet breakfast. With 18 comfortable and refined rooms overlooking the village of Gordes and the valley around it offers a wonderful sejour.
Next:
Overview
Tour at a Glance
Provence Gravel Explorer Dates: 5th to 11th June 2024
Countries: France
Number of days: 7 days
Price: €3250 (€2,950 MVCC members)
Grading: 
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