I have always wanted to climb the Mount Ventoux, also known as the “Giant of Provence”. Now this id done! It is a bit hard but really worth it because the landscapes, fauna and flora are astonishing.

Trail/Map

We followed the GR4 and GR9. You can see the full itinerary/trail on viewranger. 20 km and +910 meters climb so not for unfit people…

My advice

Shoes

Make sure to take some real hinking shoes. Running shoes will not be sufficiant as many parts of the trail are very stony.

Clothes

Even if it very hot at the bottom, take a jumper and a raincoat because the Mount Ventoux takes its name from the strong wind (“vent”) that can. This added to altitude, there can be 10°C difference between the bottom and the top!

Water

Take at least 2 litres per person.

Photo gear

For photo lovers like me, the great diversity of landscapes, fauna and flora you will come accross will allow many photo styles Pour les amateurs de photo comme moi, la diversité des paysages, de la faune et de la flore du Ventoux prêtent à de nombreux styles de photos, from wide angle to macro. Therefore you can take a versatile zoom lense such as a 17-55mm, but for fix lense lovers like me you will have to take a wide angle (e.g. 14mm) and a 50mm, 100mm or, even better 200mm. In case the weather turns bad, take a plastic bag or a waterproof case to protect your camera in your bag.

Photos

Gear: Canon EOS 6D, canon 50mm f1.8, samyang 14mm f/2.8.