THE ROADS ARE SUCCULENT AND BOUNTIFUL, AND THE FOOD AND WINE LEAVE YOU BREATHLESS. THE PINARELLO BIKES ARE TO THE HIGHEST STANDARD OF THE PUREST GOURMAND. THE PERSONALITIES ARE RICH AND BOLD, YET FULL OF SUBTLE SURPRISES. ALL IS TO BE SAVORED—AND DEVOURED.
Lead Guide:
Todd Fiesel
7 JUL 202413 JUL 2024
BÈDION, FRANCE - VENTOUX CYCLING CAMP
BOOK NOWEXPRESS INTEREST$5200,00
Lead Guide:
Todd Fiesel
2024 is shaping up nicely with the latest edition. SOUTHERN FRANCE
Join us on an extraordinary six-day, fully-guided cycling adventure through the captivating landscapes of the Ventoux and Luberon mountains, immersing yourself in the enchanting Vaucluse region nestled at the heart of Provence.
This cycling itinerary is ideally suited for seasoned cyclists. Our home base is close to the charming village of Bedoin, nestled near the iconic Mont Ventoux.
Each day's stage is crafted to ensure you relish the essence of this splendid region, offering various options that cater to diverse levels of difficulty. Whether it be conquering the legendary Mont Ventoux, leisurely meandering through the stunning Gorges de la Nesque, embarking on an adventure near the mesmerizing Dentelles de Montmirail, or venturing onwards to the charming village of Gordes and beyond.
What's Included
- Full accommodations
- Airport transfers to/from Marseille Airport
- All meals included
- Premium Bike Rental (Additional charge)
- Guided routes
- Daily ride support
- Ride nutrition and hydration products
- Daily bike maintainance
- Wheelhouse Cycling Jersey
- All alcoholic beverages
Please be aware that international travel is subject to government COVID protocols.
MEET THE GUIDES
THE QUIET CRUSHER:
MANUEL CARDOSO
Manuel Cardoso is no longer sitting on the front of the pack, pulling everyone along at what some would describe as a “brisk” pace and what others are unable to describe at all, because they’re too busy gasping for breath and holding onto the wheel in front of them for dear life. Manuel is now sitting just slightly off the back of the pack. As I look back, I realize he has that look on his face. The look which struck fear in the hearts of the Pro Peleton for many years. The look which is part grin, part mischievous child and all business. He is about to start some shenanigans. Sure enough, just a few kilometers later and Manuel has picked one lucky contestant out of the pack and they are sitting-in, waiting, like predators, for the perfect moment. For Manuel, just like when he raced pro, this is when the road turns slightly up, a spot in the road where it gets tough for everyone. And he accelerates with his breakaway “partner” in tow. It is something to see. He ramps it up to a speed with which no one can latch onto the back and with such precision you have to question whether or not you actually want to try and close the gap he has created. And you can’t see it, but you just know, he is grinning from ear-to-ear.
THE TRIP AT A GLANCE
START LOCATION:
Verona
START LOCATION:
Milan
TOTAL ELEVATION:
8,764m
TOTAL DISTANCE:
376km
DAYS RIDING:
6
GROUP SIZE:
8-14
LONGEST DAY:
Day 3 – 99km
4 Lakes
BIGGEST CLIMBING DAY:
Day 3 – 2,218m
4 Lakes
DAY BY DAY BREAKDOWN
1
MARCIAGA
Sunday | 40km & 521m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
2
LUMINI
Monday | 62.5km & 1,037m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
3
4 Lakes
Tuesday | 99km & 2,218m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
4
ISEO LOOP
Wednesday | 65km & 1,156m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
5
PASSO GAVIA
Thursday | 59.3km & 1,937m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
6
PASSO DELL'UMBRAIL & PASSO DELLO STELVIO
Friday | 48.5km & 1,905m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
7
MARCIAGA
Sunday | 40km & 521m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
8
MARCIAGA
Sunday | 40km & 521m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
9
MARCIAGA
Sunday | 40km & 521m
Benvenuti in Italia! There’s no such thing as a flat ride on this trip, but this route is a gentle introduction to the area, which should give you plenty of time to shake out those legs and make sure your bike is perfect. If something isn’t quite right, this is the day to dial it in with your mechanic. From the east, the climb to the summit of Marciaga, overlooking Lake Garda, is relatively easy, and is followed by an exciting descent to the waterfront.
BÉDOIN, FRANCE - VENTOUX CYCLING CAMP
Road Cycling Camp
RIDING
France offers a wealth of experiences beyond the delectable cuisine, fine wines, rich history, champagne, enchanting villages, and bustling weekend markets—although these undoubtedly enrich your camp we want to ride.
Bienvenue en France! Our week begins with a fun little ride to get us settled in the area. A little loop will take us south through the outskirts of Carpentras, where one of the most famous Tour de France stages resides. There is a nice little climb to test the legs after travel and dial in the bike sizing.
One of our favourite routes is from the house to Bedoin past Monieux and descend into the valley towards Carpentras. A truely epic 90kms ride taking in the old roman towns and beautiful valleys the Vaucluse region is known for.
We couldn't come to this region without climbing the iconic Mont Ventoux. We will have routes planned for all three sides however, we will be conquering the mighty beast from Sault providing a serious challenge for all riders. No better reason to stay motivated in the early spring.
ACCOMMODATIONS
In true Wheelhouse fashion we have placed a premium on the accomodations with every detail covered so you only have to worry about pedalling harder. We have reserved a luxury chateau in Provence which was recently renovated to a high standard. The expansive grounds include woodland paths, lovely gardens and a large private pool with dining terrace, and an outdoor cooking area. The charming local village (1.5 km) has the shops you need, a small weekly market and a great bar and brasserie. If you’d like to explore the region further, visit the markets at Vaison le Romaine and Carpentras for produce and souvenirs. You’ll also find 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites within an hour’s drive: Pont du Gard, the Roman Amphitheatre in Orange and the Palais des Papes in Avignon.
We ask that participants looking to book shared accommodations to please contact us beforehand. All private bookings will have their own bedroom and private bathroom. Shared accommodations will have two beds and shared bathrooms.
ITINERARY
DATES & PRICES
We’d love to help you plan a dream cycling trip for you and your riding crew.
DETAILS
What’s Included
- Full accommodations
- Airport transfers to/from Marseille Airport
- All meals included
- Premium Bike Rental (Additional charge)
- Guided routes
- Daily ride support
- Ride nutrition and hydration products
- Daily bike maintainance
- Wheelhouse Cycling Jersey
- All alcoholic beverages
Please be aware that international travel is subject to government COVID protocols.
Optional Activities
- France Travel Extensions - Please Inquire
- Extra Night Accommodations - Please Inquire
- Private Tours, Wine, Food Tours, Cooking Classes
- Bike Maintenance Clincs
- Non-riders are welcome! France offers alternative activities for anyone who isn’t a rider including local hikes, horseback riding, nature walks, cooking classes and world class spas.
What’s Not Included
- Airfare
- Travel Insurance
- Bike Rentals
- Bike Insurance
- COVID Tests
- Bike Air Transport Fee
- Personal Laundry
- Private Tours
- Private Meal Outside Of Group
BIKE OPTIONS
Bring Your Own
If you prefer to bring your own bike, The Wheelhouse will service and pack your bike at least 3 days before your departure. A thorough inspection and wash is included in your camp package. If any mechanic parts are needed, it will be mentioned and budgeted to you beforehand. If you require a bike bag for your trip, we'd gladly rent one to you upon request. Please let us know if you will be flying with your bike or shipping your bike.
CONTACT USCompanions
If you or your travel partner want to enjoy the trip and explore a new destination without a bike, drop us a line and we’ll discuss options. Some trips are better suited for non-rider participants than others.
RENT A BIKE
Bike rentals are available for an additional cost. If you don't have your fit dimensions, we highly recommend performing a bike fit. Please contact us to book at fit or ask about bike requirements.
Book a Bike Fit
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