The Comtat Venaissin

The cycling itinerary around the Carpentras Canal is an absolute must for anyone who wants to explore and understand the Comtat Venaissin. The canal is very central to the area and holds the key to understanding the landscapes around you. From the town of Carpentras to Beaumes de Venise, from the Comtat plain to the foothills of the Dentelles de Montmirail range and Mont Ventoux, water is the main thread stitching together a society whose history is marked by judicious water management and the creation of engineering works.

The road through the Comtadin vineyards winds amidst famous AOC Côtes du Rhône vines and AOC Côtes du Ventoux vineyards. Vineyards are not the only point of interest in the countryside on this circuit. Here you will also see the by-pass channel for the Carpentras canal – further testimony to the very sacred nature of water in Provence. The water management structures built in the past gave rise to very prosperous fruit and vegetable farming and orchards, in particular strawberry and cherry, which have shaped the fate of this area.

Leaving Velleron, this route takes you to Pernes-les-Fontaines, birthplace of Paul de Vivie named "Veloccio" (1853-1930), an emblematic figure of french cycle-tourism who worked on imporving the derailleur. You will then arrive in L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, known as "Comtadine Venice". Take time to stroll along the canals and then cycle through groves and fields before arriving in Le Thor.

This ride starts from the village of Saint Didier and takes you to the foothills of the Monts de Vaucluse, through magnificent panoramic views of Mont Ventoux and the surrounding cultivated fields – vineyards, the cherry orchards producing the Monts de Venasque cherries, almond trees, and the villages of La Roque-sur-Pernes, Le Beaucet, Venasque.
These villages were built up high on the rocks offering protection over time. This makes them unique places to visit with views which will take your breath away.

This ride, between Mont Ventoux and the Monts de Vaucluse, takes you through the agricultural plains of the area known as the Comtat Venaissin. This is a landscape of hedges, irrigation canals, fields of vegetables, a reflection of the farming background of this plain. This itinerary lets you explore two cities that are very important to the Comtat Venaissin, Pernes-les-Fontaines and Carpentras. The architectural and historical heritage in Pernes-les-Fontaines and Carpentras reflect the successful agricultural model based on strict management of water, a sacred resource in Provence. Water is present throughout this itinerary.

This tour has been created for safe family outings along an ancient railway line with superb views over the vineyards, the Ouvèze river and in the distance tthe Dentelles de Montmirail and the Mont Ventoux.