In the heart of the Monts du Vaucluse, the Gorges de la Nesque offer one of Provence’s most beautiful natural spectacles. This unspoilt gorge, carved out by thousands of years of erosion, features dizzying cliffs, tunnels carved into the rocks and breathtaking views. Whether you are an avid cyclist or simply a nature lover, this spectacular location promises an unforgettable experience, both by bike and on foot.
The most adventurous can even take a bike ride directly from the Moulin de Souchières, our holiday home with a swimming pool 50 km from the Gorges de la Nesque.
The Gorges de la Nesque: a unique natural gorge in Provence
The Gorges de la Nesque, one of the department’s most remarkable sights, form a genuine natural gorge in Provence, carved out over millions of years by the River Nesque. Over a length of almost 20 kilometres, the panoramic road follows the curves of dizzying cliffs that can be over 300 metres high. Behind every bend, you will discover mysterious caves, tunnels carved into the rocks and spectacular viewpoints revealing the vastness of the Vaucluse landscapes. Here, nature reigns supreme: eagles soaring above the gorges, the scent of thyme and wild lavender, silence broken only by the wind and the song of birds. It is a place that combines rugged beauty and serenity, perfect for getting away from it all and reconnecting with nature.
A panoramic route, ideal for road cyclists
For cycling enthusiasts in Provence, the cycle route through the Gorges de la Nesque is one of the most beautiful routes in the region. The D942 departmental road, which connects Villes-sur-Auzon with Monieux, winds its way along the cliffs for almost 20 kilometres and offers a moderate but constant elevation gain, ideal for sustained effort without excess. The tunnels carved into the rocks, the balcony bends and the breathtaking views of the canyon make every pedal stroke a moment of wonder. The climb, which is accessible to both sporty and recreational cyclists, is rewarded with magnificent panoramas, particularly from the Castelleras viewpoint at the Rocher du Cire. Here, sporting achievement goes hand in hand with beautiful views, in an environment where nature and the road become one.
For nature lovers and hikers
Although cycling is a particularly pleasant way to explore the Gorges, walking in the Gorges de la Nesque also allows you to discover the richness of the area up close, and the views are just as impressive. The hiking trail that starts from Monieux is spectacular and highly recommended, as it offers alternating views from above, where you can enjoy the panorama of the Gorges de la Nesque, with their steep cliffs, their meanders and their colours that change throughout the day, and passages at the bottom of the gorge down to the riverbed, where you come into direct contact with the Mediterranean vegetation, rock formations and the coolness of the shaded areas. Don’t expect a refreshing river, as there is no water flowing in the Gorges !
Please note that this route has some difficult sections, such as dizzying passages along the edge of a cliff and a ford crossing the Nesque. Avoid this route in bad weather or after rain, as the path becomes slippery and can be dangerous. But if you walk the route in the right conditions and are not afraid of heights, you will not regret it !
Tips from Anca and Philippe
As lovers of the region and keen cyclists, we would like to share a few tips with our visitors. Above all, think about your safety: drink regularly, protect yourself from the sun with a cap or buff, and always wear a helmet and glasses to protect yourself from the wind and insects when cycling.
Summer days can be hot, so it is best to set off early in the morning to take advantage of the soft light and more pleasant temperatures.
If you are staying at Le Moulin and you are keen on road cycling, you can try the Nesque Gorges directly from our rental location. There are several options for a great bike ride from Le Moulin, all on roads with little traffic:
Classic route
Via Ville sur Auzon, Monieux, returning via Saint Hubert:
Approximately 35 kilometres to reach Ville sur Auzon, then take the tourist route and from there it is a cyclist’s paradise. The entire tour is 112 kilometres long with an elevation gain of 1,143 metres.
Variant ‘wall of Monieux’
If you like steep slopes, you can tackle the wall of Monieux.
The starting point of the tour is the same, but once you arrive in Monieux, cycle through the village and start the wall. About 1 km with an increasingly steep slope up to 24% over a few hundred metres. Return to Ville sur Auzon via the Col des Abeilles, La Gabelle and Flassan. From there, return to Le Moulin via the same route as on the way there. The entire tour is approximately 120 km long with an elevation gain of 1,350 m.
Chalet Reynard variant via Sault
Once you arrive in Monieux, you can also take on the slopes of Ventoux…
From Monieux, head to Sault and then climb up to Chalet Reynard.
Return via Bédoin and Crillon le Brave. The entire route is 132 km long with an elevation gain of 1,750 m. The most daring can add the climb to the summit of Ventoux. This adds approximately 12 km and 450 m of elevation gain.
And of course there are many other possibilities… Don’t hesitate to ask us for advice when you stay with us: we can provide you with GPX tracks and recommendations, as it’s a route we’ve done many times!
If you are travelling by car or motorbike, take the opportunity to drive to Sault. Be sure to try the nougat, a local speciality made with locally produced honey and almonds. In summer, during the flowering season, the view of the lavender fields is particularly spectacular and photogenic. Sault is not the only village in the hills of the Monts du Vaucluse that is worth a visit. For more ideas for adventures, read our blog articles on topics such as Mont Ventoux by road bike, Mont Ventoux by mountain bike or hiking.
Stay near the Gorges de la Nesque: our holiday home
Our holiday home is ideally located for exploring the Gorges de la Nesque and the rest of the Monts du Vaucluse and is designed to accommodate both families and groups of friends. You will find all the comforts you need for a successful stay: a swimming pool to cool off after a day of cycling or hiking, a play area for the children, a large garden to relax in and several spacious rooms so that everyone has their own space. Those who enjoy socialising will appreciate the long summer evenings on the terrace in the lovely green and peaceful surroundings.
Its central location also makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the most beautiful spots in the region: Isle-sur-la-Sorgue and its antique market, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse and its mysterious spring, Gordes, one of the most beautiful villages in France, or the magnificent city of Avignon. Whether you are sporty, want to discover something new or are simply looking for relaxation, our holiday home offers you the perfect base from which to enjoy Provence to the full.
Conclusion
The Gorges de la Nesque are much more than just a nature reserve: they embody the wild and unspoilt soul of the Monts du Vaucluse, a place where sport and nature come together. Whether you come to climb the panoramic route by bike, hike in the heart of the canyon or simply admire the cliffs from a viewpoint, each visit offers an unforgettable memory. And to enjoy this experience in the best possible conditions, our holiday home ‘Moulin de Souchières’ is an ideal starting point. With all the comforts, relaxation and proximity to the most beautiful tourist attractions in Provence, you have everything you need for a successful stay. So put on your walking shoes, pump up your tyres… and let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the Gorges de la Nesque.
Useful information about the Gorges de la Nesque
Official Ventoux-Provence website : lien
Map :