Les Gorges de la Nesques
The Nesque Gorges from Bédoin
One of the most beautiful hikes on the Ventou
The Nesque Gorges are a wild canyon with ochre cliffs, breathtaking
panoramic views, and small lookout points—perfect for taking photos, short walks, and
enjoying the views of Mont Ventoux and the Vaucluse plain.
From Bédoin, head to the Gorges de la Nesque—about 20 km (a 25-minute drive)
via Villes-sur-Auzon. This scenic route is considered one of the most
spectacular in Provence: a wild canyon nearly 20 km long, reaching depths of over 400 m
in places, nestled between limestone cliffs, tunnels, and lookout points.
Recommended itinerary (half-day or full-day):
You can return via Sault to explore the lavender fields (in season)
Bédoin → Villes-sur-Auzon
Take the D942 to Monieux
From Bédoin to the Nesques Gorges
Must-See Attractions in the Region
Must-see attractions:
– Stop at the spectacular Le Castelleras viewpoint, facing the famous Rocher du Cire, the iconic vantage point of the gorges.
– Drive through the Grand Tunnel Gorges de la Nesque, one of the most
photogenic spots along the route.
– Explore the canyon from Les Gorges de la Nesque, with its vertiginous cliffs and remarkable wildlife (vultures, eagles, and falcons, depending on the season).
Hiking:
For hikers, the Monieux–La Nesque Gorges hiking trail offers a close-up exploration of the gorges. The trails offer impressive views of the canyon and sometimes provide a glimpse of the ancient cave chapel of Saint-Michel, nestled beneath the cliff.
Must-see spots around the gorges:
– Saint-Hubert Lookout: stunning panoramic view of the Ventoux mountains.
– La Gabelle Lookout: unobstructed view of the forests and plateaus of the Sault region.
– The charming and peaceful village of Monieux, perfect for a coffee break or lunch.
For cyclists:
The Gorges route is also a classic cycling route. A loop from Bédoin to Villes-sur-Auzon to Monieux to Sault and back to Bédoin lets you explore the landscapes of the Ventoux without the extreme difficulty of climbing to the summit. Cycling through the Nesque Gorges is even a local favorite among cycling tourists.
It’s probably one of the most beautiful routes to take from Bédoin: less crowded than the summit of Ventoux, but offering spectacular, quintessentially Provençal scenery.