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Bédoin, Provence

A hillside village in the foothills of Mont Ventoux

featured in Towns & villages Updated

Bédoin lies within a large territory that includes the impressive Mont Ventoux, home of one of the most iconic stages of the Tour de France and a challenge for any cyclist coming to the area.

Its large postcode area includes a number of smaller hamlets each with their own unique charm and character and you can't fail to miss the mighty Mont Ventoux, which is easily visible from the village.

History & Culture in [locality]

Rock shelters from prehistoric times have been discovered in the area at sites such as Combe de la Madelène, and the name "Beduinum" can be first found in historic documents from the middle of the 10th century.

In the Roman era, villas and farm lands dominated the lower hillsides around Bédoin, and in 1250, Lord Barral des Baux granted the villagers important privileges, notably the use of the Ventoux farming lands, giving them prosperity for centuries.

In 1271, the Comtat Venaissin became Papal land and Bédoin a part of the papacy until 1791, at which point the Comtat was joined back to France. However Bédoin remained loyal to the pope, and the revolutionary repression that ensued was the most painful episode in the history of the village. Declared in a state of counter-revolution, the village was literally wiped from the map when it was destroyed in 1794. Thankfully, a year later it was restored.

Sights & Attractions in [locality]

There are a number of sights to visit around the village.

The remains of a Roman villa can be visited on the outskirts, at a little hamlet called Les Bruns. Since the site is protected you can only visit with a guide during designated times, which can be organised through the local tourist office.

To the north you can find the Chapel of the Madeleine, one of the most outstanding examples of primitive Romanesque art in Provence, which is open for visitors on weekends during summer.

Things to do in [locality]

Not only is this a popular place for cyclists, it also attracts mountain bikers to the bike park on the south side of Mont Ventoux plus there are plenty of options for hiking, including a few options mentioned here in our reporter review.

The town has its own municipal tennis court and swimming pool too.

Dining in [locality]

You'll find a nice mix of restaurants, from pizzas and pasta to more traditional local cuisine.

Where to stay in [locality]

There are a number of campsites in and around the area if you're looking for somewhere to pitch your tent or park your camper.

Hotels in [locality]

There are a handful of small hotels and B&B's in and around Bédoin.

Directions

Bédoin lies to the west of Mont Ventoux around 15km from Carpentras.

Location

Map of the surrounding area