Beautiful chateaus, famous wines and terrific food : what more do you need to experience the real France ? This cycling tour starts in Bordeaux and then moves into the vineyards including the famous name of Saint Emilion on up to Bergerac. You then travel into the prehistory region of the Dordogne, Les Eyzies and Sarlat. This combination is a 'best of' experience for a week timeframe in Aquitaine - some true highlights ! You will start in Bordeaux, which is easily reached by TGV or flight from Paris. The trip finishes in Sarlat from where you can take a small train to connect back to the TGV line.
Discover this countryside mixed with vineyards, chateaus, and the grottos of prehistory. You will pass through some old walled towns, see abbeys, and visit medieval castles during an unforgettable cycling tour !
If you wish to visit prehistoric caves during your stay, remember to book your entrance tickets in advance. The caves are protected sites and the number of visitors is very limited. Our team is available to help you book.
If you wish to visit prehistoric caves during your stay, remember to book your entrance tickets in advance. The caves are protected sites and the number of visitors is very limited. Our team is available to help you book.
To
see
Saint Emilion, Bergerac and its wine, Sarlat castel of Commarque
Gastronomy
Canelé of Bordeaux, truffle of Perigord, foie gras of Perigord
Wine
Pauillac, St Emilion, the wine of Dordogne
Feedbacks
5/5
Ingrid
5/5
|Traveled in May 2023
Our 9-day self-guided bike tour in the Dordogne region was nothing but compliments for Discover France. Every aspect of our trip was top notch: the e-bikes, the hotels, the meals, the bike routes. We will no doubt return for another adventure wi
...th Discover France and will recommend them to all of our friends.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Standard : 3* or 4* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
J-1
Arrival in Bordeaux
Bordeaux is a large city with good rail access and commercial airline flights from several European capitals. This historic city is very picturesque and offers a variety of attractions, including wine museums and shops for local wines. If you arrive early enough, take the chance to visit the Cité du Vin in Bordeaux. Transfer on your own to the hotel, settle into your hotel.
Accommodation : Hotel de Normandie**** - Bordeaux
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Accommodation : Hotel La Zoologie & Spa**** - Bordeaux
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Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning
J-2
From Bordeaux to Saint Emilion
Ride out of Bordeaux on bike paths all the way to the charming town of Creon, and then continue through wine country all the way to St Emilion. Discover this World Heritage site, with fascinating Romanesque churches and ruins stretching all along steep and narrow streets. The Romans planted vineyards in what was to become St Emilion as early as the 2nd century AD. The town was named after the monk Emilion, a traveling confessor, who settled in a hermitage carved into the rock there in the 8th century. It was the monks who followed him that started up the commercial wine production in the area. Take some time to explore this charming town and visit the Tour du Roy which dates from 1237.
Distance : 50 Km (31 mi).
Elevation : 370 m.
Accommodation : Auberge de la Commanderie *** - St Emilion
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Accommodation : Hotel Grand Barrail***** - St Emilion
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning
Discover La Sauve-Majeure Abbey listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site! This Benedictine Abbey, masterpiece of Romanesque art of 12th century, let discover remarkable sculpted capitals. From the top of its bell-tower, you can enjoy a remarkable view.
Accommodation : Chateau de Sanse*** - Sainte radegonde
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Accommodation : Chateau de Sanse*** - Sainte radegonde
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning,dinner (no drinks)
From Sainte Radegonde you will cycle through the vineyards to Bergerac, located on the Dordogne river, a large town with good rail access and services. This is your gateway into the famous Black Perigord. The historic city is very picturesque and offers visits including the Maison des Vins - for local wines.
Distance : 47 Km (30mi).
Elevation : 213 m.
NOTE : There will not be stores or restaurants during your ride today. Check during the morning (at the hotel or Gensac).
Accommodation : Inter Hotel de Bordeaux*** - Bergerac
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Accommodation : La Chartreuse du Bignac**** - Saint Nexans
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning
A fairly challenging ride, it involves some hilly terrain up to the viewpoint of Les Cingles de Tremolat. The ride will take you along a scenic route to St Sauveur and through the surrounding forests.
Distance : 40m (27mi).
Elevation : 440 m.
Accommodation : La Metairie**** - Mauzac et Grand Castang
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Accommodation : Le Vieux Logis**** - Tremolat
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning,dinner (no drinks)
Your ride today will take you to Les Eyzies, capital of prehistory, where Cro Magnon was discovered. Starting out easy you come to Audrix a small village by small roads and almost no traffic. Then down to Le Bugue and Gouffre de Proumeyssac, and then on to Les Eyzies. Take time to visit this very charming town and its sites, museums including the Font de Gaume.
Distance : 51 Km (32 mi).
Elevation : 636 m.
Accommodation : Les Glycines Hotel & SPA**** - Les Eyzies de Tayac
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Accommodation : Les Glycines Hotel & SPA**** - Les Eyzies de Tayac
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast the next morning,dinner (no drinks)
Since today is a short ride but your destination has plenty to offer, we recommend getting an early start to give you plenty of time to visit the very charming town of Sarlat. This town with its cobbled streets, old roofs, and warm stone walls give an exceptional heritage. Sarlat is a medieval town that developed around a large Benedictine abbey of Carolingian origin. The medieval Sarlat Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Sacerdos. Because modern history has largely passed it by, Sarlat has remained preserved and one of the towns most representative of 14th century France. If you happen to be there on Wednesday or Saturday morning, do not miss the wonderful local market.
You can decide to ride a longer distance (with more elevation) with a longer option that goes by the Chateau of Commarque (open to public), facing his rival the Chateau de Laussel (private).
You can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Trains from Sarlat connect nearby towns and on to Bordeaux or Paris all day long.
Note : We can help with extra nights, transfer with train to Bordeaux or Paris, car rentals, or other extensions to your tour, please contact us.
Included : breakfast
CUSTOMIZED TOUR
This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Train: From Paris Montparnasse - Bordeaux St Jean; 3 hours 20 min TGV in both directions.
Flights to Bordeaux possible from many European cities; from Paris Orly 1 hour 5min.
With a direct line to and from Bordeaux and several connections to the stations around Sarlat.
Two international airports are located near Sarlat and serve a good number of destinations throughout France and Europe.
The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30unisex (or equivalent)
All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)
With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Rear pannier
Helmet
Odometer
Lock
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next road.
Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump.
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise.
Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)
A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.
Available sizes :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Details
Included
ACCOMODATIONS
- 7 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast at each hotel
- 5 dinners included (version updgraded), 3 dinners included (version Standard).
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
GEAR
- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)
SUPPORT
- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)
TRANSFER
- All luggage transfers
Not included
Airfare to and from the trip
Lodging before and after the trip
Ticket Font-de-Gaume cave
Drinks
Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.
Multirisk travel insurance
Other questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
The hôtel de Normandie is located in the heart of the 18th-century centre of Bordeaux, listed as a World heritage Site by UNESCO. The Garonne riverfront, the Grand Théâtre opera house and the city’s other main monuments are only a short walk away.The CIVB (Bordeaux Wine Trade Council), situated opposite the hotel, will allow you to discover the Bordeaux wine country. The windows of the hôtel de Normandie offer a view of Bordeaux’s famous Esplanade des Quinconces, a short distance from the Grand Théâtre and the Place Tourny square.
http://www.hotel-normandie-bordeaux.com/
Located in Bordeaux, Hotel La Zoologie & Spa Bordeaux features a gym, a garden, a terrace and a restaurant. This 4-star hotel features a 24-hour front desk, room service and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy a drink at the bar.
https://www.hotelzoologie.com/en/
The historic town of Saint-Emiliion with is military and religious past, is like an architectural jewel mounted in a clasp of vines which produce world-reputed wines. The Auberge de la Commanderieis one of the historic sites located at the heart of the medieval town offers accomodations adapted to your needs. The main part of the building was of templar origin and the annex was used as a last hiding place by the counter-revolutionary Girondin deputies. Both building are a unique of old Saint-Emilion and were renovated in 2003.
http://www.aubergedelacommanderie.com/
One-of-a kind property, the 4-star, 19th-century Château Grand Barrail Hôtel **** is located in the right-bank area of Bordeaux, next to a medieval town. With Saint-Emilion’s most famous wine-producing châteaux at its doorstep. Surrounded by a 7-acre park, Château Grand Barrail Hôtel is a member of Small Luxury Hotels of the world (SLH). It offers gorgeous guest rooms, split between the château and its outbuildings, and a gourmet restaurant. Run by Chef Romain Gondras, it serves innovative, mouth-watering cuisine matched with carefully selected Bordeaux’s fine wines to tempt every palate.
Indulge in the hotel’s spa, offering a comprehensive array of Cinq Mondes body treatments to relax you, pamper your body and delight your senses.
The hotel’s friendly and committed staff is always on hand to cater to your every need. Offering each guest a warm and personalized welcome, Château Grand Barrail Hôtel is sure to meet most demanding expectations.
http://www.grand-barrail.com/
Situated in the South West of France, just a stone's throw away from the world renowned vineyards of Saint Emilion and Pomerol, settled amongst the rolling valleys of the Dordogne, Chateau de Sanse is the perfect base for you to discover this culturally rich and fascinating region.
Crafted from the ruins of a magnificent 18th century chateau and following a great deal of careful and sensitive restoration, this hotel now stands as a striking landmark against a backdrop of spectacular vineyards and woodland in the south of France.
Our rooms are tastefully decorated and individually styled with lots of attention paid to those small details that count for so much. Then just unwind and sip on a refreshing cocktail served to you poolside whilst you lay back and gaze at the breathtaking views.
http://www.chateaudesanse.com/
Situated in the South West of France, just a stone's throw away from the world renowned vineyards of Saint Emilion and Pomerol, settled amongst the rolling valleys of the Dordogne, Chateau de Sanse is the perfect base for you to discover this culturally rich and fascinating region.
Crafted from the ruins of a magnificent 18th century chateau and following a great deal of careful and sensitive restoration, this hotel now stands as a striking landmark against a backdrop of spectacular vineyards and woodland in the south of France.
Our rooms are tastefully decorated and individually styled with lots of attention paid to those small details that count for so much. Then just unwind and sip on a refreshing cocktail served to you poolside whilst you lay back and gaze at the breathtaking views.
http://www.chateaudesanse.com/
The Hotel De Bordeaux is only a stone's throw away from Bergerac's historical center. For sure you will appreciate its warm welcome and its comfortable rooms. Well-known for its attractive understated decor and its relaxed atmosphere, the Hotel De Bordeaux welcomes guests in the finest Perigordian tradition. This is a haven of peace that you will enjoy either in the privacy of your room or lying by the swimming pool in the tree-shaded garden.
http://www.hotel-bordeaux-bergerac.com/
Escape to the countryside. To a timeless place. This beautiful 19th Century house offers tranquility and simplicity, far from the sound and the fury, deep in the heart of the Périgord. Extensive grounds, an outdoor pool, bright colours and a terrace overlooking the garden bring together all the ingredients for a relaxing break in this 4 star boutique hotel. In addition, you will discover delicious food showcasing regional produce and cosy rooms, each decorated in a different style. Located just a few kilometres from Bergerac, the famous prehistoric village of Eyzies and Sarlat.
http://www.la-metairie.com/en
At the bottom of the Vézère and the Dordogne valley, here is the ideal starting point for your itinerary, at the heart of the culinary tradition, in the land of caves and beautiful villages. To stay at Le Vieux Logis, is rather like going back to one’s family home, a domain where agriculture used to be at its heart (specializing in the tobacco trade).,A house, passed on from generation to generation in the same family, until passing into the hands of Mr Giraudel, who epitomizes the quintessential spirit of the Vieux Logis. Open all year, the estate includes a manor house, tenanted farm, outbuildings, tobacco drying room, which now houses the new gastronomic restaurant. The hotel's 23 rooms, suites and apartments are located in the main building or the Logis des Champs outbuildings. Each spacious, quiet and comfortable room is unique. With their bare stone walls, period furniture and contemporary fabrics, you are sure to be won over by the elegant décor, which combines old-world style with more modern touches.
http://www.vieux-logis.com/en/
Les Glycines Hotel & SPA**** - Les Eyzies de Tayac
The Périgord Noir landscapes enhance Les Glycines, a former coaching inn. A delightful lush park featuring weeping willows, ros trees, poplars and, next to a swimming pool, a few palm trees. A splendid terrace, where fine food is served, overlooks this enchanting building. The sophisticated, gourmet dishes are prepared using local seasonal produce and vegetables from the restaurant’s own kitchen garden. Spacious rooms ensuring a peaceful stay, nestled in the 19 th century building, with its sober and elegant façade. The pristine white shades enhance the overall feeling tone set by the deliberate minimalist décor.
http://www.les-glycines-dordogne.com/fr/accueil
Les Glycines Hotel & SPA**** - Les Eyzies de Tayac
The Périgord Noir landscapes enhance Les Glycines, a former coaching inn. A delightful lush park featuring weeping willows, ros trees, poplars and, next to a swimming pool, a few palm trees. A splendid terrace, where fine food is served, overlooks this enchanting building. The sophisticated, gourmet dishes are prepared using local seasonal produce and vegetables from the restaurant’s own kitchen garden. Spacious rooms ensuring a peaceful stay, nestled in the 19 th century building, with its sober and elegant façade. The pristine white shades enhance the overall feeling tone set by the deliberate minimalist décor.
http://www.les-glycines-dordogne.com/fr/accueil
This graceful property in a quiet area, offers elegant accommodation and modern facilities to make your stay in Sarlat a pleasant one. Modern, elegant and timeless, Le Renoir hotel is highly surprising. Built in a non-conventional style, it is located in the very heart of the medieval city. French hospitality and pleasant surroundings. You can take a stroll through its cobbled streets and discover a thousand years of architecture. The attractions include walled towns, chateaux, prehistoric caves, Romanesque churches, parks, gardens, quiet streams and of course Perigord's celebrated cuisine. Functional and personal, the hotel's bedrooms are perfectly arranged to make your stay enjoyable and meet all your expectations.
http://www.hotel-renoir-sarlat.com/en/home/
Plaza Madeleine is definitely a destination for your holidays in Dordogne. The hotel is located in the heart of Sarlat with direct access to the medieval city, its market and entertainment. Contemporary, opulent decor, relaxed atmosphere, quality of services, Plaza Madeleine is also recognized in the major national guides: Michelin and Gault & Millau. The hotel was completely renovated and redesigned. For your enjoyment, Plaza Madeleine now has a heated pool, a wellness center and falls in step with the hotels that offer comfort ... much more than sleep.
http://www.plaza-madeleine.com/