Best of Dordogne

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This cycling trip will take you through all the best places the Dordogne region has to offer.
You will follow the Dordogne river through places dating back to Prehistory, stopping on your way to visit Rocamadour and the famous underground cave : the “Gouffre de Padirac”.
You will have the chance to stay in Sarlat, a charming medieval town, typical of the Perigord region with its local market and its 14th century ambiance.
Cycling the Dordogne valley also means seeing medieval castles, tasting delicious regional dishes and passing through some of the most beautiful villages of France. All this in one trip!

Price from : 1880€
BIKE INCLUDED
Region : Dordogne
Duration : 8 Days / 7 Nights
Level :
Type : On the way
Category : Biking
Trip : Self-guided
Activity : Hybrid
Dates : Starts any day
Book this trip Download
Itinerary

Click below to see hotels versions.

Day 1 :   Arrive in Bergerac

Arrival in Bergerac. From Paris you will take the train to Bergerac and then a taxi to Trémolat/Mauzac (included). Settle in to your charming hotel. You can either relax by the pool before your orientation.

Day 2 :   From Tremolat to Les Eyzies

Distance 1 : 32 Miles - 51 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 636 Meters 

Your first ride will take you to Les Eyzies, capital of Prehistory, where Cro Magnon men were discovered. Take some time to visit the Font de Gaume, which hosts a collection of prehistoric cave paintings. Prehistoric men living in the Dordogne Valley first settled in the Font de Gaume around 25,000 BC. The cave was forgotten until the 19th century. The paintings found here date back to 17000 BC, during the Magdalenien period. The most famous painting, a mural of five bison was discovered accidentally in 1966 while the scientists were cleaning the cave.

Day 3 :   Ride to Sarlat

Option 1 : 15 Miles - 24 Km  Option 2 : 18 Miles - 29 Km 
Elevation gain 2 : 385 Meters  Elevation gain 3 : 620 Meters 

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 charming town of Sarlat, a medieval town built around a large Benedictine abbey of Carolingian origin. Sarlat is one of the only towns in France which has kept its 14th century influence! If you happen to be there on Wednesday or Saturday morning, do not miss the wonderful local market. You will stay at a charming hotel in the center of the old town of Sarlat.

Option : You can decide to take a longer itinerary (with more elevation) going to the Chateau of Commarque (open to public), facing the Chateau de Laussel (private).

Day 4 :   Cycle to Lacave and Visit the Dordogne Caves

Distance 1 : 25 Miles - 41 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 575 Meters 

Today you ride to Lacave where you can visit the local cave. In this cave, the visit starts with a short underground train ride, at the end of which you will meet a guide to take you on a mile-long visit! On your way to Lacave, you can stop in Souillac and its Church of Sainte Marie. Tonight, you will stay at Pont de l'Ouysse with dinner included.

Day 5 :   Rocamadour and the Gouffre de Padirac

Distance 1 : 32 Miles - 51 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 872 Meters 

Today you will pass by the Gouffre de Padirac, one of the most famous underground caves in France, where part of the visit is done by boat. The Gouffre de Padirac is quite popular, we recommend getting there as early as possible. Be sure to allow some time to visit Rocamadour, one of the most visited places of France, first as a pilgrimage destination, but also because of its beautiful village built on a cliff side. Do not forget to visit the Remparts, as well as the Rocher des Aigles where vultures, falcons and eagles fly free. You may want to visit a local farm producing and selling goat cheese, or just walk around the narrow streets of the village.

Day 6 :   Cycling Along the Dordogne River to Carsac

Distance 1 : 29 Miles - 46 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 619 Meters 

Today take your time riding along the Dordogne River for a quiet countryside ride. Your destination is Vitrac or Carsac, small villages in the Black Perigord. Vitrac is known for its Chateau and water sports.

Day 7 :   Ride in the Perigord Region to Belves

Distance 1 : 24 Miles - 38 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 491 Meters 

For your last ride, you will ride through some very pitturesque villages such as la Roque Gageac and Castelnaud la Chapelle. La Roque Gageac has been awarded 'one of the most beautiful villages' of France! Built at the foot of a cliff, right along the river, do not miss its Exotic Garden and the troglodyte fort. Several famous castles are on your itinerary as well, such as the Chateau des Milandes, former home of Josephine Baker, and the Chateau de Castelnaud la Chapelle, an impressive fortified castle overlooking the Dordogne valley.

Day 8 :   Departure Day

Departure after breakfast, trains for Paris and other destinations possible.

Average / Day : Distance : 40.00 Km / 25.00 Miles - Elevation gain : 599.71 Meters

Click below to see hotels versions.


Day : Pre-tour Night

The Hotel de France is located just steps away from the pedestrian streets in the historical city center of Bergerac. The hotel offers a warm and friendly welcome, as well as rooms with every modern convenience, private garage, and swimming pool. The hotel staff speaks fluent English and Spanish.


Day : Pre-tour Night

Located in the centre of Bergerac, Le Clos d’Argenson dates back to the 19th century and features an outdoor swimming pool, garden and terrace. The house includes a fitness room, billiard table and library. B&B Clos d’Argenson has 4 luxury suites in a beautiful and restored town house built in 1865. All its authentic character are kept with high ceilings, original parquet floorings, marble chimneys and a large spiral staircase. Uniquely decorated, all suites offer views of the garden or town, a seating area and flat-screen TV. The en suite bathrooms are complete with a walk in shower and free toiletries. Breakfast is served in the dining room featuring a fireplace or on the terrace overlooking the garden and the pool.


Day : 1

This beautiful 19th Century house offers tranquility and simplicity, far from the sound and the fury, deep in the heart of the Périgord. Exposed beams, 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 and the famous prehistoric village of Eyzies.


Day : 2

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.


Day : 3

This graceful property in a quiet area, offers elegant accommodation and modern facilities to make your stay in Sarlat a pleasant one. Located just 2 minutes from Sarlat's historic medieval centre, Le Renoir Hotel offers a warm welcome, 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.


Day : 4

Just as the gleaming wood of an old country sideboardoffers its own special welcome in any dining room, so the whole atmosphereat Le Pont de l'Ouysse is one of welcoming warmth. And this goes hand in hand with all that is best from the present day - fine cuisine, perfect service, up to date facilities, beautiful surroundings, complete relaxation_ whatever is needed to ensure that guests are enchanted with their stay.At night, the modern swimming pool adds to the magic of the decor. By day, it is a tranquil oasis, set in a ring of trees and with lovely views over the encircling bowl of hills.Nestling in deep green countryside, the hotel is an ideal starting pointfor innumerable gorgeous walks.


Day : 5

Situated in Rocamadour, a delightful village of the Perigord, close to the castle, the Hotel Les Esclargies is a superb property nestled among oak trees, a place where everything is dedicated to well being and relaxation. Boasting a mellow, sensuous ambiance, a lovely terrace and a large outdoor swimming pool, this refined hotel is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing holiday in a green setting far from any city bustle. To blend with its surroundings, most of the stones and woods used in the construction of the hotel reflect the spirit of the location in keeping with tradition and history. The Hotel Les Esclargies has a partnership with the nearby Restaurant Du Chateau, which offers an imaginative cuisine inspired by the colors and flavors of the area.


Day : 6

In the heart of the Perigord Noir only 7km from Sarlat, The Villa Romainecombines the authenticity of its ancient stones with modern comfort. Thisancient Gallo Roman site steeped in history commands an exceptionalpanorama of the Dordogne, unspoiled countryside, cliffs and the forest of the Druids. Tastefully restored, the hotel has 17 large bedrooms two of which aresuite sitting rooms and one bedroom adapted for the physically disabled.All the rooms have views over the surrounding countryside. There is alarge swimming pool with an infinity edge for the use of the hotel clients.


Day : 7

The CLEMENT V could easily be mistaken for one of those village houses which choose to protect their charms behind an unassuming front. Inside, however, you will discover 11th century vaulted cellars and exposed rafters in the attic bedrooms, you will sit by the log fire of the sitting room or have tea by the conservatories lemon trees. With its nooks and crannies, and its twists and turns, Le CLEMENT V retains the feeling of a true family home.The CLEMENT V was recently renovated in keeping with this atmosphere. The prestigious Suite des Consuls with its high ceiling and wide windows overlooking the surrounding countryside could have been the private realm of the head of the family, the colonial bedroom : the den of a prodigal son, always between adventures, the Boudoir : the colourful, light hearted cocoon of a young maiden.All the rooms are very different therefore. But the laid-back atmosphere of idiosyncratic warmth and comfort which pervades the hotel is the same throughout, perhaps simply reflecting the delight of living in this area. It is after all the most beautiful countryside in the world, according to Henry Miller.


Day : Pre-tour Night

Located in the centre of Bergerac, Le Clos d’Argenson dates back to the 19th century and features an outdoor swimming pool, garden and terrace. The house includes a fitness room, billiard table and library. B&B Clos d’Argenson has 4 luxury suites in a beautiful and restored town house built in 1865. All its authentic character are kept with high ceilings, original parquet floorings, marble chimneys and a large spiral staircase. Uniquely decorated, all suites offer views of the garden or town, a seating area and flat-screen TV. The en suite bathrooms are complete with a walk in shower and free toiletries. Breakfast is served in the dining room featuring a fireplace or on the terrace overlooking the garden and the pool.


Day : 1

Le Vieux Logis was formerly a tobacco farm house and in 1952 the father of the present owner, Monsieur Giraudel, after retiring from his work in Paris, moved to this relaxing region away from all the city hustle, and decided to venture into the hospitality business. Today, his son Bernard, the youngest of all, continues the business. The property is one of great charm and elegance where every room has been tastefully decorated in different antique styles using beautiful fabrics.


Day : 2

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.


Day : 3

The Hotel de la Madeleine is conveniently located in Sarlat where you can easily access the prehistoric sites, castles, and bastides of Perigord. There is a gastronomic restaurant on site where the chef creates dishes to tempt any palette and all of the guest rooms at the hotel are air conditioned for your comfort.


Day : 4

Overhanging the Dordogne, the castle (XIVth and XVIIth century) combines the authenticity of past, the stamp of comfort and the highest quality standard of a listed site. The French formal garden is surrounded by 120 hectares of forest.Philippe and Stéphanie Gombert handle the art of living to perfection: rich and refined bedrooms, breakfast in the shade of ancient cedars, dinner in the Louis XIII lounge or on the terrace overlooking the river .The Chateau De La Treyne is located on the Dordogne River. It has a tennis court, heated pool and the restaurant is home to Michelin star chef Stephane Andrieux.The hotel offers antique furnished rooms, suites and apartments with air-conditioning, satellite TV and free Wi-Fi.The Chateau is situated by a private forest in the Lot countryside of south-central France. The hotel terrace offers panoramic views of the Dordogne valley.The Chateau De La Treyne offers trips to explore the surrounding countryside. Guests can enjoy horseback riding, canoeing and golf nearby.


Day : 5

Located in Rocamadour not far from the medieval city and near the region's must-see places, this hotel offers a unique setting. This hotel has 57 rooms and suites, modern, comfortable and air-conditioned, with view on the forest or the valley. Surprise your taste buds with a visit to the panoramic restaurant. Discover the menu of regional specialties, made from fresh and local products. All this to be tasted with a breathtaking view on the valley of Ouysse. In the Bar, enjoy a selection of spirits, cold and local drinks but also a snack menu.


Day : 6

In the heart of the Perigord Noir only 7km from Sarlat, The Villa Romainecombines the authenticity of its ancient stones with modern comfort. Thisancient Gallo Roman site steeped in history commands an exceptionalpanorama of the Dordogne, unspoiled countryside, cliffs and the forest of the Druids. Tastefully restored, the hotel has 17 large bedrooms two of which aresuite sitting rooms and one bedroom adapted for the physically disabled.All the rooms have views over the surrounding countryside. There is alarge swimming pool with an infinity edge for the use of the hotel clients.


Day : 7

The CLEMENT V could easily be mistaken for one of those village houses which choose to protect their charms behind an unassuming front. Inside, however, you will discover 11th century vaulted cellars and exposed rafters in the attic bedrooms, you will sit by the log fire of the sitting room or have tea by the conservatories lemon trees. With its nooks and crannies, and its twists and turns, Le CLEMENT V retains the feeling of a true family home.The CLEMENT V was recently renovated in keeping with this atmosphere. The prestigious Suite des Consuls with its high ceiling and wide windows overlooking the surrounding countryside could have been the private realm of the head of the family, the colonial bedroom : the den of a prodigal son, always between adventures, the Boudoir : the colourful, light hearted cocoon of a young maiden.All the rooms are very different therefore. But the laid-back atmosphere of idiosyncratic warmth and comfort which pervades the hotel is the same throughout, perhaps simply reflecting the delight of living in this area. It is after all the most beautiful countryside in the world, according to Henry Miller.

Bikes available for your tour

The characteristics of this bike are presented as an example and are not guaranteed
Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.

Hybrid bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - ( or equivalent)
INCLUDED

The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.

Available in men and women versions. Available sizes : Men's M, L, XL ; Women's S, L

  • 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

Accessories


INCLUDED

GPS are included on most of our tours since 2008. We change the units every 2 years and always invest in the best models. Simple to use, easy to read, yet sophisticated devices they are available on all of our tours. The routes described in your roadbook are stored as tracks in the GPS unit. You simply have to follow the line shown on the GPS, and enjoy. 1 GPS for every 1-3 people


INCLUDED

Our roadbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. We have invested significant time and incorporated the feedback of our customers over many years (since 1997!) to make our roadbooks even better. Our roadbooks include: color maps, highlighted routes, touristic information, orientation points to reach hotels, and easy to follow step by step directions (cue-sheets). Please note that for custom itineraries you will not have cue sheets. Only maps and GPS routes.


INCLUDED

Our Travelbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. You will find information about the hotels, itinerary, regional informations...

Daily Elevation Profiles
Average / Day : Distance : 40.00 Km / 25.00 Miles - Elevation gain : 599.71 Meters
Day 2 :   From Tremolat to Les Eyzies

Option 1: 32 Miles - 51 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 636 Meters 

Day 3 :   Ride to Sarlat

Option 1: 15 Miles - 24 Km 

Option 2: 18 Miles - 29 Km  Elevation gain 2 : 385 Meters 

Day 4 :   Cycle to Lacave and Visit the Dordogne Caves

Option 1: 25 Miles - 41 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 575 Meters 

Day 5 :   Rocamadour and the Gouffre de Padirac

Option 1: 32 Miles - 51 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 872 Meters 

Day 6 :   Cycling Along the Dordogne River to Carsac

Option 1: 29 Miles - 46 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 619 Meters 

Day 7 :   Ride in the Perigord Region to Belves

Option 1: 24 Miles - 38 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 491 Meters 

Included

  • Taxi transfer from Bergerac to Tremolat/Mauzac included.
  • 7 nights of accomodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
  • Daily breakfast at each hotel, 3 dinners included
  • Hybrid bike rental included
  • Orientation in person with our local guide
  • Detailed ROAD BOOK, including details maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
  • 1 GPS for every 1-3 people
  • All luggage transfers
  • Comprehensive trip literature
  • Technical and emergency support available at all times

What's not included

  • Airfare to and from the trip
  • Lodging before and after the trip
  • Ticket Font-de-Gaume cave
  • Ticket Lacave cave
  • Ticket Gouffre de Padirac
  • 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.

Informations & Recommendations

Train: From Paris Montparnasse to Libourne (5 hours) and take a bus to Bergerac - and taxi transfer to Tremolat or Mauzac directly. (included).

Tour depart from Belves and train to Paris Austerlitz is 5 hours, 35min. Flights to Bordeaux possible from many European cities; from Paris Orly 1 hour 5min.

Tour rates

Contact our tour consultants for more information and an exact rate based upon your travel dates.

Price from* & per person Double occupancy Single supplement
(traveling with a group)		 Solo traveler
(traveling alone)
Standard 1880 € 430 € 2850 €
    Pre-tour Night ** ** **
Upgraded 2350 € 570 € 3350 €
    Pre-tour Night ** ** **
*Rates vary according to hotel availability and specific start date. Please contact us for triple room rates

Accessories

Accessories
GPS Included
Biking Roadbook Included
Travelbook Included

Bikes available

Bikes available Options per person
Hybrid Bike Rental
    Standard Included
Road Bike Rental
    Standard 145 €
    Performance 235 €
    Premium 300 €
Electric assist bike
    Standard 145 €
Tandem Bike Rental
    Standard 50 €



Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.
Bot scann is mandatory