Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino

France
Pilgrimage
Self-Guided
Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino

Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino

Prices

From $2,250USD

Difficulty

Self-guided

Hotels, B&Bs

Start Your Booking

Highlights

Complete the entire Le Puy Camino on this 16-day self-guided cycling pilgrimage

Ride from the Haute-Loire to the Pyrénées-Atlantiques as you cycle west to east through spellbinding rural France.

Experience the cultural delights of several French regions, including Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Occitanie, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine.

Enjoy diverse scenery and admire some of the prettiest villages in France.

Visit a multitude of churches and monasteries, experiencing a travelling museum of fine Romanesque art.

The Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino self-guided tour invites you to complete the entire Le Puy Camino, also known as the Via Podiensis, over 16 mesmerizing days on two wheels.

This long-distance cycling pilgrimage follows the Le Puy Camino, an ancient pilgrim route that spans southwest France, starting in Le Puy and concluding in St. Jean Pied de Port. This classic pilgrim trail is part of the epic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which runs through several countries in Europe, leading pilgrims to the sacred site at Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

Setting out from the capital of Haute-Loire, Le Puy, you'll embark on an unforgettable cycling journey through a series of dynamic landscapes, including the Central Massif, the stunning Lot Valley, several typical Quercy villages, to the majestic Pyrenees. Along the way, you’ll discover the scenic regions of Lot et Garonne, Gers, and Basque Country.

As you navigate numerous regions and areas of southern France, you'll encounter several of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (The Most Beautiful Villages in France), including Saint-Cirq-Lapopie and Auvillar. Cycling through expansive rural landscapes, you'll achieve a true sense of peace and purpose as you pedal alongside other determined pilgrims towards St. Jean Pied de Port.

Take in several historical sites along the way, like ancient abbey ruins, enchanting castles, and several Romanesque churches and monasteries. Unwind after challenging days on your bike, enjoying the gastronomy afforded by some of southern France’s best towns, like Cahors, Conques, and Figeac.

Whether you're seeking personal transformation, or an opportunity to commune with nature on the Le Puy Camino, the journey is bound to be life-changing. Don't miss out. Book your spot on the Full Le Puy Camino: Le Puy to St. Jean Pied de Port today!

Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive

Arrive in the lovely capital of Haute-Loire, Le Puy! Your pilgrimage begins in this picturesque town, located in the southeast of the central massif and completely enveloped in a lunar-like volcanic landscape.

Le Puy, the starting point of the Le Puy Camino, also known as the Via Podiensis, is an important pilgrimage site and home to the Romanesque cathedral, Notre Dame. Settle into your accommodations here, and prepare for your long-distance pilgrimage journey beginning tomorrow.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Le Puy
Distance
None
Meals
None

Day 2 Cycle the Monts du Velay and the Haut-Allier Gorges to Saugues

Your pilgrimage on two wheels begins at the Notre Dame Cathedral of Le Puy. Set out through the beautiful Monts du Velay, where you’ll take in the famous fields of green lentils before descending the plunging Haut-Allier gorges.

Continue the route, riding to the Plateau de la Margeride, then a final ascent to Saugues. Saugues is steeped in legends, most famously the mysterious Beast of Gévaudan. Enjoy an overnight stay in this charming town, which is also known for its delectable mushrooms.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Saugues
Distance
46km, 1050m of ascent, 625m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 3 Cycle the Margeride Plateau and the Truyère Valley to Aumont-Aubrac

Say farewell to mythical Saugues this morning as you set out to return to the Margeride plateau, which guides you into the Truyère Valley. Along the way, you’ll take in St. Roch Chapel and the delightful small hamlets of Le Rouget, St. Alban sur Limagnole, and Les Estrets. Arrive at your accommodations in Aumont-Aubrac, located in the heart of Lozère.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Aumont-Aubrac
Distance
44km, 800m of ascent, 730m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 4 Cycle the Aubrac Plateau through Villages to Estaing

Rise ready to seize another exciting day on this classic pilgrim route! This morning, you’ll set out through fragrant groves of pine, entering the Aubrac Plateau. Riding at an altitude of around 1000 meters, you’ll enjoy sprawling pastures in all directions from this vantage point.

Cruise through the villages of Nasbinals and Aubrac, then enjoy a joy ride of 30 kilometres downhill to Saint Côme d’Olt, known as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Continue through the idyllic Lot Valley, pressing on to tonight’s stop in Estaing.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Estaing
Distance
78km, 655m of ascent, 1375m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 5 Cycle Campuac, Espyrac, and Sénergues to Conques

Today’s ride is short but challenging. Depart Estaing, leaving behind the Lot Valley, as you tackle a steep ascent to Campuac. Then, ride to the pretty village of Espyrac, where you’ll take in castle ruins from the Middle Ages. Press on to Sénergues, also home to an enchanting castle, before continuing downhill towards Conques.

Spellbinding Conques is bound to be a highlight of the tour. It’s considered a treasured jewel of Romanesque art and is a world-famous stop on the Le Puy Camino.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Conques
Distance
36km, 680m of ascent, 440m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 6 Cycle the River Dourdou de Conques and the Célé Valley to Figeac

Set out this morning to trace the gorgeous River Dourdou de Conques, which connects with the Lot River. Trace the Lot to Livinhac-le-Haut and enter the Célé valley.

Navigate the lush green valley to the pretty town of Figeac situated on the Célé river. The town is known as a hub of art and history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore during your time here.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Figeac
Distance
43km, 430m of ascent, 740m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 7 Cycle Quercy Villages to Bouziès via Conduché

This morning, you’ll find yourself back in the marvellous Célé valley, where the breathtaking scenery never gets old. Pedalling the road that traces the river, you’ll ride through several typical Quercy villages, like Espagnac, Saint Sulpice, and Marcilhac, with its fascinating Benedictine abbey ruins.

Reach Conduché, where you’ll be greeted by the familiar Lot river again, as you continue the route across a bridge to lovely Bouziès.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Bouziès
Distance
54km, 80m of ascent, 150m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 8 Cycle the Lot to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Aujols, and Cahors

Today, you’ll share your route with other pilgrims on foot, allowing plenty of opportunity for chatting and reminiscing on the journey thus far.

Follow the Lot to reach Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, where you can hop off your bike to explore the pretty village perched on a rock, also labelled one of the most beautiful villages in France! Depart the valley with a challenging climb that will reward you with superb views of the countryside as you ride to the village of Aujols. Continue towards Flaujac-Poujols, then sail downhill to the medieval town of Cahors, where you’ll rest your head tonight.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Cahors
Distance
35km, 540m of ascent, 550m of descent
Meals
Breakfast

Day 9 Cycle to Lauzerte via Labastide-Marnhac

The Valentré bridge will lead you out of Cahors this morning as you ride towards the village of Labastide-Marnhac, where again you’ll join several determined pilgrims on foot. Navigate small tracks and narrow roads to Lascabannes. Leaving the Lot department, you’ll enter the Tarn et Garonne and continue up to Lauzerte.

Lauzerte is etched into the hillside and overlooks stunning vineyards and green valleys. Spend some time exploring here, checking out the village’s idyllic upper valley, full of medieval wonders and a lovely town square.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Lauzerte
Distance
39km, 285m of ascent, 185m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 10 Cycle to Auvillar via Moissac

Dive into Day 10 with an exhilarating downhill ride to Moissac, revelling in the fresh country air. You’ll soon enter the gorgeous Lomagne (hunchback Gascogne) area, which straddles the Tarn et Garonne and the Gers.

Continue to Auvillar, constructed on a peninsula and another of the most beautiful villages in France. Check out the town’s famous circular market, which dates to 1824.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Auvillar
Distance
47km, 245m of ascent, 370m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 11 Enter the Gers Department and Cycle to Condom

Departing the Tarn et Garonne area this morning, you’ll set out into the Gers department. Enjoy taking in several quaint villages along the way, including Flamarens, Miradoux, Marsolan, and more!

Riding through the expansive open countryside of the Gers, you’ll soon reach the Armagnac town of Condom, famous for its Gothic cathedral built in the Languedoc style.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Condom
Distance
59km, 555m of ascent, 590m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 12 Cycle to sur l’Adour via Eauze

This morning, you’ll ride through one of the most ancient walled towns of Gascogne, Montréal-du-Gers, as you ride to the capital of Gascogne, Eauze. Pause in beautiful Eauze to take in the impressive steeple of St. Luprece and the multitude of quaint half-timbered houses here.

Back on your bike, continue to sur l’Adour, where you’ll find your accommodations in Aire.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Aire
Distance
79km, 220m of ascent, 240m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 13 Cycle the Béarn Area to Arzacq and Maslacq

Enjoy a peaceful route through plots and cornfields as you ride towards Troussin, Latrille, and then Miramont-Sensacq.

Entering the Béarn area, you’ll enjoy a pleasant stretch through chestnut and fern forests as you enter the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, arriving in the tiny village of Maslacq.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Maslacq
Distance
67km, 660m of ascent, 655m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 14 Cycle to Saint-Palais via Navarrenx

Today’s ride is split between the Béarn and beautiful Basque country, in the heart of the Pyrenees. Cruise through the fortified village of Navarrenx, then cross the Gave d’Oloron, taking time to admire the castles of Montgaston and Joantho along the way.

Arrive in St. Palais, which marks your entry point into the Lower Navarre.

Overnight Location
Hotel in Saint-Palais
Distance
48km, 380m of ascent, 415m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 15 Cycle to Saint Jean Pied Port to Complete the Le Puy Camino

Your final day of cycling unfolds in the beautiful Basque country, where you’ll revel in the typical white houses and half-timbered architectural style. Cross the Col des Palombières, enjoying exceptional views, then descend to Jaxu before continuing your descent through Bustince-Iriberry, and Saint-Jean-le-Vieux.

In the distance, you’ll fix your gaze on “the gate of Saint-Jacques,” which marks the entrance to St. Jean Pied de Port. Arrive in St. Jean Pied de Port, where your momentous pilgrim journey comes to an end. Be sure to explore the fortified citadel as you celebrate the completion of the full Le Puy Camino.

Overnight Location
Hotel in St. Jean Pied de Port
Distance
34km, 385m of ascent, 255m of descent
Meals
Breakfast, dinner

Day 16 Depart

This morning following breakfast, your tour comes to an end. It’s recommended to book an extra night in St. Jean Pied de Port to allow enough time to explore the beautiful village before departure.

Overnight Location
None
Distance
None
Meals
Breakfast

Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Prices and Dates

This self-guided cycling tour is always run as a private tour for your group and the price per person depends on the number of people staying in one room, as well as the season.

Prices below are per person:

  • Price per person staying in a single room: $2,950USD
  • Price per person sharing a double room: $2,275USD
  • Price per person sharing a twin room: $2,295USD
  • Price per person sharing a triple room: $2,250USD
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Accommodation on the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Tour

This tour is based in hotels and B&Bs. Accommodations are a mix of 2-star and 3-star. All accommodations offer basic conveniences that can make your stay more pleasant.

In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.

Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you prefer a single room, the required supplement is included in the listed price. Solo travellers will be required to pay a supplement.

Hôtel le Régina in Le-Puy-en-Velay

A laid-back atmosphere and warm ambience make this the perfect home-away-from-home in this hotel with tastefully decorated rooms found in an Empire-style building.

Night 2

Hotel La Flore in Saugues

This charming B&B adorned in blooming flowers welcomes guests with open arms, providing a relaxing, tranquil stay in Saugues.

Hôtel Prunières in Aumont Aubrac

Hotel Prunières is a delightful small hotel which boasts a qauint coffee shop and comfortable guest rooms. With several excellent restaurants within walking distance, guests can enjoy authentic dining experiences during their stay here.

Hotel Auberge Saint Fleuret in Estaing

Set on the beautiful riverbanks of the famous River Lot, this historic hotel is located just a stone throw from the impressive Chateau d’Estaing. Guests will enjoy charming rooms with traditional décor and access to an excellent in-house restaurant during their stay here.

Hotel Cdh Castellou in Conques

Gorgeous mountain scenery envelops this charming Bed and Breakfast that features cozy guest rooms with hardwood floors and antique décor.

Hôtel le Quatorze in Figeac

A charming heritage building sets the tone for this pleasant hotel set within the pretty old town section of Figeac. Guests can enjoy the cozy lounge complete with a fire place and a lovely garden terrace.

Hôtel Les Falaises in Bouziès

Guests will encounter the beauty and allure of the Lot Valley during their stay here and can also enjoy several convenient amenities like an outdoor swimming pool and elegant restaurant.

Hôtel Brit le France in Cahors

Located near the town center, this welcoming hotel offers several modern amenities such as room service and an excellent breakfast buffet.

Hôtel le Quercy in Lauzerte

The recently renovated Hôtel le Quercy brings the best of Lauzerte to its doorsteps and conveniently located in the heart of the town center. Guests can enjoy the use of a gym and a cozy bar and lounge during their stay here.

Hôtel l’Horloge in Auvillar

Guests will enjoy the laid-back atmosphere at this welcoming hotel that features a lovely terrace with views of the city, and an excellent restaurant and bar.

Hotel Les Angelots in Condom

This waterfront B&B set in a charming 18th-century building provides guests with a cozy home-away-from-home. A beautiful terrace with views over the harbor make for a wonderful stay.

N’Atura Hôtel in Aire-sur-l’Adour

This home away from home is the perfect place to unwind. Guests can enjoy a refreshing outdoor swimming pool and a cozy bar and lounge during their stay here.

Gîte d’étape la Halte in Maslacq

Comfort and value go hand in hand at this hotel well-located in the village of Maslacq.

Hôtel de la Paix in Saint-Palais

Found in a peaceful, residential area of Saint Palais, this gorgeous hotel is located nearby several shops and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring Saint Palais and surrounding areas. The hotel offers convenient services like currency exchange and a salon.

Hôtel Ramuntcho in Saint Jean Pied de Port

Guests will enjoy their stay at this charming hotel found in the old town of Saint Jean Pied de Port. A sunny terrace and in-house restaurant make for a pleasant stay.

Hotels on Standard Tour

What’s Included in the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Tour?

Meals

15 breakfasts and 11 dinners are included.

Accommodations

Accommodations for 15 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Le Puy and after the tour in St. Jean Pied de Port are not included but can be added as a supplement.

Transportation during the Tour

Transportation for you and your luggage is included throughout the tour (up to 13kg per person). Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.

Also Included

  • Detailed route notes and maps
  • Tourist information on all places of interest
  • Tourist city tax
  • 24/7 emergency phone support

Not included

  • Flights to Le Puy (LPY)
  • Flights from Biarritz (BIQ)
  • Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
  • Bike rental
  • Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired

Optional Extras

  • Bike rental:
    • Standard bike: $350USD
    • E-Bike: $425USD
  • Additional nights before or after the tour
  • Airport transfers
  • Optional activities or excursions

Frequenty Asked Questions about Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino

How hard is the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino tour?

We rate this tour a 4 / 5. You should be comfortable riding up to 80 kilometres in a day. The landscape is a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be an experienced cyclist to get the most out of this tour.

I’ve never been on pilgrimage! What is different about this type of cycling tour?

A pilgrimage often referred to as “a journey,” is when someone embarks into an unknown place, sometimes in search of personal transformation or to connect with nature. Some pilgrimages are closely aligned with major religions, and others are more about taking on a new challenge and enjoying a new experience. Several famous pilgrim routes have been used for thousands of years, often with a sacred site as the destination. Some of the world’s most famous pilgrimages are The Way of St. James (France and Spain), Sanctuary of Atotonilco (Mexico), Mount Kailash (Tibet), and many more.

I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?

Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel as you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided all the information on which direction you need to go daily. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills, and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.

Do I need a visa to travel to France?

Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.

Are meals included on the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino tour?

15 breakfasts and 11 dinners are included.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.

How do I get to Le Puy to start this tour?

Fly into Le Puy Airport (LPY). You can arrange your own private transfer from the airport to your first accommodations or book a private transfer as a supplement in advance during the booking process.

Where does the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino tour end?

The tour ends in St. Jean Pied de Port. The closest airport to the endpoint of this tour is Biarritz Airport (BIQ). You can reach the airport from St. Jean Pied de Port by first taking the mountain railway to Bayonne, which takes 1.5 hours. From Bayonne, take the airport bus (LINE C) to the Biarritz Airport, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to the airport as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer.

Can I rent a bike?

Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are SCOTT Sub Cross 24-speed hybrid bikes or SCOTT E-Sub Tour e-bikes.

What equipment is included in the bike rental?

The bikes come with a pannier, handlebar bag, spare tube, tools, pump, helmet and lock.

Can I bring my own bike?

Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour.

Do I need special vaccines to travel to Switzerland or France?

Check with your family doctor.

Are there any travel restrictions for Switzerland or France?

Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.

When is the best time to travel to France for this tour?

The best time to travel to France for this cycling tour is from April through October. If you like hot weather, try July or August. If you prefer cooler weather and lighter crowds, the shoulder seasons are great.

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Prices

From $2,250USD

Difficulty

Self-guided

Hotels, B&Bs

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Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews

Tour Difficulty

We rate this tour a 4 / 5. You should be comfortable riding up to 80 kilometres in a day. The landscape is a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be an experienced cyclist to get the most out of this tour.


Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.

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