Lot and Dordogne Valley Cycling Tour

Your tour begins in the Bastide town of Monpazier, known worldwide as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. Monpazier was founded in 1285, and its construction was commissioned by King Edward I of England.

Areas of interest in Monpazier are endless! Settle into your accommodations here, then set out on a walk, perhaps beginning in its exceptionally well-preserved medieval center.

A lovely first day cycling today. After the first few kilometres, you will see the very impressive Castle of Biron, a 13th-century chateau. After a visit, you continue through a gently winding valley road until you reach the village and fortress of Gavaudun which was built in the 11th century. It can be seen on a rocky outcrop high above the village and played a big part in the hundred-year war. Now you shall cycle following a nice quiet small country road towards theriver Lot. You then follow the river until you will reach your accommodation, a 17th-century stone charterhouse, close to the village of Puy L’Eveque. The “Bishops Hill”, once occupied by the English during the reign of King Henry IV, the marks from his cannonballs can still be seen on the walls of the main church of Saint-Sauveur.

You start today cycling along the Lot river as you climb gently out of the valley. Now you have a short but challenging climb to the village of Les Arques, where the very special museum on the artist Zadkine is worth a visit. The rest of the ride is easy and quiet through the real rural France countryside passing some chestnut forests. Soon you reach your destination, another Bastide town, Villefranche-Du Perigord. It even has a little chestnut museum.

You meander through the countryside via tiny hamlets and villages. The little climb of today is at the end of your ride when you reach your destination: Belvès, another one of “France’s most beautiful villages”. Enjoy the spectacular views and the sound of one of the seven bell towers. If you have time: visit the remains of medieval houses to be discovered under (!) the main square.

Today you’ll choose between a rest day and a scenic journey to explore some of the highlights of Dordogne.

If you do decide to ride today, you’ll visit the famous French entertainer Josephine Baker’s Château de Milandes, where you’ll explore her fascinating life through an exhibition housed in the château. If this château has got you wanting to see more, add another 11.5 km onto your ride, and loop to the Dordogne’s most famous castle, Château de Castelnaud.

Your final day on the bike will be brief but no less wonderful! Depart Belvès via the chestnut forests, making your way to the lovely medieval village of Cadouin. The ancient village is home to a 12th-century abbey.

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Cistercian monastery known as Cadouin Abbey is an authentic Gothic art masterpiece. Spend some time enjoying this remarkable place frozen in time, and then continue to Monpazier, where you’ll enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Refresh tired muscles with a relaxing dip in the hotel pool, or swap out your wheels for walking shoes, and continue to explore stunning Monpazier on foot.

Following breakfast this morning your tour comes to an end. Check out of your accommodations and say au revoir to beautiful Monpazier as you depart for the airport.