The Tours

So much to see!

Cycle-the-Dordogne’s self-guided tours are a voyage of discovery. You are in control. You travel at your own pace. You know also that we are always there in the locality to support you because we live in the centre of the Dordogne and Lot regions. It will be Cliff who meets you upon arrival and he will explain everything thoroughly - how the bicycles function, which routes are recommended and places of interest to visit along the way. The tours have been planned meticulously and we want them to be everything you’ve hoped for... and more.

Although all our tours are self-guided, we are always there if you need us. Should plans need to be changed at short notice due to a road closure, for example, we will let you know immediately. We are only a telephone call away - and it will be either Cliff or Annie who answers the telephone, not a temporary employee in some far-off office.

The verdant Dordogne

All our tours are in the south-west of France in the Dordogne and Lot. Both areas are captivating - and many of our clients come back here year after year. In addition, the accommodation we book is chosen to suit all tastes - from delightful chambres d’hôtes (Bed & Breakfast), to superb deluxe hotels. You decide.

The length of your tour is variable. You decide. And you are able to start a tour whenever you wish - it is neither fixed in advance nor dependent on a whole group starting together. Whichever tour you choose, you are guaranteed both freedom and flexibility. All our tours run from early April to mid-October. Should you wish to book a tour out of season, however, do please contact us and we’ll do our best to accommodate you.

Setting off from Gourdon

Our self-guided tours are extremely flexible. Once we know your preferred start date and choice of tour, leave everything else up to us. By the way, if you’re not sure which tour to choose, don’t hesitate to give us a ring so that we can discuss all the possible options with you before you book.

Sample itineraries and prices are shown below for our Cycling Tours:

La-Roque-Gageac

Our Dordogne Tours

Cycling Tour : DORDOGNE ONE (7, 9 or 11 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2 & 3Cycle to the stunning Rocamadour. Explore the "Gouffre de Padirac", Loubressac and several other delightful villages along the way.
Day 4 & 5Pedal to La-Roque-Gageac set in the heart of the Périgord Noir, surrounded by awe-inspiring châteaux.
Day 6 & 7Continue on to Les Eyzies and the famous prehistoric sites of the Vézère Valley.
Day 8 & 9Wind your way along beautiful country lanes to Monpazier and visit wonderful Cadouin and Château-Biron.
Day 10The route back to Gourdon takes you through some remarkable countryside - a wonderful way to end your holiday!
  • The above itinerary is the 11-day version of the Dordogne One Tour
Euros (€)
Short:
Hotel
7 days (6 nights)
1405 €
Standard:
Hotel
9 days (8 nights)
1810 €
Long:
Hotel
11 days (10 nights)
2200 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)
  • Deluxe hotels are available at certain locations - please contact us for more details and prices

Cycling Tour : DORDOGNE TWO (9 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2Leave Gourdon and the verdant Bouriane and head for the wide open spaces of Les Causses. Pass through unspoilt, beautiful scenery on your way to the famous village of Rocamadour.
Day 3 & 4From Rocamadour, cycle through charming villages to reach St-Céré. A day ride out of St-Céré poses the question "Where first?" There are the waterfalls at Autoire, the Château-de-Montal, the Château-de-Castelnau-Bretenoux or the "Grottes de Presque". You decide.
Day 5Pedal parallel to the river towards stunning Carennac. Stroll around the village's narrow streets which are lined with leaning houses, before setting off through wonderful countryside to Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne on the banks of the River Dordogne.
Day 6From Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, cycle through deserted lanes to Collanges-la-Rouge in the Corrèze. The buildings in the village were built using red sandstone - and the historic atmosphere of the village is sure to make a lasting impression on you.
Day 7From Collonges-la-Rouge, head back to Salignac-Eyvigues in the Dordogne. This is the tour's longest day as you will cycle approximately 60kms through countryside which seems to have been forgotten by all but the farmers. The silence is deafening!
Day 8Before leaving Salignac-Eyvigues for Gourdon, you may wish to visit the impressive Jardins d'Eyrignac. From here, via Carlux and its commanding position overlooking the Valley, you cycle back into the Bouriane and Gourdon, your final destination.
Euros (€)
Hotel1635 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)

Cycling Tour : DORDOGNE THREE (7 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2Leaving Gourdon behind you, cycle through verdant countryside towards the stunning village of Rocamadour, clinging to the cliffside overlooking the Ouysse gorge. You will have ample time to explore this beautiful village and its hidden secrets.
Day 3Pedal through alluring landscapes to Martel, the village of seven towers. Along the way you have the opportunity to visit the remarkable "Gouffre de Padirac" as well as the wonderful village of Carennac. Your route for much of the ride is alongside the river. Stop and have a picnic, enjoy the surroundings.
Day 4The longest ride of the tour takes you from Martel to La-Roque-Gageac, following the river for much of the day. The route includes Souillac, Lacave, Château-Fénelon and much more besides. Take in the spectacular village of Domme as you approach your destination.
Day 5A day ride out of La-Roque-Gageac allows you to visit Sarlat, the region's jewel in the crown - a wonderful town not to be missed. In addition, you have Château-Marqueyssac, with its sensational gardens as well as the dominant and magnificent Château-Beynac to visit.
Day 6You head back to Gourdon today. But along the way you have time to call at Château-Castelnaud and Les Milandes, the former home of Josephine Baker, as well as other beautiful villages. You won't want it to end!
Euros (€)
Hotel1435 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)

Cycling Tour : DORDOGNE FOUR (9 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2If you feel you have time you can visit the "Grottes de Cougnac" and view the cave art before setting off for Rocamadour, a place of pilgrimage since the 10th century. You cycle through picturesque countryside with stunning vistas.
Day 3Cycle down off the Causse-de-Gramat towards Martel, a medieval village with a distinctive skyline. En route, visit the fabulous underground river system at the "Gouffre de Padirac" and the stunning village of Carennac.
Day 4Follow the River Dordogne from one stunning village to another! La-Roque-Gageac hugs the cliffs bordering the river. You are now truly at the heart of the Périgord Noir. Every corner, every hilltop offers something different, all so rewarding.
Day 5Châteaux abound at Beynac and Castelnaud, along with the beautiful gardens of Marqueyssac and the stunning village of Domme. Today's ride is routed to embrace all of these fantastic locations.
Day 6Today you cycle out of the Dordogne Valley and into the Vézère Valley. Josephine Baker's former home, Les Milandes, the delightful town of Les Eyzies are all incorporated into the ride, before arriving at the riverside town of Montignac.
Day 7You may wish to visit the celebrated Lascaux caves found just outside of Montignac, before heading off across deserted countryside to Sarlat. With its golden limestone medieval centre, Sarlat is an absolute must.
Day 8From Sarlat it's due south towards Gourdon, leaving the Dordogne department behind, crossing the river, and cycling back into the Lot. Everything comes to an end! But there's always next time!
Euros (€)
Hotel1850 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)

The Lot Valley

Our Lot Valley Tours

Cycling Tour : LOT VALLEY ONE (9 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff at the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2Leave Gourdon behind as you cycle into La France Profonde towards the bastide town of Monpazier.
Day 3 & 4Cycle down into the glorious Lot valley and immerse yourself in the wonderful landscape. Why not visit Château-de-Bonaguil or one of the many vineyards along the route to Cahors?
Day 5, 6 & 7Cahors now fades into the distance as you cycle along the edge of the River Lot beneath overhanging cliffs. Wander round St-Cirq-Lapopie and visit the "Grotte du Pech-Merle" with its ancient cave drawings.
Day 8Return to Gourdon through a landscape which appears not to have changed for centuries.
Euros (€)
Hotel1720 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)

Cycling Tour : LOT VALLEY TWO (8 or 10 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2Set off from Gourdon to Gluges, nestled at the foot of a 120-metre cliff which borders the River Dordogne. Visit Souillac's abbey along the way or the grottes at Lacave.
Day 3 & 4A wonderful ride from Gluges to Loubressac. Visit Martel, the town of the seven towers. A free day to possibly visit Carennac, Autoire or any one of the equally beautiful villages that adorn this region.
Day 5Riding over the Causse takes you to Rocamadour, dramatically perched on the side of a high cliff. Call at the "Gouffre de Padirac" along the way, an underground river system deep beneath the ground. Not to be missed!
Day 6Continue through unspoilt countryside, a natural park, to Labastide-Murat, a charming town so typical of this beautiful region.
Day 7Cycle into the remarkable Célé Valley. Visit the "Grotte du Pech-Merle" before arriving in the spectacular village of St-Cirq-Lapopie, perched high on the cliffs overlooking the River Lot.
Day 8Ride alongside the Lot into Cahors, the capital of the Lot. Cross Pont Valentré bridge, Cahor's old medieval prison, into a bustling town. Explore the delightful narrow streets of this vibrant town.
Day 9Follow the river for a short distance before heading back into the Bouriane. Pedal through attractive villages, such as Catus and Lavercantière, before arriving in Gourdon.
Euros (€)
Short
Standard
8 days (7 nights)
10 days (9 nights)
1430 €
1810 €
  • The above itinerary is the 10-day version of the Lot Valley Two Tour
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)
  • Deluxe hotels are available at certain locations - please contact us for more details and prices

'Gourmet...

Our Bespoke Tours

Cycling Tour : GOURMET & GROTTES (10 days)

The Gourmet & Grottes tour is our most recent addition. Besides offering superb cycling, the tour offers two elements for which the region is most famous: food and caves!

Whenever you're in this part of the world, good food and wine are always on the agenda, so we've carefully chosen hotels for you to stay in which offer excellent cuisine. Five gourmet evening meals are included in the tour cost and we guarantee you will never forget them!

During your holiday, you will have the opportunity to visit four stunning cave systems: the Grotte du Pech-Merle, the Gouffre de Padirac, the Grottes de Presque and the Grottes de Cougnac.
Day 1Arrive in Cahors and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2Leave Cahors behind and follow the Lot Valley towards your destination of St-Cirq-Lapopie. Perched high above the river on a rocky outcrop, the village appears to defy gravity. Explore the village's outstanding architecture and take a short walk along the tow path that lies hidden beneath the overhanging cliffs.
Day 3Discover the magnificent Célé Valley, taking in a visit to the "Grotte du Pech-Merle" - one of the most important prehistoric sites in the region. Cycle along the Célé river valley and from one picturesque village to the next. It's a day you won't want to end!
Day 4From St-Cirq-Lapopie, you cycle over the remote Causse-de-Gramat. The roads appear deserted - a cyclist's dream! Arrive in the spectacular village of Rocamadour, which blends in harmoniously with its beautiful, natural surroundings. Explore Rocamadour at your leisure.
Day 5 & 6 Midway between Rocamadour and St-Céré, you have the opportunity to visit the "Gouffre de Padirac", a stunning subterranean river. A day's cycling out of St-Céré poses the question "Where first?" There are the waterfalls at Autoire, the Château-de-Montal, the Château-de-Castelnau-Bretenoux and the "Grottes de Presque". You decide.
Day 7 & 8Pedal alongside the River Dordogne to the idyllic village of Carennac. From here, it's onwards to your destination of Martel, the village of seven towers. Your day ride out of Martel will take you to the magnificent village of Turenne via some stunning countryside, which borders the Corrèze.
Day 9Your last day of cycling takes you from Martel to Gourdon. Along the way, visit Château-Fénelon before calling at the "Grottes de Cougnac", where you'll marvel at the remarkable prehistoric paintings found in these wonderful caves!
Day 10 Unfortunately it's departure after breakfast, but not before exploring the lovely town of Gourdon. A bientôt!
Euros (€)
Hotel1920 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)

Cycling Tour : A THREE RIVER TOUR (9 days)

Day 1Arrive in Gourdon and meet Cliff for the "meet'n'greet". Cliff will then give you your bikes and all other necessary equipment, run through the tour details and answer any questions you may have.
Day 2Today's ride has you cycle alongside the first of the three rivers that you will come across on this tour, the River Dordogne. You head westwards, up river, to the beautiful village of Martel.
Day 3You now cycle out of the Dordogne Valley and up to the stunning village of Rocamadour. Highlights along the way include Carennac and the "Gouffre de Padirac".
Day 4From Rocamadour it's across the stunning deserted countryside known as the Gramat Causse and then down to the delightful village of Cabrerets. Just outside of the village lies the "Grotte du Pech-Merle", famous for its wondrous prehistoric cave art.
Day 5Your ride today, adjacent to the Célé River takes you up the Célé Valley to Figeac. The Célé Valley is less well known than other valleys to be found in the region, but it is spectacular, and the cycling and countryside is a dream. Figeac, your destination, is a bustling, engaging town with great charm.
Day 6Pedal alongside the River Lot today. Leave Figeac, pass through the wonderful village of Cajarc, and ride on to the stunning village that is St-Cirq-Lapopie. Appearing to defy gravity, the village hangs high over the River Lot. A village that will never be forgotten!
Day 7Continuing along the Lot Valley, you cycle through classic Quercy villages and beautiful countryside to the département's capital, Cahors. You will have time to explore Cahors and discover many of its delights, of which there are many.
Day 8Your final day's cycling takes you out of the Lot Valley and back into the Bouriane and your final destination of Gourdon. Many lovely villages adorn the route and it's a wonderful ride to finish your tour.
Euros (€)
Hotel1850 €
  • All prices are per person (please note that single supplements apply)

Cycling Tour : DORDOGNE/LOT COMBO (tour duration varies)

The Dordogne/Lot Combo Tour explores both these magnificent regions. This tour is custom-built and varies in length from 8 to 18 days. How much cycling do you want to do? How much do you want to see and explore? If you are contemplating this amazing tour, talk to us first. Tell us what you're looking for and let us help you decide.


We can, of course, help you make your decision - just give us a ring so that we can discuss your requirements and preferences with you. Within 48 hours, we guarantee to get back to you with a suggested itinerary and a price per person. We firmly believe that our prices represent excellent value for money and are highly competitive when compared with other, similar tour operators.

Cycling Tour : SARLAT PLUS ONE (tour duration varies)

This tour is a "two-centre" tour. As the title suggests, you stay in Sarlat, the ancient capital of the Périgord, and either Rocamadour or Les Eyzies, each famous in its own right. You choose!


A suggested route between the two centres is provided. As you cycle along the quiet country lanes to your second location, your luggage will be transferred there for you.

The tour is aimed at those clients who:

  • prefer not to cycle every day and want to choose when they do
  • do not want to follow a specific route from one hotel to another
  • may be travelling with someone who isn't quite as keen a cyclist as them
  • want sufficient time to sightsee and explore


The region is ideal for exploring on a bicycle at a leisurely pace. Our suggested cycling day trips incorporate many of the local attractions and tourist sites. Alternatively, discover the area on foot.


The duration of "Sarlat Plus One" is your choice. The accommodation available is all of a high standard and, as with everywhere you go in the Dordogne, the cuisine is second to none. If this type of tour appeals to you, please do contact us and we'll do our best to meet all your requirements and plan a great holiday for you.

Cycling Tour : HUB & SPOKE (tour duration varies)

For those cyclists who might want to take on a full tour, this formula allows you to visit this beautiful part of France but to stay in one location - either in a hotel or in our gîte (www.villaquieta.com) - and to make day trips as and when you want. With all the comforts of home, our gîte is situated in the heart of the Périgord Noir and all that this magnificent area has to offer. Sarlat, Domme, La-Roque-Gageac and Beynac are all an easy cycle away. And if you don't want to cycle one day, just relax by the pool or go for a day's canoeing! This tour is a delightful introduction to cycling holidays, but is also perfect for experienced adventurers who want to explore the Périgord.


If you like the sound of this tour, do please give us a ring so that we can discuss your requirements and preferences fully. Within 48 hours, we guarantee to get back to you with a suggested itinerary and a price per person. We firmly believe that our prices represent excellent value for money and are highly competitive when compared with other, similar tour operators.

MULTI-ACTIVITY TOUR (tour duration varies

)

The Multi-Activity tour combines freedom with flexibility. You decide on how many activities you'd like to incorporate into your tour, as well as how long the tour will last. We offer cycling, walking and canoeing in the main part of the tour, but horse riding is also available at either the beginning or the end of your holiday.

If you are interested in this tour, please do contact us to discuss possible itineraries and combinations of activities. Every tour is tailor made to suit your requirements. It's your holiday. You decide. And within 48 hours of your initial enquiry, we guarantee to get back to you with some suggested itineraries and a price per person. We firmly believe that our prices represent excellent value for money and are highly competitive when compared with other, similar tour operators.

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contactCliff & Annie Walker
emailinfo@cycle-the-dordogne.com
phone+33 (0)5 53 30 23 20
mobile+33 (0)6 48 20 36 85

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