The essentials at a glance

Explore the enchanting Périgord region along the Dordogne and Vézère rivers. This challenging cycling tour covers approximately 40-65 km daily through medieval villages like Sarlat, past numerous castles including Château de Commarque, Beynac, and Monbazillac. Cycle on quiet roads and bike paths through forests, vineyards, and the scenic Couze Valley. Highlights include the prehistoric site at Eyzies-de-Tayac, the fortified town of Domme, and wine tasting in Monbazillac. The route is moderately hilly with accommodation in 2-3 star hotels.

Itinerary at a glance

The Périgord region with its castles, caves, and medieval villages is simply enchanting. Take a swim at the confluence of the Vézère and Dordogne rivers, visit the Château de Commarque, and explore the mills in the Couze Valley.

Today is all about rivers! Starting from Bergerac you cycle on small hidden roads through characteristic villages, forests and across vast fields, along the course of the river Dordogne. Although today's route is relatively hilly, a swim in Limeuil awaits you as a reward, at the confluence of the rivers Vézère and Dordogne!

The terrain today is again slightly hilly. Eyzies-de-Tayac is world capital of the prehistory! Keep your eyes peeled for the Neanderthals! Afterwards you cycle through cool valleys and along untouched rivers with ample trout in it. We recommend a visit to the Château de Commarque, before arriving in the medieval village Sarlat in the late afternoon.

Fabulous sights are on today’s programme: Monfort and its palace and the fortifications of Domme, a medieval town located approx. 300 metres above the river! Please take your time to explore the little alleyways and little squares of Sarlat on foot.

Palaces in all varieties! We recommend you start early today, since there is so much to see! After leaving Sarlat you return to the Dordogne-valley at La Roque-Gageac. Here you are spoilt for choice: Beynac Palace, Castelnau Palace, Marqueyssac Palace, Fayrac Palace or maybe Les Milandes Palace? Afterwards you proceed to Siorac-en-Périgord or Belvès.

The fortress of Belvès has managed to maintain its charm over the years. You continue through pristine countryside and beautiful villages until you reach Beaumont du Périgord, an English bastide of the 13th century, dominated by its imposing church. You cycle through the Couze valley, always with a view of the clear water, past numerous mills, to the Château de Bannes, a masterpiece of medieval architecture, and the Château de Lanquais.

Enjoy your final day and explore the vineyards of Bergerac and Monbazillac by bike. Once you are past the hills, the magnificent Château de Monbazillac awaits you. Sample the world-famous, Beerenauslese’ and marvel at the fantastic view over Bergerac and the valley!