Escape into the heart of one of France’s most picturesque regions with a cycling tour in the Dordogne. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or a beginner looking for an active yet relaxing holiday, the Dordogne Cycling Holiday offers the perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and exploration. With routes tailored to your ability, you’ll explore medieval villages, breathtaking landscapes, and ancient châteaux, all while cycling on virtually traffic-free roads.
This center-based guided cycling tour allows you to unwind in the same charming farmhouse accommodation each night, so you can truly relax after a day of exploration. There’s no need to pack and unpack each day—just ride, relax by the heated pool, and indulge in delicious home-cooked meals made from local produce.
Key Highlights of Your Dordogne Cycling Tour
- 4 days of guided cycling, tailored to your fitness and experience.
- Discover the stunning Dordogne countryside and quiet, scenic routes.
- Visit local châteaux and immerse yourself in French history.
- Stay in a comfortable, bike-friendly accommodation with a heated pool and sauna.
- Enjoy half-board meals, including a home-cooked 3-course dinner, daily breakfast, and afternoon tea and cake.
- Flexible itineraries with optional rest days or shorter routes for beginners.
- Perfect for both beginner and intermediate cyclists with routes ranging from 20 to 70 kilometers (12 to 45 miles) per day.
Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Dordogne
Arrive in the beautiful Dordogne region, settle into your cozy farmhouse accommodation, and meet your fellow cyclists. You’ll be welcomed with a glass of fizz and a delicious 3-course meal, where you’ll get to know the group and your guide. Afterward, relax in the lounge or take in the beautiful surroundings of the property.
Day 2: Cycle through Medieval Villages (20-50 km / 12-31 miles)
Your first day of cycling introduces you to the peaceful, traffic-free roads of the Dordogne. Pedal through charming medieval villages like Brantôme, known as the "Venice of the Périgord" due to its position on the river Dronne. Visit Brantôme Abbey, then stop for a picnic by the river before continuing your ride through scenic countryside dotted with historical landmarks. Whether you choose a leisurely ride or a longer route, the day is tailored to your preferences.
For more on Brantôme, check out this travel guide.
Day 3: Explore Châteaux and Scenic Routes (30-70 km / 19-43 miles)
Today’s ride takes you deeper into the Dordogne, where you’ll visit the region’s iconic châteaux and castles. Cycle through the picturesque village of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, one of France’s Plus Beaux Villages, famous for its underground church, the Église Saint-Jean. Enjoy a coffee in a small village café before heading to your next stop.
For more on Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, visit France’s Plus Beaux Villages website.
Day 4: Discover the Dordogne’s Prehistoric Past (25-60 km / 15-37 miles)
Today’s cycling adventure takes you along peaceful routes toward the Grotte de Villars, one of the most beautiful prehistoric caves in the region, known for its stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient cave paintings. Afterward, continue cycling through the quiet countryside, stopping for a picnic by the river or visiting a local market.
Learn more about the Grotte de Villars here: Grotte de Villars.
Day 5: Rest Day or Scenic Cycling (Optional)
If you feel like a rest day, you can spend the day relaxing by the heated pool, taking a sauna, or enjoying a massage (available at an additional charge). Alternatively, you can explore more of the Dordogne by bike, with routes tailored to your pace. Visit Sarlat-la-Canéda, a beautifully preserved medieval town, or take a leisurely ride along the Dronne River.
For more information on Sarlat-la-Canéda, visit Sarlat Tourism.
Day 6: Visit Historic Châteaux and Vineyards (30-70 km / 19-43 miles)
On your final full day of cycling, you’ll ride through lush vineyards and visit historic châteaux like the Château de Bourdeilles, a magnificent fortress dating back to the 12th century. Stop for a gourmet lunch at a local restaurant before continuing your ride through the scenic Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park, known for its rolling hills and unspoiled beauty.
Day 7: Relax and Unwind
Spend your last day soaking in the beauty of the Dordogne. Relax by the pool, enjoy a walk through the surrounding countryside, or visit nearby towns. In the evening, share one last delicious home-cooked meal with the group and reminisce about the week’s adventures.
Day 8: Departure
After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your fellow cyclists and head home or to your next destination.
Accommodation and Amenities
During your cycling holiday, you’ll stay in a charming four-bedroom farmhouse complete with a heated pool, sauna, and comfortable living spaces. Enjoy home-cooked meals made from locally sourced ingredients, and relax after a day of cycling with a sauna session or dip in the pool.
- Heated swimming pool and sauna
- Fully equipped kitchen and living area
- En-suite bathrooms and UK TV
- Secure bike storage, maintenance kits, and repair services
Other Activities for Non-Cyclists
For those traveling with non-cyclists, there are plenty of alternative activities available, including kayaking, horse riding, and walking tours. You can also visit the beautiful Lake Jamaye for a day of swimming, canoeing, or simply relaxing on the beach.
Book Your Dordogne Cycling Tour Today
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Dordogne on this guided cycling holiday. Whether you’re exploring medieval villages, cycling along river valleys, or relaxing by the pool, this tour promises a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Book your cycling tour now and enjoy a memorable journey through one of France’s most beautiful regions.
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