Experience the Dordogne and Vézère valleys like never before on this self-guided, 7-day cycling adventure. Begin in Montignac, home to the world-renowned Lascaux caves, and pedal through serene landscapes brimming with castles, prehistoric treasures, and picture-perfect villages. Each day offers a new story, from riverside routes and oak forests to ancient cliff dwellings and medieval towns. With two nights in each destination, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of exploration and relaxation, making time to soak in the region’s rich history, culinary delights, and natural beauty. Quiet roads and timeless charm await at every turn. Allez-y!
Today, you’ll arrive in Montignac. A local host will meet you at the hotel according to your arrival time. The bikes will be delivered at the same time. Montignac is famed for its proximity to the Lascaux caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and serves as a gateway to this extraordinary archaeological treasure, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the distant past and the remarkable creativity of early humans.
Accommodation: Le Petit Monde
On Day 2, you can choose from two loop rides, both taking you to St Amand de Coly, labelled as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Along the way, you’ll enjoy charming villages, historic architecture, and scenic views of the Vézère River. Before or after your ride, you might want to visit the famous Lascaux caves renowned for their spectacular prehistoric cave paintings, dating back over 17,000 years (bookings need to be done in advance).
Although the original caves are closed to the public to preserve the delicate artwork, visitors can explore Lascaux IV, an impressive replica complex that faithfully recreates the stunning artistry of the ancient cave dwellers.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 24 km / 14 mi
Elevation: +400 m / +1,312 ft, -400 m / -1,312 ft
With extra ride to the Lascaux cave: 42 km / 26 mi, +650 m / +2,132 ft , -650 m / -2,132 ft
Accommodation: Le Petit Monde
Embarking from Montignac, your bike journey unfolds amidst the verdant countryside of the Dordogne region. En route to St. Leon sur Vezere, you’ll encounter the quaint charm of this riverside village, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque setting along the Vézère River. Continuing onward, you’ll be captivated by the awe-inspiring cliff dwellings of La Roque Saint-Christophe, a troglodyte site tracing human habitation back over 55,000 years.
You can add a 4km ride to La Madeleine, a renowned prehistoric site featuring a rock shelter adorned with exquisite Magdalenian carvings and paintings dating back over 14,000 years. Finally, your ride culminates in Les Eyzies, renowned as the “Capital of Prehistory”.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 37 km / 22 mi
Elevation: +700 m / +2,296 ft, -700 m / -2,296 ft
Accommodation: Le Menestrel
Begin your journey in Les Eyzies, where prehistory comes to life at the National Prehistory Museum, showcasing artifacts and exhibits spanning thousands of years. Pedal onwards to Limeuil, a stunning location at the confluence of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers. The village offers beautiful views of these two rivers coming together.
Arriving in Le Bugue, delve into the town’s vibrant atmosphere and bustling markets, where local
artisans and vendors offer a taste of authentic Périgord culture. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Gouffre de Proumeyssac, an awe-inspiring underground cavern. As you complete the loop back to Les Eyzies, you’ll have experienced the best of the Dordogne Valley.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 44 km / 27 mi
Elevation: +500 m / +1,640 ft, -500 m/ -1,640 ft
Accommodation: Le Menestrel
Pedal through picturesque countryside from Les Eyzies to Château Commarque, an ancient fortress perched amidst stunning landscapes. Continue your journey to Marquay, where you’ll encounter charming village streets and idyllic countryside vistas. Next, explore the majestic Château de Puymartin, a medieval masterpiece steeped in history and architectural splendor.
Finally, arrive in Sarlat, a jewel of the Périgord Noir region, renowned for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture, vibrant markets, and rich cultural heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 34 km / 21 mi
Elevation: +770 m / +2,526 ft, -770 m / -2,526 ft
Accommodation: La Maison du Notaire Royal
You leave Sarlat before climbing up to Domme, a fortified hilltop village with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Dordogne River below. Continue your ride to Castelnaud, where the imposing Château de Castelnaud stands as a testament to medieval military prowess. Nearby, you have the option of an extra loop to explore the elegant Château des Milandes, once home to the legendary Josephine Baker.
Then you can add a loop to Beynac, dominated by the majestic Château de Beynac, which overlooks the village and the river. You can make a detour to the meticulously landscaped gardens of the Jardins de Marqueyssac, and finally, ride to La Roque-Gageac, a charming village nestled against the cliffs along the riverbank. Explore its narrow streets, visit the troglodyte fortifications, and soak in the picturesque riverside ambiance.
Meals: Breakfast
Cycling: 48 km / 30 mi
Elevation: +750 m / +2,460 ft, -750 m / -2,460 ft
Longer option: 64 km / 40 mi, +880 m / +2,887 ft, -880 m / -2,887 ft
Accommodation: La Maison du Notaire Royal
Day 7 marks the end of this French adventure. After breakfast, it’s time to depart back home filled with memories that will be cherished forever.
Meals: Breakfast
Please note that accommodations are subject to availability and it may not be possible to book the exact accommodations listed day-by-day in the itinerary (in case there is a detailed list).
Also note that your chosen dates for the tour are not guaranteed until confirmed by the guide. If the guide is unable to secure your preferred dates/accommodation, you’ll get a full refund!
Included:
Add-ons
Not included:
Hybrid bike rental is included in the price for 5 riding days. The bike is Focus Crater Lake Lite, and it’s the best choice for cycle touring and tackling the riding days. Being light and aerodynamic, it can ride fast and handle climbs. With slightly wider tires, a more upright position and flat handlebars, these bikes offer a great deal of comfort, too. Women’s and men’s frames are available. With this bike, you get:
There’s also the option of an e-bike rental for an additional fee. This high-quality e-bike is Kalkhoff Endeavour 1.B Move, and if you choose to rent it, you’ll get:
This Dordogne self-guided cycling tour is ideal for people with good fitness level is required to go on this trip. Previous multi-day cycling experience is very welcome. Expect to cycle from 24 km (14) mi to 64 km (40 mi) on riding days.
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Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
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Self-guided tours are perfect for those who enjoy exploring on their own terms—at their own pace, and with the company they choose. By joining this self-guided Dordogne tour, we take care of:
Rather than joining a guided group, you’ll navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the tour operator. For a hassle-free journey with everything arranged for you in advance, there’s no better option!
As a self-guided tour is built around your preferred travel dates, your guide will take care of arranging accommodations and details after you book. Note that exact accommodations and dates might shift slightly, so don’t make any travel arrangements until the details of your adventure are confirmed.
Group sizes and pricing
Cycling in France can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has cyclists under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this Dordogne self-guided cycling tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.
Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is required—you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout.
Also, if your group has an odd number of people (e.g., 3 or 5 people), adding the single occupancy option is mandatory as well.
The starting point of your Dordogne cycling tour self-guided adventure is Montegnac. To get there, most people fly into Bordeaux Merignac Airport (BOD). From there, you can use public transport or rent a car to reach Montegnac.
Here’s how you can access Montignac easily from different starting points:
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.
Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.