Suggested Dates: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, and Sep
Duration: 9 nights / 10 days
Accommodation: Boutique Hotels, B&Bs
Daily Mileage: 45
Activity Level: Level 1 | Beginner
Tour Interests: Off the beaten path / Low traffic / Nature
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Embark on an unforgettable week-long cycling tour that captures the very essence of southwest France. From the elegant streets of Bordeaux to the storybook charm of Sarlat, this bespoke journey is designed for discerning travelers seeking immersive experiences, gentle adventure, and cultural richness.
Your adventure begins in Bordeaux, a city of grandeur and grace, celebrated for its neoclassical architecture and exceptional wines. After a warm welcome and a leisurely orientation ride, you’ll raise a glass of Bordeaux’s finest in anticipation of the days ahead.
Pedal through serene countryside en route to the UNESCO-listed village of Saint-Émilion, where cobblestone lanes and ancient wine cellars await. Spend the night surrounded by medieval charm, with fine dining and elegant local wines enhancing the experience.
The journey continues through a patchwork of vineyards and verdant hills. Each day reveals new treasures, from Bergerac’s half-timbered houses to the golden-stoned Château de Monbazillac, all set amid peaceful landscapes steeped in history.
Explore fairytale villages like La Roque-Gageac and Beynac-et-Cazenac, nestled along the Dordogne River. Here, you may choose to enjoy a leisurely canoe ride, offering a tranquil and scenic perspective of the valley’s natural beauty.
Your week concludes in the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, where lively markets, regional cuisine, and golden-stone streets create a captivating final chapter.
Every element of this cycling journey is thoughtfully designed to offer a seamless blend of culture, comfort, and discovery. With CTTC Bike Tours, you’ll experience the Dordogne in a way that’s both luxurious and deeply personal.
DAY 1 – Arrival in Bordeaux
Bienvenue à Bordeaux! After check-in at our charming 18th-century hotel in the heart of the city, take time to explore Bordeaux’s grand squares, riverside promenades, and vibrant cafés. Stroll past 18th-century landmarks, visit the gothic cathedral, or indulge in an aperitif in a leafy square. In the late afternoon, we’ll gather for bike fittings, followed by a festive welcome dinner at a local bistro.
Activity: Arrival, bike fittingHighlights: Place de la Bourse, Grosse Cloche, Bordeaux Cathedral, Marché des CapucinsAccommodations: Hotel Majestic BordeauxMeals: Dinner
DAY 2 – Bordeaux to Cadillac
We roll out along Bordeaux’s peaceful bike paths into the scenic vineyards of Entre-Deux-Mers. We’ll pause for a picnic in the medieval bastide of Créon, then visit the haunting ruins of the 12th-century Sauve-Majeure Abbey. Our route winds through Cadillac - home to a striking 17th-century château - and the hilltop village of Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, known for its fossilized oyster cliffs and sweet wines. The day ends in Cadillac, a lively riverside town with deep winemaking roots.
Activity: Ride of 64 km / 40 miHighlights: Créon, Sauve-Majeure Abbey, Château de Cadillac, Sainte-Croix-du-MontAccommodations: Maison Claude DarrozeMeals: Breakfast / Dinner
DAY 3 – Cadillac Loop Ride
Today we meander through the vineyards of Sauternes, home to some of the world’s most exquisite dessert wines. Highlights include Château d’Yquem - crowned jewel of the appellation - and a private visit to Château Malromé, once home to Toulouse-Lautrec’s family. A riverside picnic rounds out the day before we return to Cadillac for the evening.
Activity: Ride of 50 km / 31 miHighlights: Château d’Yquem, Château Malromé, Garonne picnicAccommodations: Château de la Tour Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
DAY 4 – Cadillac to Saint-Émilion
We ride east across rolling vineyards, pausing in Sainte-Croix-du-Mont for sweeping valley views and a glimpse of ancient oyster fossils. A visit to Verdelais offers a look at Toulouse-Lautrec’s final resting place before we picnic beneath the imposing Château de Rauzan. Then it’s onward to Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage town and the beating heart of Bordeaux wine.
Activity: Ride of 62 km / 39 miHighlights: Sainte-Croix-du-Mont, Verdelais, Château de Rauzan, Saint-ÉmilionAccommodations: Hôtel Au Logis des RempartsMeals: Breakfast / Lunch
DAY 5 – Saint-Émilion Loop Ride
After a relaxed morning, we set out for Château Siaurac, one of the most iconic Grand Cru estates in Lalande-de-Pomerol. Enjoy a private tour and tasting, followed by a delightful garden picnic among the vines. The return ride is gentle, with ample time to explore Saint-Émilion’s monolithic church, bell tower, and cobbled streets.
Activity: Ride of 27 km / 16 miHighlights: Château Siaurac, wine tasting, garden picnicAccommodations: Hôtel Au Logis des RempartsMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 6 – Saint-Émilion to Bergerac
We bid adieu to Saint-Émilion with a scenic ride through the Dordogne countryside. Along the way, we’ll stop at Montcaret, a quiet village with a Roman villa and church, then lunch in the 18th-century town of Sainte-Foy-la-Grande. Our day ends in Bergerac, a charming town of half-timbered houses and wine heritage.
Activity: Ride of 66 km / 41 miHighlights: Montcaret, Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, Bergerac Old TownAccommodations: Hôtel de France, BergeracMeals: Breakfast / Lunch
DAY 7 – Bergerac Loop Ride
Today’s route is a wine lover’s dream, passing through lush vineyards and visiting lesser-known gems like Château Le Fagé and Château de Sanxet. A highlight is Château de Monbazillac, famed for its golden dessert wines. Return via a ridge with stunning views over the Bergerac countryside.
Activity: Ride of 35 km / 22 miHighlights: Château Monbazillac, Château Le Fagé, Bergerac wine routeAccommodations: Hôtel de FranceMeals: Breakfast / Lunch
DAY 8 – Bergerac to Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil
Following the gentle curves of the Dordogne River, we pass through some of France’s most beautiful villages, including Limeuil, at the confluence of two rivers. The ride brings us to Les Eyzies, the epicenter of Europe’s prehistoric heritage. Tonight, enjoy a warm welcome and hearty dinner at our cozy hotel.
Activity: Ride of 65 km / 40 miHighlights: Limeuil, Le Moulin de Rouzique, Vézère ValleyAccommodations: Hôtel Le Cro-MagnonMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 9 – Les Eyzies Loop Ride
Step back 14,000 years as we explore the “Valley of Mankind,” home to the highest concentration of prehistoric sites in Europe. Today’s scenic ride includes medieval manors, limestone cliffs, and iconic caves. You’ll also have time to visit the National Museum of Prehistory or simply savor a peaceful afternoon in town.
Activity: Ride of 29 km / 18 miHighlights: Grotte du Grand Roc, La Roque Saint Christophe, Abri de la MadeleineAccommodations: Hôtel Le Cro-MagnonMeals: Breakfast / Lunch
DAY 10 – Les Eyzies to Sarlat-la-Canéda
We roll through the lush Sarladais countryside en route to Sarlat, one of France’s most romantic medieval towns. Along the way, we’ll visit cliffside wonders like Château de Beynac and La Roque-Gageac, and perhaps stop at the bustling market in the hilltop village of Domme. Arrive in Sarlat in time to explore its cobbled lanes and gourmet delights.
Activity: Ride of 49 km / 30 miHighlights: Château de Beynac, Domme market, Sarlat-la-CanédaAccommodations: Plaza MadeleineMeals: Breakfast / Lunch
DAY 11 – Sarlat Loop Ride & Farewell Dinner
On our final ride, we follow a scenic veloroute along the Dordogne, shaded by forest and flanked by châteaux. We’ll pause at the Espace Robert Doisneau—a tribute to the famed photographer—before looping back through quaint villages. Tonight, we gather for a festive farewell dinner in Sarlat’s historic center.
Activity: Ride of 42 km / 26 miHighlights: Château de Castelnaud, veloroute ride, farewell celebrationAccommodations: Plaza MadeleineMeals: Breakfast / Dinner
DAY 12 – Departure from Sarlat
Enjoy one final breakfast in Sarlat before saying goodbye to the Dordogne. Transfers and departures as scheduled.
Activity: DepartureHighlights: Optional morning stroll or café stop in townMeals: Breakfast
Meals
Activities
Equipment
Support
Not Included
More Questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common question
What is the food like in the Dordogne?You’ll savor classic French gastronomy - think foie gras, truffle-infused dishes, duck confit, walnut-laced desserts, and artisan cheeses - often enjoyed with world-class regional wines while dining in château courtyards or countryside auberges.
When is the best time to travel?The most rewarding months are May to June and September to October. During these shoulder seasons, the weather is mild, the landscapes are lush, the vineyards are active but uncrowded, and medieval towns feel enchanted.
What type of bike do you recommend?We suggest a road or touring bike with comfortable gearing to handle gentle climbs through rolling valleys and quiet village lanes. Prefer a lighter ride? Ebikes are available for added ease and flexibility.
How challenging is the cycling?This is a moderate-level tour ideal for recreational riders. Daily distances range from 40 to 70 km (25 to 43 mi), with gentle elevation changes and plenty of scenic rest stops. A support van is always available, and alternative shorter routes can be offered.
Where does the tour start and end?The tour typically begins in Sarlat-la-Canéda, a stunning medieval town in the heart of the Dordogne, and ends near Bordeaux or in the historic region of Périgord, depending on schedule. Transfers, luggage transport, and on-tour logistics are covered to make your journey effortless.
Choose your dates, your group and your interests. We'll create a bike tour tailor made for you!
Our team of experts is always ready and eager to assist you with any inquiries.
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