Embark on a cycling adventure through the Dordogne, in the heart of the legendary Périgord Noir. This bike tour in southwestern France combines scenic rides, cultural discovery, and the French art de vivre. From the medieval charm of Sarlat-la-Canéda to the cliffside village of Rocamadour, each day unveils a new face of this enchanting region.
Follow peaceful greenway paths along the Dordogne Valley, through rolling hills, ancient villages, and timeless landscapes. Explore the Vézère Valley, home to prehistoric wonders like Lascaux and Les Eyzies, and pedal past fairy-tale castles such as Beynac, Castelnaud, and Les Milandes.
Between two cycling rides, savor the gastronomic soul of the Dordogne : foie gras, truffles, walnuts, local cheeses, and fine wines. Whether you’re a passionate cyclist or simply seeking a gentle cycling holiday in France, this journey through the Périgord Noir offers a rare mix of beauty, history, and authenticity. An unforgettable escape to experience at the slow pace of the French countryside.
Your Dordogne cycling adventure begins in Sarlat-la-Canéda, the capital of the Périgord Noir. It is also one of France’s best-preserved medieval towns. Nestled in a peaceful valley, Sarlat seems frozen in time, with its maze of cobbled streets, timbered houses, hidden courtyards, and Renaissance mansions from the 15th and 16th centuries. Every stone here whispers stories of history and heritage.
After settling into your charming accommodation, take a stroll through the old town. The lively market bursts with the scents and colors of local specialties: foie gras, truffles, walnuts, and golden honey. As evening falls, the ochre façades glow in the soft light while street musicians bring the town to life.
Sarlat captures the very essence of the Dordogne region : culture, gastronomy, and the art de vivre. A perfect start to your journey through one of France’s most enchanting cycling regions.
Begin your first day in the saddle with an easy cycle stage along the Dordogne Valley Greenwa. It is a peaceful cycling path built on a former railway line. Departing from Sarlat, you’ll follow the Dordogne River through shady forests, open meadows, and limestone cliffs.
This gentle route is ideal for taking in the beauty of rural France. Indeed you will pass through charming hamlets, stone bridges, and walnut groves that stretch out along the way. The glistening Dordogne never strays far from view.
By afternoon, you’ll reach Souillac, a quiet riverside town rich in history. Its Romanesque Abbey of Sainte-Marie is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. A delightful introduction to cycling in the Dordogne, combining natural beauty, cultural heritage, and pure pleasure.
Today’s loop is one of the highlights of your bike tour in the Dordogne. Set your sights on Rocamadour, a UNESCO-listed sacred village perched dramatically on a cliff above the Alzou Canyon. Leaving Souillac, quiet country roads wind through the wooded hills of the Lot. Gradually, breathtaking views open up and then, suddenly, Rocamadour appears, clinging to the rock like a miracle of stone.
Explore its seven sanctuaries stacked vertically against the cliff, including the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur and the Chapel of Notre-Dame, home to the revered Black Madonna.
After taking in the panoramic views, descend back toward Souillac through tranquil countryside. A demanding but unforgettable cycling stage that combines spirituality, effort, and wonder.
Today’s stage leads you into a more intimate part of the Périgord, far from the tourist crowds. You’ll cycle through rolling landscapes of oak forests and golden fields. Then you reach the Gardens of Eyrignac, one of France’s finest examples of classical French topiary art.
Continue on to Salignac, with its medieval castle ruins. Then you pedal to Saint-Geniès, a quintessential Dordogne village of golden stone houses topped with slate roofs.
Your day ends in Tamniès, a peaceful hamlet surrounded by gentle hills. Here, time seems to slow down. Enjoy dinner on a sunny terrace as the sun sets over the valley, a moment of pure Périgord art de vivre.
Step back in time as you enter the Vézère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and cradle of prehistoric art. The route to Montignac reveals rolling hills, green forests, and postcard-perfect villages. Here lies the world-famous Lascaux Cave, where Cro-Magnon man painted horses, bison, and deer some 17,000 years ago.
Follow the Vézère River through peaceful countryside to Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, one of the most beautiful villages in France. Its Romanesque church and riverside homes exude timeless charm.
Continue to Les Eyzies, the “world capital of prehistory,” where cliffs, shelters, and caves tell the story of early mankind. Evening light bathes the golden stone façades, a perfect end to a journey through millennia.
The day begins following the gentle curves of the Vézère River toward Le Bugue. It is a lively market town known for its medieval artisans’ village. Next, arrive in Limeuil, a stunning village where the Vézère meets the Dordogne. Climb up to its panoramic gardens for breathtaking views of the two rivers winding through the valley.
Your cycle stage continues through Cadouin and its magnificent Cistercian abbey, another UNESCO World Heritage gem, before reaching Saint-Cyprien, a charming medieval bastide surrounded by hills. Between rivers, villages, and limestone cliffs, this stage captures the spirit of slow travel in the Dordogne : varied, authentic, and deeply relaxing.
Your final day of cycling takes you through the legendary Valley of the Châteaux, where the Dordogne reveals its most iconic landmarks.
Cycle past majestic castles, Beynac, Castelnaud, and Les Milandes, each perched above the river, witnesses to centuries of history. Stop in La Roque-Gageac, one of France’s most beautiful villages, wedged between cliff and river, and go up to Domme, a hilltop bastide offering sweeping views of the valley.
Return to Sarlat and offer yourself a final evening celebrating the flavors of the Périgord: foie gras, truffles, duck confit, and a glass of Bergerac wine. A fitting finale to your unforgettable Dordogne cycling trip.
You’ll leave with unforgettable memories : the scent of the forest, the golden light on the stone villages, and the gentle rhythm of life along the Dordogne.
More than just a bike trip, this is an immersion in French heritage, gastronomy, and timeless beauty ; the art de vivre, Périgord style.
This option features a curated selection of charming 3-star hotels and lovely guesthouses, perfect for cyclists looking for a warm, welcoming place to unwind after a day on the road.
These are authentic, friendly accommodations that truly understand the needs of bike travelers, offering a pleasant setting, reliable comfort, and a genuine sense of hospitality.
The goal is to combine comfort, simplicity, and character.
* Photos for illustration purposes only
(based on double occupancy)
Daily arrival in 2026
Options
By train
Sarlat train station is served by regional trains (TER) from Bordeaux, Périgueux, and other towns in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region. From Bordeaux, the journey takes approximately 2.5 hours with a connection. The station is located close to the town center, making it easily accessible on foot, by taxi, or via local transport.
By air
The nearest airport is Brive–Souillac (Brive–Vallée de la Dordogne), located about a 45-minute drive away. It offers a limited number of domestic flights, including connections from Paris.
Other options include Bergerac and Toulouse airports, with onward travel to Sarlat possible by road or rail. Car rental services are available at all of these airports.
By car
Sarlat can be reached via the departmental roads, mainly the D703 and D704, from nearby towns such as Souillac (A20 motorway) or Bergerac. Although the town is not directly served by a motorway, it remains easily accessible by car.
Several parking areas are available around the historic center, often free of charge or reasonably priced.
Return travel from Sarlat is not arranged by us. Each guest is therefore free to organize their departure according to their own schedule and preferences.
If you would like recommendations for arranging your return or extending your stay in the Dordogne, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’ll be happy to assist.
On the first or second day of your stay, we will deliver your rental bikes directly to your hotel. Each bike is carefully fitted to your height and comes fully equipped with:
For this trip, you can choose from the following rental options:
If you prefer to bring your own bike, that is absolutely fine. A discount will be applied to your booking.
So you can fully enjoy your journey without worrying about your belongings, we arrange luggage transfers at each stage of your trip:
Each rental bike comes equipped with a rear pannier, perfect for carrying your daily essentials. If you plan to arrive at your next accommodation before 5:00 PM, we recommend packing a change of clothes or an extra outfit in your rear bag.
To support you throughout your journey, we provide a dedicated GPS app. It allows you to follow each stage of your cycling itinerary independently, right from your smartphone.
Before departure, you’ll receive a link to download the app and access your routes. Once on site, simply open the day’s ride and let it guide you. Your map, turn-by-turn directions, and points of interest appear in real time.
In addition to the GPS app, you will receive a printed roadbook upon arrival, including maps, practical tips, and sightseeing information. An essential companion to slip into your panniers!
