Embark on a cycling journey through the heart of the Périgord Noir, one of France’s most enchanting regions. Every pedal stroke reveals a landscape steeped in history, nature, and flavor. From Sarlat-la-Canéda, the medieval gem of the Dordogne, to the sacred cliffside village of Rocamadour, this bike tour follows the Dordogne and Vézère Valleys. It winds between hilltop castles, picturesque villages, and lush countryside.
Cycle along quiet country roads and shaded greenways as you explore this land of wonders. Take a break to visit the prehistoric caves of Lascaux, the golden cliffs of La Roque-Gageac, medieval bastides, and sweeping views across the Dordogne Valley.
This cycling holiday in Dordogne perfectly combines the joy of bike touring with cultural discovery and gastronomic pleasure. Each stage is an invitation to slow down, taste, and savor: foie gras, truffles, walnuts, and wines from Southwest France. It is the very essence of the Périgord, both on the plate and on the road.
An ideal route for curious travelers, history lovers, and nature enthusiasts eager to explore at their own pace the treasures of the Périgord Noir by bike.
Upon arrival in Sarlat-la-Canéda, you’ll receive your detailed roadbook. It includes your cycling itinerary, daily stages, highlights, and practical advice. Sarlat, a true medieval treasure, is one of the most iconic towns in the Périgord Noir. Indeed the city is famous for its remarkably preserved architecture and golden limestone facades.
Founded in the 9th century around a Benedictine abbey, it’s now classified as a Town of Art and History. Moreover, Sarlat boasts over 70 protected monuments, an extraordinary density for such a small town. Stroll through cobbled lanes lined with Renaissance mansions, vaulted passages, and the impressive Saint-Sacerdos Cathedral.
Depending on the day, enjoy Sarlat’s lively market filled with local delicacies : foie gras, truffles, walnuts, cheeses, and wines. This is a perfect taste of Dordogne before starting your cycling adventure.
Your first cycling stage takes you deep into the Vézère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its prehistoric treasures.
Leaving Sarlat, you’ll ride along peaceful country roads bordered by oak forests, green hills, and charming Périgord villages.
Your destination, Les Eyzies, is known as the World Capital of Prehistory. It was here that the first remains of Cro-Magnon Man were found, and where modern archaeology was born.
Along the way, you can visit prehistoric caves, rock shelters, and archaeological sites that mark the valley. The National Museum of Prehistory, housed in a former château overlooking the Vézère River, showcases artifacts and art objects spanning more than 400,000 years of human history.
A perfect day combining leisurely cycling and cultural discovery, ideal for anyone who loves bike touring in Dordogne.
Today’s cycle stage offers two great options depending on your energy and curiosity. The longer route leads you to Lascaux, in Montignac, home to one of the greatest masterpieces of prehistoric art. The site is over 17,000 years old, depicting bison, horses, and symbolic figures. The state-of-the-art Lascaux IV International Center offers a faithful and immersive re-creation of the original cave, with interactive exhibits. On the way back, enjoy stops in Vézère Valley villages.
For a shorter option, return directly to Sarlat by a different relaxed and scenic route through rural Dordogne.
End your day with a gastronomic dinner in Sarlat: duck confit, truffled potatoes, and a glass of local wine : the perfect taste of the Périgord.
This stage follows one of the most beautiful greenways in the Dordogne, built on a former railway line running along the Dordogne River. Flat, safe, and shaded, it’s a relaxing and scenic day of cycling, ideal for all levels.
Cycle between limestone cliffs, riverside villages, and quiet forests. Take a detour to La Roque-Gageac, a stunning cliffside village ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages in France. Its stone houses and narrow lanes are pure Dordogne charm.
If you have the energy, extend to Beynac or Domme, medieval strongholds offering unforgettable panoramas over the valley.
Your arrival in Souillac marks the transition from Périgord to Quercy. The town is lively and welcoming, known for its Romanesque Abbey of Sainte-Marie and warm local atmosphere.
One of the most spectacular stages of the trip. Follow the Dordogne to the village of Lacave, known for its caves, before climbing gradually toward Rocamadour, an iconic pilgrimage site and one of France’s most dramatic hilltop villages.
Perched on a sheer cliff, Rocamadour astonishes with its vertical layers of houses, chapels, and sanctuaries rising 400 feet above the canyon. Don’t miss the Basilica of Saint-Sauveur, the Saint-Amadour Crypt, and the Chapel of Notre-Dame housing the revered Black Madonna. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Rocamadour remains a spiritual and visual highlight of any Dordogne cycling tour.
Enjoy a breathtaking descent back to Souillac through the scenic countryside of the Lot region.
After breakfast, your cycling holiday in Dordogne comes to an end. This journey through the Dordogne and Vézère Valleys offers a full immersion in history, nature, and gastronomy; a true reflection of the Périgord Noir’s timeless beauty.
Between UNESCO sites, medieval villages, peaceful greenways, and gourmet delights, this experience will enchant culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and food aficionados alike.
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 Souillac 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!
