Guided Flavors of Perigord Dordogne Bike Tour
This guided Dordogne bike tour immerses you in one of France’s most atmospheric regions, where medieval villages, river valleys, and centuries of history unfold at an unhurried pace. Cycling along quiet backroads, you explore the heart of southwest France, a landscape shaped by fortified towns, dramatic castles, and timeless rural scenery.
The route follows the Dordogne and Vézère valleys, revealing honey-colored stone villages, ancient market towns, and panoramic viewpoints that bring the region’s past vividly to life. Each day blends scenic riding with cultural discovery, offering opportunities to explore historic centers, local traditions, and everyday village life.
Food is central to the Dordogne experience, and this tour celebrates the region’s renowned gastronomy. A highlight of the journey is a truffle tasting, introducing you to one of the Dordogne’s most prized culinary treasures and offering a deeper connection to the land and its flavors.
Traveling with an experienced guide and carefully selected accommodations, you enjoy a seamless balance of cycling, culture, and cuisine, from your arrival in Sarlat-la-Canéda to the tour’s conclusion in Rocamadour.
Guided
Casual+ hotels
Montignac
Rocamadour
moderate
47 km / 29 mi
6
Min. 4, Max. 14
Bordeaux Airport (BOD)
Bordeaux Airport (BOD)
Highlights
Truffle Tasting in the Heart of the Périgord Noir
Cycle into Sarlat and dive straight into one of France’s most coveted culinary rituals—a guided truffle tasting that unlocks the secrets of the “black diamond” of French cuisine. This isn’t a token stop; it’s a sensory deep-dive into the region’s identity, reserved for places where truffles are still a way of life.
CycleThrough 20,000 Years of Human History
Few cycling tours in the world let you ride through the birthplace of human art. Pedal between limestone cliffs, prehistoric cave systems, and river valleys where modern civilization began—linking Lascaux, Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, and Les Eyzies, the globally revered “Capital of Prehistory.
Château-to-Château Riding Along the Dordogne River
This is storybook cycling at its peak. Glide past Beynac, Castelnaud, and Château des Milandes, where medieval power struggles, resistance history, and cinematic landscapes collide. Each bend in the river reveals another fortress rising dramatically from the cliffs—arguably France’s most iconic château corridor by bike.
A Grand Finale in Rocamadour
The tour ends not quietly, but spectacularly. Ride into Rocamadour, a UNESCO-listed pilgrimage site literally carved into a vertical limestone cliff. Few cycling journeys finish somewhere this spiritually, visually, and emotionally powerful—making it a finale guests talk about long after the ride ends.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Montignac | Le Relais de Montignac (3-Star) | D | ||
| DAY 2 | Montignac | Le Relais de Montignac (3-Star) | B,D | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Les Eyzies | Hostellerie des Passeurs (3-Star) | B,D | 40 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Les Eyzies | Hostellerie des Passeurs (3-Star) | B | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Carsac-Ailllac | La Villa Romaine (4-Star) | B | 44 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Sarlat-La-Caneda | La Verperie (3-Star) | B, Truffle Tasting | 55 km / 34 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Rocamadour | Les Esclairgies (3-Star) | B,D | 56 km / 35 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure - Jour de départ | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Montignac
Arrive in the Dordogne and meet the group in Sarlat, a lively medieval town known for its markets and honey-colored stone architecture. A private transfer brings you to Montignac, set along the Vézère River and perfectly positioned for exploring the region’s prehistoric heartland. After check-in, there is time to settle in, stretch your legs, or take a short walk through town. In the evening, meet your guide and fellow travelers for a welcome briefing. Dinner introduces the flavors of the Périgord, setting the tone for the journey ahead. The day is intentionally relaxed, allowing you to ease into both the region and the rhythm of the tour.
Day 2: Montignac
Your first ride offers a gentle introduction to Dordogne cycling, combining rolling terrain with quiet country lanes. The route leads through the Vézère Valley toward Saint-Amand-de-Coly, widely regarded as one of France’s most beautiful villages. Along the way, stone farmhouses, open fields, and forested hills define the landscape. The pace is unhurried, allowing time to enjoy the scenery and get comfortable on the bike. After looping back to Montignac, the afternoon is free. Those interested may visit Lascaux IV, home to the world’s most famous prehistoric cave paintings.
Day 3: Les Eyzies
Today’s ride follows the Vézère River deeper into the valley, with a mix of gentle climbs and flowing descents. Pass through the hilltop hamlet of Fanlac and continue to Saint-Léon-sur-Vézère, where Romanesque architecture and riverside cafés invite a pause. The scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, with limestone cliffs rising above the road and walnut groves lining the route. Cycling remains relaxed, with plenty of opportunity to take in the surroundings. The day ends in Les Eyzies, set directly beneath towering rock faces. Known as the Capital of Prehistory, this village sits at the center of one of the world’s most important archaeological regions.
Day 4: Les Eyzies
A scenic loop ride showcases one of the Dordogne’s most picturesque river settings. Cycle to Limeuil, beautifully positioned at the confluence of the Dordogne and Vézère rivers, before continuing toward Le Bugue. The terrain undulates gently, offering rewarding views without sustained climbs. A highlight of the day is the visit to the Gouffre de Proumeyssac, an impressive underground cavern known as the “Crystal Cathedral.” After the visit, return to Les Eyzies for a relaxed afternoon. Time is available to stroll along the river, visit the National Museum of Prehistory, or simply enjoy a café terrace.
Day 5: Carsac-Ailllac
The route transitions today from prehistoric landscapes to classic Dordogne château country. Ride through artist villages and traditional market towns as the scenery opens into the broader Dordogne Valley. Château des Milandes, once home to Josephine Baker, and the imposing fortress of Castelnaud dominate the river bends. The cycling is varied but manageable, with climbs rewarded by sweeping valley views. Quiet backroads and riverside stretches create a steady rhythm to the day. Arrive in Carsac-Aillac, a peaceful village surrounded by greenery and water gardens. Tonight’s accommodation offers a more upscale setting, perfect for unwinding after the ride.
Day 6: Sarlat-La-Caneda
One of the most iconic cycling days of the tour unfolds along the Dordogne River. Ride past postcard-perfect villages such as La Roque-Gageac, tucked beneath limestone cliffs, and Beynac, crowned by its dramatic medieval castle. Forested sections and open river views alternate throughout the day. The route then turns inland toward Château de Commarque before continuing to Sarlat. On arrival, enjoy a guided truffle tasting, offering insight into one of the region’s most prized culinary traditions. The evening is free to explore Sarlat’s beautifully preserved medieval center.
Day 7: Rocamadour
Begin the day at Sarlat’s famous market, where stalls overflow with local produce, cheeses, walnuts, and regional specialties. Leaving town, cycle through rolling countryside and quiet farmland, gradually approaching the limestone landscapes of the Causses. The terrain remains varied but steady, with time to appreciate the changing scenery. The journey concludes dramatically in Rocamadour, a pilgrimage village built vertically into a sheer cliff. Its layered sanctuaries and ancient streets create one of the most striking finales of any cycling tour in France. The evening is marked with a farewell dinner celebrating the week’s journey.
Day 8: Departure - Jour de départ
After breakfast, a group transfer brings guests to Sarlat or Souillac for onward travel. The tour officially concludes, but memories of river valleys, medieval villages, and timeless French landscapes remain long after departure.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
trip leader
Expert Trip Leader(s) who look after your every need and add meaning to your vacation.
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
shuttle
A Van support follows the group of riders and carries all belongings.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
refreshments
Refreshments and mineral water during activity.
entrance
Entrance fees to most of the monuments and temples.
Additional Inclusions
## What’s Included
- 7 nights accommodation in comfortable 3★ and 4★ hotels with private facilities
- Daily buffet breakfasts (7 breakfasts total)
- Five dinners (Days 1, 2, 3, 5 & 7 – starter, main course, dessert; drinks not included)
- One English-speaking cycling guide for the duration of the tour (maximum 12 guests)
- 6 days of hybrid bike rental
- Luggage transfers between hotels
- All group transfers listed in the itinerary, including:
- Day 1 transfer from Sarlat to Montignac
- Day 8 transfer from Rocamadour to Sarlat or Souillac
- Assistance vehicle from Day 2 to Day 7, providing:
- Mechanical support (basic repairs and adjustments)
- Passenger transfers in case of fatigue, weather, or technical issues
- Logistical support for the guide
- Entrance to the Gouffre de Proumeyssac (Day 4)
- Truffle tasting in Sarlat (Day 6)
## What’s Not Included
- Lunches (except the truffle tasting on Day 6)
- Dinner on Day 4
- Beverages and drinks
- Other bike rentals (e-bikes or alternative bikes, if available, are at an additional cost and subject to confirmation)
- Entrance fees to museums or sites not specifically mentioned as included
- Travel insurance
- Airport transfers outside of the group transfers listed above
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.
Focus Crater Lake Lite or similar
Included in your trip price
Kalkhoff Endeavour 1.B Move INT or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Travelers should plan to arrive in the Dordogne region independently before the start of the tour. The most convenient arrival hubs are Sarlat-la-Canéda or nearby rail stations, with several airport options depending on your point of origin. Closest Airport Brive–Vallée de la Dordogne Airport (BVE) is the nearest airport, located approximately 45 minutes from Montignac by road. It offers limited but convenient connections, mainly via Paris.
Alternative Airports
- Bordeaux Airport (BOD): Major international airport with wide European and intercontinental connections. From Bordeaux, take a train to Sarlat (approx. 2.5 hours), followed by a short local transfer.
- Toulouse Airport (TLS): Another well-connected international airport. Train travel via Souillac takes approximately 3.5–4 hours.
Getting to the Tour Start On Day 1, a group transfer is included from Sarlat to Montignac, where the tour officially begins. Guests should plan their arrival so they can reach Sarlat in time for this scheduled transfer. Exact meeting details are provided prior to departure.
Departure
The tour concludes in Rocamadour, one of France’s most iconic pilgrimage villages.
On Day 8, a group transfer is included from Rocamadour to Sarlat or Souillac, making onward travel straightforward. From Sarlat or Souillac
- To Bordeaux: Direct or connecting trains take approximately 2.5–3 hours, with easy access to Bordeaux Airport (BOD) or onward travel to Paris.
- **To Brive–Vallée de la Dordogne Airport **(BVE): Approximately 45 minutes by road from Souillac, ideal for short connections.
- To Paris: Travel via Bordeaux or Brive by high-speed or regional trains, with total journey times of around 4–5 hours. Guests planning flights should allow sufficient time between the group transfer and onward connections, particularly when traveling via Bordeaux or Paris.
Important Notes Airport pickups and drop-offs are not included, except for the group transfers listed above. Detailed meeting points, timings, and transfer instructions are shared prior to departure to ensure a smooth arrival and departure experience.
Weather
The Dordogne enjoys a temperate southwest French climate, with warm summers, mild shoulder seasons, and cooler, wetter winters. Weather conditions vary by month, making timing important for a comfortable cycling experience.
The best months to visit are May, June, and September, when the weather is stable, temperatures are pleasant, and countryside landscapes are at their most vibrant. Daytime temperatures typically range between 18°C and 26°C (64°F to 79°F), offering ideal conditions for cycling, sightseeing, and outdoor dining. Rainfall during these months is generally low and short-lived.
April and October are good months, with slightly cooler temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F). These months can bring occasional showers, but they appeal to travelers who prefer fewer crowds and a quieter pace while still enjoying comfortable riding conditions.
March and November are mixed months, with temperatures between 10°C and 18°C (50°F to 64°F) and more unpredictable weather. These months may see a mix of sunshine, clouds, and rain, making conditions less reliable for multi-day cycling tours.
July and August are considered off / not ideal months for cycling in the Dordogne. Temperatures often rise to 28°C–35°C (82°F–95°F), and peak summer crowds can make riding and sightseeing less enjoyable, particularly for longer daily distances.
December through February is the offseason, bringing cooler temperatures of 5°C to 12°C (41°F to 54°F), increased rainfall, and shorter daylight hours. These winter conditions are generally unsuitable for guided cycling tours in the region.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Good
June
Best
July
Offseason
August
Offseason
September
Best
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Is proof of medical insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
A guided bike tour includes a professional local guide who rides with you throughout the trip. The guide handles navigation, manages daily logistics, ensures safety, and shares cultural insights. In addition to the guide, you also have a support vehicle that transfers luggage, provides water/snacks, and offers on-route assistance or a lift whenever needed. You simply follow the guide and enjoy a fully supported experience.
Your guides are local cycling experts, fluent in English, with deep knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and food.
On our guided tours, we ensure you begin your ride feeling comfortable and well-supported. Your guide and local team play an active role in getting your bike properly set up.
Before Your Tour
When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.
At the Start of the Tour
You’ll receive a full in-person bike fitting with your guide or local representative. This typically includes:
- Adjusting saddle height
- Moving the saddle fore–aft (small adjustments to move the saddle forward or back for better balance and comfort)
- Fine-tuning handlebar height and reach (where adjustable)
- Confirming pedal preference — flat pedals are provided by default. If you bring your own clip-in pedals, our guide will help install and adjust them
- A short test ride to check comfort
Your guide will ensure everything feels right before the tour begins.
During the Tour
Throughout the trip, your guide will make additional adjustments whenever needed. This is especially helpful if you discover new comfort preferences after a few hours of riding.
What to Expect
Our guided tour bike fitting is hands-on, comfort-focused, and practical, ensuring you ride safely and enjoyably each day. It’s not a detailed workshop-level fit, but it covers all essential adjustments for multi-day touring.
For guided tours, we do not provide GPX files separately, as navigation is handled by your guide. On certain occasions, if you prefer more independence, we may offer app-based navigation access with the daily routes loaded. However, please understand that this may not always be possible and depends on the specific tour setup.
Our support vehicle is always close by to make your ride worry-free. It carries your luggage, water, snacks, and spare parts, and is there if you need a quick lift or just want to rest for a while. You’ll see it at regular intervals along the route and during meal or refreshment stops. The vehicle is also used for scheduled transfers and to ensure safety and comfort along the route.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
We’ve carefully planned the route so that most rides follow peaceful countryside roads, scenic bike paths, and quiet lanes well away from heavy traffic. On rare occasions, short stretches on busier roads may be necessary, but your guides will ensure these sections are managed safely.
While your tour price covers most of the main expenses, including accommodations, daily breakfast, and many meals, you may wish to budget for a few lunches or dinners not included in the itinerary, as well as drinks, snacks, or personal treats along the way. As a general guide, allow around US $20–40 per person per day for these additional expenses.
Our guided bike tours typically have 6–14 guests, allowing for a personalised experience.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.
On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.
Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.
We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
Tours run rain or shine, but we may adjust the route or schedule for safety. The support vehicle is always available.
Popular tours can sell out months ahead, especially in summer. Booking at least 9 months in advance ensures best availability.
We require a 10% deposit at booking. The balance is due 60 days before departure.
For full details, please see our cancellation policy here.
Yes. About 4 weeks before your trip, you’ll receive a Pre-Departure Information Pack with daily ride profiles, packing tips, meeting locations, and detailed itinerary.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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