France by Bike: Mediaeval Castles 8-Days 7-Nights

Experience the vast countryside of Southern France while seeing some of the best mediaeval castles. Bike along rivers, limestone walls, historical towns and enjoy some great French dining along the way!

Includes:

  • 7 nights accommodations in country hotels with private bathrooms
  • Daily full breakfast
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Bicycle rental and equipment
  • Local contact for questions
  • Detailed route notes and maps (one set per room)
  • Access to client only area
  • See Route Map Below


    Day 1: Soulliac

    Your journey by bike through Southern France begins in the quaint old town of Souillac. Arrive and enjoy free time to explore the old quarter of town which dates back to the 11th century. Relax, get over jet-lag and enjoy the included dinner before the first day of riding tomorrow.

    Day 2: Souillac to Rocamadour Distance: 17-20 miles

    Enjoy a typical French breakfast as you prepare for the days ride. Journey through the Dordogne Valley toward the caves of Lacave. Stop for sightseeing and then continue to Rocamadour, a famous French town knows for its history in French culture. Check in and relax. Enjoy the included dinner tonight.

    Day 3: Rocamadour to Loubressac Distance: 15 miles

    After a hearty breakfast hop on your bike for the ride to Loubressac. Ride along the famous road of Santiago da Compostela which dates back to the 9th century. Continue across the countryside to see the caves of Padirac. Arrive to Loubressac, check in and enjoy free time. Dinner tonight is included.

    Day 4: Loubressac to St Cere Distance: 11 miles

    Wake, Eat and Bike! Ride toward the waterfall in Autoire and continue to St. Cere. Along the way visite the Chateau of Montal. Check in and relax in St. Cere. Dinner is included.

    Day 5: St Cere Distance: 11-25 miles

    After breakfast cycle to the Chapel of Notre Damme de Verdale. We will stop for a picnic lunch. Continue to explore the countryside and villages by bike and return to your hotel in St. Cere. Dinner is on your own tonight, so go out in the village and find a quaint restaurant, there are many to choose from.

    Day 6: St Cere to Gluges Distance: 20 miles

    Wake to the fresh smell of French bread in the oven. Enjoy your breakfast and hop on your bike for the ride to Gluges. Along the way visit the castle of Castelnau and the amazing limestone cliffs Floriac. Arrive to Gluges, check in and relax. Dinner tonight is included.

    Day 7: Gluges to Souillac Distance: 16-24 miles

    The last day of riding begins in the morning with a journey along the River Dordogne and toward the village of Turenne. Stop for sightseeing and exploring. Continue through the countryside to the town of Souillac. Check in, relax. Dinner is included tonight.

    Day 8: Souillac (End of Tour)

    How fast a great tour goes. Wake for a lovely French breakfast and the memories of a wonderful trip. Tour ends after breakfast in Souillac. We can arrange for transport, car or other arrangements for your next destination.

    2009 Prices & Dates:

    Price: Double: $1622 per person Single: $2042
    Self Guided Dates: Daily departures April - October
    Duration: 8 Days, 7 Nights
    Meeting Point: Hotel in Souillac
    Ending Point: Hotel in Souillac
    Arrival/Departure Information: Souillac is easily reached by train from Paris in about 4.5 hours.
    Ask about our point to point rail tickets.
    Daily Distances: 10-24 miles, 4-6 hours
    Terrain:Easy to moderate. Terrain is often flat but there are some steep climbs.
    Bicycle Equipment: Giant 21 Speed Bicycle with key lock, water bottle with holder, front mapholder, side bags, mud guards, and repair kit with spare tube, pump. Bike frames range from 50-58cm.Passengers can bring their own seats and pedals. Front lights, rear lights and toe clips are available upon request.We need each cyclist's height for correct bicycle size.
    Rating: Accommodations are in 2-3 star country inns.
    Recommended for independent travelers
    .

    • Final Payment is due 90 days prior to departure
    • $300 per person deposit is due upon confirmation.





    1=Souillac
    2=Rocamadour
    3=St Cere
    4=Gluges
    5=Souillac