The Medieval Dordogne

A lovely first day riding today. After the first few kilometres, you will see the very impressive Castle of Biron, a 13^th century Chateaux held by the Cathars. After a visit, you continue through a gently winding valley road until you will reach the village and fortress of Gavaudun which was built in the 11^th century. It can be seen on a rocky outcrop high above the village and played a big part in the hundred-year war. Now you shall cycle following a nice quiet small country road towards the river Lot. You then follow the river until you will reach your accommodation in the village of Puy L’Eveque. The “Bishops Hill”, once occupied by the English during the reign of King Henry IV, the marks from his cannonballs can still be seen on the walls of the main church of Saint-Sauveur.

You start today cycling along the Lot river as you climb gently out of the valley. Now you have a short but challenging climb to the village of Les Arques, where the very special museum on the artist Zadkine is worth a visit. The rest of the ride is easy and quiet through the real rural France countryside passing some chestnut forests. Soon you reach your destination, another Bastide town, VilleFrance-Du Perigord. It even has a little chestnut museum.

Today your destination is Belves, another one of France’s most beautiful towns. You cycle meandering through the countryside passing through tiny, sleepy hamlets. The little climb of today is at the end of your ride when you reach your destination, Belves. Enjoy the spectacular views and the sound of one of the seven bell towers. If you have time, visit the remains of medieval houses by the main square.

You don’t have to cycle today, but if you don’t, you miss a very scenic trip visiting some of the highlights of the Dordogne area. You will cycle through the Dordogne valley towards Château de Milandes, once the home of the world-famous artist, Josephine Baker. In the castle, one can visit a very informative exhibition on her highly interesting life. Today you can also add an extra 11,5 km loop to the Château de Castelnaud, the most renowned and most visited castle of the Dordogne area.

You will leave Belves via the forests, and you can rest, as did those once on the road to Compostella, in the village of Cadouin. Visit its 12th-century abbey, listed on the UNESCO heritage list and take in the stunning beauty of this ancient building. Today it is a relatively short trip, so you have plenty of time to explore the stunning Monpazier.

Depart after breakfast.