Cycling, Wine and Cultural Tours in the Dordogne, Pyrenees and Southwest of France.

First and foremost this bicycle trip at the Chateau de Pitray in the Southwest of France is about riding your bike through the fantastic Dordogne countryside. Imagine pedaling away on small picturesque roads with little to no traffic; imagine a rolling countryside with vineyards, fields and woods; imagine riding through old villages with buildings that date back hundreds of years. I have been riding in this area for the past 14 years, and I know the region like the back of my hand. It is without a doubt a paradise for cyclists. The fact that the Tour de France is such a success is in large part due to beautiful regions like the southwest.

One of the unlimited number of small roads zig-zagging through the countryside in Southwest France.

The goal of this bike vacation is to ride everyday, rides that challenge your endurance and leave you grinning from ear to ear. Therefore, each day you will ride a different loop that begins and ends at the Chateau de Pitray. The rides will be guided by me, Allan Reeves. If you prefer to opt out of the daily ride you can ride on your own by using a map. The roads are very well marked, and with some guidance from me and the use of a map you can make your way around easily and enjoyably.

The length and tempo of the rides depends on the overall profile of the group. However, the basics are as follows: you should be physically capable to ride for 2 to 3 hours if you are riding with the group. You should also be capable of handling various ride tempos of 14 to 20 mph. Typically speaking the rides won't exceed distances of 50 miles, unless the group is "hardcore" and wants to do more. The terrain is short rolling hills so you should also be capable of handling hilly terrain. Lastly, this is your vacation so if you want to ride on your own or with another friend you are more than welcome to do so. Again, I will provide you with all the "know-how" to get around comfortably and enjoy yourself thoroughly.

Cycling along the Dordogne river.

Outside the medieval village of Saint Emilion - a World Heritage Site.

...more empty roads.