Cycling & Hiking in SW France
As the weather starts to improve, we will see cyclists enjoying the fresh air and the countryside around us. Cycling is very popular around the world and France is no exception, and with so much to explore in our region all you need to decide is where first!
Alternatively, you may prefer to book one of many tours available across the region, cycling through the vines or visiting Chateaux, or exploring some of the larger towns.
The closest walk is right on our doorstep, and is a very easy, pretty and quiet 40 minute walk along the vineyards, plum orchards and fields of sunflowers. It follows a circular route around the country lanes, over to Baleyssagues and back to Labarthe.
The Lot et Garonne tourist office (as do other departments of France) has a very good map of all the recognised walking and cycling routes in the area, including a number of routes along the canals. Maps are free to download or print here
If you’ve always fancied walking the Santiago de Compostela, there are a few options for you to join the “Voie de Vezelay” (known as the Polish Road) within 20 minutes from Duras. VdV travels through Ste Foy la Grande to La Reole passing many villages along the way including St Ferme where you will find l’Abbaye St Ferme a worthwhile stop, or visit. The imposing Benedictine abbey, which dominates the village of Saint-Ferme, was founded during the High Middle Ages (VI-VIIth centuries) by black monks who were expelled in 1080 and replaced by Benedictines from Saint Florent de Saumur, on one of the four roads to Compostela, the Vézelay. The chevet of the Romanesque church, from the beginning of the 12th century, classified as M.H., was rebuilt in the 15th, 17th and 18th centuries. The Romanesque facade had a Romano-Gothic rose window which was walled in the 15th century. The whole of the monastery is Romano-Gothic.
With so many bastide villages to visit, a walking tour is the perfect way to explore them.
Whatever you choose, don’t forget to pack your walking boots and sun hat!
The Mountain Bike Hire Company
The Mountain Bike Hire Company was established in 1999 in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of France. A family run business offering a range of bikes : Mountain, Hybrid, City and American Cruiser style bikes, as well as children’s bikes from 7 years upwards, Tag-Alongs, Toddler Trailers and Baby Seats. All of which are free of charge when hired with adult bikes.
All bikes are supplied with helmets, locks, pump and puncture repair kits.
GoodTurn Cycles
Electric bikes are also available throughout the region, GoodTurn Cycles in Eymet offer a hire service and in addition you can book organised guided tours in French or English.
Canoë Kayak Vélo Pessac sur Dordogne
Canoë Kayak Vélo Pessac sur Dordogne are located on the Dordogne river and offer both regular and electric bike hire from ½ day to one week hire.
Rustic Vines Tours
Rustic Vines Tours are based in Bordeaux but give you the option to join their tours in St Emilion, a great way to explore this UNESCO listed medieval town and of course visit a few chateaux along the way!