Bordeaux → Sarlat by bike
Cycling from Bordeaux to Sarlat is an exceptional adventure for cycle touring lovers. This route connects the Garonne capital to the spectacular landscapes of the Périgord Noir, following the Dordogne valley, one of the most beautiful regions in France.
Why choose this route?
The Bordeaux to Sarlat route is highly popular due to its outstanding historical heritage and gorgeous natural landscapes.
A unique historical heritage
The Dordogne valley is famous for its medieval castles perched on cliffs, fortified bastide towns, and villages classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France.
Stunning and diverse scenery
You will cross the rolling hills of Entre-deux-Mers, the major vineyards of Saint-Émilion, then the limestone cliffs and deep forests of the Périgord Noir.
A gourmet food adventure
Périgord is world-famous for its gastronomy: foie gras, truffles, walnuts, and duck confit. Cycling is ideal to visit local farmers' markets.
Practical Info
- Distance : 200-230 km
- Duration : 5-7 days
- Difficulty : Challenging
- Best period : April to June, September and October
Suggested 5-Day Itinerary
The route leaves the Gironde region to join the Dordogne, following the river through the Périgord.
Bordeaux → Saint-Émilion
Approx. 45 km
A first stage riding through the rolling vineyard landscapes of Entre-deux-Mers. Saint-Émilion is a majestic medieval village classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Saint-Émilion → Bergerac
Approx. 60 km
Cross from Gironde into Dordogne. Bergerac welcomes you along the river with its charming historic center and famous vineyards.
Bergerac → Lalinde
Approx. 30 km
A shorter stage to relax along the Dordogne valley. Lalinde is a small, quiet medieval bastide town built on the river banks.
Lalinde → Domme
Approx. 45 km
Cycle through some of the most spectacular landscapes of the Périgord. Domme is a medieval bastide perched on a high cliff, offering unique views of the valley.
Domme → Sarlat-la-Canéda
Approx. 15 km
A short final stage to reach Sarlat-la-Canéda, the capital of the Périgord Noir, famous for its preserved medieval streets and markets.
Highlights
Saint-Émilion
Famous UNESCO medieval town, featuring its monolithic underground church, steep cobbled streets, and world-class wine estates.
The Bastide of Domme
A fortified medieval bastide town offering a spectacular panoramic view of the Dordogne River winding below.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
One of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, famous for its historical monuments, warm stone facades, and food markets.
Route Map
Which bike for this route?
Due to the hillier sections of the valley and Périgord, choosing a suitable bike is important:
- Touring Hybrid Bike
- Gravel Bike (ideal for mixing quiet roads and gravel tracks)
- Versatile Electric Hybrid Bike (highly recommended for the hills)
Rent a bike in Bordeaux
Pierre qui Roule offers perfectly adapted equipment, with a One-Way service allowing you to start in Bordeaux and leave the bikes directly in Sarlat.
16 rue Castelnau d'Auros, Bordeaux
Périgord Gastronomy
Discover the famous flavors of Dordogne along the way:
- Goose or duck foie gras
- Périgord black truffles
- Périgord walnuts
- Duck confit and sarladaise potatoes
Accommodation
- Historic boutique hotels
- Charming Bed & Breakfasts
- Traditional stone cottages / Gîtes
- Riverfront campsites
Our travel agency partner Evasio is at your disposal to organize your overnight stays during your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cycling from Bordeaux to Sarlat is an exceptional adventure to discover the Dordogne valley and the Périgord Noir. Between vineyards, medieval villages, castles, and spectacular landscapes, this route offers a rich journey. With Pierre qui Roule, Bordeaux's bike specialist, it is easy to rent your equipment and set off.
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