Saddle up, handlebars in hand, and head for the wild landscapes, tranquil curves and luminous villages that dot this five-stage itinerary. From Lozère to Aveyron, as far as the Lot, each pedal stroke reveals waterside markets, medieval lanes and landscapes sculpted by time. A gentle, contemplative adventure, where freedom is combined with the rhythm of cycling.
Day 1: La Canourgue to Saint-Côme-d'Olt (30 km)
Saint-Côme-d'Olt, France
The tour departs from La Canourgue in the Lozère, nicknamed the ‘Little Venice of Lozère’ for its charming, ingenious canals and peaceful atmosphere. You'll love its charming architecture, its medieval timber-framed and corbelled houses, its 13th-century collegiate church and its Romanesque chapel. Heading towards Aveyron, the road then winds through deep forests and steep valleys before reaching Saint-Côme-d'Olt, an enchanting medieval village with its twisted bell tower and cobbled streets.
Where to stay in Saint-Côme-d'Olt? Les Jardins d'Éliane: a peaceful atmosphere between garden and swimming pool. A simple, attentive guest house, where every detail reflects a discreet concern for the environment.
Day 2: Saint-Côme-d'Olt to Entraygues-sur-Truyère (34 miles)
Entraygues-sur-Truyère, France
Driving along the Lot valley, the lush green landscapes and gentle relief invite you to slow down. You reach Entraygues-sur-Truyère, a place marked by the confluence of two rivers, the Lot and the Truyère. You'll fall under the spell of its old streets, its superb half-timbered houses dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, its castle and its 13th-century bridges. A gourmet break is also welcome in this village, renowned for its regional specialities such as aligot.
Where to stay in Entraygues-sur-Truyère? The Hôtel La Rivière, set on the banks of the river, is authentic without being ostentatious. With its spa, swimming pool and local cuisine, the hotel cultivates a discreet lifestyle that is attentive to its surroundings.
Day 3: Entraygues-sur-Truyère to Cajarc (37 miles)
Cajarc, France
This is a captivating stage, during which you will lose yourself in deep gorges, limestone cliffs and hilltop villages. The crossing into the Lot is marked by the arrival in Cajarc, a town where the art of living takes on its full meaning. Take a stroll through its flower-lined streets and market, and admire its picturesque houses with tiled roofs. The birthplace of Françoise Sagan is also home to a number of art galleries.
Where to stay in Cajarc? The Hôtel La Ségalière combines elegant sobriety with an immersion in nature. With its large wooded park, swimming pool and commitment to local flavours, it's a soothing, authentic stopover for cyclists in search of serenity.
Day 4: Cajarc to Cahors (31 miles)
Cahors, France
On this stage in the Lot, the breathtaking views of one of France's most beautiful villages, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, will make you forget the calf-biting climb. Further on, terraced vineyards line the meandering Lot. On arrival, Cahors unveils its Pont Valentré, a medieval landmark listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through its narrow streets and wonderful Secret Gardens, explore its colourful markets and discover the secrets of Malbec.
Where to stay in Cahors? The Best Western Plus Hôtel Divona Cahors has a breathtaking view of the Pont Valentré from its bright, contemporary rooms. With its sleek design, spa and commitment to sustainable practices, it's the ideal place to combine comfort and discovery.
Day 5: Cahors to Puy L'Évêque (21 miles)
Puy l’évêque, Pl. du Foirail, Puy-l'Évêque, France
To round off this cycling adventure, head for Puy-L'Évêque, a medieval hilltop village offering breathtaking views. Its golden stone houses perch above a breathtaking view of the river and the Lot valley, providing an idyllic end to this journey.