Luxury Dordogne to Bordeaux Biking Tour 6D5N (Grand Wine Estates & Michelin Stars), Fully Guided

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 1, Approx. 10 km (6 miles), Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)
Level 1, Approx. 21 km (13 miles), Elevation gain: 244 m (800 ft)
Level 2, Approx. 31 km (19 miles), Elevation gain: 427 m (1400 ft)

Following our meeting in Bordeaux, we shuttle to the stunning Pontours village. Enjoy a tasty lunch and listen to your tour leaders educate you briefly on biking techniques and safety while fitting your bike. Our adventure begins as we cycle east on the scenic country roads, passing walnut groves, tobacco fields and through the bastide town of Molières. It is the perfect introduction to the alluring country of France.

After a short coffee break, we resume pedaling past the ruins of a 13th-century castle lined with trees before crossing over the Dordogne River to your hotel, the boutique Le Vieux Logis. Nestled in the charming village of Tremolat, soak in the serenity surrounded by the Dordogne River in southwestern France. Part of the Relais & Châteaux since 1955, soak in the deluxe facilities and charming surroundings at your home for the next two nights. Unwind at the limestone pool, lounge in one of the secret stone benches at its exquisite gardens or cosy by the wood burning fire with a glass of wine.

At night, we toast to an amazing adventurous week before a lovely dinner affair at nearby Bistrot de Place, bursting authentic regional cuisine in bistro style. Bon appetit!

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 27 km (17 miles), Elevation gain: 579 m (1900 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 61 km (38 miles), Elevation gain: 853 m (2800 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 76 km (47 miles), Elevation gain: 1036 m (3400 ft)

Start the day with a lovely breakfast before going off into the rippling countryside. The route starts with a stretch along the Dordogne River Valley and extends over the hills, past serene farmland and peaceful villages, to Rouffignac Cave, known for its well-kept ancient drawings.

We go on a guided tour to look at the exceptional drawings; they depict games, including rhinos, horses, mammoths, and bison. It is a spectacular visualisation of how dynamic the landscape of Europe was aeons ago.

After the visit, we cycle to our lunch spot at a family-run farm for lunch before heading back to the hotel on our bike or the shuttle. If you choose to cycle back, you can have a quick coffee break in the scenic Limeuil, a member of the Plus Beaux ”Most Beautiful” Villages of France along the banks of Dordogne. You have the option of shuttling from here, or you could decide to see your cycling to the end by conquering one last hill, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the valley and flourishing farmland below.

Later in the day, we gather to savour delicious local cuisine created highlighting the region’s bounty. These products are chosen carefully, and some of Dordogne's specialties are whipped up by Michelin-starred chef Vincent Arnould, one of France’s best culinary artists, at Le Vieux Logis gastronomical restaurant.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 37 km (23 miles), Elevation gain: 427 m (1400 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 53 km (33 miles), Elevation gain: 640 m (2100 ft)
Level 4, Approx. 80 km (50 miles), Elevation gain: 914 m (3000 ft)

Today, we enjoy the stunning scenery engulfed in the hills above the city of Bergerac and its wine-growing region. Follow the banks of Dordogne on one of the most fulfilling rides of the week. We get to feed on the city’s charms as we move from one panoramic village to the next and through shady sections of the national forest lined by fertile fields.

We come to a stop at the picturesque town of St-Nexans for a sumptuous meal, after which we traverse cliffs and woodland to vine-covered hills. This area east of Bordeaux is responsible for some of France’s most luscious reds, rosès and white. This afternoon, make your way to the exceptional 16th-century Chateau de Monbazillac. The castle is amid elegant Monbazillac vineyards and boasts of a distinct architectural mix of mediaeval fortifications and Renaissance exuberance.

After taking in the vistas of the Dordogne Valley, explore the chateau’s many floors. You don’t want to miss the wine cave where you can stop for a tasting. We end the day with a rolling ride among the distinct vineyards of the Bergerac wine region before arriving at our hotel, Château des Vigiers located outside of Monestier. Drink in the serenity, nestled on its 150-hectare 16th-century estate and surrounded by countryside. Unwind in your refined ensuite room, explore the stunning historic property or enjoy a relaxing time at the spa (at own expense).

Dinner tonight is at the hotel’s spectacular restaurant, Les Fresques. Tantalize your tastebuds with a Michelin star restaurant that creates extravagant French cuisine using a mixture of seasonal products, paired with some of the finest wines.

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 31 km (19 miles), Elevation gain: 304 m (1000 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 56 km (35 miles), Elevation gain: 640 m (2100 ft
Level 4, Approx. 66 km (41 miles), Elevation gain: 792 m (2600 ft)

It’s time to behold the renowned Bordeaux wine region! Get in the saddle to roll along rustic lanes and into hills that lead to a spectacular grapevine-laden landscape. Cycle past some world-famous vineyards and through seemingly uncharted towns filled with flourishing gardens and friendly farmers. Then, head to the pleasant property of the charming Mel family, where a delicious lunch awaits you.

In the afternoon, you could choose to pedal or shuttle to the scenic mediaeval town of St-Emilion, which is in the heart of the Bordeaux region. It is an area of a reputation thanks to its exceptional Grand Cru wines, lively streets, astounding monuments and celebrated architecture. The area has attained World Heritage status.

Drop off your bike for the day, and settle in at our accommodation for tonight, Hotel de Pavie. This hotel is a 5-star hotel in the heart of St-Émilion village, located on a hill giving awe-inspiring vistas of the region. Later, we go to the famed Vignobles et Chateaux wine school for a private tasting with an expert oenologist.

Tonight, you are to enjoy dinner on your own; no shortage of restaurants offering sumptuous meals ranging from creative to homemade cuisines. Feel free to ask your leaders for recommendations!

THREE BIKING OPTIONS:
Level 2, Approx. 29 km (18 miles), Elevation gain: 274 m (900 ft)
Level 3, Approx. 55 km (34 miles), Elevation gain: 549 m (1800 ft)
Level 4, Approx, 77 km (48 miles), Elevation gain: 823 m (2700 ft)

This afternoon, cruise along the tableland with many St-Émilion satellite designations with views over the neighbouring countryside before connecting back towards town. Your journey back is a fulfilling one with a shaded, scenic stretch featuring many amusing sights, including churches, farms and renowned wineries.

If you're still looking to cover some more ground and conquer climbs, take the extra loop past tiny villages and 12th-century churches. If you have had enough, however, enjoy a relaxing time at the hotel, or go into St-Émilion, which houses a ton of wine shops worth visiting. Make sure to sample the macarons of Madame Blanche if you want a tasty treat; it is a local specialty. Sweet and chewy cookies that have been produced in St-Émilion since the 1600s.

Your walking adventure this evening highlights the 8th-century cave dwelling of St-Émilion, the catacombs and Église Monoliths, Europe's largest monolithic church, an awe-inspiring sight to behold. We celebrate our thrilling week with a festive dinner at the hotel's remarkable two-Michelin starred restaurant whose prestigious vineyard is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Indulge in an exquisite dining affair, inspired by Yannick Alléno, awarded 3 stars in the Michelin France Guide, and savour into the flavours of local delights in a refined and modern creation. Enjoy with the perfect pairing of Saint Emillion and Bordeaux grape!

Level 1, Approx. 19 km (12 miles), Elevation gain: 183 m (600 ft)

You have the option of a laid-back morning at the hotel or embark on a final spin to explore stunning villages along with St-Émilion's series of interconnected roads. Take it all in, and capture memorable scenery, including châteaux ruins, old mills and vineyards.

After freshening up at the hotel, we gather for a farewell lunch. Soon after, we shuttle to the Bordeaux train station, where we say our goodbyes, and our trip ends.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.