Home > Treasures of Black Périgord
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More infos BOOK NOW !Périgord is the name of one of France’s historic provinces (in what is now called Dordogne), but its history goes back far beyond its name — all the way back to prehistory! This is where you’ll find evidence of early mankind: cave paintings, dwellings, ruins and more. Our tour will take you to the heart of ‘Périgord Noir,’ or ‘Black Périgord,’ so named for the oak and pine trees grown there. In just a small section of Perigord, you’ll have access to a wide array of true French gems: incredibly pretty villages, exquisite cuisine, stately chateaux, and inimitable natural beauty.
What makes Black Périgord all the more appealing is its bike-friendliness. We think the world’s greatest treasures are best enjoyed from the seat of a bike, and here you have full access to quiet country roads — allowing for a mesmerizing and worry-free vacation.
For travel and cycling tips to Dordogne, visit our "Travel and cycling tips" section.
Located on the Dordogne River, Souillac has often been considered as the gateway to Périgord Noir, making it the perfect place for your introduction to the region. It is also conveniently located whether you arrive by train or by car; our local representative will pick you up from the station if you arrive by train.
Today's itinerary will take you through the authentic Périgord, away from the crowds and the busloads of tourists. On your way, the gardens of Eyrignac will be a welcome stop for the magnificent vantage point they provide. Further on, you’ll cycle through the typical Périgord village of Salignac (with its medieval castle straight out of a movie set!) as well as quaint Saint-Geniès and its magnificent church before reaching the village of Tamniès.
You'll discover the quaint village of Montignac and can even make a visit to the nearby famous Lascaux cave before reaching the Vezère Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its abundance of remarkable prehistoric sites will lead you along to your destination: Les Eyzies! As the world capital of prehistory, it’s the best base for those who wish to explore.
With advance notice of your interest, we can help you make arrangements to visit some prehistoric caves (or reproductions of the caves, like Lascaux II, since the original is closed to the public).
Today’s the perfect day to arrange your cave visit or seek out some other places of interest. You could also relax at your hotel or spend your day wandering around town.
If you prefer to spend your time biking, you may ride a short loop to the small town of Le Bugue on the Vézère River.
You'll leave the valley of the Beune River on a ride to Sarlat, the capital of Périgord Noir. The whole ride is full of picture-perfect scenes, and you may stop whenever and wherever you’d like! Make sure to save some time to stroll through its medieval center, considered Europe's largest. A few miles from there, Vitrac will welcome you for the night.
Vitrac is the perfect location to ride to the area's many treasures. Our itinerary will take you to Beynac, La Roque Gageac, and Domme, three villages that belong to an exclusive club of France’s prettiest villages, “Un des Plus Beaux Villages de France.”
Let the Dordogne River guide you on a return journey to Souillac. Our easy ride caps off a week of pleasant routes, and you’ll finish with plenty of time to enjoy the charming town center.
After breakfast, depart Souillac at the time of your choice.
7 nights' accommodation in 3-star properties