contact us unpack, 0033 565 327002 unwind & enjoy the ride! · unwind & enjoy the ride!...
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Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages Cycling Holiday
" A fabulous holiday - a spoonful of
rural France. Great cycling, not too
many hills! Thank you both for your
very kind hospitality."
Stephen & Sandra, London, UK
" The most amazingly beautiful
place to bike and Aileen's
wonderful meals. Thanks for a
great holiday."
Noella & Geoff, New Zealand.
" Thanks John for preparing the
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages Cycling Tour
Price: £1145 / 1425€
7 days/6 nights
Escape from the rest of the world into a tranquil tapestry of quiet
country lanes, fields of whispering barley and meadows full of wild
flowers in every hue.
Cycle along quiet river valleys winding your way past the abundant
vineyards and through pretty, sleepy villages where every pale stone
house is adorned with pots of bright geraniums.
Meander through shady green woods where the sunlight plays
magically through the leafy canopy, providing welcome respite from
the bright, hot sunshine.
The Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages French cycling holiday provides the
opportunity to explore this beautiful and unspoilt area of France. The Lot is
one of the largest and least populated departments and so offers you an
immediate escape to peaceful surroundings and quiet, virtually traffic-free
roads that are a pleasure to cycle.
On this tour you stay with us for your whole holiday - so you can
relax, unpack and unwind from the moment you arrive.
The cycling is fairly gentle with plenty of long, quiet stretches along valley
roads. There are some hills, but these are well worth the climb for the
amazing panoramic views from the top across the wide open landscapes.
Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness should be able to complete the
routes comfortably.
The following itinerary provides some detail of what to expect. All distances
can be reduced or lengthened according to your preferences and you can
always opt to take a day off and have a rest from cycling if you wish - the
beauty of a single-base holiday!
Email us to check availability or find out more
Guest reviews
2015 Dates
May 3rd - 9th
May 31st -
June 6th
Sept 6th-12th
Sept 20th-26th
Find out more about our
French cycling holidays in
the Lot and Dordogne via
the links above and below.
Smartphone site
Find us on Google+
Sign Up for our
Newsletter
Read more about.........
Our food menus.
Slide show of our evening
meals.
Regional Gastronomy.
Cycling in France.
Health Benefits of Cycling.
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne.
Lot Cycling Holidays
Home
Lot Valley Tour
Lot Dordogne Tour
The Dates
The Rooms
The Food
The Reviews
Contact Us
Booking
Travel
What's Included
Photo Gallery
Blog
best ever bike routes - varied and
so picturesque. Delicious food,
Much appreciated after all that
pedalling."
Gudo & Michelle, Sydney, Australia.
" Everything has exceeded
expectations. The delicious food,
the lovely rooms , peaceful setting,
high quality bikes and most of all
the wondeful rides. "
Joanne, Seattle, USA.
Download this page as a pdf
We meet you at Bergerac airport or Gourdon rail station and drive you to Mas
de Flory, your home for the week. Relax and unwind with a glass of fizz while
you settle in and later enjoy a long, lazy and delicious gourmet meal - 4
courses with plenty of wine and coffee to finish - and meet your fellow guests
for the week.
Itinerary
Day 1
(Sunday)
Welcome
Your first day on the bike and we give you a nice gentle introduction
to your french cycling holiday.
After a substantial breakfast we'll fit you with your bike for the week and
ensure you feel comfortable and confident before you set off.
You'll cycle quiet country roads through a series of pretty villages and past an
ancient abbey, following a stream valley into pretty Grolejac, where you can
stop for coffee and a delicious pastry. From here you'll turn eastwards to
follow the River Dordogne along to the pretty villages of Veyrignac and St
Julien de Lampon. Then you'll cross the river and cycle into the town of
Souillac with it's many cafes, restaurants, galleries and boutiques.
After having plenty of time to explore we'll return you to Mas de flory to relax
before another delightful evening meal.
Cycling distance is approximately 27m/43k
Day 2
(Monday)
Meander the
River
Dordogne to
Souillac
Today you'll cycle along quiet, leafy backroads, again following a mostly flat
route to the small town of Catus, where you can browse the quaint small town
and visit the weekly market - perhaps to buy some fresh provisions for a lazy
lunch by the lovely Lac Vert.
In the afternoon you'll continue southwards and make your way towards the
Day 3
(Tuesday)
Catus market
and valley
vistas
Lot River Valley and the pretty town of Luzech. You'll get there via the
amazing views from the Col de Crayssac and the spectacular downhill,
switchback sweep of the route de Cevenne - a thrilling ride!
You can then meander through the AOC Cahors vineyards (along the Cahors
Wine Trail and Lot Valley Cycle Route) and the chateaux of Caix, Parnac,
Caillac and into pretty Douelle. Here we'll meet at a riverside bar before
returning to Mas de Flory at the end of the afternoon.
Cycling distance is approximately 29m/46k
Today is a fantastic sweeping downhill route - until you get to the end, when
you climb to the beautiful village of St Cirq Lapopie - which is absolutely
worth the effort!
You'll start by cycling east across stunning countryside and along lovely wide,
shady, forest roads before joining the Vers valley to cycle south towards the
River Lot. This road has stunning views as you sweep between the high
limestone rocky outcrops that line the valley.
You then join the Lot valley and cycle to the pretty small towns of Vers, St
Gery and Bouzies before crossing the river and climbing up to St Cirq Lapopie.
St Cirq is officially one of the most beautiful villages in France and is
definitely worthy of this accolade. Its maze of steeply sloping, narrow, cobbled
streets is lined with pretty, interesting, old houses, whose stone or wood
frontages date from the 13th to 16th centuries.
You will have time to enjoy a well-earned beer at one of the many cafes as
well as to explore this lovely village. As we return home you'll have the option
to visit the Grottes de Pechmerle to see the prehistoric cave paintings of early
man.
Cycling distance is approximately 24m/39k
Day 4
(Wednesday)
Vers and Lot
river valleys
to St Cirq
Lapopie
Today you'll cycle through the dappled green shade of the wooded backroads
in the Bouriane, exploring tiny and pretty hamlets, such as Rampoux, Thedirac
and Gindou and the small town of Cazals with its attractive central square,
where you could stop for a drink in one of the bars or cool off by the pretty
lake on the edge of the town.
Youll also ride into quaint Les Arques where a visit to the museum of Zadkine
with its remarkable sculptures, is a must. Les Arques is also home to the
wonderful La Recreation restaurant, whose story is charmingly told in the book
'From Here You Can't See Paris' by Michael Sanders. Visit the publisher site.
In exploring these lovely rural villages you'll get to experience the real local
France, often remaining unchanged through hundreds of years.
Cycling distance is approximately 24m/38k
Day 5
(Thursday)
Villages of
the Bouriane
On your last cycling day you'll explore the lovely winding River Lot and finish
the day with wine-tasting!
Day 6
(Friday)
This tour follows part of the Cahors AOC wine route - voted best wine route
by The FrenchPaper, June 2009.
Youll meander along the Lot river and among the vineyards, passing through
the small villages of Albas, Castelfranc, Anglars-Juillac and Grezels, all of
which have bars where you can stop for a coffee or a cool beer and watch the
river flow.
If youd like to work a bit harder you could take a detour up to either Albas or
Belaye both fairly steep climbs, but absolutely worth it for the breathtaking
views across the valley from the top.
After lunch by the river you'll cycle along to Puy L'Eveque, where you can
take some time to explore the ancient port and medieval town with its 14th
century narrow streets and houses rising dramatically from the Lot river and
cladding the hillside beyond.
Take the rest of the afternoon to cycle amongst the AOC Cahors vineyards
and make the moderate climb to Floressas, where youll find Chateau Chambert
sitting majestically above the vines.
Here you can join a tour of the grounds and then taste their wonderful
selection of Cahors wines, based on the Malbec grape and grown
biodynamically.
You don't need to worry about cycling afterwards as well meet you with the
support minibus and drive you back home to enjoy your last evening with yet
another delicious dinner!
Cycling distance is approximately 19m/30k
River Lot and
AOC Cahors
vineyards
After a leisurely breakfast we'll drive you to Gourdon rail station or Bergerac
airport to meet your homeward connection.
We wish you bonne route and hope you enjoyed your stay - a bientot!
Cycling holidays start on a Sunday and finish the following Saturday and
include all of the following:
Accommodation as stated in 'The Rooms' '
Breakfasts and 4-course evening meals with wine
Bike hire, routes and maps and full cycling support as stated in 'Cycling
Holidays'
Transfers to and from Gourdon rail station or Bergerac airport, as required
Slideshow of this tour
HD Video of St Cirque Lapopie
See our other cycling tour:
Dordogne - History, mystery and Chateaux
190J’aime Tweet
Check availability online
Day 7
(Saturday)
Au revoir
_____________________________________________________
About Us - Newsletter - The Lot - Wine Tours - FAQs
Contact Us - Cycle Sportives - Sitemap
Jamie Oliver Does our Region - Short Breaks
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
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holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Cycling in France
French Cycling Holidays in the beautiful Lot & Dordogne.
Relax in our idyllic, away-from-it-all location and explore hidden France at
a leisurely pace. Our friendly hospitality invites you to
unpack, unwind & enjoy the ride!
After a day in the saddle why not enjoy a refreshing dip in our pool!
2015 Dates
We are in a fantastic location; between the beautiful and unspoilt Lotand Dordogne Valleys in sunny southwest France - which meanswonderful, easy-paced, relaxed cycling and amazing sightseeing whilstcycling France.
You'll stay in our charming, beautifully renovated and very comfortable 18thcentury, barn for your whole holiday - so no need to pack your suitcaseevery day and move on!
You'll enjoy our excellent hospitality and fabulous food and wine. Everyevening your delicious four course dinner is freshly prepared from seasonal,local produce, and accompanied by plentiful, great wine.
There are no single supplements on any of our cycling holidays.Couples, groups and single travellers are all welcome.
We are the owners and your hosts for all cycling holidays. We prideourselves on our excellent personal service and we care that youhave a great time!
We do all the planning and organisation for you and provide lots of fun,laughter and relaxation in great company - so just unpack, unwind andenjoy the ride!
We hope you'll come and join us soon!
Aileen, John and Richard
See what Anne says about her
vacation with us.
"We left feeling we have 3 new
friends who live in the gorgeous
and quiet French countryside. This
really is a great way to get an
authentic French experience. You
won't want to leave once you get
there! "
"Saying we had great food and lots
of fun would be an
understatement--it was simply
fantastic and outstanding. It is
clear the our hosts know the area
very well and they provide
excellent directions and help. "
Charlie speaks about his cycling
holiday.
Centre Based Cycling
Holidays in the Lot
and Dordogne South
West France.
Blog Posts
Cahors Malbec Wine
The Lot Valley
Smartphone site
Find us on Google+
Sign Up for our
Newsletter
Read more about.........
Our food menus.
Our evening meals.
Lot Cycling Holidays
Home
Lot Valley Tour
Lot Dordogne Tour
The Dates
The Rooms
The Food
The Reviews
Contact Us
Booking
Travel
What's Included
Photo Gallery
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Lot Valley, Vistas & Villages Tour
Escape from the rest of the world into a tranquil tapestry of quiet country
lanes, fields of whispering barley and meadows full of wild flowers in every
hue.
Guest Reviews
Lot & Dordogne Discovery Tour
From lush river valley to gently rolling countryside, to shady green forest
and rocky limestone causse, our routes sweep the meandering and
undulating quiet back roads to reveal amazing new vistas around every
bend.
Guest Reviews
"Very comfortable accommodation;
beautiful countryside and lovely
varied cycle rides each day, which
were followed by a wonderful four
course meal each night.."
"A fabulous holiday - a spoonful of
rural France, great cycling, not too
many hills. Fantastic food and
great wine and the best company."
"You have the perfect location and
house, so inviting and comfortable.
The biking was just perfect and
the food was fantastic."
"Absolutely brilliant week, thanks
for everything, superb food,
superb cycle routes and superb
hosts."
_____________________________________________________
About Us - Newsletter - The Lot - Wine Tours - FAQs
Contact Us - Cycle Sportives - Sitemap
Jamie Oliver Does our Region - Short Breaks
Our Cycling Holidays
Tips for cycle trips:
Netherlands Bike Touring Site
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Lot Cycling Holidays © 2007 - 2014
Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
CyclingHolidaysin France
Contact Us
0844 888 2340 UK)
0033 565 327002 (France) [email protected]
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Telephone (International): 00 33 (0)5 65 32 70 02
Telephone: 0844 888 2340
Please call between 9am - 9pm (We are GMT+1)
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Post: Mas de flory,
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Slide show of our evening
meals
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Cycling in France
Health Benefits of Cycling
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Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
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Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
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Cycling Holidays & Tour Reviews
Watch some of our previous guests talk about our cycling tours
Click above.
Extracts from our Review page on our blog
Rural France Respite
"We had some great rides through the French countryside and viewed some
fascinating villages and caves. The ride to Sarlat along the old railway line was
great, particularly the return journey which was all downhill. While we had some
rain which was not unexpected at that time of year, John and Richard ensured
that acceptable alternatives were available so that we achieved all of our tourist
objectives. However, any report on a visit to Mas de Flory would be deficient
without some comments on the food. The four course five star dinners prepared
by "Chef" Aileen were outstanding in quality and variety. Every night was a very
pleasant surprise. "
By: Robyn and Darcy, Australia.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: September 2014
5/5stars
Vista and Views Holiday
"We cycled through the French countryside and experienced a true France--not
"touristy"-but a France dotted with 13th Century village after village and farm
fields with it's wheat being caressed by the gentle winds. (Well ok--one day it
wasn't that gentle but we were biking after all!) Aileen, John and Richard were
gracious hosts and very caring for all our needs. Saying we had great food and
lots of fun would be an understatement--it was simply fantastic and outstanding. "
By: Linda and Tom , USA.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: June 2014
5/5stars
The Lot in September
"Very comfortable accommodation; beautiful countryside and lovely varied cycle
rides each day, which were followed by a wonderful four course meal each night.
Fully recommend this holiday to anyone who enjoys a busy but peaceful holiday."
By: Gill Clay, UK.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: October 2013
Article about our time in the Lot
(PDF)
Review in the Guardian of our
wine tours (Direct Link)
Guardian reader review
Write or read reviews on our
blog
The following are from our
Bravo!Mas de Flory Bed &
Breakfast rated "excellent"by 39 travellers
Smartphone site
Find us on Google+
Sign Up for our
Newsletter
Read more about.........
Our food menus
Slide show of our evening
meals
Regional Gastronomy
Cycling in France
Health Benefits of Cycling
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Lot Cycling Holidays
Home
Lot Valley Tour
Lot Dordogne Tour
The Dates
The Rooms
The Food
The Reviews
Contact Us
Booking
Travel
What's Included
Photo Gallery
Blog
5/5stars
Amazing Holiday
"I found this holiday by searching for cycling and gourmet food and indeed both
were wonderful. The area is truly lovely to cycle through and John's thorough
knowledge of the area ensured that he could tailor fit the route to suit you. The
accommodation has been thoughtfully renovated to ensure all home comforts are
available. The food was superb. Together John and Aileen work hard to ensure
that you have a perfect week."
By: Diane Lamb, UK.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: August 2013
5/5stars
Fabulous Week
"It has been a wonderful holiday - 'gorgeous' in every way! Aileen, I've really
loved your fabulous cuisine and the thoughtful touches you've included. John, I've
very much appreciated all the interesting diversions and local knowledge along
with the flat cycling routes you provided!"
By: Peta, Melbourne, Australia.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: July 2013
5/5stars
Lot Cycling Holiday
"Another lovely holiday in the Lot Valley. We returned for our second time and
just like the first the cycling, scenery and superb cooking of Aileen was a delight.
It was a joy to cycle through the quiet country lanes, hear the birdsong and see a
late spring finally arrive and turn the countryside green. Highlights were quiet
country villages with interesting architecture, the joy of discovering the ‘plat du
jour’ in the local Auberge, and a visit to a local vineyard where the local wine -
Malbec - was sampled and purchased. On our return to Mas de Flory, following a
hot shower we relaxed in the late afternoon sun chatting to fellow guests and
sipping a chilled glass of rose prior to sitting down to a sumptous feast prepared
by Aileen and skillfully served by John. Soon the conversation flowed, more wine
was consumed and a good time was had by all. We’ll be back......."
By: Barbara Cosgrove, UK.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: August 2013
5/5stars
Another fabulous holiday
"We've just wrapped up our 3rd wonderful cycling holiday with John & Aileen in
the beautiful Lot Valley. You could not ask for a more perfect combination -
excellent food, wine & hospitality at Mas de Flory, well planned cycle routes away
from busy roads and some of the most stunning scenery the French country side
has to offer.
I highly recommend Lot Cycling Holidays for the perfect active holiday in France."
By: Fran, UK.
review page on our blog:
Sometimes you just can't believe
your luck and I think staying and
riding with John and Aileen counts
as one of those times.
Brian USA
Beautiful tranquil hamlet with the
outlook from the accommodation
private overlooking fields
woodland. Aileen/John outstanding
hosts and conversationalists. The
food is outstanding. The cycling
part is very well managed by John,
Chris UK
Have just had the best holiday
with John and Aileen as the
perfect hosts. The riding each day
was well thought out by John,
taking into consideration each
persons riding skills and allowing
time for sightseeing,
eating/drinking along the way. In
addition, each mornings map
briefings and information en route
was most helpful. The
accommodation was delightful,
Aileen's meals sensational and the
fun we had with our fellow bike
riders unforgettable.
Judi Australia
Well what a holiday!! It could not
have been better. John's well
researched and thoughtful routes
are suitable for all grades of
cyclists with choices of early
pickups for those flagging or extra
loops for the Pro‛s. Morning
briefings and well presented route
maps ensure everyone finds their
way and view points and places of
interest are not missed (including
the best Auberges!). Then there‛s
Aileen‛s cuisine. In a word,
‘sensational‛. In two words ‘the
best‛. The pictures you may see do
not do the wonderful dishes
justice. What Aileen can do with
the excellent local produce is just
amazing.
Nick & Heather UK
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Lot Valley & Easter Cycling Tour
Date published: May 2013
5/5stars
Lot Cycling Holidays
"My initial thought was that this might be disappointing in terms of food, etc. Boy
was I dead wrong! Aileen was a most accomplished chef, and prepared
phenomenal 4-course meals every night! (I was so full from the first evening's
repast, that I couldn't begin to partake of the fresh-baked croissants, her
homemade jams and jellies, fresh fruits, coffee, etc. which were offered for
breakfast the next, and each sequential morning). Aileen encouraged me to wrap
at least one in a napkin and take it along in my pannier for our bike trip. (Good
idea!). We were introduced to the other 6 guests for the week. They were all
delightful! They hailed from England, Delhi, India, Australia, and New Zealand.
Amazingly, everyone got along very nicely, and were suitably matched as biking
companions as well. Our host, John..........."
By: Julie Leibel , USA.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: March 2013
5/5stars
One of my best holidays ever
"So when I look back at 2012 ,what shines most in my head is the memory of my
days spent at 'Mas de Flory'. How can one spend a few days cycling on different
routes and having variety of meals and by the end of it cant tell which day or
meal was better. It was an extra ordinary experience every day. Kudos to John
and Aileen for their fantastic planning and hospitality. I was home within a few
minutes of arriving there. Stay was very comfortable and everything at the barn'
had a personal touch to it. Great location too. It was my first Cyling holiday and
that too in a different country. I took it as an experiment and it turned out to be
one of my best holidays. Definitely getiing back with wife and friends asap."
By: Kamal , New delhi, India.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: January 2013
5/5stars
All the Best
"So when I look back at 2012 ,what shines most in my head is the memory of my
days spent at 'Mas de Flory'. How can one spend a few days cycling on different
routes and having variety of meals and by the end of it cant tell which day or
meal was better. It was an extra ordinary experience every day. Kudos to John
and Aileen for their fantastic planning and hospitality. I was home within a few
minutes of arriving there. Stay was very comfortable and everything at the barn'
had a personal touch to it. Great location too. It was my first Cyling holiday and
that too in a different country. I took it as an experiment and it turned out to be
one of my best holidays. Definitely getiing back with wife and friends asap."
By: Brian, USA.
Lot Valley Vistas Cycling Tour
Date published: January 2013
5/5stars
For more reviews on our blog click here
Guest Book Comments
It has been a wonderful holiday - 'gorgeous' in every way! Aileen, I've really loved your fabulous
cuisine and the thoughtful touches you've included. John, I've very much appreciated all the
interesting diversions and local knowledge along with the flat cycling routes you provided!
Peta, Melbourne, Australia (July 2013)
Another great stay. Interesting and varied routes from John and more fantastic cuisine from
Aileen. Looking forward to next time already!
Nick & Heather, Worcestershire, UK (June 2013)
We have had a wonderful week with fantastic cycling on virtually traffic-free roads. The company
was excellent and having a base to come back to and Aileen's wonderful cooking made this a
truly relaxing and memorable holiday. Just don't mention the weather!
Donna and David, Lincolnshire, UK (June 2013)
A fantastic week with wonderful scenery while cycling, excellent company and superb cuisine
prepared by Aileen. The weather added a different perspective to each day - sunshine one day,
rain the next and the next...!
Keith, Alison and Michelle, Melbourne, Australia (June 2013)
A lovely relaxing week in this peaceful, beautiful corner of France. Thanks, John for planning
cycle routes minus hills and plus pretty towns and for your local knowledge. Huge thanks to
Aileen (Masterchef du Lot!) for the delicious food. Bonne continuation!
Janine, Sydney, Australia (May 2013)
Fantastic week, thanks. The cycling was great fun and I loved the choice of destinations. Aileen,
your cooking is superb! The barn is a lovely base and is very comfortable.
We'll be sure to tell family and friends about our fabulous week at Mas de Flory!
Siobhan, Sydney, Australia (May 2013)
Excellent hosts - the food was cooked and served with love - every mouthful releasing a taste
explosion! The cycle rides were well conceived and the whole experience has been fun and varied-
just what was needed!
Jacqueline and Allan, Herts, UK (May 2013)
Thanks for the delightful hospitality, beautiful rides and amazing food !
Deb & Steve, Northfield, MA, USA (May 2013)
Another fantastic visit to Mas de Flory. We were pleased to be able to bring more friends to the
Lot!
Fran & Steve, London, UK (May 2013)
2012
A truly fantastic week! The cycling was excellent, the routes thoughtfully planned by John to
provide things to see each day as well as exercising our legs! All this building an appetite for
Aoleen's great meals which were eagerly anticipated and thoroughly enjoyed by us both. With lots
of local wine what more could you want? A truly memorable holiday. We shall be back!
Mark and Heather, Purley, UK September. '12)
Absolutely brilliant week, thanks for everything, superb food, superb cycle routes and superb
hosts.
John and Anne, Kent, UK (July. '12)
A week is too short for the splendidcycle tours and superb cuisine of Mas de Flory
Alan, Yorkshire, UK (July. '12)
Thank you Aileen and John. You provided personal service on a grand scale. A week here makes
it feel like home. Many michelin stars Aileen.
Chris, Wales, UK (June. '12)
We had a fantastic time here. One of our best vacations ever! We don't think we'll ever eat so
well again or ride such beautiful routes. And such amiable hosts.
John and Kathleen, Pennsylvania, USA (May. '12)
Those who say "never do the same holiday" have never been to Mas de Flory! Many thanks for
another wonderful week.
Dominique and Marie Louise, Victoria, BC, Canada (May. '12)
Simply said, the best from the food to the routes. Hope to see you again.
Brian, Fredericton, Canada (April. '12)
2011
A fabulous holiday - a spoonful of rural France. Great cycling, not too many hills! Thank you both
for your very kind hospitality, Aileen's food, great wine and the best company. Memorable days
and evenings.
Stephen and Sandra, London, UK (Sept. '11)
The most amazingly beautiful place to bike and Aileen's wonderful meals. Thanks for a great
holiday.
Noella and Geog, New Zealand (Aug. '11)
Back again for the 3rd time and just as before it exceeded expectations. Always forget about
Aileen's brilliant food and the cycling was great with new routes. John and Aileen spend lots of
time and effort getting things perfect and making a great vacation.
Lennie and Jude, Luton, UK (Aug. '11)
Our first time at Mas de Flory with my Dad (Lennie "the Rock Star") [see above] and Jude, who
have been twice before. We've been looked after from the minute we got here - amazing food
from Aileen and John gave us detailed maps and cycle routes every day through fantastic
countryside. The whole week has been fantastic - can't wait to return!
Fred and Mandy, Wiltshire, UK (Aug. '11)
John and Aileen have the perfect combination of skills and interests: He has created fabulous
cycling routes through some of France's loveliest countryside and she produces delicious meals
using fresh local produce. A wonderful way to exprience the Lot!
Graham and Judith, London, UK (Aug.'11)
Exceptional food, really well planned cycle routes - a very relaxing holiday.
Murphy - Fahey family, Dublin, Ireland (July '11)
This week spent cycling from Mas de Flory has been one of my best holidays. Comfortable
accommodation, superb food and seeing the Lot from a bike. Close to perfection, thank you.
Jo Parkes, Leeds, UK and Uruguay (June '11)
An idyllic week of cycling in this beautiful place. Aileen's cooking could compete with the
best. Many thanks to John who fixed our flat tyre and drove us to St Cirq Lapopie when it rained
one day and who gave us intimate glimpses of the countryside and the life here.
Robert and Madelyn, Missouri, USA (June '11)
Thank you for your gracious hospitality - the food was wonderful!
Biking is the perfect way to see the gorgeous countryside and villages. We especially liked the
farmers' markets and Pech Merle.
Thanks also for tailoring the trip to your customers' abilities and tastes! Frank & Sandy, Florida,
USA (May '11)
You have the perfect location and home - so inviting and comfortable. The biking was just right
and the food was fantastic. Loved waking up to the birdsong.
See you again in the Fall.
Carol, Rabat, Morocco (May '11)
We have had such a wonderful stay at Mas de Flory. From the lovely warm welcome,
beautiful barn and amazing dinners, the hospitality and attention to detail was first class
throughout.
Add to that the great cycling routes and beautiful views plus fabulous weather and we can
definitely say that we have had a holiday to remember!
Mike & Sarah, Hants, UK (May '11)
"What a fantastic way to spend the Easter weekend! Wonderful hospitality, delicious meals,
good company, beautiful scenery and the best cycling anywhere!"
Fran & Steve, London, UK (April '11)
Great food, great cycle trip and fantastic hosts. Loved our time here.
Blair & Heather, Ottawa, Canada (April '11)
2010
Our best vacation ever! The combination of hospitality, outstanding meals and, oh yes, biking
has made it most memorable.We'll do it again - thank you so much.
Dominique & Marie-Louise, BC, Canada (Sept. '10)
What a great week! John & Aileen are fabulous hosts and Aileen's nightly food creations are
divine. All expectations were met and then some! Such a quiet and picturesque setting - a great
place to settle in, enjoy the cycling and finish the day off with a first class dinner.
Connie, California, USA (Sept. '10)
Some say sequels are never as good; 'Lot Cycling Holidays' breaks that rule. This is our second
visit to Aileen and John and again it was absolutely fantastic. Excellent cycle routes tailored
to our fitness, coupled with gourmet food every night, lovingly crafted by Aileen. Truly a
wonderful combination provided by a great couple!
Les, Sue, Chris and Ali, Surrey, England. (Aug.'10)
This has been a wonderful holiday - we've enjoyed every moment of our stay. Very many
thanks to John and Aileen who have created the perfect sanctuary in a lovely setting. Thanks to
Aileen for the great food and to John for his good advice. The clear night skies and watching the
deer play at Mas de Flory will be etched in our memories.
Margaret and Steve, Scotland (July '10)
The 'Team' - Aileen, John, Richard, Buddy and Barry: All gave 100% at all times.
The 'Barn' - A 'Grand Design' with a 5 star feel.
Aileen - excellent gourmet food and excellent housekeeping with special touches
John - an excellent cyclist and full of information.
Richard - an excellent 'bike buddy' for a struggling cyclist.
Buddy[the dog]- a smile and a wag at any time of day
Barry[the cat]- a friendly stroke kept him happy
Fellow guests - A great mix to share the day's news with and have a good laugh!
We wish the team all the best for the futere to keep the dream alive.
Ann and Brian, UK (July '10)
Whether at the front of the ride or at the rear there was always encouragement and advice. We
were taken to great locations and the team were very knowledgeable. Great location,
accommodation and cuisine. Will miss you guys!
Gwen, UK (July '10)
Aileen, John and Richard - you have definitely surpassed your aim! We have had the most
memorable and pleasant experience at Mas de Flory. We will definitely recommend you to friends
and family and hope that we too will return to this beautiful place in the future. Merci beaucoup
for everything!
Pierre and Janice, Scotland (July '10)
An excellent holiday - superb hospitality, cycle routes that suited our novice status and allowed
us to view different aspects of the area. Fantastic meals - a taste of rural France and some of the
local wines. We even managed a canoe trip down the River Dordogne. John's local knowledge of
the way things work added to the whole experience. Thank you, John and Aileen for a holiday to
remember.
Jenny and Glyn, UK (July '10)
Thanks for a fantastic week. John and Aileen are the perfect hosts and Mas de Flory is a
beautiful setting. The meals prepared by Aileen were fabulous - she is a gifted cook - and John
has sorted some lovely routes. Add in the 'bee man', the 'lavender lady' and the 'razor-chewing
baker ' and our gastronomic experience has been one to remember and treasure. We will come
back - thanks so much, it seemed as though we holidayed with old friends.
Clare and David, UK (June '10)
A superb introduction to the Lot. Aileen's regional cooking and John's local knowledge made for
an outstanding experience. Their warm hospitality rounded out the holiday. Thank you so
much - we hope to return.
Julie & Mike, Canada (June '10)
Thanks so much for opening your lovely home to us. The food was 4 star, the cycling "up and
down" and very picturesque, the van rides exciting and made even more entertaining by John's
lively banter. The Lot was great - thanks for everything.
Steve & Laura, Canada (June '10)
Huge welcome, outstanding hospitality, breathtaking countryside and exceptional
cuisine - what more could anyone want? Despite some bad weather and cancelled flights,
one of the most healing, restorative and therapeutic holidays we have ever enjoyed, A truly
wholesome, fulfilling experience.
Paul and Moira, UK (May '10)
Thanks so much for your wonderful hospitality. For showing us the biggest and the smallest wine
producers and for the delicious meals afterwards. Also for putting up with us all for an extra day
at the end of our trip without batting an eyelid. What a place to be stranded - thank you the
people of Iceland! You deserve to thrive - a very impressive operation.
Susie, (Guardian Newspaper) London, UK (Apr '10)
2009
Can't believe it's all over - we don't want to leave! It's been more than we could ever have
expected. Thanks John for your carefully thought out routes (and your extra strong coffee!) and
Aileen, your food is to die for - how can we return to normality after experiencing gourmet
heaven! The best holiday we've ever had. We wish you every success and hope to return in
2010. Kisses to Barry [the cat] and the hens!
Gemma and Dave, Co Cork, Ireland
"A little haven of calm and tranquility - with plenty of fun included. This has been one of our
very best ever holidays. Aileen's cooking is what we all dream of and met all our expectations,
and more, of gourmet evening meals. John's planning and interpretation of our ability is excellent
and he was always just around the corner when we most needed him! What a team!
The surroundings are perfect - this is a wonderful part of France with plenty of variety in
the cycling, walking and rustic comfort to stay in.
Altogether a wonderful package with brilliant hosts."
Les and Sue, Alison and Chris, Surrey, UK
"We promised ourselves we would come back and we did! Even better than we
remembered - lovely holiday, lovely food. Really enjoyed ourselves again. Superb - we will be
back!"
Lennie and Judy, Luton, UK
"Wow! Where to start? Having done many cycling holidays this must rate as one of, if not THE
best! Thoughtfully planned routes through spectacular countryside, villages and small towns.
Excellent bikes with comfortable saddles! Beautiful, comfortable accommodation and Aileen's
wonderful meals all help to create the perfect package - and what fantastic weather!! Thank you
for a marvellous holiday - you deserve every success."
Richard and Georgina, Worcestershire, UK
"Superb accommodation and food to die for. The cycling was excellent - John has devised
routes of real interest and beauty. A brilliant holiday - would love to return!"
Sue and Chris, Kidderminster, UK
"Plenty of good cycling and excellent food - will need to fast when I get home! Very enjoyable
time, good luck with your ongoing venture!"
Christine, Hertfordshire, UK
"Aileen and John have created a very special place at Mas de flory. John's carefully planned routes
enabled us to see the best views of the area. To come home to Aileen's wonderful food was a
real treat. We hope your business continues to flourish - you deserve the success - thanks for a
wonderful holiday.
Rita and Peter, Oxfordshire, UK
"Very well organised and guided holiday. Excellent support, haute cuisine and luxurious
accommodation. Many thanks for a wonderful trip."
Brendan, Co Kildare, Ireland
"Thank you for an excellent week's cycling. The food was a delight and the cycling routes well
thought out to show off the diversity of the region"
Mike, Johannesburg, South Africa
"The mellow autumn landscape of the Lot makes it an ideal time of year to walk here. The
sun catches the stone, making the wonderfully golden farmhouses and barns blend with the
autumn colours.
Have thoroughly enjoyed the walking, foraging for walnuts and figs en route, and tasting the
grapes picked straight from the vines!
The walks to St Cirq Lapopie and Rocamadour are the highlights, with their dramatic limestone
gorges and perched towns at the end.
John's careful planning, foolproof maps and the inclusion of visits to other tourist attractions, all
contributed to an extremely enjoyable experience.
Mas de Flory is a beautiful, tranquil haven and we've been made very welcome. Aileen's
vegetarian cooking is without equal and a rare find - especially in France. I've never enjoyed
such a variety of dishes and flavours - of course complimented by the great Cahors wine!"
Fiona, Aberdeen, Scotland
"What a super holiday: it's been so very pleasant walking through the limestone gorges,
along farm and forest tracks, across the old pilgrim and resistance routes; picking our own
picnics of figs, walnuts and grapes and feasting every evening on Aileen's fabulous four-course
dinners.
We've had a wonderful introduction to this lovely unspoilt and tranquil region, both from the car
on our journeys to and from the walks as well as on foot.
2008
"This was my first visit to France and I could not have asked for a better introduction. My hosts
and fellow travellers were the most excellent of company.
Aileen's food was to die for - I honestly have never eaten such good food in my life.
The cycle routes were fantastic. Mas de Flory is a treasure - I will cherish always my time
here"
Jody, Atlanta, GA, USA
Thank you both for making our stay so memorable."
Christine, Aberdeen, Scotland
"Truly outstanding holiday - well organised, flexible cycling tours and exceptional cuisine.
Above all, however, was the warmth of the welcome which ensured everyone had a great time."
Conal and Mary, Dublin, Ireland
"Novice cycling for foodies at its best! Deeply thought through and caringly delivered.
Thanks Aileen and John."
Tony, Brockenhurst, UK.
"How lucky we were to find this place. Haven't cycled for years but John made us feel that
nothing was a problem and his easy banter pushed us along. The accommodation is brilliant
and words cannot begin to describe the wonderful meals that Aileen prepared - what skill!
Probably the best holiday we have ever had. We will definitely be coming back. Our fellow
guests were great fun and we loved the whole time - just sorry it's over! "
Lennie and Judy, Luton, UK
"A wonderful week. Excellent cycling routes, a brilliant location and all delivered with such care
and consideration. We were lucky with the weather but nothing else was left to chance – food
to cycle for!"
Michael and Ann, Herts, UK
"A lovely, relaxing place to stay. John and Aileen made us feel like 'old friends'. Our room was
wonderful with a door onto the terrace. A brilliant setting for the wonderful food and
attentive service. Can't wait to return".
John and Sheila, Kent, UK
"Great holiday in every way! Location, food, cycling routes and attention to the smallest
detail were wonderful. Beautiful way to experience France."
Maureen and Andy, Victoria, BC, Canada
"The whole holiday gets a huge thumbs up from us. Aileen's food was probably the best
we've ever tasted. John's humour and knowledge made the cycling easy.Even 'chalet host'
Barry [the cat] took us out for the odd walk! Thank you both!"
Tara and Mark, West Sussex, UK
"Mas de Flory is a real 'find'. From the moment we arrived we were made to feel at home.
With John's friendly banter and Aileen's wonderful cooking we just relaxed immediately."
Marie, Eileen and Jean, Ireland
"Great holiday in the most salubrious barn in France! The thought of Aileen’s food got us to
the top of hills every day. Terrific cycling and company too”.
Jen and Corinne, Brisbane, Australia
"This has to be our best cycling holiday yet!
John's well planned routes and knowledge of the Lot together with Aileen's cuisine, which really
was excellent and the great company of our fellow guests, have given us many happy
memories to take home. Thank you both very much."
Kim and Nigel, Kent, UK
"Excellent warm hospitality, great cycling and great fun. John's TLC was a great help...
Aileen's cooking deserves a Michelin star!"
Tom and Marjorie, Ireland
"We have had a fantastic holiday thanks to your warm hospitality, wonderful cycling routes,
great local knowledge and an extravaganza of vegetarian culinary delights!
We've really enjoyed coming back to your beautiful barn every evening, relaxing with a glass of
wine and swapping stories with Barry [the cat!].
Would love to return and will highly recommend."
Simon and Sonia, York, UK
"Great rides, wonderful food and a warm welcome. Can we return?"
Marguerite and Bish, Canada
"Thanks for a great holiday. Easy paced cycling and very clear instructions on routes together
with excellent accommodation, gourmet cuisine, picturesque scenery and excellent hosts
all made for a fantstic time."
Matthew and Cate, Manchester, UK
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Autumn at Mas de Flory
Autumn in the Lot, South West FranceNovember 24, 2014 by LotCycling · Leave a CommentFiled under: France
Autumn in the Lot Department
So far autumn in the Lot has been really mild with daytime temperatures reaching 20c (68f
for our US friends) with mostly clear blue skies and sunny. It’s colder at night but only
dropping to around 12c, the mornings are colder at around 10c.
So my morning runs still do not require long sleeves or leggings as I don’t feel the cold when
running. I also usually have a dip in our unheated pool after my run, it acts as an ice bath
and helps reduce and in fact stop any muscle fatigue. Water temperature at the moment is
about 11c (52f) not cold after my run and I can walk straight in. Aileen and I actually think
being cold is good for you and don’t mind just getting in the pool for around fifteen minutes,
we both feel better for it.
Guardian article on the Benefits of Cold Water Swimming.
Autumn is the time of year I am busy cutting wood for our log burner, we are entirely self-
sufficient in wood. We have the forest backing onto our cycling base which we own parts of,
to enable us to fell our own trees. The forest is mainly oak which is very tough to cut, I go
through lots and lots of chainsaw chains and am in fact on my third chainsaw, they just burn
out with the hardness of the wood. I have to cut down our trees about two years before we
need to burn them as they need to season and dry out. I normally fell the trees about now,
but the forest has still not lost all the leaves, as cutting with the leaves on is not good for the
wood as it means the sap is still high up in the trunk. This is according to our French
neighbour Bernard whose family have been felling trees for years over many generations, so
who am I to argue.
Gourdon our nearest town is now a lot quieter with most of the local restaurants now only
opening at the weekend. Market day on each Saturday morning is still very busy and still
difficult to park with all the cafés very busy both inside and out as the weather is so mild.
Night time entertainment apart from our local cinema is very scarce apart from one nearby
village called Lherm. The centre of which is the Bar à Trucs which is a communal run bar,
café, shop and venue. They have lots of things going on usually at the weekends, including
blues, jazz, classical and traditional types of music.
Bar à Trucs Website
Looking forward to Xmas and evenings around our log fire.
Autumn in the LotWritten by
John Despard
on
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4 Courses for 12€ including wine!
Monday November 24th 2014
Tags:
Living in rural FranceNovember 13, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: France
Why rural France is so relaxing
We first moved to the Lot department in September 2006 having decided this was a beautiful
place to set up our cycling holidays. We previously lived in Exeter in the south west of
England where we thought the pace of life was fairly relaxed.
Well even though I have French relatives and have lived and worked in France before, I have
never lived in such a rural area like the Lot. Relaxed is not the word, they say mañana is a bit
hasty here!
The French here in rural France tend to only work the minimum necessary to enjoy their life –
work to live, not live to work. I know some artisans (masons, electricians, plumbers) who are
on a particular tax regime that allows no accounts kept and a flat tax rate up to a certain
amount. They try to complete most of their work before August and then take the rest of the
year off. Some don’t make it by august but still take it off anyway. If you ask for an estimate
for work to be started between September and the end of the year they will give you an
incredibly high estimate to dissuade you using them. Of course some Brits have asked them
to go ahead thus the fueling of high prices for French builders working for expats.
All our local shops close for a two hour lunch, the only exceptions are the very large
supermarkets.
This really confuses some of our English speaking cycling guests as they cannot understand
why they close. The boulangeries all close for lunch even though they sell sandwiches,
quiche etc. You have an idea of what you want for lunch and buy it before they close.
There are a lot of restaurants cafés that have a menu ouvrier (workman’s menu) this is
normally a four course meal with wine included for about twelve euros.
So the French in rural France have a two hour break for lunch, only work about thirty five
hours a week or have a couple of months off.
They are relaxed because they are not chasing money, they just don’t care or want to
increase business if it impinges on their calm lifestyle, and why should they. Look at the
south west of France and their health and their lower rate of heart attack despite high fat
intake and red wine!
I have to say that we are now as relaxed and calm as the French. On the rare occasions I go
back to the UK I am on edge and confused why everyone is in such a rush.
Why rural France is so relaxing
Written by
John Despard
on
Running barefoot is natural!
Thursday November 13th 2014
Tags:
Running in the French countrysideNovember 8, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: France, Living in Rural France
Running on the forest trails in the Frenchcountryside
We are very lucky in that when we bought Mas de flory (our cycling base) we thought it was
good that we backed onto a forest. We didn’t actually realise how lucky we were. The forest
has ancient tracks crisscrossing all over and has lots of deer tracks.
There is a proper marked trail that used to be a route leading to the main St Jacques de
Compostelle pilgrim trail, but it’s since been rerouted two kilometres further west. It’s now
downgraded to a local route.
I’ve been running throughout the forest since we moved here some none years ago and can
say I have only just discovered all the trails. Mind you that includes all the overgrown routes
from the ancient horse and cart routes from the seventeenth century. The forest is relatively
new consisting of mainly oak with some chestnuts but until the late eighteen eighties it was
mostly grape vines. Then disease hit and the trees self-generated to what they are now and
thus some paths and old trails became overgrown.
Anyway I’m supposed to be running!
I normally run first thing in the morning with our two dogs Flossie and Jessie who get really
excited when I have my running gear on. I run between twenty and forty five minutes and
only run longer in the summer whilst waiting for biking guests to arrive at the end of their
ride. Just once in a while I’ll do a long run of about an hour and a half but I find the dogs get
confused and tired out.
I didn’t realise that humans can outrun all other animals, I just thought I was super fit and my
dogs weren’t. I’ve since read how hunters used to run down animals until they were
exhausted in the book:
The Story of the Human Body: Evolution, Health, and Disease by Daniel E. Lieberman.
I’ve also changed my running style and bought “barefoot” shoes, these have zero drop heels
and wide toe to allow your foot to spread and grip naturally and I now run mostly using my
toes and not my heels. I also now wear these type of shoes during the day as well as they
just seem more comfortable and natural. Why wear shoes with a heel?
Try reading:
Born to Run by Christopher McDougall for a full explanation and also a gripping true story of
natural barefoot runners.
Born to run barefoot?
The French countryside around us is really peaceful and I have only ever once, in the last
nine years bumped into anyone else in the forest on my morning runs. Perhaps another run
tomorrow?
Running in the French countrysideWritten by
John Despard
on
Saturday November 8th 2014
Tags:
Coffee, why can’t the French make it?November 3, 2014 by LotCycling · 1 CommentFiled under: France
French coffee is always a disappointment to me!
I’ve been living in France now for nearly nine years and the only places I’ve managed to
have a decent coffee served is by foreign run bars/cafés.
That’s actually not totally true as I have made my own coffee in French run bars whilst
demonstrating how to make a coffee properly.
Maybe it’s different in other parts of France, but I doubt it. I’ve been visiting and working in
France since I was about nineteen and I don’t remember a decent cup – anywhere.
So am I a really fussy snobbish coffee bore? I don’t think so. What I do expect though is:
A decent crema
Good strength – not too weak
If with milk a nice head either frothed or smooth.
So when you watch a French person make a coffee the first thing normally seen is the beans
are already ground ready for the whole day (if not the week).
Two flicks under the grinder into the groupset (the silver container with a handle) and then a
split second press with the grinders built in press.
(I have never seen a tamper ever used). This obviously results in the pressurised water from
the machine pouring straight through the coffee making it fairly tasteless and with little crema.
They have the equipment! When I stayed near Biarritz in the Basque country the Basque run
cafés made decent coffee and also over the border in Spain.
Milk: How not to prepare milk for a coffee (all types).
Only put the minimum amount of milk necessary to make the order.
Put it under the milk spout on full then walk away and do something else whilst the milk over
froths. If there’s lots of bubbles in your milk it’s not been frothed correctly whether you want a
French coffee made by me!
café au lait or a cappuccino.
How the French should make coffee.Put the coffee freshly ground into the groupset, press firmly with either the built in tamper or
ideally a correct sized individual tamper.
The pressurised hot water should then pour slowly through the coffee grains. (Depending on
lots of things but about eighteen seconds for an espresso).
Fill a metal jug with milk sufficiently for at least double if not triple the amount you need for
one cup. Or two thirds full for a small jug (ideally bell shaped with a sprout). Then place the
milk wand into the jug and turn on and either lift jug gently up and down or as I do create a
vortex with milk until the correct consistency is reached. It starts off bubbly and gradually
turns to a nice smooth mousse.
Pour and enjoy.
Further reading:
http://coffeegeek.com/guides/frothingguide
Coffee, why can’t the French make it?Written by
John Despard
on
Monday November 3rd 2014
Tags:
Cycling Holidays and Bike HelmetsOctober 13, 2014 by LotCycling · 2 CommentsFiled under: France
Bike helmets on our holidays in France
Compulsory wearing of bike helmets in France is NOT law. We have quite a few cycling
guests who arrive thinking it is.
Ok let me start by saying that this post is just my own personal views about mandatory
cycling helmet laws and that I have no problems with any of our cycling guestswearing bike helmets. In fact we keep helmets of all different sizes for our guests to
save them bringing them to our bike centre.
I never wear a helmet for various reasons.
I find them uncomfortable.
They are too hot in the summer.
On a road bike I get a neck ache as you have to alter your head angle to see properly when
in a racing position.
It stops me from just getting on a bike on impulse to go some where.
I don’t believe there is any benefit safety wise.
Ok the last one might surprise you?
There has never, I repeat never, been any study that proves wearing a bicycle helmet is
safer than not wearing one.
In fact quite a few studies suggest that it might be safer not to!
Studies/statistics for this are very difficult to prove or disprove as you cannot replicate the
same conditions over a long period with accidents involving humans.
In fact you can find results that show pedestrians and drivers and passengers of cars are
more at risk of a head injury than cyclists. Pedestrians have always been more at risk from
vehicles than when riding a bike.
Why are people not wearing helmets at all times then?
Cycling is not dangerous compared to lots of other sporting or every day activities.
There is only one death per 32 million kilometres cycled. (UK)
In fact cycling regularly increases your life expectancy.
However you can find lots of provable statistics that shows cycle use drops dramatically
once helmets are made compulsory.
Australia was the first country in the world to do so and their cycling rates have never
recovered. In fact Queensland want to rescind the law but the government veto stops them
doing so.
Every country that brings in compulsion shows a drop in commuter cycling and an increase in
car traffic. When obesity rates are rising surely it would make sense to encourage cycling?
Israel and Mexico stopped their compulsory laws, some provinces in Canada have them but
are not all enforced, but still saw a drop in cycling.
So I am in favour of personal choice, wear one if you want to but don’t make it compulsory
and stop the incorrect claims of safety with a helmet.
Further reading:
Bicycle research foundation
Freestyle Cyclists (Australia)
Bike helmets at our Biking Centre in FranceWritten by
John Despard
on
Monday October 13th 2014
Tags:
Google our Biking Holidays in FranceOctober 5, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: France, Lot Cycling holidays
Google our biking holidays in France
We started our biking holidays seven years ago last September after a first year of
renovation and preparation.
At the beginning it was obviously difficult to have our brand new website on page one of
Google so we went down the Adwords route. Paying to have our site listed above the normal
search results. This can be a very expensive way of attracting bikers! For instance the phrase
“cycling holidays in France” can cost about 6€ a click. That means every time someone clicks
on our advert it costs 6€, even if they only spend a few seconds on our site. Twenty clicks
and that’s 120€ gone.
So with my previous experience as an IT lecturer I thought I could get us on page one
organically.
At first I was quite successful but recently the competition has really got intense with some of
our bigger competitors having staff full time working on this aim.
Google of course keep changing the goal posts so that no one really knows how they list
your site anymore.
There are now so many factors involved it’s become a minefield.
We ended up paying a company to help us with our SEO ‘Search Engine Optimisation) but
had no success at all with them.
So it’s back to just me. I spend at least three hours a day trying to make our site relevant and
up to date, continually changing content.
Of course now it also involves social media.
So update our website regularly.
Here are our social media sites that Google think we should be using and updating mostly on
a daily basis:
Google+
Youtube
This blog
Then of course there’s LinkedInn where we have a presence but don’t really use it that much.
We also have individual Google+ sites for our tours plus I run a Cycling in France Google+
Community page.
All the SEO “experts” say we must blog at least twice a week and upload videos to Youtube
on a weekly basis.
So when cycling guests say “what do you do in your time off” I usually reply work harder than
when we are running our tours!
Of course gradually we are getting more and more returning guests and are receiving
personally recommended cyclists.
PS we are still not on page one of Google so I have a another challenging winter of SEOing.
Google at our Biking CentreWritten by
John Despard
on
Sunday October 5th 2014
Tags: Cycling holiday base
Breakfasts at our Biking CentreSeptember 24, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: Foodie cycling holidays
Croissants and Pain aux raisins at our BikingCentre
You would think that it would be a simple matter to provide “petit déjeuner” for all of our
guests at our biking centre. But no, there are always complications, especially when doing
the morning bakery run.
Dégagnac our local village has a small shop that is also a “depot du pain” but we would have
to place our order a couple of days before, not always possible and anyway we like to
choose on a daily basis from the feedback we receive.
So it’s normally a trip to the nearest boulangerie about six kilometres away at Salviac. There
are two bakers there one which bakes via a very large wood burning bread oven. This started
out as our first choice at first but complications arose. On the door they have their opening
times which are printed as 8.00 – 12.30, seemed reasonable at the time. Our normal
breakfast time is usually at a relaxed “holidayish” 9.00am, plenty of time to get back and lay
the tables etc.
But no, apparently these times are in fact optional for the owner and vary on his whim. If he
has trouble with the oven not reaching a hot enough temperature then there is a delayed
opening or sometimes not at all! Just a sign on the door saying “fermeture exceptionnelle”.
Ok we can understand that these things happen, but it appears the normal opening time is
anywhere between 8.30 and 9.30, not very convenient. Sometimes there would be as many
as twenty people waiting for him to open.
Of course that’s not the only problem. When he does actually open he normally has no bread
on display or any cakes but nearly always lots of croissants. So I ask him for a loaf but I have
to guess which ones he’s likely to have baked first, normaly it’s a cereal (multi grain) but not
always. He will disappear and come out with one piping hot, dust off the flour and ask if I
need anything else. Yes, more bread a different type and some pain aux raisins perhaps.
Well pain aux raisins are the last things he bakes, so there is a window of opportunity to buy
these as he never bakes enough and they sell out within about twenty minutes.So I uses to
return with two of the same loaves and lots of croissants.
Lucky another baker opened in the village which opens each day at 7.30 and has all their
Biking Centre breakfast
stock ready for sales, although less varieties, so we now use this one.
But of course they close all day Mondays and whenever her young son returns to his school
after the holidays.
Then it’s a trip to Gourdon about twelve kilometres away.
Of course some guests at our biking centre are gluten intolerant, paleo, low carb etc.
Nothing is simple…..
Recipe for croissants http://www.bbc.co.uk/food/croissant
Boulangerie at our Biking CentreWritten by
John Despard
on
Wednesday September 24th 2014
Tags:
Our cycling center in September.September 20, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: France
What’s been happening lately at our cyclingcenter
Although cycling holidays are our main activity throughout the summer we still have other
things going on.
We have been trying to have our road leading up to our guest barn resurfaced since we
moved here some eight years ago. Success – they came three weeks ago to prepare the
road by scraping and digging the surface and then after a couple of hours disappeared. Then
one morning a few days back myself and seven cycling guests were just getting ready to
leave when the tarmac truck arrived potentially blocking our exit. Luckily they waited for us to
leave enroute to Daglan with the hope that all would be finished on our return.
Digger preparing our cycling center entry road
Yes all done although a bit sticky still as they tend not to put enough final surfacing over the
tarmac. According to our neighbour Bernard this is the first time it has been resurfaced since
1989!
We have our final tour of the year starting tomorrow (Sunday 21st September) with nine
bikers, four of which are returning previous guests. I always thought nobody would ever wish
to return again once having completed our bike routes but apparently that is not the case. We
normally have about 25% of returning guests each year.
We have more routes available other than those published on our website so we always try
to vary the routes for previous guests.
I’ve been experimenting with Google maps and directions that can be downloaded to guests
mobile phones, all our routes are available online and downloadable in various formats.
However getting them to give turn by turn instructions has not been cracked yet! We could
use say a Garmin dedicated bike sat nav for everyone but this when suggested to guests
does not seem to be popular, most prefer maps with maybe a reference on their phone in
case of an emergency. I’ll have more of a play and think about next year over the winter.
Our cycling centre in September.Written by
John Despard
on
Saturday September 20th 2014
Tags:
Summer in the LotJune 14, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: France
Long hot summer in the Lot?
Well summer has well and truly arrived, it’s been in the early 30’s for the past week with clear
blue skies. Summer in the Lot can be very dry, I remember one year it not raining from early
Summer in the Lot with Cahors Black wine?
May until late November.
We still have the wild orchids in the fields and throughout the forest paths but are now being
joined by the gloriously red poppies – quite a mix!
It’s been a busy time trying to finish off our landscaping around the new swimming pool and it
won’t really be completed for another couple of weeks. But it‘s really just some more paving
slabs that need laying. It is quite hot work in the hot sun so tend to dip in and out the pool to
cool off. Bliss.
Aileen has planted lots of shrubs and wild flower seeds so constant watering needed until
they get properly established. Weeding isn’t too much of a problem as the dry weather keeps
them down.
In our vegetable patch it won’t be long until our twenty five tomato plants will be ready to pick
from. This year I’ve planted some old French varieties so can’t wait to taste them. The
courgettes are flowering the chillies are ripening and the radices are shooting up. All my hard
work is starting to pay off.
We’ve got a wine tour coming up next – no biking just chauffer driven in our minibus between
chateaux. It celebrates the original Malbec the Black wine of Cahors with visits to large
business like vineries and small family run ones. Our tour was featured a while back in the
travel section of the UK Guardian newspaper with a glowing review, (The Guardian Wine
Tour Review) there are still some spaces anyone want to join us?
Of course we always include a wine tasting tour on our bike tours with our favourite being
Domaine de Chantelle our house wine. Their top wine La Passion at around 12 euros direct
from them is an absolute bargain compared to wines at twice the price.
Summer in the LotWritten by
John Despard
on
Saturday June 14th 2014
Tags:
Salsa in Cahors and the Lot Valley.May 22, 2014 by LotCycling · Comments OffFiled under: France, Living in Rural France
Salsa in the Lot
When I came to Mas de Flory (Lot Cycling Holidays Cycling Base) in September last year I
Salsa in Cahors
knew that I would sorely miss my weekly Latin DJ spot in Exeter and my many salsa dance
friends, so it has been a pleasure (and surprise) to discover how active the salsa scene is
here in the Lot. Most of this is down to a local association called Siempre Salsa
(www.siempre-salsa.com), which is based in Cahors.
The association is dedicated to promoting Cuban Salsa music and dance locally. They
organise a monthly event at The Bordeaux, a popular bar and restaurant in the centre of
Cahors. Like salsa events in the UK this attracts a wide age range, from teenagers to others
closer to my own age. The music is mainly ‘salsa cubaine’, with a touch of bachata and
kizomba. I’ve been along to several of the Bordeaux nights now and it’s always been really
good fun. The dancefloor might be small, but the dancers (and there are lots of them!) are
enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
Recently Siempre salsa organised a live music event near Cahors. It was listed as taking
place in the sports hall at Labastide-maurat, which is a village about 10 miles outside Cahors.
Given the location my expectations weren’t high and when I arrived at the publicised opening
time at 9pm they weren’t raised. There were 2 other cars in the car park and the organisers
hadn’t a table set up to take the money. However once I got in I was confronted by an
excellent sound and lighting rig set up on a large stage for what I was told was an 11 piece
band from Toulouse called Cuba Libre.
And what a night it was! Between 9 and 11 the hall filled up with probably 300 people or
more. The band were excellent and the sound balance excellent too. There were also a
couple of impressive dance displays. When I left after midnight the band had finished, but the
party was in full swing.
So full marks to Siempre Salsa for organising a great event. I only wish that my French was
much better, so that I could have a conversation with some of the many volunteers in their
Siempre Salsa tee-shirts. I would also dearly love to do a short guest DJ spot at a local gig –
an aim for the future!
Salsa in Cahors and the Lot Valley.Written by Richard SmithonThursday May 22nd 2014
Tags:
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Lot Valley TourThis cycling tour provides theopportunity to explore this beautifuland unspoilt area of France. The Lotis one of the largest and leastpopulated departments and sooffers you an immediate escape to
peaceful surroundings and quiet, virtually traffic-freeroads. More Info
Lot & Dordogne TourThe Dordogne History, Mystery andChateaux bike tour allows you toexplore and discover this land ofamazing prehistoric mystery andwonder and the fascinating historyof the middle ages in magnificent
mediaeval chateaux, hill-top castles and pretty,perfectly preserved bastide towns. More Info »
Our FoodIf food is an important element inthe enjoyment of your holiday thenwe promise you won't bedisappointed when you stay with us!We try to source all our ingredientslocally, from markets, farms and
merchants, as well as our own garden and hens, sothat we can offer you the real taste of the ‘terroir’and French regional cuisine at its seasonal best. More Info »
Centre Based Cycling Holidays in South WestFranceFantastic foodie cycling tours in the Lot & Dordogne.
Explore hidden France in a leisurely and relaxed way.
+33 (0) 565 327002
Our AccommodationWe aim to make you feel ascomfortable and pampered as wepossibly can during your stay withus! We have converted our beautiful18th century barn into verycomfortable accommodation for up
to 10 people. You will stay in one of the 5 light andairy bedrooms which are all decorated in anindividual fresh country style with en-suitebathrooms.
More Info »
Lot Cycling HolidaysMas de Flory Degagnac46340 France
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The Food on Your Cycling Holiday
If food is an important element in the enjoyment of your holiday then we
promise you won't be disappointed when you stay with us!
We're passionate about food - planning, shopping, growing, cooking and especially eating it!
We try to source all our ingredients locally, from markets, farms and merchants, as well as our
own garden and hens, so that we can offer you the real taste of the ‘terroir’ and French
regional cuisine at its seasonal best.
Breakfast
Every morning we'll provide a fantastic fresh spread of crusty baguettes, croissants, pains au
raisins, fresh fruit and juice, yogurt and home-made jams.
Dinner
Each evening at Mas de Flory you'll enjoy a delicious 4 course meal freshly prepared from top
quality produce.
There's an aperitif to start with; plentiful, good AOC Cahors wine to accompany your meal
and a digestif is offered with your coffee - probably with some nice dark chocolate too!
For lunch we leave you free to choose - a snack at one of our suggested venues en route or
maybe stop at a market and buy some fresh bread, cheese and fruit for a picnic by the river.
Sample menus
An early summer menu
Asparagus and fresh goat's cheese tartlet
Roast leg of lamb with wild garlic, rosemary and honey
Selection of local cheeses
Gariguette strawberry and white chocolate meringue.
A mid-summer menu
Chilled pea, mint and cucumber soup
Pan-fried fillet of sea bass, saffron risotto with fennel
Rocamadour cheese with honey and walnuts
Creme brulee and fresh raspberries
A late summer menu
Pear, chicory and walnut salad with a warm Roquefort dressing
We offer four course
evening meals with
plentiful local red wine.
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Read more about.........
Our food menus.
Slide show of our evening
meals.
Regional Gastronomy.
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors.
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines.
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Local fillet of beef, wild mushrooms, dauphinoise potatoes
Mature and tasty Comte cheese
Fresh fig compote, vanilla creme fraiche and a shot of Armagnac
(figs, pears and walnuts from our own trees!)
Seasonal Food Menu's from our Cycling Tours
Menu 1
Tasting plate of locally reared duck:
Magret sch, fritons, rillettes, foie gras,
gsiers en salade,
fig and walnut chutney, aperitif de figues
Fillet of beef with Cahors red wine sauce
Dauphinoise potatoes
Green beans, carrots,
roast garlic and herb crusted tomato
Cheese Platter
Créme Brulee
Coffee and Armagnac
Wine: AOC Cahors Chateau Chantelle
Menu 2
Ravioli of fresh crab, lemon and tarragon butter sauce
Pan-fried duck breast, fig and balsamic jus
fondant potato, Spring vegetables,
Cheese platter
Crme brulee, fresh strawberries,
strawberry and black pepper shortbread,
Ratafia liqueur
Coffee
Wine: AOC Cahors Chteau Chantelle
Menu 3
Mi-cuit tomato tartlet, basil mascarpone
Spiced lamb stuffed aubergine, paprika roast chips,
Chicory, orange and walnut salad
Cheese platter
Rose panna cotta, raspberries,
cantuccini biscuits
Coffee
Wine: AOC Cahors Chteau Chantelle
Menu 4
Pea and leek cappuccino
Gruyere and thyme twists
Pork medallions
Agen prunes steeped in Armagnac
Cider cream sauce
Celeriac mash, Savoy cabbage in mustard dressing
Cheese plate
Apple crumble cheesecake
Calvados
Coffee
Wine: AOC Cahors Chteau Chantelle
Menu 5
Platter of charcuterie and pate
Salmon fillet, white wine and tarragon cream sauce,
Timbale of saffron rice, spring vegetables
Cheese platter
Walnut tart, vanilla ice cream, walnut liqueur
Coffee
Wine: AOC Cahors Chteau Chantelle
Menu 6
Moules Marinieres
Ballotine of chicken stuffed with wild mushroom pate,
Madeira sauce,
Dauphinoise potatoes, griddled courgettes
Cheese platter
Chocolate and chestnut gateau, vanilla crme fraiche
Coffee
Wine: AOC Cahors Chteau Chantelle
Read more about the regional gastronomy of the Lot you will experience on your
French cycling holiday.
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Fab food at Mas de Flory
Gastronomy of the Lot
Undoubtedly one of the pleasures of visiting the Lot & Dordogne, S W
France is the vast array of gastronomic delights that the region has to
offer.
With the finest duck and foie gras, Quercy lamb, truffles, chestnuts, walnuts, saffron and
Rocamadour cheese, as well as a cornucopia of fresh summer vegetables and fruit
strawberries, melons, plums, rose garlic and, of course, the famous Black Wine of Cahors,
the Lot is blessed with abundant, high quality produce which has led to its well deserved
reputation as one of the foremost gastronomies of France.
Duck
Free range duck farms abound in this area and duck dishes proliferate the menus of all regional
restaurants. Cuisse de canard confit, duck legs cooked very slowly in duck fat until the meat
shreds easily from the bones and, finally, the skin crisped in a hot oven, is a very popular lunch
time indulgence served with a crisp salad. Magret or breast of duck, cooked pink and soft with a
crisp skin, is a must and can be found on restaurant menus served with a multitude of sauces,
dressings or jus- some of the nicest being honey, figs or the local Ente plums reduced to a spicy
compote.
Foie gras, the controversially fattened duck liver is a French cultural and gastronomic legend and
rightly so as it is absolutely delicious! Taste it with sweet fig and walnut compote or caramelized
apple slices and accompany with a glass of chilled, honey-sweet Monbazillac wine.
AOC Cahors Wine
Hailed by wine critics as the 'latest trend', the 'black wine' of Cahors is in fact one of the oldest of
French wines, having been first introduced by Roman Emperors more than 2000 years ago.
In the late 19th century the Malbec grape vines were virtually wiped out by the phylloxera
disease. From a couple that were saved and nurtured, the vineyards eventually thrived and
gradually re-established the reputation of this strong, dark and rich red wine.
There are over 200 domaines but still only 4,500 hectares laid to vine in the area permitted by
AOC standards, which makes Cahors a comparatively rare French wine.The quality however, is
without doubt the very highest and it still graces the finest restaurant tables and dining rooms in
the world.
The vineyards span either side of the beautiful Lot Valley between Cahors and Siourac and many
of them are open to the public, allowing you to sample the different vintages first hand in a petite
degustation. The growers are proud of their work and will delight in telling you about the different
Fabulous 4 course evening
meals every night at Lot
Cycling Holidays.
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parts of the vineyard, the sunshine and the soil types or terroir.
This wine is still relatively inexpensive and it is definitely worth buying some direct from the
chateaux to take home with you - especially as it can be kept for up to 20 years (if you could
resist it for that long!)
Rocamadour Goats Cheese
This goats' cheese from the famous home of the Black Virgin has been made here since the 15th
century. It is undoubtedly one of the oldest traditional products of the Lot.
Awarded Appellation d'Origine Contrle status, Rocamadour is a tasty little cheese which can be
eaten young; after only 5 to 8 days. It is pale yellow on the outside and creamy on the inside,
with a subtle flavour. However, it can also be kept in a cellar for a week or two, time for the
outside to become dry, a few blue spots to appear, and a stronger flavour to develop. Whether
young or old, a Rocamadour cheese is best appreciated with fresh bread and a ruby red Cahors
wine. It is wonderful served with a few fresh walnut kernels and a drizzle of local, scented honey.
Sample menus
An early summer menu
Asparagus and fresh goat's cheese tartlet
Roast leg of Quercy lamb with wild garlic, rosemary and honey
Selection of local cheeses
Gariguette strawberry and white chocolate meringue.
A mid-summer menu
Chilled pea, mint and cucmber soup
Pan-fried fillet of sea bass, saffron risotto with fennel
Rocamadour cheese with honey and walnuts
Creme brulee and fresh raspberries
A late summer menu
Pear, chicory and walnut salad with a warm Roquefort dressing
Local magret of duck, spiced plum sauce, celeriac puree
Mature and tasty Comte cheese
Fresh fig compote, vanilla creme fraiche and a shot of Armagnac
(figs, pears and walnuts from our own trees!)
John and Aileen Despard,
To find out more about us visit About Us
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About Us - Newsletter - The Lot - Wine Tours - FAQs
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Jamie Oliver Does our Region - Short Breaks
Our Cycling Holidays
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Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
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holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
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Cycling in France
Why cycle in France
Cycling in this part of France (Lot and Dordogne) is mostly along valley roads. The Lot tends to
be much quieter as it is not so popular (yet) with tourists. Also the Lot is far less populated and
perhaps less spoilt than the busier Dordogne.
French drivers give you plenty of room and often "toot" just to say hello
Not to get out of the way as in other countries. In fact sometimes it can be embarrasing as you
speed up as they tend to follow a long time until a safe over taking place. Of course It is their
national sport.
Some suggested circuits
St Cirque Lapopie a very nice and easy circuit until you reach the village - then a steep climb and
tourists in the height of summer.
The pretty village of Saint-Cirq Lapopie (14th century) is perched on a cliff 100 m (330 ft) above
the river east of Cahors and is one of the major beauty spots of the Lot valley. Cycle along quiet
backroads to reach it and then wind your way back via the Celle valley returning via Labastide
Murat as you climb north towards the Causse de Quercy. Visit St Cirque Lapopie with our
French cycling holiday in the Lot.
Explore the winding River Lot west of Cahors. Snake along the river and among the AOC Cahors
vineyards, passing through a variety of small villages - all of which have bars where you can stop
for a coffee or a cool beer for a breather.
Take a couple of nice steep climbs - up to Belaye and Albas and enjoy breathtaking views across
the valley from the top.
Cycle through the dappled green shade of the wooded backroads in the Bouriane, exploring tiny
and pretty hamlets, such as Lherm, Thedirac and Goujounac and the small town of Cazals with its
attractive central square, where you could stop for a drink in one of the bars or cool off by the
pretty lake on the edge of the town. Youll also pass through quaint Les Arques where a visit to
the museum of Zadkine with its remarkable sculptures, is a must.
John and Aileen Despard,
To find out more about us visit About Us
France - the most popular
cycling destination in the
world.
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
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holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Books about the Lot Department of France
Pont Valentre - Cahors
Before visiting our beautiful area it might be worth reading a bit about places to
visit and maybe a bit of history.
The rivers Lot and Dordogne flow through our department.
Dordogne Valleys and Villages:
A Bicycle Your France E-Guide - By Walter Judson Moore
MAPS: DORDOGNE RIVER-SOUILLAC; Rocamadour, Padirac, Domme,
Sarlat, Gourdon, Martel, Turenne DORDOGNE RIVER-ARGENTAT; Carennac,
St-Cr, Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Collonges-la-Rouge, Tours de Merle, Gorges
of the Dordogne & Cre rivers
Dordogne and Lot Footprint (Footprint Travel Guide)
by Michael Pauls and Dana Facaros
If you're heading to the Lot and Dordogne, Footprint's full colour travel
guide to this beautiful region is an must have. Packed with information to
help you plan your visit and insights to ensure you get the most out of
your stay. This guide also includes a Popout map, making it the perfect
accompaniment for exploring this part of southwest France.
Travels through a limestone landscape in southwest France By:
Helen Martin
In this updated and expanded edition of her well-loved classic,
Helen Martin takes you on a journey through the Lot
department of southwest France. Writing with insight and
affection about an area she has known for more than forty
Read about our area before
booking your cycling
holiday with us?
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Our food menus
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meals
Regional Gastronomy
Cycling in France
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years, the author introduces you to a glorious land of thyme-
scented limestone uplands and orchid-filled meadows, of
meandering rivers and ancient farmsteads
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Lot Cycling Holidays © 2007 - 2014
Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Lot & Dordogne Discovery Bike Tour
"Magnificent Rocamadour village
perched on the cliffs above you-
well, as you can imagine, it is just
kilometre after kilometre of
spinning with a smile."
Brian USA
"Well what a holiday!! It could not
have been better. John's well
researched and thoughtful routes
are suitable for all grades of
cyclists with choices of early
pickups for those flagging."
Nick and Heather UK
Lot & Dordogne Discovery - History Mystery & Chateaux
Price: £1145 / 1425€
7 days/6 nights
Magnificent mediaeval chateaux, ancient dwellings carved into the rocky
cliffs and pretty, perfectly preserved bastide towns beautifully illustrate
the amazing prehistoric mystery and the fascinating meievil history of
this stunning region.
From lush river valley to gently rolling countryside, to shady
green forest and rocky limestone causse, our routes sweep the
meandering and undulating quiet back roads to reveal amazing
new vistas around every bend.
The Lot & Dordogne Discovery Bike Tour invites you to explore both
the beautiful sweeping landscapes of the Lot, including the serpentine
Lot Valley, and the rugged and dramatic cliffs, valleys, castles and caves
of the magical Dordogne - land of history, mystery and legend.
On this tour you stay with us for your whole holiday - so you can
relax, unpack and unwind from the moment you arrive.
Immerse yourself in the French country lifestyle...slow down and enjoy
wonderful food and wine!
You will visit spectacular Rocamadour, 12th century pilgrimage site
which perches dramatically among the high rocky cliffs above the valley
below. This tour also includes the majestic chateaux of Beynac and
Castelnaud on the banks of the River Dordogne and the beautiful village
of St Cirq Lapopie sitting high above the River Lot, as well as the
mediaeval town of Sarlat with its busy market and winding streets.
The cycling has some fairly gentle stretches along the valley roads but
there are also some more challenging routes with a few more hills to
climb!
This tour is slightly harder than our Lot Valley tour, but achievable for
anyone with a good level of fitness.
The following itinerary provides some detai lof what to expect. We are
very flexible and all distances can be reduced or lengthened according
to your preferences and you can always opt to take a day off and have
a rest from cycling if you wish - the beauty of a single-base holiday!
Email us to check availability or find out more
2015 Dates
May 17th -
May 23rd
Sept 13th -
19th
Join us for your bike
tour of the Lot &
Dordogne.
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Download this page as a pdf
We meet you at either Bergerac airport or Gourdon rail station and drive
you to Mas de Flory, your home for the week.
Relax and unwind with a glass of fizz while you settle in and later enjoy
a long, lazy and delicious gourmet meal 4 courses with plenty of wine
and coffee to finish and meet your fellow guests for the week.
Itinerary
Day 1
(Sunday)
Welcome
After a substantial buffet breakfast you'll be fitted with your bike and
have time to check that everything is comfortable before setting off at
your leisure for your first cycle tour.
This is a mostly flat route following the river valley
to give you a nice gentle introduction to your cycling holiday week.
Your first day takes you into the Dordogne to discover fairytale
chateaux, historic riverside towns and dramatic cliff-top views. As a
cyclist, you'll want beautiful scenery - and the Dordogne certainly
delivers. Discover picturesque villages perched on the river banks such
as the spectacular, riverside settlement of La Roque Gageac, the
magnificent Chateau de Beynac towering high on the cliff top and pretty
Domme, perched high above the river and beautifully preserved from the
12th century.
Cycling distance is approximately 27m/43k
Day 2
(Monday)
Spectacular
sites along
the River
Dordogne.
Today is a fantastic sweeping downhill route through the Lot - until you
get to the end, when you climb to the beautiful village of St Cirq Lapopie
- which is absolutely worth the effort!
Day 3
(Tuesday)
Vers and Lot
You'll start by cycling east across stunning countryside and along lovely
wide, shady, forest roads before joining the Vers valley to cycle south
towards the River Lot. This road has stunning views as you sweep
between the high limestone rocky outcrops that line the valley.
You then join the Lot valley and cycle to the pretty small towns of Vers,
St Gery and Bouzies before crossing the river and climbing up to St
Cirq Lapopie. St Cirq is officially one of the most beautiful
villages in France and is definitely worthy of this accolade. Its
maze of steeply sloping, narrow, cobbled streets is lined with pretty,
interesting, old houses, whose stone or wood frontages date from the
13th to 16th centuries.
You will have time to enjoy a well-earned beer at one of the many cafes
as well as to explore this lovely village. As we return home you'll have
the option to visit the Grottes de Pechmerle to see the prehistoric cave
paintings of early man.
Cycling distance is approximately 24m/39k
river valleys
to St Cirq
Lapopie
Today you will again be transported back to the middle ages as you visit
Sarlat in the Dordogne, one of the best preserved medieval cities in
France.
To get there you'll cycle through pretty sleepy villages and quiet
countryside as well as on a cycle path that follows the old railway
cutting along the Marcillande valley. It makes for a nice easy relaxing
cycle route with virtually no traffic.
Have lunch in one of Sarlat's many restaurants and cafes and then explore the
maze of narrow lanes and ancient streets around the cathedral and medieval
cité, with amazing sights to see around every corner.
We'll drive you home at the end of the afternoon for another delicious dinner.
Cycling distance is approximately 19m/32k
Day 4
(Wednesday)
Explore
ancient Sarlat
with its
beautifully
preserved
medieval
centre.
We're exploring another part of the Lot today. We'll cycle through the
stunning regional park, le Causse du Quercy, along valley roads and
undulating sweeps with spectacular views en route to amazing
Rocamadour.
Carved dramatically into the limestone cliffs, this ancient village clings
precariously to the hillside, presenting a visually magical site. It has
been a destination for religious pilgrims for the last thousand years and
is now the site for a monastery as well as a point on the pilgrimage to
St Jaques de Compostella in northern Spain.
You'll have plenty of time to explore before we drive you back to Mas de
Flory where you can relax before another great meal.
Cycling distance is approximately 30m/49k
Day 5
(Thursday)
Enchanting
Rocamadour
Today you'll cycle along quiet, leafy backroads, again following a mostlyDay 6
flat route to the small town of Catus, where you can browse the quaint
small town and perhaps buy some fresh provisions for a lazy picnic
lunch by the lovely Lac Vert.
In the afternoon you'll continue southwards and make your way towards
the Lot River Valley and the pretty town of Luzech. You'll get there via
the amazing views from the Col de Crayssac and the spectacular
downhill, switchback sweep of the route de Cevenne - a thrilling ride!
You can then meander through the AOC Cahors vineyards (along the
Cahors Wine Trail and Lot Valley Cycle Route) and the chateaux of
Caix, Parnac, Caillac and into pretty Douelle. Here we'll meet at a
riverside bar before driving to a chateau for some wine tasting and then
returning to Mas de Flory for your final fabulous dinner.
Cycling distance is approximately 29m/46k
(Friday)
Lot Valley,
vistas and
villages - and
wine tasting!
After a leisurely breakfast we'll drive you to Gourdon rail station or
Bergerac airport to meet your homeward connection.
We wish you bonne route and hope you enjoyed your stay - a bientot!
Biking tours start on a Sunday and finish the following Saturday
and include all of the following:
Accommodation as stated in 'Our hospitality'
Breakfasts and 4-course evening meals with wine
Bike hire, routes and maps and full cycling support as stated in
'Cycling Holidays'
Transfers to and from Gourdon rail station or Bergerac airport, as
required
Youtube Slideshow of this tour
HD Video of Rocamadour
See our other biking tour:
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages
190J’aime
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Check availability online
Day 7
(Saturday)
Au revoir
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
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holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Dates for our Cycling Tours in the Lot & Dordogne
Cycling Holidays 2015
Price for all dates: £1145 / 1425€
7 days/6 nights
All tours begin on Sunday and end on Saturday
Beautiful tranquil hamlet with the outlook
from the accommodation private,
overlooking fields woodland. Aileen and
John outstanding hosts and
conversationalists. The food is
outstanding.
May
May 3rd - May 9th (Sun - Sat)
Lot Valley, Vistas & Villages
May 17th - May 23rd (Sun - Sat)
Lot & Dordogne Discovery Tour
May 31st - June 6th (Sun - Sat)
Lot Valley, Vistas & Villages
September
Sept 6th - Sept 12th (Sun - Sat)
Lot Valley, Vistas & Villages
Sept 13th - Sept 19th (Sun - Sat)
Lot & Dordogne Discovery Tour
Sept 20th - Sept 26th (Sun - Sat)
Lot Valley, Vistas & Villages
_____________________________________________________
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Email us for availability
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Your Stay at Mas de Flory
Mas de Flory is our home and we love it!
We aim to make you feel as comfortable and pampered as we possibly can
during your stay with us!
Our delicious home-prepared food and and our very comfortable accommodation with luxurious
touches all add up to ensure that your French cycling holiday with us will be a truly relaxing and
memorable experience.
We have converted our beautiful 18th century barn into very comfortable
accommodation for up to 10 people.
You will stay in one of the 5 light and airy bedrooms which are all decorated in an individual fresh
country style and have very smart en-suite bathrooms.
There are 4 rooms on the first floor - 3 double (Iris, Jasmin and Jonquille) and one with two
single beds (Poppy). Our 5th double bedroom, on the ground floor, (Rose) has a glazed door
opening onto the garden terrace.
All our bedrooms feature:
Super comfortable King-size bed or large single beds
Egyptian pure cotton bed linen and handmade, individually designed
patchwork quilt
En suite bathroom with hand basin, toilet and powerful shower featuring
rainshower and massage options
Egyptian cotton bath robes and slippers
Complimentary bathroom toiletries
Hairdryer
Rear view over the gardens and forest beyond
Center based cycling
holidays in the Lot and
Dordogne.
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Read more about.........
Our food menus.
Slide show of our evening
meals.
Regional Gastronomy.
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors.
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines.
Lot Cycling Holidays
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The airy, spacious living room has a mezzanine lounge with comfortable sofas,
a further downstairs cozy sitting area and large dining area.
In this central area you will also find:
Complimentary hot and cold drinks selection with fridge
Home-made cookies, cakes and snacks
Quality hi-fi with iPod dock
Free wi-fi
Library of CDs, books, magazines and games
The rear of the barn opens onto a spacious decked terrace where you can choose
to eat on warm evenings and where you will find sun loungers by the pool when
you just want to soak up the sun or have a refreshing dip.
This then steps down into the large garden area with open countryside and forest
beyond. Being completely private, quiet and tranquil, it offers the ideal place to
relax and unwind with glass of wine in hand!
Short HD YouTube video of the barn and rooms
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
How to book your cycling holiday
If you would like to find out more information, check availability for your preferred
dates or discuss a holiday, please either:
Email us
Phone us:
0844 888 2340 (UK)
0033 565 327002 (France)
or complete the enquiry form
We will then email or ring you back by return, whichever you prefer.
We aim to reply within 24 hours, so if you think you have not received a reply please
check your junk mail box or phone us!
-----------------------------------------------------------
If you decide to book a holiday with us you can either:
Phone or email us (as above) and we will email you a booking form.
We will confirm your place(s) and send an email invoice request payable via Paypal (online
secure payment facility).
Bookings are subject to available space so please do not make any travel arrangements that you
cannot change until you receive confirmation by us.
or:
Use the automatic Book and Pay online system, which also uses PayPal.
Book and Pay
Lot Valley, Vistas & Villages Tour
Book and Pay
Lot and Dordogne Discovery Tour
A deposit of 200€or £200 per person is payable on booking, followed by the balance of
payment 8 weeks before the holiday start date.
Please note that arranging your own personal travel insurance is a condition of booking and we
will require confirmation of this not later than your final payment.
Before booking please read the booking conditions.
t
Smartphone site
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Our food menus
Slide show of our evening
meals
Regional Gastronomy
Cycling in France
Health Benefits of Cycling
Historical Lot
Lot Cycling Holidays
Home
Lot Valley Tour
Lot Dordogne Tour
The Dates
The Rooms
The Food
The Reviews
Contact Us
Booking
Travel
What's Included
Photo Gallery
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_____________________________________________________
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Lot Cycling Holidays © 2007 - 2014
Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Travel - How to get here
Free pick up from our local train station and airport
You will need to make your own travel arrangements, which are not included in
our quoted price, and we will meet you at either Bergerac or Brive airports or
Gourdon rail station and drive you to Mas de Flory.
Transfers are included in the price.
If your flights do not coincide with our dates (i.e. you can arrive on a Saturday rather than a
Sunday) we can probably arrange alternative accommodation on the Saturday night for you -
please ask.
From UK
Bergerac is our nearest airport and is well served with budget flights from the UK.
With Ryanair you can fly direct from:
London Stanstead
Luton
Bristol
Nottingham (East Midlands)
Liverpool
Dublin - via Stanstead
With Flybe you can fly direct from:
Exeter
We'll meet you at either
Bergerac or Gourdon - for
a free transfer to our
cycling center.
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Southampton
London Gatwick
Birmingham
Leeds
Edinburgh
With Jet2.com you can fly direct from:
Leeds Bradford
Brive (Dordogne Valley)
With City Jet you can fly direct from:
London City Airport
Manchester
With Jet2.com you can fly direct from:
Manchester
Toulouse
You can also fly to Toulouse from the UK with
Easyjet from Bristol and Gatwick
Ireland with Aer Lingus
Birmingham with Flybe
London Heathrow with British Airways
There is an easy rail transfer from Toulouse to Gourdon station, where we can pick you
up.
If you prefer to travel by rail (from the UK) you could take the Eurostar from London to Paris-
Gare du Nord (less than 2hrs 30mins).
From Paris there is a direct line from Paris-Austerlitz to Gourdon (approx 5hrs).
From Canada, USA, Australia etc
If you are flying from outside Europe, Paris- Austerlitz station is approximately 5 hours by train
from Gourdon.
Alternatively, you could fly to Toulouse (a lovely city for a stopover visit), which is then 90
minutes by rail from Gourdon.
Taking the train is simply the way to travel in France.
Not only is it great value for money, it's also a fantastic way to see more of this beautiful
country - and you can easily connect with trains going to other countries too.
French trains are almost always on time!
SNCF (French rail network) UK Booking website
Map of France rail network
Car
If you choose to drive we will provide you with directions and parking.
We are approximately a 9 hour drive from the channel ports - or break up your journey into a
couple of days and enjoy the countryside on the way down here!
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
We are happy to help you plan your travel - please ask us.
_____________________________________________________
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Contact Us - Cycle Sportives - Sitemap
Jamie Oliver Does our Region - Short Breaks
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
What's Included on your cycling holiday
2014 Holidays start on a Sunday and finish the following Saturday.
7 day/ 6 night cycling holidays, all dates, include:
Accommodation: Double en-suite bedroom with either king-size or 2 single
beds, as described in 'The Rooms'.
Food: Six substantial continental breakfasts and six 4-course dinners, wine
and pre-dinner drinks, beverages and snacks, as described in 'The Food'.
Cycling: Giant hybrid leisure touring bike, rear clip-on bag and handlebar
bag, water bottles, detailed route maps and notes, full cycling support and
transportation in our minibus, as described in our tour details.
Transfers to and from Gourdon rail station, Bergerac or Brive airports as
required - see 'Travel'
Please note that our quoted price does not include lunches/drinks while out
cycling.
_____________________________________________________
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Our privacy policy gives more details.
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Center based cycling - No
need to pack your bags
every day.
Smartphone site
Find us on Google+
Sign Up for our
Newsletter
Read more about.........
Our food menus
Slide show of our evening
meals
Regional Gastronomy
Cycling in France
Health Benefits of Cycling
Lot Cycling Holidays
Home
Lot Valley Tour
Lot Dordogne Tour
The Dates
The Rooms
The Food
The Reviews
Contact Us
Booking
Travel
What's Included
Photo Gallery
Blog
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Photo Gallery
_____________________________________________________
About Us - Newsletter - The Lot - Wine Tours - FAQs
Contact Us - Cycle Sportives - Sitemap
Jamie Oliver Does our Region - Short Breaks
Our Cycling Holidays
Cookies
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Our privacy policy gives more details.
Lot Cycling Holidays © 2007 - 2014
Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Smartphone site
Find us on Google+
Sign Up for our
Newsletter
Read more about.........
Our food menus.
Our evening meals.
Regional Gastronomy.
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne.
Lot Cycling Holidays
Cycling Holiday Experts
Lot Cycling Holidays
Home
Lot Valley Tour
Lot Dordogne Tour
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The Reviews
Contact Us
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Travel
What's Included
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CyclingHolidaysin France
Contact Us
0844 888 2340 UK)
0033 565 327002 (France)
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages - French Cycling Holiday
" A fabulous holiday - a spoonful
of rural France. Great cycling,
not too many hills! Thank you both
for your very kind hospitality."
Stephen & Sandra, London, UK
" The most amazingly beautiful
place to bike and Aileen's
wonderful meals. Thanks for a
great holiday."
Noella & Geoff, New Zealand.
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages
Price: £1145 / 1425€
7 days/6 nights
Escape from the rest of the world into a tranquil tapestry of quiet
country lanes, fields of whispering barley and meadows full of wild
flowers in every hue.
Cycle along quiet river valleys winding your way past the abundant
vineyards and through pretty, sleepy villages where every pale stone
house is adorned with pots of bright geraniums.
Meander through shady green woods where the sunlight plays
magically through the leafy canopy, providing welcome respite from
the bright, hot sunshine.
The Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages French cycling holiday provides the
opportunity to explore this beautiful and unspoilt area of France. The Lot is one
of the largest and least populated departments and so offers you an immediate
escape to peaceful surroundings and quiet, virtually traffic-free roads that are a
pleasure to cycle.
On this tour you stay with us for your whole holiday - so you can
relax, unpack and unwind from the moment you arrive.
The cycling is fairly gentle with plenty of long, quiet stretches along valley
roads. There are some hills, but these are well worth the climb for the amazing
panoramic views from the top across the wide open landscapes.
Anyone with a reasonable level of fitness should be able to complete the routes
comfortably.
The following itinerary provides some detail of what to expect. All distances can
be reduced or lengthened according to your preferences and you can always
opt to take a day off and have a rest from cycling if you wish - the beauty of a
single-base holiday!
Email us to check availability or find out more
Guest reviews
2013 Dates
2nd - 7th May
May 26th -
1st June
June 23rd -
29th July
Aug 4th -
10th
Aug 18th -
24th
Sept 7th -
13th
Find out more about our
French cycling holidays in the
Lot and Dordogne via the
links above and below.
Smartphone site
Read more about.........
Our food menus
Slide show of our evening
meals
Regional Gastronomy
Cycling in France
Health Benefits of Cycling
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Home
2013 Dates
Our Cycling Holidays
Lot Valley Tour
Lot & Dordogne Tour
Short Breaks
Our Hospitality
Guest Reviews
Travel
How to Book
What's Included
Contact Us
Newsletter Subscribe
" Thanks John for preparing the
best ever bike routes - varied
and so picturesque. Delicious food,
Much appreciated after all that
pedalling."
Gudo & Michelle, Sydney,
Australia.
" Everything has exceeded
expectations. The delicious food,
the lovely rooms , peaceful
setting, high quality bikes and
most of all the wondeful rides. "
Joanne, Seattle, USA.
Download this page as a pdf
We meet you at Bergerac airport or Gourdon rail station and drive you to Mas
de Flory, your home for the week. Relax and unwind with a glass of fizz while
you settle in and later enjoy a long, lazy and delicious gourmet meal - 4
courses with plenty of wine and coffee to finish - and meet your fellow guests
for the week.
Itinerary
Day 1
(Sunday)
Welcome
Your first day on the bike and we give you a nice gentle introduction to
your french cycling holiday.
After a substantial breakfast we'll fit you with your bike for the week and
ensure you feel comfortable and confident before you set off.
You'll cycle quiet country roads through a series of pretty villages and past an
ancient abbey, following a stream valley into pretty Grolejac, where you can
stop for coffee and a delicious pastry. From here you'll turn eastwards to follow
the River Dordogne along to the pretty villages of Veyrignac and St Julien de
Lampon. Then you'll cross the river and cycle into the town of Souillac with it's
many cafes, restaurants, galleries and boutiques.
After having plenty of time to explore we'll return you to Mas de flory to relax
before another delightful evening meal.
Cycling distance is approximately 27m/43k
Day 2
(Monday)
Meander the
River
Dordogne to
Souillac
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Today you'll cycle along quiet, leafy backroads, again following a mostly flat
route to the small town of Catus, where you can browse the quaint small town
and visit the weekly market - perhaps to buy some fresh provisions for a lazy
lunch by the lovely Lac Vert.
In the afternoon you'll continue southwards and make your way towards the
Lot River Valley and the pretty town of Luzech. You'll get there via the
amazing views from the Col de Crayssac and the spectacular downhill,
switchback sweep of the route de Cevenne - a thrilling ride!
You can then meander through the AOC Cahors vineyards (along the Cahors
Wine Trail and Lot Valley Cycle Route) and the chateaux of Caix, Parnac,
Caillac and into pretty Douelle. Here we'll meet at a riverside bar before
returning to Mas de Flory at the end of the afternoon.
Cycling distance is approximately 29m/46k
Day 3
(Tuesday)
Catus market
and valley
vistas
Today is a fantastic sweeping downhill route - until you get to the end, when
you climb to the beautiful village of St Cirq Lapopie - which is absolutely
worth the effort!
You'll start by cycling east across stunning countryside and along lovely wide,
shady, forest roads before joining the Vers valley to cycle south towards the
River Lot. This road has stunning views as you sweep between the high
limestone rocky outcrops that line the valley.
You then join the Lot valley and cycle to the pretty small towns of Vers, St
Gery and Bouzies before crossing the river and climbing up to St Cirq Lapopie.
St Cirq is officially one of the most beautiful villages in France and is
definitely worthy of this accolade. Its maze of steeply sloping, narrow, cobbled
streets is lined with pretty, interesting, old houses, whose stone or wood
frontages date from the 13th to 16th centuries.
You will have time to enjoy a well-earned beer at one of the many cafes as
well as to explore this lovely village. As we return home you'll have the option
to visit the Grottes de Pechmerle to see the prehistoric cave paintings of early
man.
Cycling distance is approximately 24m/39k
Day 4
(Wednesday)
Vers and Lot
river valleys
to St Cirq
Lapopie
Today you'll cycle through the dappled green shade of the wooded backroads in
the Bouriane, exploring tiny and pretty hamlets, such as Rampoux, Thedirac
and Gindou and the small town of Cazals with its attractive central square,
where you could stop for a drink in one of the bars or cool off by the pretty
lake on the edge of the town.
Youll also ride into quaint Les Arques where a visit to the museum of Zadkine
with its remarkable sculptures, is a must. Les Arques is also home to the
wonderful La Recreation restaurant, whose story is charmingly told in the book
'From Here You Can't See Paris' by Michael Sanders. Visit the publisher site.
In exploring these lovely rural villages you'll get to experience the real local
France, often remaining unchanged through hundreds of years.
Day 5
(Thursday)
Villages of
the Bouriane
Cycling distance is approximately 24m/38k
On your last cycling day you'll explore the lovely winding River Lot and finish
the day with wine-tasting!
This tour follows part of the Cahors AOC wine route - voted best wine route
by The FrenchPaper, June 2009.
Youll meander along the Lot river and among the vineyards, passing through
the small villages of Albas, Castelfranc, Anglars-Juillac and Grezels, all of which
have bars where you can stop for a coffee or a cool beer and watch the river
flow.
If youd like to work a bit harder you could take a detour up to either Albas or
Belaye both fairly steep climbs, but absolutely worth it for the breathtaking
views across the valley from the top.
After lunch by the river you'll cycle along to Puy L'Eveque, where you can take
some time to explore the ancient port and medieval town with its 14th century
narrow streets and houses rising dramatically from the Lot river and cladding
the hillside beyond.
Take the rest of the afternoon to cycle amongst the AOC Cahors vineyards and
make the moderate climb to Floressas, where youll find Chateau Chambert
sitting majestically above the vines.
Here you can join a tour of the grounds and then taste their wonderful
selection of Cahors wines, based on the Malbec grape and grown
biodynamically.
You don't need to worry about cycling afterwards as well meet you with the
support minibus and drive you back home to enjoy your last evening with yet
another delicious dinner!
Cycling distance is approximately 19m/30k
Day 6
(Friday)
River Lot and
AOC Cahors
vineyards
After a leisurely breakfast we'll drive you to Gourdon rail station or Bergerac
airport to meet your homeward connection.
We wish you bonne route and hope you enjoyed your stay - a bientot!
Cycling holidays start on a Sunday and finish the following Saturday and include
all of the following:
Accommodation as stated in 'Our Hospitality '
Breakfasts and 4-course evening meals with wine
Bike hire, routes and maps and full cycling support as stated in 'Cycling
Holidays '
Transfers to and from Gourdon rail station or Bergerac airport, as required
Slideshow of this tour
Day 7
(Saturday)
Au revoir
HD Video of St Cirque Lapopie
See our other cycling tour:
Dordogne - History, mystery and Chateaux
J’aime 140 Tweet
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
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The Lot and Dordogne
As well as stunning, unspoilt scenery the region also offers a huge gastronomic tradition (truffles,
foie gras and confit being some of the most famous local produce) and fantastic local wines.
Days can be filled by sampling the dark, heady wines of the Cahors region. Hundreds of vineyards
can be found in the countryside, many of which have been producing wine for centuries and are
happy to offer free tastings.
The area between the valleys of the River Dordogne and River Lot is amongst the most beautiful
in the world, with an array of things to do and see, including exceptional prehistoric sites,
medieval villages and a huge range of sporting activities.
http://about-france.com/tourism/river-dordogne-area.htm
Chateau Beynac
This middle ageconstruction, with its austere appearance, is perched on top of a cliff, dominating the town
and the north bank of the river Dordogne
http://pagesperso-orange.fr/images-du-perigord/chateauxethistoire/beynac.htm
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_de_Beynac
Walking the Grande randonee routes:
http://www.gr-infos.com/gr652.htm
http://www.ffrandonnee.fr/
The route of St James/ St.Jacques (The GR652 route to St Jaques passes Mas de Flory)
Shortly before the year 900AD the tomb of St. James / St.Jacques / Santiago the Great / Major /
Elder was discovered in the part of Spain known as Galicia. The news rapidly spread throughout
Christian Europe and very soon pilgrims were making their way from all parts of the continent to
visit the site. As Spain is a part of the Iberian Peninsula, this meant that at some time most of
the travellers would have to make the hazardous journey across the Pyrenees. Many routes led to
the crossing point from places further north and east, like so many tributaries feeding into a river.
The badge of these pilgrims is the scallop shell, known in French as the coquille St.Jacques.
http://www.chemins-compostelle.com/Leschemins/leschemins.html
Rocamadour is both a place of pilgrimage and a tourist attraction with its shrines and chapels
which cling precariously to the side of a cliff. Visitors reach the pedestrianised town by a "road
train" where they will find artisans shops, restaurants and a toy museum. The views from the
village are stunning. Rocamadour boasts one of only thirty cheese Appellation d'Origine
Contrôlées (A.O.C's.) in France with its goat's cheese.
Nearby there is a monkey preserve which you can walk around and see over 100 Barbary
Macaques who are only too happy to relieve you of the popcorn you can purchase at the
entrance.
http://www.rocamadour.com/anglais/accueilanglais.htm
http://monolith.tourisme-lot.com/lot/fr/WJ3?viewmedia&media=http://proxy.tourisme-
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lot.com/qtm/videos/rocamadour.mp4&url=/lot/FR/videos.htm
Domme
Dating from 1283, the bastide of Domme overlooks the Dordogne from the South and is quite
simply one of the most beautiful places from which to admire the view. The golden stoned village
is crammed with small artisans' shops and is extremely well preserved.
You can visit the underground cavern under the covered market.
Domme is a little larger than many of the bastide towns, and is found perched high above the
Dordogne River, with wonderful views of the river and countryside.
Unusually among the bastide towns, Domme retains part of its original fortified walls and the
gateways into the town.
Perhaps the overly perfect restoration and over-commercialisation of the town reduces the feeling
of authenticity that is found in, say, Monpazier. However a visit remains a 'must'.
There are also some very good caves accessed from the centre of Domme. The town is also listed
as 'one of the most beautiful villages in France'
http://www.northofthedordogne.com/domme.php
http://www.ot-domme.com/
La Roque Gageac
Surrounded by ancient manors and crowned with cliffs, La Roque mirrors itself in the waters of
the Dordogne river.
It was an important fortified place in medieval times, the village adorned itself with rich manors in
the Renaissance period, such as Jean tarde’s manor. The village streets blossom with
tropical and mediterranaean plants.
http://www.cometofrance.com/LA-ROQUE-GAGEAC.html
The Gouffre de Padirac is a natural chasm 75 metres deep formed when the vault of a
limestone cave collapsed into the underground river below. The tour begins with a descent by lift
(or stairs for the more energetic!) 103 metres to the river and then proceeds with an
underground boat trip which takes visitors to the cathedral-like Grand Dôme which is 94
metres high. The tour lasts about one and a half hours and covers 2km.
http://www.gouffre-de-padirac.com/
Pechmerle
http://www.quercy.net/pechmerle/english/introduction.html
St. Cirq Lapopie was the first place in France to have a preservation order on the entire medieval
village.
http://www.saint-cirqlapopie.com/st_cirq.htm
Cahors
http://www.mairie-cahors.fr/Tourisme/Pontval/Legende.html
Les Eyzies
The prehistoric site of Les Eyzies includes the Musée Nationale de Préhistoire
which is to be found in a 13th century castle perched above the village. The museum contains a
large number of artefacts dating back in some cases more than 15,000 years. Nearby the Grotte
de Font de Gaume and the Grotte des Combarelles contain a fine collection of prehistoric art
including bison, reindeer, magic symbols and carvings.
http://www.leseyzies.com/
Sarlat-la-Canda
The myriad of boutiques and souvenir shops will keep a visitor busy for hours and in the evening,
the gas lighting enhances the character of the town no end. Sarlat's market, held in Place de la
Liberté on a Saturday, is renowned as one of the best in France.
http://www.sarlat.com/eindex.html
Cahors AOC wine
The appellation has been named after the city of the same name, which is the capital of the Lot
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
department in south-western France. The vineyard area totals around 4.500 hectares, the
vineyards are located on both banks of the Lot river, to the north-west of Gaillac. The wine-
growing region is one of the oldest and also one of the most famous in France. The Celts, or
Gauls as they were known here, produced oak barrels here as early as the 6th century BC.
Cahors is one of the oldest and yet least known french wines, the red wine of Cahors has a long
a distinguished history. Cahors belongs to the Quercy region, a part of France considered by
National Geographic and many others to be one of the worlds ‘unspoiled and undiscovered
earthly paradises’
http://www.wein-plus.com/france_guide/Cahors+AOC_B4086.html
Chateau Chambert
Chateau Chambert produces wines that show both generosity and refinement, due to their
balance between tannins, fruit and acidity. The vineyard is located on the highest part of the
Cahors plateau, in south-western France. This specific terroir lends additional elegance to the
natural intensity of Chambert's wines. Cahors is the homeland to the Malbec grape. Visit Chateau
Chambert on the Lot Valley Vistas French cycling holiday.
http://www.chateaudechambert.com/en/malbec-cahors-black-wine.htm
John and Aileen Despard,
To find out more about us visit About Us
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
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holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Cycling Tours in France
About our cycling holidays in France
Lot Cycling Holidays provides single-centre cycling holidays based at Mas de
Flory, Degagnac, Lot, South West France.
You stay here for the whole holiday, so you can relax, unpack and unwind from the moment you
arrive and we will ensure everything is taken care of.
This doesn't limit your sightseeing and area of exploration because we drive you and
the bikes either to a further starting point or pick you up from a distant end point.
Mas de Flory is a beautiful old mas (Farmhouse and collection of stone buildings). A beautifully
converted 18th century barn provides very comfortable guest accommodation for up to 10 people.
More details here
We supply you with a quality Giant touring bike - fitted with handlebar bag, lightweight rear
pannier with clip-on bag, water bottles, pump, lock and basic tools.
We spend time making sure you get a bike that fits you properly and which will be comfortable
for you throughout the week.
We give you extremely detailed maps and notes and an introductory talk each morning for the
day's ride - so that you can easily follow and enjoy all the routes.
The Lot is one of the largest and least populated - or polluted - departments in France. It
therefore offers an immediate escape to peaceful surroundings and quiet, virtually traffic-free
roads that are a pleasure to cycle.
We support you throughout the week in our back-up minibus. We check that everything is ok and
sort out any problems with bikes. The minibus is always available if you want to shorten your
route or have a lift.
There is a choice of two tours:
Lot & Dordogne Discovery Tour
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
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holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
About Us - at Lot Cycling Holidays
Aileen
John
Richard
Who are we?
Lot Cycling Holidays is owned and run by husband and wife team Aileen and John Despard and
their friend and business partner Richard Smith.
It is situated in the lovely Bouriane area of Lot, southwest France, where Aileen and John live
permanently. Richard has recently moved to Mas de Flory to join Aileen and John to help with the
business and enjoy the lifestyle.
Lot Cycling Holidays began as an adventure to satisfy their parallel interests - John has always
loved cycling and Aileen has always loved cooking wonderful food for others to enjoy. They're all
confirmed Francophiles are now enjoying their sixth successful year in France.
"We are a family business and we live here all year round - it's our home, we love it and we
know the area very well, which enables us to give you a great cycling holiday. As you can see
from our guest book comments http://www.lotcyclingholidays.com/choose/cycling-holiday-
reviews.html
it matters to us that you enjoy your stay!"
Lot Cycling Holidays is based at Mas de Flory which is situated just outside the small village of
Degagnac, with a bar, shop, post office and auberge. It is surrounded by lovely countryside with
peaceful, far-reaching views - the perfect place to escape and unwind!
Come and join us and enjoy a great cycling holiday in France!
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John, Aileen and Flossie
Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Wine Tours in France
Malbec Discovery Tour - Cahors AOC Lot Valley
Price: £995 / 1195€ / US$ 1645
Lot Cycling Holidays is also offering a wine tour of the wonderful
AOC Cahors vineyards in SW France.
This 5 day/4 night short break is fully escorted and transport is
by minibus - not bicycle!
4 nights accommodation at Mas de Flory and all meals are
included in the price - you just have to get here and enjoy it all!
Hailed by wine critics as the 'latest trend', the 'black wine' of Cahors is
in fact one of the oldest of French wines, having been first introduced by
Roman Emperors more than 2000 years ago. In the late 19th century
the Malbec grape vines were virtually wiped out by the phylloxera
disease - from a couple that were saved and nurtured the vineyards
eventually thrived and gradually re-established the reputation of this
strong, dark and rich red wine.
There are over 200 domaines but still only 4,000 hectares laid to vine in
the area permitted by AOC standards, which makes Cahors a
comparatively rare French wine and is probably why its so difficult to
find. The quality however is without doubt the very highest. It still
graces the finest restaurant tables and dining rooms in the world, but its
comparatively inexpensive at the moment so now is the time to invest in
some!
Come and enjoy a 5 day/4 night wine tour break with us. We'll
plan and take care of everything for you.
You just get to relax and experience a few days enjoying the
beautiful Cahors vineyards, eating fabulous food, drinking
fantastic wine and staying in a lovely location!
For more details of our wine tour please visit our dedicated site
www.winetoursfrance.net/
Proposed itinerary listed below:
Customer reviews
Dates
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Custom tours
available on
request
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Arrive at either Bergerac airport or Gourdon rail station and we'll meet you
and drive you to beautiful Mas de Flory, where you will stay for your break.
Settle into your spacious and airy room (with smart ensuite shower room),
then relax and enjoy a glass of bubbly on the terrace while you meet your
fellow wine-tasting guests. Later you'll all share a long, lazy, delicious 4-
course dinner accompanied by a selection of wonderful Cahors 'black wine'.
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome
After a substantial breakfast we'll drive you to the Lot Valley for your first day
of touring a range of vineyards and visiting wine chateaux for tastings.
Our first stop will be to meet an English-speaking Cahors wine expert who will
introduce you to the complexities of this noble wine and talk you through a
tasting session.
We'll then have lunch in a lovely restaurant in a pretty village square near the
Lot river.
After lunch we'll drive away from the valley floor to a wonderful family-run
vineyard, where the terroir provides perfect conditions for producing the finest
Cahors wine.
Next we'll drive across the limestone causse to visit beautiful Chateau
Chambert (pictured above right). They use biodynamic methods to produce
their wine and it is certainly some of the finest Cahors wine you will taste.
For dinner this evening we'll eat at the renowned restaurant La Recreation in
Les Arques, made famous through the book by Michael Sanders, 'From Here
You Can't See Paris'.
Day 2
Wine expert
introduction
to Cahors AOC
wine.
Dinner at La
Recreation
Today begins with a drive along the spectacular Cevenne de Caix which
overlooks the winding River Lot and its bordering patchwork of vineyards
below. We'll first visit the lively and bustling Luzech market to pick up some
fresh provisions for a picnic lunch at a beautiful spot overlooking the river Lot.
In the afternoon we'll visit chateaux around Parnac and Caillac and have
tastings and a tour of the vineyards and cave.
We then return to Mas de Flory for another delicious evening meal.
Day 3
Luzech
market, picnic
lunch and
Caillac
Today we'll drive you though lovely countryside to the ancient mediaevil
riverside town of Puy l'eveque where we'll visit a selection of excellent
vineyards.
You'll have time to meander the vineyards and see the vines heavy with their
ripe, deep purple Malbec grapes, almost ready for harvesting - or, depending
on conditions, possibly even le vendange - the picking of the grapes.
We'll take lunch today at a great restaurant set in a beautiful old stone villa
with magnificent gardens.
Day 4
Puy L'eveque
vineyard
tours.
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Departure day and after a leisurely breakfast well take you to Gourdon rail
station or Bergerac airport to meet your homeward connection. We wish you
bonne route and hope you enjoyed your stay - a bientot!
Please note that this is the planned itinerary but may be subject to minor
changes.
Day 5
Departure day
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Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
FAQs about your Cycling Holiday
Some common questions you might want to ask about our French cyclingholidays
What is a single centre based holiday? Is this limiting?
Do I need to be really fit for these holidays?
How many miles a day can I expect to cycle?
How big is the group I would join?
What sort of bike can I expect?
Should I bring any special clothes?
Is a cycling helmet provided?
Can I bring my own bike?
Answers:
What is a single centre based holiday? Is this limiting?
The best thing about being single centre-based is that you can unpack your suitcase
when you arrive and don't need to re-pack until it's time to go home!
A single centre holiday means that you are based for the whole holiday at our home, Mas de
Flory, where we have renovated our 18th century barn to provide extensive guest
accommodation.
You will have a lovely spacious en-suite bedroom plus light and airy sitting, eating and relaxing
spaces. There are also lovely gardens and grounds, shady paths and sunny terraces to enjoy.
Our daily cycle routes are well planned to enable you to explore this region extensively. They
do not repeat themselves and give you plenty of time to really experience the Lotoise way of
life.
We drop you off or pick you up at the end of theday on several routes so that you are able to
go furtherafield and explore all the best sites this lovely region has to offer.
Do I need to be really fit for these holidays?
Don't worry! Our cycling holidays are designed to attract adults of all levels of fitness. We have
had guests who have not cycled for years and who still completed all the rides quite
comfortably.
You will obviously enjoythe cycling more if you are reasonably fit but our tours are very much
aimed at the leisure cyclist and because our groups are small, it is always possible to adapt the
routes to suit your needs.
If you can't find your
cycling FAQ's - email us:
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It's not a crime to get off and walk sometimes or even have a lift in the support vehicle!
How many miles a day can I expect to cycle?
No route is longer than 40 kilometres (about 25 miles)
A gentle cycling pace is about 7-8 miles per hour, so, if you cycle for four hours, you can
expect to cover 25-30 miles comfortably. This leaves plenty of time for sightseeing, exploring,
lunch, a cold beer or chilled glass of wine in the afternoon - or whatever you want to do. You
have all day to spend at your leisure and then return home at the end of the day to a lovely
shower followed by an aperitif and a delicious 4 course meal.
How big is the group I would join?
Because we are a small family business and are home-based you will only ever find yourself as
part of a small group; usually between 4 and 8 people, which could be made up of couples and
singles.
This allows you plenty of space to relax and unwind and enables us to provide a really personal
service by taking everyone's needs, abilities and preferences into account - so you get a holiday
that is tailor made for you.
People normally eat together in the evenings but some people prefer to cycle as a couple during
the day while others like to team up and cycle together - it's really up to you.
What sort of bike can I expect?
We supply you with a high quality touring bike with 27 gears to make things as easy as
possible for you. It's fitted with a clip-on front handlebar bag for you to store what you want
to take with you for the day; sun cream, camera, drink - and has a map pocket on top. There
is also a rear pannier. The bikes are fitted with comfortable saddles and pedals, but you are
more than welcome to bring your own if you prefer.
Should I bring any special clothes? Is a cycling helmet provided?
The most important thing is to be comfortable while cycling. Padded cycling shorts for both men
and women are highly recommended or else comfortable loose fitting shorts/trousers worn with
a pair of padded undershorts. In the hotter weather lightweight coolmax or dri-fit fabric tops
make for extra comfort.
Padded finger-less cycling gloves will protect your hands from a lot of the vibration that comes
with distance cycling.
Most people wear trainers on their feet but if you normally wear cycling shoes with cleats and
you wish to use them on the bike provided, remember to bring your own pedals too.
While we hope for fabulous weather throughout the summer it's as well to be realistic and bring
a lightweight shower-proof jacket!
In the evenings most people opt for comfortable smart-casual wear at dinner - but you are
more than welcome to dress up (or down!)
Is a cycling helmet provided?
Cycling helmets are not compulsory in France and we normally do not wear them. However we
do have them if required. Let us know before you travel and will ensure we have one put by for
you.
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes you can, if you need to transport via plane why not hire a bike box from: our friends at:
http://www.southernbikeboxhire.co.uk/index.shtml
Visit Southern Bike Box Hire for Bike Box Alan Hire
_____________________________________________________
About Us - Newsletter - The Lot - Wine Tours - FAQs
Contact Us - Cycle Sportives - Sitemap
Jamie Oliver Does our Region - Short Breaks
Our Cycling Holidays
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Our privacy policy gives more details.
Lot Cycling Holidays © 2007 - 2014
Mas de Flory
Degagnac 46340
France
All images are the property of Lot Cycling Holidays or individuals who have been on our cycling
holidays or wine tours. All rights reserved.
Unpack,Unwind &Enjoythe Ride!
Contact Us
0033 565 327002 [email protected]
Cycling Holidays and Wine Tours in France where Jamie Oliver visited
Come on a bike or wine tour in the Midi Pyrenees - or just stay with us (in our
off season) and visit yourselves where Jamie Oliver went.
Jamie Oliver's TV programme Jamie Does French Pyrénéees.
But we reckon he didn't leave the Lot Department of France where we are based. We recognised
all the sites he visited, so it should have been called Jamie Does The Lot.
"This is peasant country where, although the people are not wealthy, they eat like kings. The food
here is rich and fatty, yet they have the highest life-expectancy in France. Jamie goes truffle-
hunting with a pig and boar hunting with dogs. He is knighted into an order of serious bread
makers and makes sausages with a professional. He cooks Rustic Roquefort salad, Fresh truffle
Omelette, Classic Tarte Tatin, Old school Confit of Duck, and makes a Country style Terrine."
Jamie cooks terrine at Chateau Chambert
Philippe Lejeune (owner) and Jamie taste the wines at Chateau Chambert -
where we visit on our cycling and wine tours.
Visit the places Jamie did with
our wine tours
Chateau Chambert where Jamie
cooked. Visit here on either a
wine or bike tour.
Vineyard
Eat in local restaurants
Local Cave
Come see why Jamie Oliver
visited our region on a
biking holiday or wine tour.
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Jamie learns how to make the Lot specialist bread the Croustilot and becomes an
honary member of their order.
(We visit this Chateau on our cycle and wine tours)
Come and taste the flavour and passion of this region on one of our cycling
holidays or our wine tours.
French Cycling Holiday:
Lot Valley, Vistas and Villages
French Cycling Holiday:
Dordogne History, Mystery and Chateaux
Wine Tour:
Cahors Wine Tour 4 night break
Malbec oak barrels
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Lot Cycling Holidays © 2007 - 2014
Mas de Flory
Historical Lot
Places to visit
Books about the Lot and
Dordogne
Malbec the original Black
Wine of Cahors
Our favourite Cahors
Malbec wines
Degagnac 46340
France
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