RIDE DESCRIPTION

Experience some of the best cycling in France as we ride across the midsection from west to east.  We start this great cycling trip in the famed wine-growing region and port city of Bordeaux, France and then we ride nearly 600 miles to the shores of Lake Geneva in Switzerland.  Enjoy dramatic terrain and scenery that changes on a nearly daily basis.  We will follow the winding Dordogne River past vineyards and farms and majestic chateaux (castles) of every shape and size.  Whether you like the natural beauty of the countryside and picturesque riverside villages, or some hillier days with dramatic views, every day will be a treat!

 

You'll marvel at  La Roque-Gageac, one of France’s most beautiful and photographed villages on the cliffside banks of the Dordogne River.  In Tournon-sur-Rhône, in the heart of the Rhône Valley, we will experience charming streets with fine bars and restaurants, outstanding full-bodied local red wines, and a castle whose foundations date back to the 10th century.  You will have the opportunity to challenge yourself on the Pas de Peyrol, the high pass on the slopes of Mt Puy Mary, an occasional Cat 2 Tour de France climb with sensational views and a summit bar-restaurant at the top.

 

Three Choice/Rest days are built into this tour:  After our Mt. Puy Mary climb day, you will have a day in Mauriac, a bustling town in the foothills of the Massif Centrale.  Le Puy-en-Velay is a gateway to the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage trail and the Chemin de Stevenson which follows the steps of Scottish author Robert Louis Stevenson.  People will be excited to climb the rocky pinnacle to the 10th century chapel for the views there! In La Cote St. André, explore its cob and round stone houses and medieval covered market and tantalize your taste buds at Chocolaterie Jouvenal.

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Start Location:  Bordeaux, France

End Location:  Geneva, Switzerland

Cost: $4,500
Included in the cost is lodging (double occupancy) each night in nice hotels,
transfer of two pieces of carry-on sized luggage to your hotel every travel day,
transfer bike boxes to the end location, breakfasts, four dinners, GPS files
with free premium Ride With GPS features like audible cues) and detailed

cue sheets for each required ride days.

Average Distance:  48 miles

Average Elevation:  2,900 feet

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