Dordogne and Lot Valleys 2014

There are two areas of France that are absolutely wonderful to explore by bike, but rarely done together…the Dordogne Valley and Le Lot Valley.  Cycling past rugged limestone cliffs and along verdant riverbanks, this adventure unfolds the treasures from prehistoric cave paintings to incredible medieval villages like Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Martel, Rocamadour, and Sarlat.

The châteaux of the 100 Years War, Beynac-et-Cazenac and Castelnaud are also on the route with their imposing walls high above the valley floor with views that stretch out to the horizon.  Our tour finishes in the vibrant green vineyards of Mercuès with several days of cycling, wine tasting, and visiting the small riverside villages of Le Lot.  

We sample many of this region’s deep-colored and full-bodied red wines and treat our palates to the fine gourmet dishes famous in the Quercy region know for foie gras, walnuts, and truffles.  This little known area is a delight to discover. The history, the stone villages, the bucolic French countryside, the cuisine, and the wines provide a special insight into a side of France that's truly française.

Corsica 2013

Provence 2012

Influenced by the Mediterranean and scented with lavender and rosemary, Provence is a very special region of France.  We bring our own special touch to Provence as we explore the wonderful outdoors from limestone cliffs and wooded roads to the vineyards and olive groves that line the countryside.  

Of course there are still all those wonderful towns and small villages that date from Roman times.    Among the climate, the scenery, the food, the wine and the variety of cycling, this area offers everything you would want for a bike tour.  You will come to understand why everyone in Provence goes al fresco.

Cycling in Provence allows you to embrace the full essence of what makes this area a truly unique place in France… if not the world.  So, in the future, come and join us and find out why everyone is talking about Provence and  toast the sun with a glass of  pastis on the courtyard of  Le Café de la Provençale.

Having a hard time deciding if you want to bicycle France or Italy? Might we suggest Corsica?! 

Corsicans speak French, yet do so like Italians...lots of arm waving and  wild gestures.  The L'Ile de Beauté is still an untamed and  scenic destination.  The rugged coastline reminds many of early Southern California and the nearby mountains are filled with Alpine beauty. This is an island full of contrasts from the coast to the deep rich forests.  

For cyclists, Corsica offers very challenging climbs, exhilarating downhills, spectacular coastal views, and virtually car-free roads. The small but proud French province  is renown for its cuisine of fresh seafood, pasta and wild game and a surprising heritage in viticulture.

While this was only a research project for Jeff and Francine, we anticipate offering this adventure in the future to those who enjoy climbing, incredible coastal scenery, "Fra-talian" hospitality and unique robust fun-filled memories.