The best cycling routes around Lascaux

The region around Lascaux, encompassing the Dordogne and Vézère Valleys, offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter deep river valleys, high limestone cliffs, and expansive plateaus. Routes often wind through tranquil forested areas, particularly in the Périgord Noir, and open limestone 'causses' (plateaus) of Quercy, providing varied scenery from lush pastures to agricultural fields and walnut groves.

There are over 40 touring cycling routes available around Lascaux on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, with options ranging from moderate excursions to more challenging rides through the region's diverse terrain.

While the komoot guide currently lists no easy touring cycling routes, there are 16 moderate routes that might be suitable for families or those seeking a less strenuous ride. The region is known for dedicated cycle paths, such as the route from Cazoulès to Sarlat-la-Canéda, which follows a former railway line, making it mostly flat, shaded, and kid-friendly for exploring charming towns and the picturesque countryside. Always check the route details for elevation and distance to ensure it matches your family's ability.

The ideal time for bicycle touring in the Dordogne and Vézère Valley is from April to October. During these months, the weather is generally most favorable for outdoor activities. However, summer months can be quite hot, so planning early morning rides is advisable to avoid the midday heat.

The Lascaux region is rich in history and natural beauty. Along your rides, you might encounter impressive châteaux like Château de Saillant, or picturesque villages such as Ségur-le-Château, recognized as one of France's most beautiful villages. Other points of interest include the Saillant Chapel and Marc Chagall Stained Glass Windows, the Stone Cross Memorial, and the historic Abbey of Saint Pierre in Vigeois. The Vézère River Valley itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its prehistoric significance and stunning limestone cliffs.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Lascaux area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the moderate Ségur-le-Château loop from Arnac-Pompadour, which offers views of the historic village, and the more challenging Bike loop from Saint-Solve, winding through varied forested and open countryside.

The touring cycling routes around Lascaux are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain, from tranquil forests to open plateaus, and the opportunity to explore charming villages and historical sites. Over 200 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore this varied region.

The duration of touring cycling routes around Lascaux varies significantly depending on the distance and difficulty. For instance, a moderate route like the Ségur-le-Château loop from Arnac-Pompadour, covering 23.2 km, typically takes about 1 hour 29 minutes. Longer, more difficult routes, such as the Perpezac – Chapelle Bellevue loop from Juillac (65.1 km), can take around 4 hours 10 minutes.

Yes, the Lascaux region offers numerous challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists. Out of the 41 available routes, 25 are classified as difficult. These routes often feature significant elevation gains and cover longer distances, providing a rewarding experience for those seeking a more strenuous ride. An example is the View of Allassac – Objat loop from Orgnac-sur-Vézère, which covers nearly 40 km with substantial elevation changes.

Absolutely. The region around Lascaux is a hub for various outdoor pursuits. Beyond cycling, you can explore countless trails for hiking, offering different perspectives of the scenic landscapes and historical sites. Kayaking on the Vézère River is another popular activity, providing a unique way to view the castles and troglodytic dwellings carved into the cliffs.

Starting from Saint-Sornin-Lavolps, you can embark on routes like the moderate Ségur-le-Château loop. This route will take you through the characteristic landscapes of the Dordogne, featuring rolling hills, lush agricultural fields, and perhaps glimpses of the region's famous walnut groves. You'll experience the tranquil countryside and may pass through charming hamlets on your journey.