Hey r/bicycletouring! As a Strava enthusiast from Australia, I just wrapped up an epic 7-day self-guided cycling trip through Bordeaux and the Dordogne with my wife (me on gravel, her on e-bike). We covered ~250km, blending UNESCO vineyards, medieval villages, and prehistoric sites—perfect for mixed-ability couples. Inspired by a destination wedding, it was our unwind before the big day.
Here's a quick breakdown:
**Trip Highlights:*\*-
**Day 1: Bordeaux Arrival*\* – Explored the city on foot, hit La Cité du Vin, and skipped the overrated canelés for excellent wine at Le Bar à Vin.-
**Day 2: Bordeaux to Saint-Émilion (55km, 291m elevation)*\* – Car-free Roger Lapébie trail, market day in Créon, and stunning Entre-Deux-Mers scenery.-
**Day 3: Saint-Émilion to Sainte-Foy-la-Grande (43km)*\* – Vineyards galore, Pomerol tastings, and Dordogne River vibes.-
**Day 4: To Bergerac (40km)*\* – Château de Monbazillac museum & wine (a must!), but heat hit hard—pro tip: Start early!-
**Day 5: To Les Eyzies (63km, biggest day)*\* – Lalinde canal, Vézère Valley prehistory, and a Michelin-starred lunch at Les Glycines (worth the sweat).-
**Day 6: To Sarlat (25km)\\ – Prehistoric sites, unexpected rally detour, and touristy but beautiful medieval Sarlat.-
**Day 7: To Souillac (34km)*\* – Easy rail trail along the Dordogne; skipped Rocamadour due to 40°C heat.
**Insider Tips:*\*-
**Booking:*\* Used local tour company Evazio for seamless luggage transfers and GPS app—highly recommend for stress-free riding.-
**Gear & Weather:*\* Bring your own helmet/pedals; panniers provided for wine hauls. July was hot (no rain!), so early starts and e-bikes for beginners.-
**Food/Wine:*\* Ate my weight in duck, cherries and apricots—markets and châteaux tastings were highlights.-
**Difficulty:*\* Easy-moderate overall; great for varying levels.
Full detailed itinerary with routes, accommodations (all 8+/10), and more tips on my blog. I have included all the Strava routes.
If you're planning a French tour, this route's a gem!
Questions for you: Our next trip is a toss up between Loire ** Alsace ** Via Augusta (not France) in June 2026. Any tips.
by AlternativeOne6768