If ever a region was suited to riding a bike then this is it! The high limestone plateaux (known as les Causses) are intersected by deep river valleys, resulting in a landscape of soaring views and dramatic valleys. The roads are generally in very good condition with a fraction of the traffic you’d find in the UK. It’s not unusual to head out for a 2 hour ride and pass no more than half a dozen cars!
From Monplaisir there are countless rides in every direction including longer steady climbs, steep hills and flatter sections along the river. And just a little further afield lies the river Tarn with its spectacular gorges, an unforgettable riding experience. We don’t offer professional cycling guides, but will be using our personal knowledge of the area to show you some great routes. Of course it’s up to you how much riding you do: on some days you may prefer to relax by the heated pool, go to the market or visit some of the beautiful towns and villages in the area.
Choose a ride to suit you between 30 and 130 km long, with anywhere between 200 and 2000 metres of climbing, depending on the weather and your energy levels! Circuits include visiting the ruined village of Peyrusse-le-roc, exploring the Lot and Célé valleys with a stop at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, one of France’s most beautiful villages, and a wonderful circuit along the Truyère river to Entraygues and Conques. We’ll stop for snacks and refreshments in local cafés and restaurants where possible, or we’ll take a picnic lunch with us to enjoy in the heart of nature.
Food has to be a highlight of any holiday in south-west France, where people are passionate about their food! Enjoy a well-deserved 4 course gourmet meal in the evening, using fresh produce from Marion’s vegetable garden, served with local organic wines as an optional extra. Special diets can be catered for – just let us know in advance.
If you don’t want to bring your own bike we recommend getting in touch with Simon at VELODULOT. They offer a great range of excellent quality road bikes and will deliver your bike to you here at Monplaisir for a €40 fee.
Flights are available several times a day to Toulouse from London Heathrow, Gatwick or Luton, and several times a week from Bristol. You can then complete your journey by train or hire a car for the 2 hour drive to Monplaisir. If you’d like to travel all the way by train, there are direct connections from Paris to Cahors, from where we can pick you up.
We are striving to minimise the negative environmental impact of travelling to Monplaisir. The course fee therefore includes a realistic contribution towards offsetting your carbon footprint through a tree-planting scheme.
Maximum 8 participants
Cost per person £1010 Twin (shared) room with en-suite bathroom £1150 Single room with shared bathroom £1350 Single room with en-suite bathroom
What’s included: – 6 nights accommodation – breakfast, lunch and four course dinners. Wine and beer available to buy on site. – picnic lunches and snacks – daily rides (accompanied by local riders) – transport to local places of interest and excursions What’s not included: – travel to and from Monplaisir (pick-up from Toulouse, Brive or Rodez airports can be arranged, or nearby train stations such as Cahors or Villefranche-de-Rouergue.) – meals and drinks in cafés and restaurants – bike hire
Contact marionmonplaisir@gmail.comif you have any questions or to book a place!
