Adventure by bike,following the river

The Lot Valley Cycle Route

Set off on an adventure, at your own pace, with friends or on your own, for a cycling experience. Suitable for all abilities, with the right kit, on shared paths and a few sections of footpaths and greenways, the V86 will take you through magnificent landscapes, taking in plateaus, cliffs and rivers. From the Aubrac to the Garonne, this route will appeal to all nature lovers and cycle tourists lookingfor new routes to explore!

A breath of fresh air

by bike

The Véloroute, also known as ‘The Lot Valley by Bike’, stretches for 430 km and links La Canourgue, in Lozère, to Aiguillon, in Lot-et-Garonne. It then joins the Véloroute des Deux Mers. In the Lot, it passes through the beautiful landscapes of the Causses du Quercy and themajestic Lot Valley. On the section through the Grand-Figeac area, you’ll have the chance to pass through Capdenac-Gare, Saint-Pierre-Toirac and Cajarc, before reaching Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France.

Between Larroque-Toirac, near the Mas del Suc, and Cajarc, a greenway built on the old railway line allows you to cycle 9.7 km in complete tranquillity, right in the heart of the valley. Further on, a new 3.4-km section, also created on the old railway line, links Bouziès to the outskirts of Tour-de-Faure and extends your exploration of the valley.

As you cycle along the route, enjoy the cool waters of the River Lot, the limestone cliffs and the panoramic views that unfold at every bend. If you love cycling, nature and picturesque villages, this route is for you!

On the attack

roads and paths

Here are three suggested routes to inspire you to explore the winding roads of the Lot Valley

80 KM FROM CAPDENAC-GARE TO CAHORS
This route will take you through a wide variety of landscapes in the Lot Valley and the Causses du Quercy. You’ll discover the charm of the valley’s picturesque little villages, with gems such as the castles of Larroque-Toirac and Cenevières, the hilltop village of Montbrun, the charming ‘most beautiful village’ of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, and the incredible Pont Valentré in Cahors.

143 KM IN THE HEART OF THE LOT
There’s nothing better than cycling to explore the diversity of the landscapes! From Saint-Pierre-Toirac to Soturac, you’ll have the chance to discover Cajarc, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Cahors and Arcambal. You’ll see the scenery change as you go – from rolling hills to cliffs, from the Causse plateaus to winding roads, and from forests to vast vineyards.

230 KM FROM CAPDENAC STATION TO LA CANOURGUE
For the more adventurous and those who want to try a longer tour, this route takes you on a 3- to 5-day adventure! A timeless experience, as you wind your way along the curved roads that seem to merge with the river.

Discover the routes

Practical info

ACCESS

Capdenac-Gare and Cahors are well served by trains. Please note, however, that during peak times, transporting bicycles on TER trains can sometimes be tricky.
If you wish, you can hire a bike in Figeac or Cajarc.

SAFETY TIPS

Make sure your bike is in good condition before setting off.
For added safety, wear a helmet (compulsory for children under 12).
Wear light-coloured clothing so that motorists can see you.
During the tourist season, be careful – motorhomes and coaches will be sharing the road with you.

ACCOMMODATION, EATING OUT, EXPLORING

Along your route, look out for the ‘Accueil Vélo’ scheme. This national scheme highlights establishments and places suited to cycle tourism: accommodation, restaurants, bike hire companies and tourist attractions along the Véloroute.