We will split into different groups depending on the type of cycling you are looking for. Each one will be led by an Oak Hall team member. The ‘coffee and cakes’ group take everything at a relaxed pace, admiring the scenery, while the fastest group enjoy the chance to prove their fitness! With other groups in between as well, this holiday is ideal for everyone looking for an active and refreshing break.
We will follow a range of carefully selected routes, which gradually increase in length from around 20 miles on the first day to around 50 miles on the last day.
All the rides are of course optional but by building up the length of the rides through the week, the groups build up their fitness and you may well be surprised to find how far you can cycle! Also, depending on the destination, there may be options to extend or shorten the distance.
The Dordogne region of France, to the east of Bordeaux, is renowned for its attractive, wide-ranging scenery. The relaxed pace of cycling provides an excellent way to explore the region. We stay in an excellent location, next to the river in the beautiful town of Brantôme. The centre of the town is on an island and you can hire a canoe to explore the area from the water.
Our rides take us to interesting destinations, such as Villars with its amazing network of caves and prehistoric paintings. Another lunchtime stop, St Jean de Cole, has been voted one of the most beautiful villages in France. On two of our rides we make use of the 'voie verte', a network of wide paths designed specifically for cyclists.
At the campsite, we provide the tents and you can bring whatever makes you comfortable for sleeping, such as an airbed. After a day’s cycling we return to our campsite for an energising meal prepared by the Oak Hall team, as well as a Bible talk that is always a highlight. We can then relax and share stories of the day’s cycling or take part in games and activities.