The best cycling routes around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil
4.7
(59)
386
riders
91
rides
Touring cycling routes around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil are situated in the Périgord Vert region of Dordogne, France, within the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park. The area is characterized by lush green fields, rolling hills, and scenic valleys, with deep forests and peaceful rivers like the Auvézère and Loue. Terrain for cycling often features moderate relief with mostly well-paved surfaces, though some routes include uphill sections. This landscape provides a mix of challenging and accessible paths for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil
- The most popular touring cycling route is Around Hautefort Castle, a 16.2 miles (26.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 53 minutes to complete. This route offers views of the historic Hautefort Castle, often involving an uphill path.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Corgnac-sur-l'Isle – Kirche Notre Dame loop from Excideuil, a difficult 35.4 miles (56.9 km) path. This extensive loop navigates through the region's varied landscapes, connecting different villages.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Uitzicht – The lightning tree loop from Excideuil, a 29.9 miles (48.1 km) trail leading through varied terrain with significant elevation gain, often completed in about 4 hours 22 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil is defined by deep forests, peaceful rivers, and moderate relief. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easier paths to more challenging routes with significant elevation gain.
- The routes in Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. More than 300 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 23, 2026
5.0
(3)
5
riders
26.0km
01:53
460m
460m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
10
riders
58.3km
04:04
1,030m
1,030m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
Sign up for free
8
riders
47.4km
04:15
1,100m
1,100m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
5
riders
26.3km
01:34
190m
190m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
4
riders
23.6km
01:34
330m
340m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Excideuil hospital building, designed in reinforced concrete, is a hospital complex built from 1937, with an interruption during the war, then resumed in 1949. It comprises several buildings including a main hospital in the shape of a comb with a curved plan, with seven levels adapted to the slope of the land, allowing differentiated entrances. The architecture strictly separates the services by floor (medicine, surgery, children, etc.) with rooms open on the south facade to let in light. The building also has a central glass rotunda housing the reception hall and operating rooms, as well as an administrative building with a clock tower. The complex is located in a large sloping park overlooking the town of Excideuil
0
0
A very beautiful, small village. Ideal for a short rest.
1
0
Why Visit Thiviers? For its gastronomy: Thiviers is a paradise for gourmets. With its fat markets, truffles and local products, the city offers an authentic and unique culinary experience. For its historical heritage: Between its Gothic church and its museums, Thiviers allows you to delve into the history of Périgord and discover the Périgord way of life. For the surrounding nature: Located in the Périgord Vert, the city is an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding countryside, whether through hikes or bike rides. Thiviers is an ideal destination for those looking to discover the gastronomic and natural heritage of Périgord, while enjoying the charm of an authentic and welcoming small town.
1
0
Nature and hiking: Green environment: Surrounded by hills and forests, Thiviers is the ideal starting point for hikes in the Périgord Vert. Nature lovers can take advantage of the marked trails to discover the local flora and fauna. The Thiviers-Saint-Pardoux greenway: This old railway line transformed into a cycle path allows you to explore the surrounding countryside in complete tranquility, whether on foot or by bike. Market and local traditions: Weekly market: The Thiviers market is a meeting place for locals and visitors. You can find local products, fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and of course, Périgord specialties such as foie gras and duck confit. Festivals and festivals: Thiviers regularly organizes cultural and gastronomic events, such as the Foire du Gras, which celebrates local products, or even music and traditional arts festivals. Vaucocour Castle: 18th century building: Located not far from the city, this castle, surrounded by a magnificent park, is a beautiful example of 18th century architecture. It is possible to visit its gardens and learn more about local history.
1
0
Thiviers, located in the Dordogne, is a charming little town in the Périgord Vert, renowned for its rich historical and gastronomic heritage. Nicknamed the "capital of foie gras and truffles", Thiviers is a destination of choice for lovers of good food and history buffs. Surrounded by green landscapes, this town offers a beautiful immersion in the culture and traditions of the Périgord. Points of Interest in Thiviers: Historical Heritage: Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption Church: This Gothic church, dating from the 13th century, is one of the most important monuments in Thiviers. It impresses with its sober and elegant architecture, with its square bell tower and colorful stained glass windows. Museum of earthenware and tableware: Located in a private mansion, this museum houses a beautiful collection of old earthenware and tableware objects, testifying to the importance of culinary traditions in Périgord. Local gastronomy: Capital of foie gras: Thiviers is world-renowned for its foie gras production. Every year, foie gras markets attract many visitors, and the city regularly organizes gastronomic events showcasing this emblematic product. Périgord truffles: In addition to foie gras, Thiviers is also famous for its truffles, these precious mushrooms that make the region famous. The truffle market in winter is an unmissable event for gourmets.
1
0
small hospitable village for cyclists. at the intersection of the Flow Vélo, Isle valley bike route and towards the Vezere valley. municipal campsite and small shops.
1
0
One of the few fountains along the way.
3
1
Beautiful church on the edge of the road.
1
1
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil?
There are nearly 90 touring cycling routes around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, while many routes feature moderate to difficult terrain, there are a few easier paths available. For a generally accessible experience, the Flow Vélo, connecting Excideuil to Thiviers, offers a scenic 20 km route on small shared roads with moderate relief, suitable for families. Always check the route details for specific difficulty ratings.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see along the touring cycling routes?
The region is rich in natural beauty, situated within the Regional Natural Park Périgord Limousin. You'll encounter deep forests, peaceful rivers like the Auvézère and Loue, and verdant scenery. A notable natural highlight is the Saut Ruban Waterfall, a magnificent site amidst lush vegetation, perfect for a tranquil stop.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit while cycling?
Absolutely. The area boasts several historical attractions. You can cycle past the strategic medieval Hautefort Castle, known for its classical architecture and stunning gardens. The Château de Hautefort and Gardens is a rewarding destination, often involving an uphill path to reach it. The Corgnac-sur-l'Isle – Kirche Notre Dame loop from Excideuil also connects various villages with historical significance.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil?
The Périgord Vert region is celebrated for its verdant scenery, making spring and early autumn ideal for touring cycling. The weather is generally pleasant, and the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Summers can be warm, but the many forested routes offer welcome shade.
What are the typical terrain and elevation challenges on these routes?
The terrain often features mostly well-paved surfaces with moderate relief. However, some routes, like the Around Hautefort Castle, include uphill sections that require good fitness. Difficult routes can have significant elevation gains, such as the Uitzicht – The lightning tree loop from Excideuil, which features over 1100 meters of ascent.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Hautefort – Hautefort Castle loop from Ancienne gare and the Bus – La Loue / Coulaures loop from Excideuil, which explore the surrounding landscapes.
Are there places to eat or find supplies along the routes?
While specific cafes or pubs directly on every route aren't detailed, the vibrant local markets in nearby Excideuil (especially on Thursdays) and Thiviers are excellent places to stop for local gastronomy and supplies during your touring cycling adventure.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil?
The routes in Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from deep forests to peaceful rivers, and the mix of challenging and accessible paths.
Is bike rental available in the area?
Yes, for those without their own equipment, bike rental and guided mountain bike tours are available in nearby Excideuil, making it convenient to explore the region's cycling opportunities.
Are the touring cycling routes dog-friendly?
While the region's natural parks and trails are generally welcoming to dogs, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or shared paths. Check specific route details for any restrictions, and ensure your dog is comfortable with the distance and terrain.
What is the Flow Vélo and how does it relate to touring cycling in this area?
The Flow Vélo is a notable 20 km cycling path connecting Excideuil to Thiviers. It's an excellent option for touring cyclists looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Dordogne and Périgord Vert, utilizing small shared roads with moderate relief and offering scenic views and riverside stretches.
Most popular routes around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil
Most popular attractions around Saint-Médard-D'Excideuil
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
