Cycling through the Lot Valley countryside near Lasclottes

Cycling the Lot Valley

Riverside greenways, quiet country lanes, and rolling hills

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The Lot Valley is superb cycling country. From flat, paved greenways ideal for families to challenging hill climbs through sunflower fields and vineyards, there's riding for every level. Lasclottes sits right in the heart of it, with routes heading out directly from the front gate.

The V86 — Véloroute de la Vallée du Lot

The V86 is a long-distance cycling route that follows the Lot Valley from its source all the way to the Garonne. It passes through Saint-Sylvestre-sur-Lot, just minutes from Lasclottes, and provides a well-signed, largely flat route through some of the most beautiful scenery in southwest France.

The route connects historic towns including Villeneuve-sur-Lot, Penne d'Agenais, and Fumel, with plenty of café stops along the way.

Cycle routes near Lasclottes showing the V86 route

Voie Verte en Villeneuvois

The Voie Verte is an 8.4 km paved greenway running along a disused railway line between Villeneuve-sur-Lot and the surrounding countryside. It's entirely car-free, flat, and shaded — perfect for families with children, leisure cyclists, or an easy morning spin.

The surface is smooth tarmac, suitable for road bikes, hybrids, and even pushchairs. There are picnic areas and benches along the route.

Group cycling along a quiet road in the Lot Valley

Country Roads & Hill Climbs

For more adventurous cyclists, the surrounding countryside offers a network of quiet departmental roads winding through orchards, vineyards, and hilltop villages. The terrain is gently rolling with occasional steeper climbs up to bastide towns like Penne d'Agenais and Pujols.

Traffic is minimal outside of the main roads, and the scenery is constantly rewarding — fields of sunflowers in summer, plum orchards in autumn, and wide views across the valley from every ridge.

Solo cyclist on a quiet road in Lot-et-Garonne

Suggested Routes from Lasclottes

Lasclottes to Penne d'Agenais

8 km each way • Easy to Moderate • Some climbing into the village

Follow quiet lanes along the river to the hilltop bastide town of Penne d'Agenais. Reward yourself with a coffee in the square and take in the panoramic views from the basilica before a largely downhill return.

Lot Valley Loop via Saint-Sylvestre

20 km • Easy • Mostly flat riverside

A relaxed loop following the river through Saint-Sylvestre-sur-Lot and along the V86 route. Flat terrain, beautiful river views, and several café stops along the way. Ideal for families.

Lasclottes to Villeneuve-sur-Lot

15 km each way • Easy • Flat valley road

Ride into the market town of Villeneuve-sur-Lot along the river. Browse the market (Tuesday and Saturday mornings), stop for lunch, and cycle back. A great full-morning outing.

Hilltop Villages Circuit

40–50 km • Challenging • Hilly terrain

For fit cyclists: a loop taking in Penne d'Agenais, Tournon-d'Agenais, and Monflanquin. Significant climbing but spectacular views and three stunning medieval villages as rewards.

Tour de France Country

The Tour de France has passed through the Lot-et-Garonne region, bringing the world's best cyclists through the very roads you'll be riding. The area's mix of flat valley stages and punchy hill climbs makes it classic Tour terrain.

Cycling culture runs deep here — you'll share the road with local club riders, see cycling memorabilia in village cafés, and find that drivers give cyclists plenty of respect and room.

Tour de France passing through the Lot-et-Garonne region

Practical Information

Bike Hire

Cycles Lamiche in Villeneuve-sur-Lot hire road, hybrid, and mountain bikes. C'Lot at Casseneuil offer bikes alongside their canoe hire. FatVelo specialise in e-bikes for those who want the views without the sweat.

Bring Your Own

There's secure storage at Lasclottes for your own bikes. The property has a sheltered area suitable for cleaning and basic maintenance. Bring your toolkit and spare tubes.

Best Time to Ride

May, June, and September offer the best cycling weather — warm but not too hot. In July and August, ride early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.

Family Cycling

The Voie Verte greenway and flat riverside sections of the V86 are ideal for children. Several hire companies offer child seats, trailers, and smaller bikes.

Explore the Lot Valley on Two Wheels

Book your stay at Lasclottes and discover the best cycling in southwest France.

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