Notes From the Road:
Southwest France Biking

Martha Butterfield

France

My heart quickens as I think of this hidden corner of southwest France.

Medieval Conques, perched above the lush river valley below.

Its dramatic cliffs, perched medieval villages, the stillness, the remove from the noises of modern life. This is an exhilarating escape for cyclists, along the crest (crete) of the Lot Gorge, with its spectacular, plunging views, extreme vistas and the 12thC Abbey of Conques clinging to the pinnacle of cliffs rising from the lush river valley below—a sacred stop for pilgrims en route to St. Jacques-de-Compostelle in Spain. Don’t miss the exquisite tympanum of the Last Judgment.

See for Yourself

On our Southwest France Biking trip, cycle the rolling hills through the vineyards of Cahors, relish in the incredible lush scenery of the Lot Valley and explore the immaculate fields of the Aubrac. Satisfaction indeed.

DETAILED ITINERARY

All this rugged beauty, the cobblestoned lanes, the serenity of life make spectacular companions to the comfort of our accommodations: from a traditional medieval castle in Cahors, the birthplace of the Malbec grape, to a charming old water mill outside of Conques and finally to the three-star Michelin restaurant of Michel Bras, with its very contemporary rooms designed by Phillipe Starck.

There will be fresh vegetables and herbs from their large gardens by the river. Maybe even some aligot, a delectable dish of whipped potatoes, garlic, crème fraiche and cheese from Laguiole, originally served to pilgrims and so delicious with Cahors red wine. There will be saffron and crepes and walnuts. There will be truffles.

In short, there will be satisfaction.

Notes From the Road 50th Anniversary

Martha Butterfield

B&R co-founder Martha Butterfield has made a career out of seeing the world—and imbuing it with her own natural panache. In addition to her work with B&R, she’s produced award-winning documentaries and worked with some of Canada’s top charities, relentlessly pursuing her curiosity and interest in the world around her.