Prices
Is this tour for me?
Get In Touch
Highlights
Complete the entire Le Puy Camino on this 16-day self-guided cycling pilgrimage
Ride from the Haute-Loire to the Pyrénées-Atlantiques as you cycle west to east through spellbinding rural France.
Experience the cultural delights of several French regions, including Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Occitanie, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Enjoy diverse scenery and admire some of the prettiest villages in France.
Visit a multitude of churches and monasteries, experiencing a travelling museum of fine Romanesque art.
The Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino self-guided tour invites you to complete the entire Le Puy Camino, also known as the Via Podiensis, over 16 mesmerizing days on two wheels.
This long-distance cycling pilgrimage follows the Le Puy Camino, an ancient pilgrim route that spans southwest France, starting in Le Puy and concluding in St. Jean Pied de Port. This classic pilgrim trail is part of the epic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which runs through several countries in Europe, leading pilgrims to the sacred site at Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
Setting out from the capital of Haute-Loire, Le Puy, you'll embark on an unforgettable cycling journey through a series of dynamic landscapes, including the Central Massif, the stunning Lot Valley, several typical Quercy villages, to the majestic Pyrenees. Along the way, you’ll discover the scenic regions of Lot et Garonne, Gers, and Basque Country.
As you navigate numerous regions and areas of southern France, you'll encounter several of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (The Most Beautiful Villages in France), including Saint-Cirq-Lapopie and Auvillar. Cycling through expansive rural landscapes, you'll achieve a true sense of peace and purpose as you pedal alongside other determined pilgrims towards St. Jean Pied de Port.
Take in several historical sites along the way, like ancient abbey ruins, enchanting castles, and several Romanesque churches and monasteries. Unwind after challenging days on your bike, enjoying the gastronomy afforded by some of southern France’s best towns, like Cahors, Conques, and Figeac.
Whether you're seeking personal transformation, or an opportunity to commune with nature on the Le Puy Camino, the journey is bound to be life-changing. Don't miss out. Book your spot on the Full Le Puy Camino: Le Puy to St. Jean Pied de Port today!
The Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino self-guided tour invites you to complete the entire Le Puy Camino, also known as the Via Podiensis, over 16 mesmerizing days on two wheels.
This long-distance cycling pilgrimage follows the Le Puy Camino, an ancient pilgrim route that spans southwest France, starting in Le Puy and concluding in St. Jean Pied de Port. This classic pilgrim trail is part of the epic Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, which runs through several countries in Europe, leading pilgrims to the sacred site at Santiago de Compostela in Spain.
Setting out from the capital of Haute-Loire, Le Puy, you'll embark on an unforgettable cycling journey through a series of dynamic landscapes, including the Central Massif, the stunning Lot Valley, several typical Quercy villages, to the majestic Pyrenees. Along the way, you’ll discover the scenic regions of Lot et Garonne, Gers, and Basque Country.
As you navigate numerous regions and areas of southern France, you'll encounter several of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (The Most Beautiful Villages in France), including Saint-Cirq-Lapopie and Auvillar. Cycling through expansive rural landscapes, you'll achieve a true sense of peace and purpose as you pedal alongside other determined pilgrims towards St. Jean Pied de Port.
Take in several historical sites along the way, like ancient abbey ruins, enchanting castles, and several Romanesque churches and monasteries. Unwind after challenging days on your bike, enjoying the gastronomy afforded by some of southern France’s best towns, like Cahors, Conques, and Figeac.
Whether you're seeking personal transformation, or an opportunity to commune with nature on the Le Puy Camino, the journey is bound to be life-changing. Don't miss out. Book your spot on the Full Le Puy Camino: Le Puy to St. Jean Pied de Port today!
Read more
Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive
Arrive in the lovely capital of Haute-Loire, Le Puy! Your pilgrimage begins in this picturesque town, located in the southeast of the central massif and completely enveloped in a lunar-like volcanic landscape.
Le Puy, the starting point of the Le Puy Camino, also known as the Via Podiensis, is an important pilgrimage site and home to the Romanesque cathedral, Notre Dame. Settle into your accommodations here, and prepare for your long-distance pilgrimage journey beginning tomorrow.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Le Puy
Distance: None
Meals: None
Day 2 Cycle the Monts du Velay and the Haut-Allier Gorges to Saugues
Your pilgrimage on two wheels begins at the Notre Dame Cathedral of Le Puy. Set out through the beautiful Monts du Velay, where you’ll take in the famous fields of green lentils before descending the plunging Haut-Allier gorges.
Continue the route, riding to the Plateau de la Margeride, then a final ascent to Saugues. Saugues is steeped in legends, most famously the mysterious Beast of Gévaudan. Enjoy an overnight stay in this charming town, which is also known for its delectable mushrooms.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Saugues
Distance: 46km, 1050m of ascent, 625m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 3 Cycle the Margeride Plateau and the Truyère Valley to Aumont-Aubrac
Say farewell to mythical Saugues this morning as you set out to return to the Margeride plateau, which guides you into the Truyère Valley. Along the way, you’ll take in St. Roch Chapel and the delightful small hamlets of Le Rouget, St. Alban sur Limagnole, and Les Estrets. Arrive at your accommodations in Aumont-Aubrac, located in the heart of Lozère.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Aumont-Aubrac
Distance: 44km, 800m of ascent, 730m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 4 Cycle the Aubrac Plateau through Villages to Estaing
Rise ready to seize another exciting day on this classic pilgrim route! This morning, you’ll set out through fragrant groves of pine, entering the Aubrac Plateau. Riding at an altitude of around 1000 meters, you’ll enjoy sprawling pastures in all directions from this vantage point.
Cruise through the villages of Nasbinals and Aubrac, then enjoy a joy ride of 30 kilometres downhill to Saint Côme d’Olt, known as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Continue through the idyllic Lot Valley, pressing on to tonight’s stop in Estaing.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Estaing
Distance: 78km, 655m of ascent, 1375m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 5 Cycle Campuac, Espyrac, and Sénergues to Conques
Today’s ride is short but challenging. Depart Estaing, leaving behind the Lot Valley, as you tackle a steep ascent to Campuac. Then, ride to the pretty village of Espyrac, where you’ll take in castle ruins from the Middle Ages. Press on to Sénergues, also home to an enchanting castle, before continuing downhill towards Conques.
Spellbinding Conques is bound to be a highlight of the tour. It’s considered a treasured jewel of Romanesque art and is a world-famous stop on the Le Puy Camino.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Conques
Distance: 36km, 680m of ascent, 440m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 6 Cycle the River Dourdou de Conques and the Célé Valley to Figeac
Set out this morning to trace the gorgeous River Dourdou de Conques, which connects with the Lot River. Trace the Lot to Livinhac-le-Haut and enter the Célé valley.
Navigate the lush green valley to the pretty town of Figeac situated on the Célé river. The town is known as a hub of art and history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore during your time here.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Figeac
Distance: 43km, 430m of ascent, 740m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Cycle Quercy Villages to Bouziès via Conduché
This morning, you’ll find yourself back in the marvellous Célé valley, where the breathtaking scenery never gets old. Pedalling the road that traces the river, you’ll ride through several typical Quercy villages, like Espagnac, Saint Sulpice, and Marcilhac, with its fascinating Benedictine abbey ruins.
Reach Conduché, where you’ll be greeted by the familiar Lot river again, as you continue the route across a bridge to lovely Bouziès.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Bouziès
Distance: 54km, 80m of ascent, 150m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 8 Cycle the Lot to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Aujols, and Cahors
Today, you’ll share your route with other pilgrims on foot, allowing plenty of opportunity for chatting and reminiscing on the journey thus far.
Follow the Lot to reach Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, where you can hop off your bike to explore the pretty village perched on a rock, also labelled one of the most beautiful villages in France! Depart the valley with a challenging climb that will reward you with superb views of the countryside as you ride to the village of Aujols. Continue towards Flaujac-Poujols, then sail downhill to the medieval town of Cahors, where you’ll rest your head tonight.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Cahors
Distance: 35km, 540m of ascent, 550m of descent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 9 Cycle to Lauzerte via Labastide-Marnhac
The Valentré bridge will lead you out of Cahors this morning as you ride towards the village of Labastide-Marnhac, where again you’ll join several determined pilgrims on foot. Navigate small tracks and narrow roads to Lascabannes. Leaving the Lot department, you’ll enter the Tarn et Garonne and continue up to Lauzerte.
Lauzerte is etched into the hillside and overlooks stunning vineyards and green valleys. Spend some time exploring here, checking out the village’s idyllic upper valley, full of medieval wonders and a lovely town square.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Lauzerte
Distance: 39km, 285m of ascent, 185m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 10 Cycle to Auvillar via Moissac
Dive into Day 10 with an exhilarating downhill ride to Moissac, revelling in the fresh country air. You’ll soon enter the gorgeous Lomagne (hunchback Gascogne) area, which straddles the Tarn et Garonne and the Gers.
Continue to Auvillar, constructed on a peninsula and another of the most beautiful villages in France. Check out the town’s famous circular market, which dates to 1824.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Auvillar
Distance: 47km, 245m of ascent, 370m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 11 Enter the Gers Department and Cycle to Condom
Departing the Tarn et Garonne area this morning, you’ll set out into the Gers department. Enjoy taking in several quaint villages along the way, including Flamarens, Miradoux, Marsolan, and more!
Riding through the expansive open countryside of the Gers, you’ll soon reach the Armagnac town of Condom, famous for its Gothic cathedral built in the Languedoc style.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Condom
Distance: 59km, 555m of ascent, 590m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 12 Cycle to sur l’Adour via Eauze
This morning, you’ll ride through one of the most ancient walled towns of Gascogne, Montréal-du-Gers, as you ride to the capital of Gascogne, Eauze. Pause in beautiful Eauze to take in the impressive steeple of St. Luprece and the multitude of quaint half-timbered houses here.
Back on your bike, continue to sur l’Adour, where you’ll find your accommodations in Aire.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Aire
Distance: 79km, 220m of ascent, 240m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 13 Cycle the Béarn Area to Arzacq and Maslacq
Enjoy a peaceful route through plots and cornfields as you ride towards Troussin, Latrille, and then Miramont-Sensacq.
Entering the Béarn area, you’ll enjoy a pleasant stretch through chestnut and fern forests as you enter the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, arriving in the tiny village of Maslacq.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Maslacq
Distance: 67km, 660m of ascent, 655m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 14 Cycle to Saint-Palais via Navarrenx
Today’s ride is split between the Béarn and beautiful Basque country, in the heart of the Pyrenees. Cruise through the fortified village of Navarrenx, then cross the Gave d’Oloron, taking time to admire the castles of Montgaston and Joantho along the way.
Arrive in St. Palais, which marks your entry point into the Lower Navarre.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Saint-Palais
Distance: 48km, 380m of ascent, 415m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 15 Cycle to Saint Jean Pied Port to Complete the Le Puy Camino
Your final day of cycling unfolds in the beautiful Basque country, where you’ll revel in the typical white houses and half-timbered architectural style. Cross the Col des Palombières, enjoying exceptional views, then descend to Jaxu before continuing your descent through Bustince-Iriberry, and Saint-Jean-le-Vieux.
In the distance, you’ll fix your gaze on “the gate of Saint-Jacques,” which marks the entrance to St. Jean Pied de Port. Arrive in St. Jean Pied de Port, where your momentous pilgrim journey comes to an end. Be sure to explore the fortified citadel as you celebrate the completion of the full Le Puy Camino.
Overnight Location: Hotel in St. Jean Pied de Port
Distance: 34km, 385m of ascent, 255m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Day 16 Depart
This morning following breakfast, your tour comes to an end. It’s recommended to book an extra night in St. Jean Pied de Port to allow enough time to explore the beautiful village before departure.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Departure on April 1st – 30th, 2024:
- Single room: EUR2530
- Sharing a twin room: EUR1945
- Sharing a double room: EUR1895
- Sharing a triple room: EUR1885
Departure on May 1st – June 30th, 2024:
- Single room: EUR2560
- Sharing a twin room: EUR1960
- Sharing a double room: EUR1885
- Sharing a triple room: EUR1915
Departure on July 1st – August 31st, 2024:
- Single room: EUR2595
- Sharing a twin room: EUR1980
- Sharing a double room: EUR1950
- Sharing a triple room: EUR1930
Departure on September 1st – 30th, 2024:
- Single room: EUR2560
- Sharing a twin room: EUR1960
- Sharing a double room: EUR1885
- Sharing a triple room: EUR1915
Departure on October 1st –31st, 2024:
- Single room: EUR2530
- Sharing a twin room: EUR1945
- Sharing a double room: EUR1895
- Sharing a triple room: EUR1885
Accommodation on the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Tour
This tour is based in hotels and B&Bs. Accommodations are a mix of 2-star and 3-star. All accommodations offer basic conveniences that can make your stay more pleasant.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you prefer a single room, the required supplement is included in the listed price. Solo travellers will be required to pay a supplement.
Night 4
Hotel Auberge Saint Fleuret in Estaing ★★
Set on the beautiful riverbanks of the famous River Lot, this historic hotel is located just a stone throw from the impressive Chateau d'Estaing. Guests will enjoy charming rooms with traditional décor and access to an excellent in-house restaurant during their stay here.
Night 14
Hôtel de la Paix in Saint-Palais ★★★
Found in a peaceful, residential area of Saint Palais, this gorgeous hotel is located nearby several shops and restaurants, making it an ideal base for exploring Saint Palais and surrounding areas. The hotel offers convenient services like currency exchange and a salon.
What’s Included in the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino Tour?
Meals
15 breakfasts and 11 dinners are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 15 nights are included. Accommodations before the tour in Le Puy and after the tour in St. Jean Pied de Port are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for your luggage is included throughout the tour (up to 13kg per person). Airport transfers are not included but can be booked in advance as a supplement.
Also Included
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- Tourist information on all places of interest
- Tourist city tax
- 24/7 emergency phone support
Not included
- Flights to Le Puy (LPY)
- Flights from Biarritz (BIQ)
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Bike rental
- Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
Optional Extras
- Bike rental
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Airport transfers
- Optional activities or excursions
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
- How hard is the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino tour?
- I’ve never been on pilgrimage! What is different about this type of cycling tour?
- I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
- Do I need a visa to travel to France?
- Are meals included on the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Le Puy to start this tour?
- Where does the Cycle the Full Le Puy Camino tour end?
- Can I rent a bike?
- What equipment is included in the bike rental?
- Can I bring my own bike?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Switzerland or France?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Switzerland or France?
- When is the best time to travel to France for this tour?
We rate this tour a 4 / 5. You should be comfortable riding up to 80 kilometres in a day. The landscape is a mix of flat and hilly terrain. You should be an experienced cyclist to get the most out of this tour.
A pilgrimage often referred to as “a journey,” is when someone embarks into an unknown place, sometimes in search of personal transformation or to connect with nature. Some pilgrimages are closely aligned with major religions, and others are more about taking on a new challenge and enjoying a new experience. Several famous pilgrim routes have been used for thousands of years, often with a sacred site as the destination. Some of the world’s most famous pilgrimages are The Way of St. James (France and Spain), Sanctuary of Atotonilco (Mexico), Mount Kailash (Tibet), and many more.
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel as you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided all the information on which direction you need to go daily. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills, and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
15 breakfasts and 11 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover cycling. Get your Travel Insurance.
Fly into Le Puy Airport (LPY). You can arrange your own private transfer from the airport to your first accommodations or book a private transfer as a supplement in advance during the booking process.
The tour ends in St. Jean Pied de Port. The closest airport to the endpoint of this tour is Biarritz Airport (BIQ). You can reach the airport from St. Jean Pied de Port by first taking the mountain railway to Bayonne, which takes 1.5 hours. From Bayonne, take the airport bus (LINE C) to the Biarritz Airport, which takes approximately 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can book a private transfer to the airport as a supplement in advance or arrange your own private transfer.
Yes, you can rent a bike during the booking process. Rental bikes are SCOTT Sub Cross 24-speed hybrid bikes or SCOTT E-Sub Tour e-bikes.
The bikes come with a pannier, handlebar bag, spare tube, tools, pump, helmet and lock.
Yes. If you bring your own bike, it should be a bike suitable for the demands of the tour.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
The best time to travel to France for this cycling tour is from April through October. If you like hot weather, try July or August. If you prefer cooler weather and lighter crowds, the shoulder seasons are great.
Customer Ratings
With 25 years of experience running walking and biking tours in France, S-Cape France has a team full of energy and fresh ideas. Their multinational team can assist in various languages, and their large collection of itineraries means you’ll be able to find your dream adventure in France.
