The Great Southwest of France

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Byron Egbert McKinney
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Activity Level: Avid Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights The Great Southwest of France Experience Southwest France For many, the French southwest, with its majestic river valleys, medieval castles, and

Back then, it was known as Conques and the Lot, but even with a new name the essence of the trip remains unchanged: diverse landscapes each stunning in its own way, from lush valleys to dormant

Yes, the biking is tougher than average, but our 50th anniversary calls for the best, and a few hills cannot impede this trip from that list, in fact, they enhance its inclusion.

1 Activity Level: Avid Duration: 6 Days/5 Nights The Great Southwest of France Experience Southwest France For many, the French southwest, with its majestic river valleys, medieval castles, and pilgrimage routes, is the true France. This is certainly true among the planning team at B&R, where veterans cite our former trip as the best biking itinerary we ve ever created. Back then, it was known as Conques and the Lot, but even with a new name the essence of the trip remains unchanged: diverse landscapes each stunning in its own way, from lush valleys to dormant volcanoes; history oozing from every battlement of its fortress towns; the knife-making wizardry of Laguiole; and, finally, the knife-wielding wizardry of the kitchen at three-star Maison Bras. Yes, the biking is tougher than average, but our 50th anniversary calls for the best, and a few hills cannot impede this trip from that list, in fact, they enhance its inclusion. To celebrate our 50th year in business, we ve dipped into the archive to craft new trips for 2016 that revisit some of our favourite corners of the globe. Call us at the journey p.2 view > / notes from the road p.5 view > / the details p.6 view > / next steps p.7 view >

2 The Journey 2 the journey Days 1 & 2 Vineyards of Cahors WELCOME TO THE LOT VALLEY! YOUR B&R GUIDES WILL meet with you at your hotel in Toulouse. After driving from the Pink City (named for the bricks used from the Roman period to the Middle Ages) to the Cahors region, we ll start our bike ride from the Château de Haute-Serres, a castle in the middle of recently replanted vineyards. We ll make our way on rolling roads that lead us through Malbec vines towards the Lot River and its striking Valley. We ll stop to enjoy a leisure lunch at a local restaurant before heading towards our home for the next two nights: The Château de Mercuès. After settling in, we ll meet for an informal cocktail before dinner, at the hotel restaurant run by young and promising Chef Philippe Combet. Chile. After learning about the wines we will enjoy a light bistro style dinner in the castle courtyard. HOTEL Château de Mercuès Perched on a rocky outcrop, this beautiful feudal castle overlooks the picturesque Lot valley and the Cahors vineyards, offering exceptional views. THE ACTIVITY Day 1: A 58 km (36 mi.) stunning warm-up ride ride along rolling hills through the vineyards. Be prepared for a few steep hill mid-way that ll reward you with your first views of the Lot River Valley. Day 2: A 88 km (55 mi.) flat ride along the Lot River Valley and the quiet roads of the Malbec s vine estates and typical medieval villages. The following morning we embark on our first ride along the Lot River. We will descend from our hilltop hotel into the valley heading west. During this ride we bike from castles to wine estates, constantly surrounded by vineyards and water. Today, enjoy a picnic lunch at the famous Clos Triguedina - Domaine Jean-Luc Baldès. Your B&R guides will have prepared a feast underneath secular pine trees facing the vineyards. Of course this will be after the visit of the estate and a wine tasting lead by Sabine Baldès herself. After lunch we will follow the river back to the hotel where you can spend some time relaxing by the pool. This evening, we meet in the castle cellar for a tasting of the local wines. The A.O.C. Cahors is the original area where the Malbec Cépage was used, long before its cultivation in Argentina and

The Journey 3 Days 3 & 4 The Lot Valley & Conques Today the day begins with a one hour drive heading east towards the beautiful village of Saint Cirq Lapopie.

3 The Journey 3 Days 3 & 4 The Lot Valley & Conques Today the day begins with a one hour drive heading east towards the beautiful village of Saint Cirq Lapopie. Voted the most beautiful village in France by a famous French television program, we ll explore this stunning but small village for a short time before embarking on the longest ride of the week. Nearly 100 km, this ride takes us from St Cirq to the village of Conques. This ride, although long, is arguably the most beautiful of our journey upstream the Lot. Conques is best-known for the relics of Sainte Foy, whose presence have made it a major stop on the Camino de Santiago from the Middle Ages until today. If desired, we offer a shorter option today, also riding upstream to the medieval city of Figeac, approximately a 56 km (35 mi.) ride. Pause for lunch at your leisure in one of the small villages we cross during our ride. If you selected the shorter option, your guides will organize a 30 min drive back to the hotel after lunch.this afternoon we ll arrive to the hotel in time for a dip in the pool. Dinner tonight is presented by Michelin star Chef Hervé Busset. His outstanding menu emphasizes the herbs and plants from the gardens which surround the water mill. The next morning we cycle flat routes along Marcillac Vineyards and the quiet Dourdou River Valley. We ll start our climb for the morning up to the plateau above Conques then ride through a vastly different landscape on the lowest mountains of the Massif Central. Finish the morning ride with a long downhill directly into the village of Conques. Enjoy a lunch on your own in this medieval village, with your guides happy to share their favourites and recommendations. This afternoon, we meet with our local guide to learn about the history of the village and the outstanding Roman Abbatiale Cathedral. Our guide shares countless stories about the pilgrims stopping in Conques since as far back as the 9th and 10th century. Or, if you d prefer to relax by the pool, our hotel is only a mile away. Tonight we take a short drive to the village of Nauvialeto to meet with Claudine Vinas and her husband, owner and wine maker of the intimate Domaine des Costes Rouges. Here, we ll enjoy a simple and authentic dinner made from home grown products, cooked over the fire in the dining room. HOTEL Moulin de Cambelong, Conques You will feel completely at home in the comfort of this charming hotel which provides a welcoming atmosphere. Nestled in an authentic verdant oasis overlooking the Dourdou River, this former chestnut and walnut flour mill has been renovated to create a place of authenticity and comfort for guests. THE ACTIVITY Day 3: A 96 km (59 mi.) ride of gently rolling hills. This ride stretches from St Cirq to Conques next to the Lot River Valley. Expect a few steep climbs as we ride on the right side of the river bank. Today we also offer a shorter option where you will ride to the medieval city of Figeac, approximately 56 km (35 mi.) Day 4: A 51 km (31 mi.) ride starting on flat roads along the Dourdou River Valley, riding south of Conques. There is a climb to the Senergues Plateau followed by rolling terrain and a long downhill into Conques.

The Journey 4 Day 5 The Aubrac & Maison Bras Today we escape on an epic journey within our journey, cycling from one hotel to another, entering a different region with a diverse landscape and

4 The Journey 4 Day 5 The Aubrac & Maison Bras Today we escape on an epic journey within our journey, cycling from one hotel to another, entering a different region with a diverse landscape and completely distinct culture. We start in the now familiar Lot Valley and finish our ride in the immaculate fields of the Aubrac. The scenic roads we cycle are pleasantly shaded by ancient oak trees looming above. Stop for lunch at the Florentin for a simple and refreshing break before continuing the ride along the rolling terrain of the Laguiole area. During our ride we stop at the Forge de Laguiole, housed in an amazing building designed by famous French contemporary designer Philippe Starck. In a town known for its many knife manufactures, the Forge is the only producer in town that crafts knives entirely from scratch. Forging cold-press steel, brass and cow horn into pure works of art, the local artisans keep up the age-old tradition of their forefathers. After this visit we cover our last leg of the journey up to the Maison Bras where we will be warmly greeted by Madame Véronique Bras. Tonight prepare yourself for a spectacular culinary experience. Led by internationally renowned Chef Sébastien Bras, the Bras family continues to provide generations of tradition and excellence in their restaurant. Madame Bras, Sébastien s grandmother, and Michel Bras worked had to prepare the traditional local dish aligot, a potato purée with special local cheese. Today, Sébastien, the son, and his wife Véronique keep this modest but outstanding cooking tradition alive purely for our enjoyment! It is a fittingly memorable finale to our foray into France s great southwest. Day 6 Farewells After an extraordinary breakfast at Maison Bras, we drive 45 minutes to the Rodez Airport. We ll make our way mid-morning in time to catch you outbound flight to Paris. Private transfer arrangements can easily be made for those travellers wishing instead to catch a train from Clermont-Ferrand. Bon voyage! HOTEL Maison Bras, Laguiole The stunning Bras property is hidden away within gorgeous mountainside and untouched Laguiole terrain, creating a surreal contrast with the minimalist decor. Huge glass windows surround the lounge offering breathtaking views and all guest rooms provide a private and relaxing garden terrace. Run by Michel Bras, the hotel s restaurant prepares food deeply rooted in the French countryside. THE ACTIVITY Day 5: A 76 km (47 mi.) ride up gentle uphill terrain then 13 km (8 mi.) uphill cycle from the Lot River to the Aubrac and Maison Bras.

Notes from the road 5 Satisfaction in Southwest France By Martha Butterfield My heart quickens as I think of this hidden corner of southwest France: its dramatic cliffs, perched medieval villages,

5 Notes from the road 5 Satisfaction in Southwest France By Martha Butterfield My heart quickens as I think of this hidden corner of southwest France: 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. 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. B&R FOUNDER Martha Butterfield Since co-founding B&R with her husband George Butterfield and her brother Sidney Robinson (she likes to joke that she s the original Butterfield and Robinson), Martha Butterfield has made a career out of seeing the world and imbuing it with her own natural panache along the way. In addition to her work with B&R, she s produce award-winning documentaries and worked with some of Canada s top charities, relentlessly pursuing her curiosity and interest in the world around her.

6 The details 6 U.K. Paris BELGIUM GERMANY Cahors Conques Laguiole SWITZ. FRANCE Atlantic Ocean ITALY MIDI-PYRÉNÉES 2016 Price: From $5,795 (from $1,000 single supplement) Single supplement is based on the most affordable rooms within B&R s allocation. Upgrades often available. Duration 6 Days / 5 Nights Please see our website for list of departures.* *Some departures use a slightly different itinerary. Please call for details. Start Toulouse La Cour des Consuls 8:00am Finish Rodez Rodez Airport 11:00 am the details HOTEL TYPE Signature Hotels Hotels on our Signature trips are unique expressions of the region. Oftentimes that means they ve had a previous life as a monastery or a castle, but in every case it means they offer both an exceptionally comfortable stay and a taste of the region s culture. Best of all, we re friends with our hoteliers. (Translation? Preferential treatment for you.) LEVEL OF ACTIVITY Avid This trip is rated Avid biking. Daily biking distances usually vary from 51 to 96 km (31 to 59 mi.), with shorter options provided on some days. The riding is along the banks of the Lot River and through countryside, and we are fortunate to do much of our biking on almost deserted roads. There are some long climbs--and, fortunately, many rewarding descents. MORE INFO How do I get to Toulouse? Since most transatlantic flights arrive in Paris, this will most likely be your point of arrival. The Paris-Gare Montparnasse train has many direct trips from Paris to Toulouse each day. Alternatively you can take a direct flight from Paris-Orly Est to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport. There are many flights scheduled throughout the day, we recommend flying if you re looking for the quickest option. LA COUR DES CONSULS, TOULOUSE La Cour des Consuls, located only 20 minutes from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, is in the historical center of Toulouse. It s a short walk away from the city s main square: the Place du Capitole. This Square is not only the most centered point but it s also the heart of the city. This 5 star hotel offers all the amenities you need and the restaurant is a favourite among locals. WHAT S INCLUDED All hotel accommodation All breakfast, 3 lunches and all dinner with wine (selected by B&R) Services of B&R guide(s) and support van Use of a customized Bianchi bicycle and helmet (we recommend the use of our elite bike) All special events and private tours All transportation from rendezvous to drop-off All baggage transportation Detailed maps, route suggestions and water bottle All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.

Your next steps 7 FIND US ON FACEBOOK www.facebook.com/butterfieldandrobinson Like B&R on Facebook and get the latest news and photos from the road, updates from guides and more.

Weather: Conques your next steps month high low Jan/Feb 53 38 Mar/Apr 62 44 May/Jun 75 56 Jul/Aug 84 63 Sep/Oct 72 55 Nov/Dec 54 41 At Butterfield & Robinson, the guiding starts while you re still at

7 Your next steps 7 FIND US ON FACEBOOK Like B&R on Facebook and get the latest news and photos from the road, updates from guides and more. ROOM UPGRADE If you would like to upgrade your accommodation on this trip, please enquire at time of booking to learn cost and availability. Weather: Conques your next steps month high low Jan/Feb Mar/Apr May/Jun Jul/Aug Sep/Oct Nov/Dec At Butterfield & Robinson, the guiding starts while you re still at home. We make sure you know everything you need to know before you ve even left your living room. READY TO BOOK? Call or a Travel Advisor (or your travel agent) with any remaining questions, and to reserve your space / Reserve your flights to and from the region. Book your hotel accommodation for the night before your B&R trip. Make sure your passport is up to date. Enquire after travel insurance. Once you are confirmed on a B&R trip, you will receive a Confirmation that links to tons of information to help you prepare for your trip. Then, about a month before you leave, we will send you a list of your fellow travellers, final rendezvous instructions and your hotel contact numbers. YOUR BIKE We pride ourselves on having the very best equipment for each activity and locale, maintained by expert staff and custom tweaked just for you. To learn about our biking equipment and see pictures of what you ll be riding, visit us at butterfield.com/ about/equipment/bikes. And don t forget that we will modify your bike to accommodate most special gear requests. Just ask. EXTENDING YOUR TRIP Paris is one of the great cities in the world, so chances are you will want to spend time there either before or after your trip. There are several recommendations for where to stay and what to do while in Paris included in the Confirmation you will receive upon booking. We ll also happily recommend a city guide if you want an insider s Paris. STAY IN TOUCH! Sign up to receive The Slow Road our e-newsletter that is full of travel news, unique offers and B&R insider info. In the meantime, if you have any questions about your B&R experience big, small or downright quirky please call a Travel Advisor, or contact your travel professional. We are always happy to help. The itinerary information may vary slightly for your specific departure as we continuously research and develop each trip. Inclement weather may also necessitate minor alterations. Prices are per person and in USD Butterfield & Robinson Inc.

Burgundy Biking Experience Burgundy. the journey p.2 view > / notes from the road p.5 view > / the details p.6 view > / next steps p.

Burgundy Biking Experience Burgundy. the journey p.2 view > / notes from the road p.5 view > / the details p.6 view > / next steps p. Activity Level: Moderate Duration: 6 Days / 5 Nights Experience Burgundy THE B&R DIFFERENCE We loved our Burgundy trip! We particularly liked the hotels, the food and our guides. Distances were just right