In Périgueux, cycling is in tune with the tempo of the old town and the river. From the very first turn of the wheel, Saint-Front cathedral appears between the rooftops, white and tranquil, while the greenway runs alongside the Isle in the cool of the willows. Renting a bike in Périgueux gives you direct access to the gentleness of the Périgord region: the simple pleasure of moving forward, observing and breathing.

You leave the cobbled center, cross a bridge, and already the countryside is taking shape. The Voie Verte des Berges de l'Isle rolls out its ribbon of smooth asphalt, bordered by meadows and windmills. The path meanders, sometimes opening onto a mirror of water where a barge glides by, or onto a shady resting place perfect for a picnic. The steeples of Trélissac and Annesse-et-Beaulieu punctuate the walk, like landmarks in time.

For the more curious, head for the small roads of Périgord Blanc. The blonde stone hamlets, golden fields and orchards invite you to stroll. By mountain bike or electric bike, you can effortlessly climb the hills and then descend to the river, the warm wind in your hair.

The experienced cyclist knows that it's better to set off early, slip a bottle of water and a piece of fruit into the pannier, and save a little room for a cheese or a slice of pie bought at the market. Cycling gives you that rare luxury: the ability to improvise, to stop wherever you like, when the sun is filtering through the plane trees or the smell of warm bread is calling.