CIRCUIT DES CADETS DE GASCOGNE

This magnificent loop, which can be split into two or three sections with pleasant variations, gives you a choice. You can opt for a very pleasant, sporty circuit. Or you can take two or three days to explore this region between the hillsides and the Landes de Gascogne. The Cadets de Gascogne circuit starts in Casteljaloux and takes you along picturesque back roads to Ruffiac, Romestaing, Bouglon, Leyritz-Moncassin, Caubeyres and Fargues-sur-Ourbise. The route begins and ends in the forest. In between, it takes in the more rugged terrain of the southern slopes of the Marmandais region, offering sweeping views over the Landes, the Garonne valley and the hills of Marmande, the tomato capital. It's a very rural hike, where you can observe nature and flush out a pheasant or hare as you go. Along the way, you'll come across a number of listed churches and remarkable châteaux, including Malvirade and Moncassin. Few changes in altitude and good road surfaces make this a very pleasant ride, offering you the opportunity in one, two or three days, with a base camp in Casteljaloux, to discover the area in depth, choose a small restaurant along the way or stop off at a picnic area for a local snack out of the bag. You can download the itinerary from the Tourist Office website.