We actually love pedal boating. Whether on inland lakes or in the Mediterranean. So we immediately became aware of VéloRail and got in touch.

One really important detail: you have to make a reservation by phone. This has nothing to do with the Corona pandemic, but with organizational matters. Each tour is accompanied by personnel who ensure the necessary safety: there are ungated railroad crossings that cannot be easily crossed. After all, you are not a train. It is better to get off the trolley and push it over the road - if no car comes, because they have right of way here! Details can be found here.

In the village of Corgnac, we park in the town hall square and walk under the bridge over the island, because we got there too early. The roads were obviously not curvy enough, so we made brisk progress. At the river, tables and benches are waiting for us and the weeping willows provide shade. The water is not too cool and we hang our toes in the little river.

We are 1.5 km from the Vélorail station and it is time to return to the car, because we have an appointment there.

During a two-hour bike ride on an old railroad line full of charm with its bridges, viaducts, tunnels and stations of yesteryear, we ride between valleys and rivers through the Périgord. 'Vélorail offers several routes, from 11 to 28 km in length for the outward and return journey.

The really relevant things are available at the terminus of the course Corgnac-Les Chatignoles: refreshments, ice cream and toilets.