September 3rd, 2006

Sundays in Europe, the bane of touring cyclists, as little is open besides boulangeries (mornings only) and maybe some bars and restaurants during the evenings.  We managed to pick up the breakfast essentials (croissant & pain chocolate, of course) before heading out for a ride.  On the back roads to Issigeac, we met  quite a few local cyclists out for a Sunday ride. The quiet side road climb gradually out of the Dordogne River valley and onto the western edge of the limestone plateau known as Causse de Grammat.

We reached Issigeac, just before lunch time.  Issigeac has a Sunday(!) market and the place was packed with locals and tourists.  Issigeac was founded by the Bishop of Sarlat in the 13th century and manages to retain most of the medieval buildings.  The narrow streets with the overhanging buildings seem  claustrophobic at times as we checked out the open market.

More back roads took us to Monbazillac where there is a 16th century château owned by the wine co-op, surrounded by vineyards with views overlooking Bergerac and the Dordogne valley.  Monbazillac is well known for its sweet white wines.  We bought a half bottle and it is indeed fruity and sweet, much like ice wine.