Cycle Tours of Charente

Turn right out of La Giraudiere, then a left at the T-Junction onto the D7 at the end of the road. Continue on this path, which steadily declines, for around five minutes. Great views to the left... You should come eventually to a cross-roads, sign posted left to St Valliers and an Equestrian centre. The centre is at the bottom of the hill. If you really want to see it, do go down, as its a good scenic path to the bottom. However, remember you will have to turn around and get back up, as our route continues on the D7.

 Once back on route, take the second right at a cross-roads, which should be marked with a yellow sign to a Jet Ski and Quad Biking park. This you will see a few minutes down the road on your right. Over the summer it is open most days.
Past the park, you will approach a T-Junction onto the D127. Take right to chez Thomas. You will reach a cross roads. Take another right here and you will be taken through the centre of chez Thomas, past the Marie and out over a small bridge, after which you will need to bear right onto the D195 to Brossac.

Continue on this route for a good 5-10 mins. On the left, you will pass signs for Les Lamas de Brossac. If you came to the south of France for a bit of Lama walking, this is your stop. If not, carry on, as there's a minor hill up to the top to reach it!

 Shortly after you will need to bear right once more to Brossac on the D2, which will you past the Parc des Loisirs - the Etang Vallier. This includes a charming lake with a sandy beach, so feel free to hop off the bike and have a well earned rest. There is also Mini-Golf, a sailing school, and a Bar/Restaurant opposite. According to Paul, it does "great puddings"...

For the 'least steep' route back to LG, continue on the same path and take a herpin right at the cross-roads (D7). LG will be signposted along here on the left. 
"Thank you to Tom Quayle who put together both the cycle route and the web page whilst staying at La Giraudiere as part of the working group of 2009."