If you want to escape the crowds on low-traffic roads, look no further. La Vagabonde is a 516-kilometre (321 mi) cycling adventure that crosses some of France's least populated regions and départements.

It runs between the communes of Montluçon and Montech, taking in the departments of Creuse, Corrèze, Lot and Tarn-et-Garonne. Travelling from north to south, the climate and terrain offer a breathtaking diversity of landscapes. The great Vassivière Lake, the Plateau de Millevaches, the Dordogne Valley and the Causses du Quercy Natural Regional Park are just a few examples of the natural beauty that La Vagabonde has to offer.

The heritage you discover on the various stages of this Collection is just as impressive: whether it's the Cité Internationale de la Tapisserie in Aubusson, the thousand-year-old village of Rocamadour, which seems to be balanced on the top of a rock face, or Cahors with its Valentré bridge featuring three mediaeval towers. These and many other less famous sites, such as the village of Argentat and the Lacave caves, invite you to set foot on land time and again.

The terrain at the start and end of the route is fairly flat, becoming more rugged as you approach the Plateau de Millevaches and Rocamadour. You have to cross a fairly deserted causse before reaching this wonderful village. My favourite part of this itinerary takes place on the fifth stage when the route follows the banks of the River Dordogne on very narrow roads. The proximity of the water and, above all, the immense cliffs towering above you will give you shivers of pleasure.

This Collection is suitable for all abilities and the stages are easily adaptable. Montluçon, the starting point, is served by an SNCF station. This is not the case at the end town of Montech. If you want to use public transport, you'll have to go back around 13 kilometres (8 mi) along the V 87 to find a rail link to Montauban.

The best time to experience La Vagabonde is between spring and autumn. Don't forget your warm clothes and waterproofs to make the most of this adventure.

La Vagabonde is also a novel written by French author Colette in 1910, which I recommend reading before exploring the trail. I'm sure you'll find room for it in your panniers. All that's left for me to do is to wish you some wonderful discoveries in the heart of France.