Southern France Canal du Midi Bike Tour
France Bike Tours
Cycling from Toulouse to the Mediterranean
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length8–10 days
- Prices from€1178 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
The Canal du Midi is undoubtedly the most stunning canal in Europe, and this cycling tour in France allows you to experience it in all its beauty.
This calm and restful waterway is lined on both sides by thousands of century-old trees. Along the 160 miles of waterway, you will come across authentic and varied landscapes, as well as exceptional towns of cultural and historical interest, such as the starting city of Toulouse and the medieval walled village of Carcassonne.
Highlights
- Agde with its fortified Romanesque cathedral
- Béziers with its 2000-year-old Roman bridge, cathedral, and Canal Bridge
- Narbonne and its stunning gothic cathedral, archbishop’s palace, and Roman underground warehouses
- Sete where the Canal flows into the Mediterranean Sea
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Itinerary
Day 1: Individual arrival to Toulouse
Day 2: Toulouse - Castelnaudary, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 3: Castelnaudary - Mirepoix, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 4: Mirepoix - Carcassonne, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 5: Roundtrip to Montolieu, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 6: Carcassonne - Olonzac/surrounding, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 7: Olonzac/surrounding - Narbonne, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 8: Narbonne - Beziers, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 9: Beziers - Séte, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 10: Departure or extension of stay in Sete.All distances are approximate. Due to circumstances beyond control, weather conditions or provisions issued by local authorities, therefore the itinerary may be subject to some changes before and/or during your holiday. For example, along the way you may find temporary deviations/detours caused by roadwork or repair work on locks and the towpath. In this case please follow the directions posted on site which may lead onto secondary roads, etc.
Day 1: Individual arrival to Toulouse
After arriving in Toulouse, check in to your hotel, settle in, and relax. In the evening, a welcome meeting is scheduled with the distribution of the rental bikes. Toulouse is sometimes called, “ville rose”, or the pink town because of its buildings made of reddish stone. Following the welcome meeting, take a walk to see the important sacred buildings of Toulouse, one of which is the basilica St-Sernin de Toulouse, one of the most beautiful Romanesque sacred buildings in South France. Toulouse is an attractive mixture of architectural styles with lordly Renaissance houses and former industrial buildings, which were masterfully rebuilt into culture temples. Overnight in Toulouse.Day 2: Toulouse - Castelnaudary, 37 mi. (60 km)
Castelnaudary is the destination of today’s bike tour. The Moulin de Cagurel from the 17th century can be seen on the pestilence hill. Splendid manors, built in the 17th century and beautiful half-timbered houses make this town an architectural jewel. A popular culinary delicacy in Castelnaudary is the savory bean stew, Cassoulet, which became popular during the Hundred Years' War. Overnight in Castelnaudary.Day 3: Castelnaudary - Mirepoix, 31 mi. (50 km)
Follow the newly remodeled Canal du Midi cycle path to Bram. You'll cycle along an old railway line converted for cyclists, and head toweards the Pyrenees. The climb is moderate as yyou roll through railway tunnels, over viaducts and bridges to today's destination, Mirepoix, an enchanting bastide from the Middle Ages.Day 4: Mirepoix - Carcassonne, 37 mi. (60 km)
Back through the Ariège countryside, a quiet and meditative agricultural landscape with rolling hills, to Carcassonne. There, the imposing Cité, the largest fortified city in Europe, awaits you; you are in the heart of the Cathars.Day 5: Roundtrip to Montolieu, 25 mi. (40 km)
Montolieu, located at the edge of the Montagnes Noires, is sometimes referred to as "the City of Books". There are 15 book stores containing over 200,000 books that will delight the avid reader. Many artists live and work in Montolieu. The former royal textile manufacturing was declared a National Monument in 2004. After a visit to this lovely village, cycle back to Carcassonne.Day 6: Carcassonne - Olonzac, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today's route will lead along the waterways through villages, wine-growing estates, and vineyards. The day ends in Olonzac where you will have the chance to taste some good quality wines from the region.Day 7: Olonzac/surroundings - Narbonne, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today's destination is Narbonne, which is surrounded by beautiful vineyards. It was also the former capital of the Romanesque antiquity and the first Roman colony outside of Italy. Sights like the relics of the street "Via Domitia" or the historic bridge, "Pont des Marchands", which serves as a foundation for rowhouses and shops are evidence of Narbonne's rich historical past. Later centuries have also left their marks on the town, such as the archbishop's palace or the Gothic cathedral. Overnight in Narbonne.Day 8: Narbonne - Béziers, 28 mi. (45 km)
The route today leads past the Canal Tunnel en route to Beziers. The history of Beziers goes back 2,700 years and is the birthplace of the father of the Canal du Midi, Pierre-Paul Riquet. The alley Paul-Riquet in the center of the town is dedicated to him. Beziers is located in a scenic winegrowing region, where the climate is perfect for growing grapes. Be sure to enjoy a glass of local wine! Overnight in Beziers.Day 9: Béziers - Séte, 25 mi. (65 km)
The cycle path leads directly along the sea towards Sète, the largest French fishing town on the Mediterranean. It's many canals have given it the name, "Little Venice of the Languedoc" Enjoy a good meal followed by an evening stroll. Overnight stay in Sète.Day 10: Departure or extension of stay in Sete
The tour ends after breakfast. Individual departure or extension of your stay.Day 1: Individual arrival in Toulouse
Day 2: Toulouse - Castelnaudary, 37 mi. (60 km)
Day 3: Castelnaudary - Carcassonne, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 4: Carcassonne - Olonzac, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 5: Olonzac/surroundings - Narbonne, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 6: Narbonne - Béziers, 25 mi. (65 km)
Day 7: Béziers - Sète, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 8: SeteSee our showcase of bicycle tours, features, and news.
Map
Hotels & Bikes
Standard: Accommodations in 2- to 3-star hotels and charming guesthouses.
Deluxe: Accommodations in 3- to 4-star hotels and charming guesthouses.Bicycles
Touring bike
7- and 21-gear-bike
- Model: Own production on basis of Velo de Ville or KTM
- Aluminum unisex or gents frame
- Aluminium rigid fork
- Shimano 7-gear Nexus hub gear with pedal brake / Schimano 21/24- gear Acera derailleur gear
- Shiman V-Brakes front and rear
- Selle Royal Comfort saddle
- 28" puncture-proof tires with automatic valve
- 27,2 mm patented seat post
30-gear plus bike
- Model: Own production on basis of Velo de Ville
- Shimano 30-gear Deore/XT derailleur gear
- Suspension fork RST 60 mm suspension travel
- Shimano T6000 hydraulic disc brake
- High-quality saddle
- Aluminium hydroformed trapezoidal frame
- 28" puncture-proof tires with automatic valve
- 27,2 mm Ergotec Seatpost with suspension
E-bike
- Model: Own production on basis of Velo de Ville or KTM
- Shimano 8-gear Nexus hub gear with pedal brake
- Panasonic or Bosch middle motor 36 Volt
- Battery with a minimum of 500 Wh
- Aluminum rigid or RST suspension fork
- Shimano V-Brakes front and rear of Magura HS 11
- Selle Royal Comfort saddle
- Aluminum unisex with middle motor frame
- 28" puncture-proof tires with automatic valve
- 27,2 mm patented seat post with suspension
Inclusions
What’s Included
- Hotel accommodations for 7 or 9 nights in selected category
- Breakfast buffets
- 21 gear unisex (men’s frames on request) city touring bicycle
- Bike insurance
- Personal welcome meeting and tour briefing in both German and English
- Detailed travel information with maps (one set per room)
- Navigation app and GPS tracks
- Luggage transfer
- 7-day service hotline
What’s Not Included
- Arrival to/from the start/finish
- Remaining meals
- City tax and parking
- City maps
- Optional sightseeing tours
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Arrival every Saturday from April 13 to October 24, 2024
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2024
Season 1: April 13 to April 26 | September 24 to October 7
Season 2: April 27 to June 14 | September 15 to September 21
Season 3: June 15 to September 1410 day tour Standard Deluxe Season 1 $ 2401 £ 1246 $ 2,119 € 1419 kr 217846 ₪ 5801 ¥ 238473 Mex$ 26461 NZ$ 2618 NOK 16996 zł 6240 S$ 2100 kr 16853 $ 1,542 $ 2909 £ 1510 $ 2,567 € 1719 kr 263903 ₪ 7027 ¥ 288891 Mex$ 32056 NZ$ 3171 NOK 20590 zł 7560 S$ 2543 kr 20416 $ 1,868 Season 2 $ 2571 £ 1334 $ 2,269 € 1519 kr 233198 ₪ 6209 ¥ 255279 Mex$ 28326 NZ$ 2802 NOK 18194 zł 6680 S$ 2247 kr 18040 $ 1,651 $ 3061 £ 1589 $ 2,702 € 1809 kr 277719 ₪ 7395 ¥ 304016 Mex$ 33734 NZ$ 3337 NOK 21668 zł 7956 S$ 2677 kr 21485 $ 1,966 Season 3 $ 2672 £ 1387 $ 2,358 € 1579 kr 242410 ₪ 6455 ¥ 265363 Mex$ 29445 NZ$ 2913 NOK 18913 zł 6944 S$ 2336 kr 18753 $ 1,716 $ 3197 £ 1659 $ 2,821 € 1889 kr 290001 ₪ 7722 ¥ 317460 Mex$ 35226 NZ$ 3485 NOK 22626 zł 8307 S$ 2795 kr 22435 $ 2,053 Single supplement (all seasons) $ 574 £ 298 $ 506 € 339 kr 52044 ₪ 1386 ¥ 56971 Mex$ 6322 NZ$ 625 NOK 4060 zł 1491 S$ 502 kr 4026 $ 368 $ 675 £ 350 $ 596 € 399 kr 61255 ₪ 1631 ¥ 67055 Mex$ 7441 NZ$ 736 NOK 4779 zł 1755 S$ 590 kr 4739 $ 434 8 day tour Standard Deluxe Season 1 $ 1994 £ 1035 $ 1,759 € 1178 kr 180848 ₪ 4815 ¥ 197972 Mex$ 21967 NZ$ 2173 NOK 14110 zł 5181 S$ 1743 kr 13991 $ 1,280 $ 2247 £ 1166 $ 1,983 € 1328 kr 203876 ₪ 5429 ¥ 223180 Mex$ 24764 NZ$ 2450 NOK 15906 zł 5840 S$ 1965 kr 15772 $ 1,443 Season 2 $ 2163 £ 1122 $ 1,909 € 1278 kr 196200 ₪ 5224 ¥ 214777 Mex$ 23832 NZ$ 2358 NOK 15307 zł 5620 S$ 1891 kr 15178 $ 1,389 $ 2383 £ 1237 $ 2,103 € 1408 kr 216158 ₪ 5756 ¥ 236625 Mex$ 26256 NZ$ 2597 NOK 16865 zł 6192 S$ 2083 kr 16722 $ 1,530 Season 3 $ 2247 £ 1166 $ 1,983 € 1328 kr 203876 ₪ 5429 ¥ 223180 Mex$ 24764 NZ$ 2450 NOK 15906 zł 5840 S$ 1965 kr 15772 $ 1,443 $ 2467 £ 1280 $ 2,178 € 1458 kr 223834 ₪ 5960 ¥ 245028 Mex$ 27189 NZ$ 2690 NOK 17463 zł 6412 S$ 2157 kr 17316 $ 1,585 Single supplement (all seasons) $ 455 £ 236 $ 402 € 269 kr 41297 ₪ 1100 ¥ 45207 Mex$ 5016 NZ$ 496 NOK 3222 zł 1183 S$ 398 kr 3195 $ 292 $ 608 £ 315 $ 536 € 359 kr 55114 ₪ 1468 ¥ 60333 Mex$ 6695 NZ$ 662 NOK 4300 zł 1579 S$ 531 kr 4264 $ 390 Extra Options
Bike rental options
10 day tour
Bike upgrade
- 30-speed Velo de Ville protype with Aluminum hyroformed trapezoidal frame
$ 125 £ 65 $ 111 € 74 kr 11361 ₪ 303 ¥ 12436 Mex$ 1380 NZ$ 137 NOK 886 zł 325 S$ 109 kr 879 $ 80 Electric bike $ 320 £ 166 $ 282 € 189 kr 29015 ₪ 773 ¥ 31763 Mex$ 3524 NZ$ 349 NOK 2264 zł 831 S$ 280 kr 2245 $ 205 8 day tour
Bike upgrade
- 30-speed Velo de Ville protype with Aluminum hyroformed trapezoidal frame
$ 125 £ 65 $ 111 € 74 kr 11361 ₪ 303 ¥ 12436 Mex$ 1380 NZ$ 137 NOK 886 zł 325 S$ 109 kr 879 $ 80 Electric bike $ 284 £ 148 $ 251 € 168 kr 25792 ₪ 687 ¥ 28234 Mex$ 3133 NZ$ 310 NOK 2012 zł 739 S$ 249 kr 1995 $ 183 Extra nights
Sète
Standard Deluxe Twin/double $ 134 £ 69 $ 118 € 79 kr 12128 ₪ 323 ¥ 13277 Mex$ 1473 NZ$ 146 NOK 946 zł 347 S$ 117 kr 938 $ 86 $ 200 £ 104 $ 176 € 118 kr 18115 ₪ 482 ¥ 19831 Mex$ 2200 NZ$ 218 NOK 1413 zł 519 S$ 175 kr 1401 $ 128 Single supplement $ 107 £ 55 $ 94 € 63 kr 9672 ₪ 258 ¥ 10588 Mex$ 1175 NZ$ 116 NOK 755 zł 277 S$ 93 kr 748 $ 68 $ 176 £ 91 $ 155 € 104 kr 15966 ₪ 425 ¥ 17478 Mex$ 1939 NZ$ 192 NOK 1246 zł 457 S$ 154 kr 1235 $ 113 Toulouse
Standard Deluxe Twin/double $ 139 £ 72 $ 122 € 82 kr 12589 ₪ 335 ¥ 13781 Mex$ 1529 NZ$ 151 NOK 982 zł 361 S$ 121 kr 974 $ 89 $ 149 £ 77 $ 131 € 88 kr 13510 ₪ 360 ¥ 14789 Mex$ 1641 NZ$ 162 NOK 1054 zł 387 S$ 130 kr 1045 $ 96 Single supplement $ 102 £ 53 $ 90 € 60 kr 9211 ₪ 245 ¥ 10083 Mex$ 1119 NZ$ 111 NOK 719 zł 264 S$ 89 kr 713 $ 65 $ 127 £ 66 $ 112 € 75 kr 11514 ₪ 307 ¥ 12604 Mex$ 1399 NZ$ 138 NOK 898 zł 330 S$ 111 kr 891 $ 82 Return transfers
Saturday or Monday (guaranteed from 2 people) $ 212 £ 110 $ 187 € 125 kr 19190 ₪ 511 ¥ 21007 Mex$ 2331 NZ$ 231 NOK 1497 zł 550 S$ 185 kr 1485 $ 136 Transfer of bike (if you bring your own) $ 66 £ 34 $ 58 € 39 kr 5987 ₪ 159 ¥ 6554 Mex$ 727 NZ$ 72 NOK 467 zł 172 S$ 58 kr 463 $ 42 Extra Info
Skill Level — Moderate
This self-guided tour is rated moderate with undulating terrain with rolling hills. The route is partially paved but as much as possible follows the canal on sandy trails. Weather greatly affects the quality of the paths.
Airport Info
The closest international airport to your tour start is Toulouse Blagnac Airport (TLS).
Local Travel
There is an airport shuttle bus with a stop at the ground floor gate C2, arrival levels. Travel time is approximately 20 minutes. Departures begin at 5:40 am and ending just after midnight. The shuttle goes from Toulouse-Blagnac Airport to Toulouse Matabiau station every 20 minutes. It stops at the Pierre Baudis Conference Centre (Company Caffarelli station), the center of Toulouse, Jeanne d’Arc station (line B), Jean Jaurès station (lines A and B), Matabiau Station (train, metro, bus, coach). At the end of your tour, you can return to Toulouse by train. Travel time is 2-3 hours and costs approx. €41
Climate
Please check local conditions before arrival. Average high/low temperatures in degrees F for the region are: March 59º/41º, April 64º/46º, May 70º/51º, June, 78º/57º, July 83º/61º, August 82º/61º, September 76º/57º, and October 68º/49º.
Day of Rest
Day 5 could be used as a day of rest.
Important to know
Travel Documents
It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure that you are in compliance with the country or countries you plan to visit. This includes and is not limited to passport validity, visa requirements and acquisition, blank passport pages required for your destination (s), etc.
US citizens: A good website to research the requirements of the Schengen Agreement and entry into other countries is travel.state.gov.
Non-EU and EU residents: Please research the requirements of your country of residence for international travel and your destination country or countries.
*Important note: Please check on the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) status as once implemented, this will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit. This is an additional check on security rather than a visa.Tour Operator
This tour is run by Rückenwind Reisen.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
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