One-Stop Resource for Bike Tours Worldwide
Representing Local Bike Tour Companies
More than 400 Tours in 70 Countries
Get our newsletter | Contact Us
Call (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907
One-Stop Resource for Bike Tours Worldwide
Representing Local Bike Tour Companies
More than 400 Tours in 70 Countries
Get our newsletter | Contact Us
Call (877) 462-2423 or (423) 756-8907
|
Tour search View all tours
Choosing a tourTop 10 questions to askGuided Self-guided Ability level Riding style Choosing a destination |
DestinationsIn EuropeBeyond Europe
Special programsCustomGroups Clubs Help |
|
Book now |
Booking guideHow to bookTerms and conditions Payments Tour documents Insurance Help |
PreparationPassports, visas and vaccinationsPacking tips Weather Training tips Fixing a flat
TransportationInternational flightsGetting around Europe
Extending your tripHotels |
To bringMoneyClothing and equipment Packing list Phones Books and maps Insurance
|
Bike Tours DirectAbout usOur philosophy Our team Published praise Client feedback Contact us FAQs |
Bike tours (general info)Why tour by bike?Why go local? Pros and cons Green travel Blog Newsroom Help |
| Type of tour: | Self-guided |
| Level: | Leisurely |
| Duration: | 7 Nights |
| Distance: | 29 Miles/day average |
| Dates: | Self-guided: Daily: Mar 1- Oct 31, 2013. |
| Tour price: | €975 |
| Start city: | Toulouse, France |
| End city: | Agde, France |
Following the rhythm of the stream, this tour guides you along the Canal du Midi. Experience its rich history marked by conquests and enjoy the opportunity for boat cruises and sunny walks.
The Canal du Midi offers you all its numerous architectural treasures and cultural ones incluidng amazing civil engineering structures and Cathares vestiges. It's also the occasion of meeting numerous house-boats and its inhabitants in a country of 'art de vivre'. Landscapes of vineyards, countryside, pine and olive trees will define your stay on this tour of the Canal du Midi!
Please note: A fungus has infected many of the sycamores lining the canal, and the government is undertaking the tragic task of removing them all, starting with the ones that seem most threatening to the safety of people on the canal. New trees will be planted, but, of course, it will take decades or longer for the canal to return to its shaded glory.
What this also means is that trucks and equipment have caused significant damage to the tow path, and there are no estimates for when repairs will be made. As result, there are many deeply rutted sections, make-shift detours through deep grass and other disruptions. Winter storms and spring rains added to the trouble.
So, while the tour has been rated leisurely, path conditions are definitely adding challenge.
Learn more about self-guided tours.
Following the rhythm of the stream, this tour guides you along the Canal du Midi. Experience its rich history marked by conquests and enjoy the opportunity for boat cruises and sunny walks.
The Canal du Midi offers you all its numerous architectural treasures and cultural ones incluidng amazing civil engineering structures and Cathares vestiges. It's also the occasion of meeting numerous house-boats and its inhabitants in a country of 'art de vivre'. Landscapes of vineyards, countryside, pine and olive trees will define your stay on this tour of the Canal du Midi!
Please note: A fungus has infected many of the sycamores lining the canal, and the government is undertaking the tragic task of removing them all, starting with the ones that seem most threatening to the safety of people on the canal. New trees will be planted, but, of course, it will take decades or longer for the canal to return to its shaded glory.
What this also means is that trucks and equipment have caused significant damage to the tow path, and there are no estimates for when repairs will be made. As result, there are many deeply rutted sections, make-shift detours through deep grass and other disruptions. Winter storms and spring rains added to the trouble.
So, while the tour has been rated leisurely, path conditions are definitely adding challenge.
Learn more about self-guided tours.
Day 1: Arrival in Toulouse
City of great heritage, take time to visit all the numerous testimonies of its rich past: St Sernin church which is the biggest Roman church in the world, the ‘Capitole’ square etc. keep the eyes opened to admire all the details of architecture.
Overnight in 2-star hotel.
Day 2: Toulouse – Castelnaudary (41 miles/66 km)
‘The pink city’ famous for its numerous brick constructions, opens the doors of the ‘Canal du Midi’. Then, you will start your stage by crossing the ‘Lauragais’ country with its numerous farms where ducks and gooses enjoy a peaceful life, swimming and disturbing cyclists along the canal. Moreover, it is also a land of well being and gastronomy. Then, Castelnaudary, famous for its ‘Cassoulet’ , will welcome you and invite you to taste its local cuisine.
Overnight in 2-star hotel.
Day 3: Castelnaudary – Carcassonne (27 miles/43 km)
In the heart of Cathare country, discover the manifold testimonies of their crusades all along your stage, they will guide you towards Carcassonne and its impressive medieval city. Classified as world heritage by UNESCO, you can admire one of the most beautiful fortification in Europe.
Overnight in 2-star hotel.
Day 4: Carcassonne – Homps (27 miles/43 km)
Between Aude river and the canal, your stage continue at the stream rhythm, punctuated with pine and plane trees always offering a fresh environment. Each village hide a treasure to discover; by this way do not forget to visit the canal bridge of Orbiel and the stone spillway of Argendouble.
Overnight in 2-star hotel (half board).
Day 5: Homps – Narbonne (26 miles/42 km)
Cross charming and typical small villages as Paraza and Le Somail. Then, leave the canal du Midi to follow another one ‘Canal de la Robine’, and reach Narbonne. At this point you will have the possibility to enjoy amazing buildings as ‘the 7 lockes’ in Salleles d’Aude and the bridge ‘pont des marchands’ in Narbonne.
Overnight in 2-star hotel.
Day 6: Narbonne – Béziers (39 miles/63 km)
Start your day along the ‘Canal de la Robine’ to reach ‘Canal du midi’ on a route boarded by olive trees and vineyards. A stop must be done at Malpas tunnel, an exceptional site composed of 3 levels : the canal, a railway and a third way. The ‘oppidum’ of Enserune classified as world heritage by Unesco is also a wonderful point of view. Before arriving in Bezier, other curiosities are waiting for you, including the ‘9 staircase’ in Fonserannes and the canal bridge.
Overnight in 2-star hotel.
Day 7: Béziers – Agde (18 miles/29 km)
Let’s go to the Mediterranean beaches! The canal guides you to iodized and pine trees fragrances. A Mediterranean and seaside atmosphere is waiting for you in Agde.
Overnight in Agde.
Day 8: Departure
Departure during the day.
Daily: Mar 1- Oct 31, 2013.
| Tour package (self-guided) |  |
||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||
These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.
Day 1: Grand Hotel D’Orleans, Toulose
www.grand-hotel-orleans.fr
The hotel is located in the center of Toulose. There are 56 rooms that combine modern designs with historical charm.
Day 2: Hotel du Canal, Castelnaudary
www.hotelducanal.com
The hotel offers 38 comfortable rooms that are colorfully decorated. The hotel grounds include gardens, a terrace, and a view of the canal.
Day 3: Hotel Espace Cite, Carcassonne
www.hotelespacecite.fr
The modern hotel is located in the center of Carcassonne. There are 48 modern and brightly colored rooms.
Day 4: Auberge de L’Arbousier, Homps
www.aubergearbousier.com
The hotel has 11 rooms which are all decorated differently. The hotel is located on the canal, and you have views of the canal from the lovely hotel.
Day 5: Hotel du Languedoc, Narbonne
www.hoteldulanguedoc.com
Located in the historic center of downtown Narbonne is the charming hotel that is centrally located to all of the sites.
Day 6: Hotel des Poetes, Beiziers
http://hoteldespoetes.net
The hotel is located in the center of the city and offers brightly decorated rooms.
Day 7: Hotel Grand Cap, Agde
www.hotel-grandcap.com
The family run hotel is located near the center of the city and is closely located to the main sights of the city. The hotel offers 24 rooms decorated in a serene contemporary style.
Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.
These are sample hotels and may vary based on availability.
Day 1: Grand Hotel D’Orleans, Toulose
www.grand-hotel-orleans.fr
The hotel is located in the center of Toulose. There are 56 rooms that combine modern designs with historical charm.
Day 2: Hotel du Canal, Castelnaudary
www.hotelducanal.com
The hotel offers 38 comfortable rooms that are colorfully decorated. The hotel grounds include gardens, a terrace, and a view of the canal.
Day 3: Hotel Espace Cite, Carcassonne
www.hotelespacecite.fr
The modern hotel is located in the center of Carcassonne. There are 48 modern and brightly colored rooms.
Day 4: Auberge de L’Arbousier, Homps
www.aubergearbousier.com
The hotel has 11 rooms which are all decorated differently. The hotel is located on the canal, and you have views of the canal from the lovely hotel.
Day 5: Hotel du Languedoc, Narbonne
www.hoteldulanguedoc.com
Located in the historic center of downtown Narbonne is the charming hotel that is centrally located to all of the sites.
Day 6: Hotel des Poetes, Beiziers
http://hoteldespoetes.net
The hotel is located in the center of the city and offers brightly decorated rooms.
Day 7: Hotel Grand Cap, Agde
www.hotel-grandcap.com
The family run hotel is located near the center of the city and is closely located to the main sights of the city. The hotel offers 24 rooms decorated in a serene contemporary style.
Interested in visiting other areas before or after your tour? Visit our hotels page to learn more about lodging options.
The bikes are 24-speed men's and ladies' bikes. They are equipped with one saddlebag, a high visibility jacket, an anti-theft device, helmet and a repair kit. A cycling specialize will help you adjust your bike upon arrival.
The bikes are 24-speed men's and ladies' bikes. They are equipped with one saddlebag, a high visibility jacket, an anti-theft device, helmet and a repair kit. A cycling specialize will help you adjust your bike upon arrival.
The tour is rated leisure and is for cyclists in average physical condition.
Most of the bike trails are dirt road and in many cases single track. Much of the route is flat, easy and with a comfortable surface.
Please note: A fungus has infected many of the sycamores lining the canal, and the government is undertaking the tragic task of removing them all, starting with the ones that seem most threatening to the safety of people on the canal. New trees will be planted, but, of course, it will take decades or longer for the canal to return to its shaded glory.
What this also means is that trucks and equipment have caused significant damage to the tow path, and there are no estimates for when repairs will be made. As result, there are many deeply rutted sections, make-shift detours through deep grass and other disruptions. Winter storms and spring rains added to the trouble.
So, while the tour has been rated leisurely, path conditions are definitely adding challenge.
The tour is rated leisure and is for cyclists in average physical condition.
Most of the bike trails are dirt road and in many cases single track. Much of the route is flat, easy and with a comfortable surface.
Please note: A fungus has infected many of the sycamores lining the canal, and the government is undertaking the tragic task of removing them all, starting with the ones that seem most threatening to the safety of people on the canal. New trees will be planted, but, of course, it will take decades or longer for the canal to return to its shaded glory.
What this also means is that trucks and equipment have caused significant damage to the tow path, and there are no estimates for when repairs will be made. As result, there are many deeply rutted sections, make-shift detours through deep grass and other disruptions. Winter storms and spring rains added to the trouble.
So, while the tour has been rated leisurely, path conditions are definitely adding challenge.
"We were very pleased with the entire trip. The bikes, logistics, hotels and arrangements all worked extremely well. We especially appreciated combining the 2 days of riding as we really enjoyed our "free" day with the bikes at the beach. Thanks for your help with this."
- Jim L
2011
"We were very pleased with the entire trip. The bikes, logistics, hotels and arrangements all worked extremely well. We especially appreciated combining the 2 days of riding as we really enjoyed our "free" day with the bikes at the beach. Thanks for your help with this."
- Jim L
2011
Tour start
Nearest airport: Paris, France
Nearest train station: Toulouse, France
Tour end
Nearest airport: Paris, France
Nearest train station: Agde, France
Tips on getting to and from your tour
Tour start
Nearest airport: Paris, France
Nearest train station: Toulouse, France
Tour end
Nearest airport: Paris, France
Nearest train station: Agde, France
Tips on getting to and from your tour
Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.
Get weather information.
Weather Underground offers information on average and record temperatures at many destinations throughout the globe. Type a destination in the search box and enter a travel date range to learn about seasonal weather patterns.
Get weather information.
Loire Valley Travel has been organising cycling and walking tour packages in a large number of French regions and making its exclusive skills available to you for more than 20 years.
From 3 days to two weeks, our fully inclusive tours and trips allow you to take advantage of our France’s most beautiful regions on cycling tours . You are free to program the visits of sites as you please. Programs adapted to your own rhythm !
With experience and detailed local knowledge, our team ensures your comfort by selecting the best private hotels, where you will be constantly reminded that you are in a region where well-being and living well are key concepts!
When you book one of our tours, you can be sure of the tranquillity of an organised holiday planned down to the last detail before you leave (hotel reservations, luggage transfers, detailed itinerary and maps). Once you arrive, you have all the time you want to complete each day’s itinerary in total freedom and at your own pace, stopping where you like - you can choose from among the various sites suggested along your route depending on your interests (culture, cuisine, vineyards etc.).
Loire Valley Travel has been organising cycling and walking tour packages in a large number of French regions and making its exclusive skills available to you for more than 20 years.
From 3 days to two weeks, our fully inclusive tours and trips allow you to take advantage of our France’s most beautiful regions on cycling tours . You are free to program the visits of sites as you please. Programs adapted to your own rhythm !
With experience and detailed local knowledge, our team ensures your comfort by selecting the best private hotels, where you will be constantly reminded that you are in a region where well-being and living well are key concepts!
When you book one of our tours, you can be sure of the tranquillity of an organised holiday planned down to the last detail before you leave (hotel reservations, luggage transfers, detailed itinerary and maps). Once you arrive, you have all the time you want to complete each day’s itinerary in total freedom and at your own pace, stopping where you like - you can choose from among the various sites suggested along your route depending on your interests (culture, cuisine, vineyards etc.).
Any change to a confirmed booking will give rise to extra cost of: 39 euros per person.
For cancellation of a booking more than 30 days before the departure date, expenses will be payable on the following basis:
And for cancellations of a booking
The insurance costs are not refunded in case of cancellation of the trip.
CHILDREN REDUCTIONS
Any change to a confirmed booking will give rise to extra cost of: 39 euros per person.
For cancellation of a booking more than 30 days before the departure date, expenses will be payable on the following basis:
And for cancellations of a booking
The insurance costs are not refunded in case of cancellation of the trip.
CHILDREN REDUCTIONS
