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
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
Please browse all our bike tours in France or our many bicycle tours in Europe.
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 $ 2349 £ 1239 $ 2,142 € 1419 kr 217543 ₪ 5832 ¥ 245125 Mex$ 26125 NZ$ 2565 NOK 16793 zł 6167 S$ 2116 kr 16843 $ 1,574 $ 2845 £ 1500 $ 2,594 € 1719 kr 263536 ₪ 7065 ¥ 296949 Mex$ 31648 NZ$ 3107 NOK 20343 zł 7471 S$ 2564 kr 20403 $ 1,906 Season 2 $ 2514 £ 1326 $ 2,293 € 1519 kr 232874 ₪ 6243 ¥ 262400 Mex$ 27966 NZ$ 2746 NOK 17976 zł 6602 S$ 2266 kr 18030 $ 1,685 $ 2994 £ 1579 $ 2,730 € 1809 kr 277333 ₪ 7435 ¥ 312496 Mex$ 33305 NZ$ 3270 NOK 21408 zł 7862 S$ 2698 kr 21472 $ 2,006 Season 3 $ 2614 £ 1378 $ 2,383 € 1579 kr 242073 ₪ 6490 ¥ 272764 Mex$ 29070 NZ$ 2854 NOK 18686 zł 6862 S$ 2355 kr 18742 $ 1,751 $ 3127 £ 1649 $ 2,851 € 1889 kr 289598 ₪ 7764 ¥ 326315 Mex$ 34778 NZ$ 3415 NOK 22355 zł 8210 S$ 2817 kr 22421 $ 2,095 Single supplement (all seasons) $ 561 £ 296 $ 512 € 339 kr 51971 ₪ 1393 ¥ 58561 Mex$ 6241 NZ$ 613 NOK 4012 zł 1473 S$ 506 kr 4024 $ 376 $ 660 £ 348 $ 602 € 399 kr 61170 ₪ 1640 ¥ 68925 Mex$ 7346 NZ$ 721 NOK 4722 zł 1734 S$ 595 kr 4736 $ 442 8 day tour Standard Deluxe Season 1 $ 1950 £ 1028 $ 1,778 € 1178 kr 180596 ₪ 4842 ¥ 203494 Mex$ 21688 NZ$ 2129 NOK 13941 zł 5120 S$ 1757 kr 13982 $ 1,306 $ 2198 £ 1159 $ 2,004 € 1328 kr 203592 ₪ 5458 ¥ 229405 Mex$ 24449 NZ$ 2401 NOK 15716 zł 5772 S$ 1981 kr 15763 $ 1,473 Season 2 $ 2115 £ 1115 $ 1,929 € 1278 kr 195927 ₪ 5253 ¥ 220768 Mex$ 23529 NZ$ 2310 NOK 15124 zł 5554 S$ 1906 kr 15169 $ 1,417 $ 2331 £ 1229 $ 2,125 € 1408 kr 215857 ₪ 5787 ¥ 243225 Mex$ 25922 NZ$ 2545 NOK 16663 zł 6119 S$ 2100 kr 16712 $ 1,561 Season 3 $ 2198 £ 1159 $ 2,004 € 1328 kr 203592 ₪ 5458 ¥ 229405 Mex$ 24449 NZ$ 2401 NOK 15716 zł 5772 S$ 1981 kr 15763 $ 1,473 $ 2413 £ 1273 $ 2,200 € 1458 kr 223522 ₪ 5992 ¥ 251862 Mex$ 26843 NZ$ 2636 NOK 17254 zł 6337 S$ 2175 kr 17306 $ 1,617 Single supplement (all seasons) $ 445 £ 235 $ 406 € 269 kr 41240 ₪ 1106 ¥ 46468 Mex$ 4952 NZ$ 486 NOK 3183 zł 1169 S$ 401 kr 3193 $ 298 $ 594 £ 313 $ 542 € 359 kr 55037 ₪ 1475 ¥ 62015 Mex$ 6609 NZ$ 649 NOK 4249 zł 1560 S$ 535 kr 4261 $ 398 Extra Options
Bike rental options
10 day tour
Bike upgrade
- 30-speed Velo de Ville protype with Aluminum hyroformed trapezoidal frame
$ 122 £ 65 $ 112 € 74 kr 11345 ₪ 304 ¥ 12783 Mex$ 1362 NZ$ 134 NOK 876 zł 322 S$ 110 kr 878 $ 82 Electric bike $ 313 £ 165 $ 285 € 189 kr 28975 ₪ 777 ¥ 32649 Mex$ 3480 NZ$ 342 NOK 2237 zł 821 S$ 282 kr 2243 $ 210 8 day tour
Bike upgrade
- 30-speed Velo de Ville protype with Aluminum hyroformed trapezoidal frame
$ 122 £ 65 $ 112 € 74 kr 11345 ₪ 304 ¥ 12783 Mex$ 1362 NZ$ 134 NOK 876 zł 322 S$ 110 kr 878 $ 82 Electric bike $ 278 £ 147 $ 254 € 168 kr 25756 ₪ 690 ¥ 29021 Mex$ 3093 NZ$ 304 NOK 1988 zł 730 S$ 251 kr 1994 $ 186 Extra nights
Sète
Standard Deluxe Twin/double $ 131 £ 69 $ 119 € 79 kr 12111 ₪ 325 ¥ 13647 Mex$ 1454 NZ$ 143 NOK 935 zł 343 S$ 118 kr 938 $ 88 $ 195 £ 103 $ 178 € 118 kr 18090 ₪ 485 ¥ 20384 Mex$ 2172 NZ$ 213 NOK 1396 zł 513 S$ 176 kr 1401 $ 131 Single supplement $ 104 £ 55 $ 95 € 63 kr 9658 ₪ 259 ¥ 10883 Mex$ 1160 NZ$ 114 NOK 746 zł 274 S$ 94 kr 748 $ 70 $ 172 £ 91 $ 157 € 104 kr 15944 ₪ 427 ¥ 17965 Mex$ 1915 NZ$ 188 NOK 1231 zł 452 S$ 155 kr 1234 $ 115 Toulouse
Standard Deluxe Twin/double $ 136 £ 72 $ 124 € 82 kr 12571 ₪ 337 ¥ 14165 Mex$ 1510 NZ$ 148 NOK 970 zł 356 S$ 122 kr 973 $ 91 $ 146 £ 77 $ 133 € 88 kr 13491 ₪ 362 ¥ 15202 Mex$ 1620 NZ$ 159 NOK 1041 zł 382 S$ 131 kr 1045 $ 98 Single supplement $ 99 £ 52 $ 91 € 60 kr 9198 ₪ 247 ¥ 10365 Mex$ 1105 NZ$ 108 NOK 710 zł 261 S$ 89 kr 712 $ 67 $ 124 £ 65 $ 113 € 75 kr 11498 ₪ 308 ¥ 12956 Mex$ 1381 NZ$ 136 NOK 888 zł 326 S$ 112 kr 890 $ 83 Return transfers
Saturday or Monday (guaranteed from 2 people) $ 207 £ 109 $ 189 € 125 kr 19163 ₪ 514 ¥ 21593 Mex$ 2301 NZ$ 226 NOK 1479 zł 543 S$ 186 kr 1484 $ 139 Transfer of bike (if you bring your own) $ 65 £ 34 $ 59 € 39 kr 5979 ₪ 160 ¥ 6737 Mex$ 718 NZ$ 70 NOK 462 zł 169 S$ 58 kr 463 $ 43 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?
Photos
Reviews
Keith R.
8 months agoVerified Reviewer
kim w.
8 months agoVerified Reviewer
Lawrence F.
3 years agoVerified Reviewer
Irene W.
5 years agoVerified Reviewer
Tripsite Customer Reviews
Lawrence F.
3 years ago
Verified Reviewer
Irene W.
5 years ago
Verified Reviewer