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 $ 2359 £ 1245 $ 2,134 € 1419 kr 217696 ₪ 5816 ¥ 243040 Mex$ 26179 NZ$ 2592 NOK 16916 zł 6233 S$ 2114 kr 16949 $ 1,560 $ 2857 £ 1509 $ 2,585 € 1719 kr 263720 ₪ 7045 ¥ 294422 Mex$ 31714 NZ$ 3140 NOK 20492 zł 7551 S$ 2560 kr 20532 $ 1,890 Season 2 $ 2525 £ 1333 $ 2,284 € 1519 kr 233037 ₪ 6225 ¥ 260167 Mex$ 28024 NZ$ 2774 NOK 18108 zł 6673 S$ 2263 kr 18143 $ 1,670 $ 3007 £ 1588 $ 2,720 € 1809 kr 277528 ₪ 7414 ¥ 309837 Mex$ 33374 NZ$ 3304 NOK 21565 zł 7946 S$ 2695 kr 21607 $ 1,989 Season 3 $ 2625 £ 1386 $ 2,374 € 1579 kr 242242 ₪ 6471 ¥ 270444 Mex$ 29131 NZ$ 2884 NOK 18823 zł 6936 S$ 2352 kr 18860 $ 1,736 $ 3140 £ 1658 $ 2,840 € 1889 kr 289801 ₪ 7742 ¥ 323539 Mex$ 34850 NZ$ 3450 NOK 22519 zł 8298 S$ 2814 kr 22562 $ 2,077 Single supplement (all seasons) $ 564 £ 298 $ 510 € 339 kr 52008 ₪ 1389 ¥ 58062 Mex$ 6254 NZ$ 619 NOK 4041 zł 1489 S$ 505 kr 4049 $ 373 $ 663 £ 350 $ 600 € 399 kr 61213 ₪ 1635 ¥ 68339 Mex$ 7361 NZ$ 729 NOK 4756 zł 1753 S$ 594 kr 4766 $ 439 8 day tour Standard Deluxe Season 1 $ 1958 £ 1034 $ 1,771 € 1178 kr 180723 ₪ 4828 ¥ 201762 Mex$ 21733 NZ$ 2152 NOK 14043 zł 5175 S$ 1755 kr 14070 $ 1,295 $ 2208 £ 1166 $ 1,997 € 1328 kr 203735 ₪ 5443 ¥ 227454 Mex$ 24500 NZ$ 2426 NOK 15831 zł 5833 S$ 1978 kr 15862 $ 1,460 Season 2 $ 2124 £ 1122 $ 1,922 € 1278 kr 196064 ₪ 5238 ¥ 218890 Mex$ 23578 NZ$ 2334 NOK 15235 zł 5614 S$ 1904 kr 15265 $ 1,405 $ 2341 £ 1236 $ 2,117 € 1408 kr 216008 ₪ 5770 ¥ 241156 Mex$ 25976 NZ$ 2572 NOK 16785 zł 6185 S$ 2097 kr 16817 $ 1,548 Season 3 $ 2208 £ 1166 $ 1,997 € 1328 kr 203735 ₪ 5443 ¥ 227454 Mex$ 24500 NZ$ 2426 NOK 15831 zł 5833 S$ 1978 kr 15862 $ 1,460 $ 2424 £ 1280 $ 2,192 € 1458 kr 223679 ₪ 5975 ¥ 249719 Mex$ 26899 NZ$ 2663 NOK 17381 zł 6405 S$ 2172 kr 17415 $ 1,603 Single supplement (all seasons) $ 447 £ 236 $ 404 € 269 kr 41269 ₪ 1102 ¥ 46073 Mex$ 4963 NZ$ 491 NOK 3207 zł 1182 S$ 401 kr 3213 $ 296 $ 597 £ 315 $ 540 € 359 kr 55076 ₪ 1471 ¥ 61488 Mex$ 6623 NZ$ 656 NOK 4280 zł 1577 S$ 535 kr 4288 $ 395 Extra Options
Bike rental options
10 day tour
Bike upgrade
- 30-speed Velo de Ville protype with Aluminum hyroformed trapezoidal frame
$ 123 £ 65 $ 111 € 74 kr 11353 ₪ 303 ¥ 12674 Mex$ 1365 NZ$ 135 NOK 882 zł 325 S$ 110 kr 884 $ 81 Electric bike $ 314 £ 166 $ 284 € 189 kr 28995 ₪ 775 ¥ 32371 Mex$ 3487 NZ$ 345 NOK 2253 zł 830 S$ 282 kr 2257 $ 208 8 day tour
Bike upgrade
- 30-speed Velo de Ville protype with Aluminum hyroformed trapezoidal frame
$ 123 £ 65 $ 111 € 74 kr 11353 ₪ 303 ¥ 12674 Mex$ 1365 NZ$ 135 NOK 882 zł 325 S$ 110 kr 884 $ 81 Electric bike $ 279 £ 147 $ 253 € 168 kr 25774 ₪ 689 ¥ 28774 Mex$ 3099 NZ$ 307 NOK 2003 zł 738 S$ 250 kr 2007 $ 185 Extra nights
Sète
Standard Deluxe Twin/double $ 131 £ 69 $ 119 € 79 kr 12120 ₪ 324 ¥ 13531 Mex$ 1457 NZ$ 144 NOK 942 zł 347 S$ 118 kr 944 $ 87 $ 196 £ 104 $ 177 € 118 kr 18103 ₪ 484 ¥ 20210 Mex$ 2177 NZ$ 216 NOK 1407 zł 518 S$ 176 kr 1409 $ 130 Single supplement $ 105 £ 55 $ 95 € 63 kr 9665 ₪ 258 ¥ 10790 Mex$ 1162 NZ$ 115 NOK 751 zł 277 S$ 94 kr 752 $ 69 $ 173 £ 91 $ 156 € 104 kr 15955 ₪ 426 ¥ 17813 Mex$ 1919 NZ$ 190 NOK 1240 zł 457 S$ 155 kr 1242 $ 114 Toulouse
Standard Deluxe Twin/double $ 136 £ 72 $ 123 € 82 kr 12580 ₪ 336 ¥ 14045 Mex$ 1513 NZ$ 150 NOK 978 zł 360 S$ 122 kr 979 $ 90 $ 146 £ 77 $ 132 € 88 kr 13501 ₪ 361 ¥ 15072 Mex$ 1624 NZ$ 161 NOK 1049 zł 387 S$ 131 kr 1051 $ 97 Single supplement $ 100 £ 53 $ 90 € 60 kr 9205 ₪ 246 ¥ 10277 Mex$ 1107 NZ$ 110 NOK 715 zł 264 S$ 89 kr 717 $ 66 $ 125 £ 66 $ 113 € 75 kr 11506 ₪ 307 ¥ 12846 Mex$ 1384 NZ$ 137 NOK 894 zł 329 S$ 112 kr 896 $ 82 Return transfers
Saturday or Monday (guaranteed from 2 people) $ 208 £ 110 $ 188 € 125 kr 19177 ₪ 512 ¥ 21409 Mex$ 2306 NZ$ 228 NOK 1490 zł 549 S$ 186 kr 1493 $ 137 Transfer of bike (if you bring your own) $ 65 £ 34 $ 59 € 39 kr 5983 ₪ 160 ¥ 6680 Mex$ 720 NZ$ 71 NOK 465 zł 171 S$ 58 kr 466 $ 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.
7 months agoVerified Reviewer
kim w.
7 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