Canal du midi Cycling : from Toulouse to Sete





Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the picturesque landscapes and historic sites of southern France. From the vibrant 'Pink City' of Toulouse to the charming Mediterranean town of Sète, this journey offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, scenic beauty, and culinary delights. Each day brings new adventures, from cycling through verdant valleys and vineyards to discovering medieval fortresses and quaint villages. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and the serene beauty of the Canal du Midi. Join us for an enchanting experience that will leave you with lasting memories.
Included
Whether you are a fan of sweet or savoury food, your stomach will thank you at the end of your stay. On the colourful local markets, you will find the finest quality products from the Mediterranean and the countryside. This region has plenty to offer to the food lovers: the seafood platters of clams, oysters and mussels; as well as Pélardon, Causses Blue, and Tome cheeses. The Petits Pâtés de Pézenas (small pastries filled with meats), the tielle (a seafood pie) from Séte, picholine olives, the famous cassoulet (bean stew casserole with pork or duck) from Castelnaudary, the Catalans Rousquilles (biscuits), and salt (and rice) from the Camargue make this a foodie’s paradise.
Canal du Midi is also an important region for winemaking, offering amateurs some real nuggets. Full-bodied, light or fruity, there is truly a world of flavors to share in here: Fitou, Corbières, Minervois, Clape, Quatourze, Cabardès, Malepère and Limoux. Nourished by the Mediterranean sun and the richness of their different wine districts, the Languedoc wines all have their own personality, whether they are reds, whites, rosés or sparkling wines. They are part of the rich cultural and culinary heritage of the region.
Spreading over 245,000 hectares, the Languedoc vineyards are one of the largest vineyards in France, as well as the oldest. From Nîmes to Aude, from Montpellier to Carcassonne, from mountains to bushland and sea, the vineyard landscapes pass by as you travel along the wine routes.
These are the standard hotels for our '' trip. If you'd like to extend your time at any of these or, if you'd like to enhance your stay with an upgraded room, just let us know at the time of booking.
Early booking is advised as during busy times we may have to substitute individual hotels for one of an equal or superior standard.
Luggage transfers between hotels
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Toulouse
- Toulouse - Arrival day
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- jardin Royal
- Lac de Thésauque
- Georges Labit Museum
- Ramiers Park
- Le Musée des Jouets
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Begin your adventure in the enchanting 'Pink City' of Toulouse, named for its distinctive brick facades. Explore the expansive Capitol Square, marvel at the palm-shaped vault of the Bernardins Convent, and admire the Renaissance architecture of the Assezat Hotel. Stroll along the picturesque banks of the Garonne River and immerse yourself in the wonders of the Space Museum. Overnight stay at a local hotel (or similar).
Day 2 – Day 2: Toulouse to Castelnaudary
- Toulouse
- Castelnaudary
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Depart from the heart of Toulouse and journey through the verdant valleys of the Lauragais district. Enjoy the serene landscape of wheat and sunflower fields, punctuated by charming rural villages with southern Gothic architecture. Arrive in Castelnaudary, renowned for its delectable 'Cassoulet'. Savor the local cuisine and spend the night in a cozy inn (or similar).
Day 3 – Day 3: Castelnaudary to Carcassonne
- Castelnaudary
- Carcassonne
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- Château comtal de Carcassonne
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Leave Castelnaudary and pass by the impressive St-Roch lock. Enjoy a leisurely ride along the canal, taking in the tranquil countryside views. Arrive in Carcassonne via the port in the lower town. Don't miss the medieval citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its rich history dating back to Roman times. Overnight stay in a historic hotel (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Carcassonne to Homps
- Carcassonne
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- Pitchou Parc
- La Passerelle de Mazamet
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Today, cycle through the renowned Minervois vineyards, just a short distance from the Canal du Midi. Enjoy the shaded paths lined with pine trees and discover hidden treasures in each village, such as the canal bridge of Orbiel. Arrive in Homps, a lively historic wine-exporting port, and explore its many shops. Overnight stay in a charming guesthouse (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Homps to Béziers
- Béziers
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- La Via Domitia
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Ride through several picturesque wine villages, each vying for your attention. Visit Le Somail, one of the canal's most charming stops, with its port, chapel, cafes, and antique shops. Continue along the canal, bordered by olive trees and vines, and reach the bustling port of Capestang. Marvel at the 17th-century Malpas tunnel and the impressive cascade of the 9 locks of Fonsérannes before arriving in Béziers. Overnight stay in a comfortable hotel (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Béziers to Sète
- Béziers
- Sète
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- Lighthouse Saint Louis
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Embark on your final ride towards the Mediterranean. Follow the canal as it guides you to Sète, a city with a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere. Pass by the Onglous lighthouse, where the Canal du Midi meets the Etang de Thau. Upon arrival in Sète, head to the beach for a refreshing dip in the sea. Overnight stay in a seaside hotel (or similar).
Day 7 – Day 7: Departure from Sète
- Sète - Departure day
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Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before bidding farewell to the beautiful city of Sète. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during this enchanting multi-day tour. Safe travels!
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