Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the enchanting landscapes of Southern France. From the vibrant city of Toulouse to the medieval charm of Carcassonne, and the serene beauty of the Canal du Midi, this tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural splendor. Cycle through picturesque villages, explore ancient towns, and relax by the Mediterranean shores. With comfortable accommodations and guided activities, this tour promises an immersive and enriching experience for all.
Included
7 nights standard hotel
hotel: 7 night(s);
A key facet of our responsible approach to tourism is that we encourage our groups to eat in local restaurants that prepare locally grown food. We give customers choice as to their meals and do not use rather bland and impersonal hotel restaurants or all- inclusive options
7 Breakfasts
1 Lunches
All accommodation, activities and meals that are shown in the itinerary are included in the total cost of your trip You will also receive a complimentary transfer to and from the airport if you arrive on day 1 of the trip and depart on the last day and have provided your international flight information.
Bicycle, Train
Tour Leaders are quite simply the glue that holds our tours together. They are chosen for their travel experience and people skills and are thoroughly trained by Explore, widely acknowledged as some of the best training in the industry. A Tour Leader's ultimate aim is to ensure everyone is well looked after and have a fantastic trip. They are there to ensure that the tour logistics run smoothly, that health and safety is adhered to and provide comprehensive briefings at the beginning and throughout the tour.
Destinations
Narbonne
Carcassonne
Toulouse
BéziersMap
Attractions
Château de Gruissan
Basilica of Our Lady of the DauradeDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Toulouse
- Toulouse - Arrival day
- More
Arrive in the vibrant city of Toulouse, known for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Meet your tour leader at the hotel reception at 4pm for a brief welcome meeting. For those arriving early, there's an opportunity to explore the city or enjoy a leisurely dinner. Toulouse boasts one of the largest medieval city centers in France, perfect for wandering and discovering hidden gems.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Toulouse and Journey to Carcassonne
- Béziers
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
- More
- Lac de Thésauque
- Ramiers Park
- Basilica of St. Sernin
- More
Start your day with a guided walking tour of Toulouse, visiting highlights such as The Capital Square, the Basilica of St Sernin, and the scenic banks of the Garonne. Enjoy a chocolatine, a local pastry, before taking a train to Carcassonne in the afternoon. Upon arrival, get acquainted with your bikes and explore the enchanting ramparts of Carcassonne in the evening.
Day 3 – Day 3: Cycling the Countryside around Carcassonne
- Narbonne
- Carcassonne
- More
- Museum and Garden of the Canal du Midi
- Château comtal de Carcassonne
- Les Quatre Châteaux de Lastours
- Porte Narbonnaise
- More
Embark on your first cycling adventure, exploring the serene countryside around Carcassonne. Visit picturesque villages such as Conques-sur-Robiel, Bouilhonnac, and Les Rustiques. Join the Canal du Midi at Trebes and cycle back to Carcassonne, enjoying the citadel's evening charm without the daytime crowds. Today's cycling distance is approximately 35 kilometers.
Day 4 – Day 4: Cycling to Homps
- Carcassonne
- More
- Museum and Garden of the Canal du Midi
- More
Cycle along the historic Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to reach the charming resort of Homps. Enjoy the scenic towpaths, though be prepared for some bumpy sections. Arrive at le Chateau de Jouarres (or similar), your base for the next two nights, and relax by the pool. Today's cycling distance is approximately 43 kilometers.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Minerve or Relaxing in Homps
- Narbonne
- More
- Cubserviès
- More
Choose between cycling to the enigmatic town of Minerve, perched on a rocky outcrop between two gorges, or staying in Homps for optional wine tasting or a self-guided, leisurely ride near the hotel. Today's cycling distance is approximately 37 kilometers.
Day 6 – Day 6: Cycling to Narbonne
- Narbonne
- More
- Château de Gruissan
- Portail des Jacobins
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Continue your Canal du Midi adventure, reaching the junction where it meets the Canal de la Robine. Cycle to Narbonne, a hidden gem with a rich Roman and medieval history. Be aware of potential route changes due to public works. Today's cycling distance is approximately 45 kilometers.
Day 7 – Day 7: Cycling to Gruissan and Exploring Narbonne
- Narbonne
- More
- Château de Gruissan
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Cycle along the Canal de la Robine towards the Mediterranean shores, reaching the coastal town of Gruissan. Enjoy a swim and explore the town before returning to Narbonne. Visit the newly opened Via Narbo Museum and relax at a local café. Today's cycling distance is approximately 30 to 45 kilometers.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Toulouse
- Toulouse - Departure day
- More
Conclude your tour with a transfer to Toulouse Airport at 10am. Ensure your flight departs no earlier than 12pm. Reflect on the memorable experiences and scenic landscapes you've enjoyed throughout this multi-day adventure.
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