Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting 8-day tour that takes you through the heart of France's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. This multi-day tour is a perfect blend of leisurely cycling, immersive sightseeing, and delectable gastronomy. Starting in the vibrant city of Toulouse, you'll journey through medieval city centres, charming villages, and along the historic Canal du Midi. Marvel at the architectural splendour of Carcassonne, unwind in the resort town of Homps, and explore the enigmatic stronghold of Minerve. The tour culminates with a delightful ride to the Mediterranean shores of Gruissan. Each day is meticulously planned to ensure a unique and memorable experience.
Included
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
Bicycle, Train
7 nights standard hotel
hotel: 7 night(s);
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.
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.
Map
Attractions
Château de Gruissan
Basilica of Our Lady of the DauradeDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Toulouse
- Toulouse - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Toulouse, a city renowned for its rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, meet your tour leader at the hotel reception for a brief welcome meeting. Spend the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the city's bustling medieval centre.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Toulouse and Transfer to Carcassonne
- Narbonne
- Toulouse
- Carcassonne
- More
- The Confluence Park
- Basilica of Our Lady of the Daurade
- More
Begin your day with a guided tour of Toulouse, visiting the Capital Square and the Basilica of St Sernin. After a delightful pastry break, board a train to Carcassonne. Upon arrival, prepare your bikes for the upcoming rides and enjoy a leisurely evening stroll along the city's ancient ramparts.
Day 3 – Day 3: Cycling around Carcassonne
- Béziers
- Carcassonne
- More
- Cubserviès
- Abbey Villelongue
- Lac du Merle
- More
Today, embark on your first cycling adventure. Ride through the serene countryside, visiting the picturesque villages of Conques-sur-Robiel, Bouilhonnac, and Les Rustiques. Rejoin the Canal du Midi at Trebes and cycle back to Carcassonne, enjoying the city's evening charm.
Day 4 – Day 4: Cycling to Homps
- Carcassonne
- More
- Château de Lagarde
- More
Cycle along the historic Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to reach Homps. Settle into the charming resort town of Homps, your base for the next two nights. Enjoy the rustic beauty of the canal's towpath and the resort's relaxing pool.
Day 5 – Day 5: Visit to Minerve
- Narbonne
- More
- Cubserviès
- More
Today, choose between a cycle ride to the intriguing town of Minerve, perched between two gorges, or a relaxing day in Homps with optional wine tasting or a shorter cycle ride near the hotel.
Day 6 – Day 6: Journey to Narbonne
- Narbonne
- More
Continue your adventure along the Canal du Midi to reach the junction with the Canal de la Robine. Follow this canal to the hidden gem of Narbonne, a city rich in Roman and medieval history. Please note that today's route may be affected by public works.
Day 7 – Day 7: Ride to Gruissan and Back
- Narbonne
- More
- Château de Gruissan
- More
Today's ride takes you along the Canal de la Robine to the coastal town of Gruissan. Enjoy the Mediterranean shores and make sure to visit the Via Narbo museum upon your return to Narbonne.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Toulouse
- Toulouse - Departure day
- More
Your memorable tour concludes today. Depart from Toulouse airport at 10am, carrying with you a treasure trove of memories from this enchanting journey through France.
Verified reviews
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.