Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
Overview
Highlights
- Cycling adventure along France's historic Canal du Midi and the picturesque countryside
- Explore Toulouse, Narbonne, Carcassonne's walled fortress
- Visit vibrant local markets, and try delectable French cuisine along the way
What's this trip about?
Itinerary

Our trip begins at Toulouse airport (airport code TLS) at 7.15pm. If you would like an airport transfer today, the latest your flight can arrive is 6.30pm. We'll then transfer to Carcassonne. On arrival there will be time to wander the ramparts of this amazing site at the time when it's at its most charming, the evening.
Meals Provided : None
Today we will get on our bikes for the first time and explore the peaceful surrounding countryside while day-trippers occupy the citadel of Carcassonne. Our route takes us to the beautiful villages of Conques-sur-Robiel, Bouilhonnac, and the tiny village of Les Rustiq...
Today we cycle along the famous Canal du Midi and arrive at our destination le Chateau de Jouarres in Homps, a pleasant yet simple resort with a pool, our base for the next three nights. On the way we'll leave the canal for a short while at Marseillette to for a winet...
Our route today is a leisurely loop taking in the village of La Laviniere. Made up largely of stone houses typical of the region the village has a wine making tradition going back to Roman times and is surrounded not just by vineyards but also by olive groves. We'll s...
One of the principal reasons to stay in Jouarres is to have the option to visit one of the most enigmatic sites of the Cathar Crusade, the stronghold of Minerve. Today we can choose to cycle to this wonderful town perched on a rocky outcrop between two gorges. This in...
Today we pack our bags again and continue our Canal du Midi adventure. We will reach the junction of the canals, making sure to stop for coffee and lunch, where the Canal du Midi loops north to avoid the hills, and the Canal de la Robine which was later dug to connect...
Our trip wouldn't be complete without ending up on the shores of the Mediterranean and today's ride will follow the Canal de la Robine almost to the shores. We cycle towards Gruissan, once a pirates' nest, and now a wonderful coastal town. Make sure to bring your swim...
The trip ends at Toulouse airport at 10am. The earliest your flight can depart is 12pm.
Meals Provided : Breakfast
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Dates & Availability
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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.
Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.
Explore! Reviews & Ratings
Trusted Customer
Oct 2024
Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
This was a lovely trip , Erwin our leader was friendly, extremely helpful and great for adapting to meet the group's needs. The cycling each day was within my abilit...
Heidi
Oct 2024
Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
Brilliant cycling holiday, with a fantastic group. Erwin , our leader made sure we were all happy, arranged accommodation, transport , evening meals and the cycling ...
Andrew
Jun 2024
Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
Great trip. The canal path is not as bad as the Explore notes lead you to believe. I have been on other Explore cycling trips, but the bikes used on this trip were s...
Hilary
Oct 2023
Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi
Cycling to Chateaux de Lastours and walking to some of the chateaux.
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