Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi

8 days
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4.6/5 Excellent
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Small Group Tour
A cycling holiday along France's historic Canal du Midi and surrounding countryside. Explore medieval walled towns, Cathar Castles, local markets and of course refuel on delicious French cuisine on route. Canal du Midi - Cycle alongside one of the greatest works of civil engineering of the 17th century Discover rich histories - Toulouse, Narbonne and th...
19%
$1,784
From$1,450
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Wheelchair Accessible
Trip pace
Full schedule

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?

    A cycling holiday along France's historic Canal du Midi and surrounding countryside. Explore medieval walled towns, Cathar Castles, local markets and of course refuel on delicious French cuisine on route. Canal du Midi - Cycle alongside one of the greatest works of civil engineering of the 17th century Discover rich histories - Toulouse, Narbonne and the walled fortress town of Carcassonne Cathar history - Ride through the picturesque landscapes and historic villages of the Languedoc Region or up to the stronhold of Minerve Ebike only departures - A selection of dates are for ebike use only

Details

Itinerary focusOff the Beaten Path
Group sizeSmall Group - max of 20 people
Age range16 to 85 years
Flights and transportRound trip airfare and all internal transport included
Start CityToulouse
End CityToulouse Airport

Destinations

  • Europe
  • England

Attractions

  • Toulouse

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Join trip Toulouse

Arrive in Toulouse, a vibrant and captivating city with a fascinating blend of history, culture, gastronomy and natural beauty. For those arriving on time our Leader plans to meet you in the hotel reception at 4pm a short welcome meeting and for those that wish, t...

Day 2 Morning walking tour of Toulouse, afternoon train to Carcassonne

Toulouse is working hard on creating cycle-friendly infrastructure, but until it is ready the best way to enjoy this city is on foot. This morning we will enjoy a guided tour with our Tour Leader of this city taking in the highlights of The Capital Square, the Basilic...

Day 3 Circular ride around Carcassonne

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...

Day 4 Cycle the Canal du Midi to Homps

Today we cycle along the famous Canal du Midi and arrive at our destination le Chateau de Jouarres in Homps, a pleasant resort with a pool, our base for the next two nights. As the whole of the Canal du Midi is a World Heritage Site, UNESCO is keen to keep the his...

Day 5 Optional circular cycle route to Minerve or wine tasting

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. Alterna...

Day 6 Continue on the Canal du Midi and follow the Canal de la Robine into Narbonne

Today we pack our bags again and continue our Canal du Midi adventure. We will reach the junction of the canals, where the Canal du Midi loops north to avoid the hills, and the Canal de la Robine which was later dug to connect the City of Narbonne to the canal network...

Day 7 Cycle to the beaches of Gruissan Plage

Our trip wouldn't be complete without ending up on the shores of the Mediterranean! So, today's ride will follow the Canal de la Robine almost to the shores. The last kilometres we cycle towards Gruissan, once a pirates' nest, now a wonderful coastal town. Make sure t...

Day 8 Drive to Toulouse Airport where our trip ends

The trip ends at Toulouse airport at 10am.

Meals Provided : Breakfast

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Dates & Availability

Price From $1,450
Price per day$181
Last Updated: 4/26/2024
Start Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Single Room (Optional)
Availability
25 May 2024
01 Jun 2024
$1,650
$410
11 spots left
15 Jun 2024
22 Jun 2024
$1,450
$400
12 spots left
31 Aug 2024
07 Sep 2024
$1,450
$400
14 spots left
21 Sep 2024
28 Sep 2024
$1,610
$400
12 spots left
10 May 2025
17 May 2025
$1,750
$430
16 spots left
24 May 2025
31 May 2025
$1,750
$430
16 spots left
07 Jun 2025
14 Jun 2025
$1,750
$430
16 spots left
27 Sep 2025
04 Oct 2025
$1,750
$430
16 spots left

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

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.

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Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
6,513
Great
2,167
Average
377
Disappointing
116
Terrible
53
H

Hilary

Oct 2023

Written on

Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi

Cycling to Chateaux de Lastours and walking to some of the chateaux.

T

Trusted Customer

Oct 2023

Written on

Cycling in France - Canals and Castles of the Midi

Really enjoyed cycling by the lagoons and seeing the flamingos. Also enjoyed...

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Tour Operator

Explore!

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About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

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Logistics

Transportation & Flights

Bus, Bicycle, Train,

Transportation & flights

Bus, Bicycle, Train
Guides
Explore Tour Leader
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
France: Visas are not required by UK, EU, Australian, New Zealand, US and Canadian citizens. Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory. Tetanus recommended. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 7
Age Requirements
16 to 85 years
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-CCM

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