Cycling holiday along the Canal du Midi

Day 1: Individual arrival in Toulouse

If you arrive early in Toulouse, you will have the time to explore this busy ville rose. Toulouse was given this name because of the many buildings here made of red brick. For example St-Sernin Basilica, which is one of the most beautiful Roman churches in the south of France. There is an informational meeting in the meeting, where you also pick up your hire bikes, ready for your cycling holiday along the Canal du Midi.

Day 2: Toulouse – Castelnaudary, approx. 60 km  

Pedal out of the busy town and into beautiful countryside. Enjoy the peace and quiet and the wonderful views of the canal and the passing boats. You get to Lauragais, fertile levels which are also known as the pays de Cocagne, which literally means land of milk and honey! You cycle through villages very typical of the south of France to Castelnaudary. In what used to be a town of mills you will discover the moulin de Cugarel, which is still intact today.

Day 3: Castelnaudary – Carcassonne, approx. 40 km    

Impressive medieval towns will be on your route today. There is a museum in Bram which exhibits archaeological findings from the area. Carcassonne and its Cité, impressive fortifications, will whisk you away to days gone by. Up to 4000 people lived here during the Middle Ages, behind the city wall, which was some three kilometres in length. Wander down the narrow streets and enjoy watching the hustle and bustle from one of the many cafes and restaurants, after you've visited the museum and walked around the wall.

Day 4: Trip to Montolieu, approx. 40 km   

At the edge of Montagnes Noires is the small town of Montolieu, situated on a rocky projection. Its nickname is the town of books as there are 15 antiquarian book shops here which accommodate 200,000 books. Michel Braibant museum tells the history of the book, from the first writings to book printing. Not just book worms, but wine lovers will also like this town. Full-bodied red wines are produced here from the Syrah, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.

Day 5: Carcassonne – Olonzac region, approx. 45 km

On your cycling holiday along the Canal du Midi you will be cycling through one of France's oldest wine-growing regions. The cycle paths in Minervois take your through beautiful countryside, usually up high and with lovely views down onto the vineyards. You cycle through old villages with Roman churches. Make sure you don't miss out on trying a glass of good wine. Match that with a good meal of fish or seafood, which you'll find in the many restaurants in Olonzac.

Day 6: Olonzac region – Narbonne, approx. 45 km

After just a short trip on your bike, it's worth taking a break after a few kilometres. The picturesque village of Homps, right on the Canal du Midi, has the third biggest harbour along the canal. You continue cycling until you get to the diocese town of Narbonne. In addition to the wonderful cathedral, visit the many Roman buildings and artefacts that you'll find in the town's streets.

Day 7: Narbonne – Béziers, approx. 45 km

First you cycle to Capestang. Climb the 43 metre high church tower of the foundation church Saint-Étienne and admire the unique view of the surrounding vineyards. Back down on the ground, you pedal on along the canal until you discover a historic building just before today's destination of Béziers. The lock steps at Fonserannes raise and lower boats a height of some 14 metres as they go through the nine locks. This is definitely quite an experience on your cycling holiday along the Canal du Midi.

Day 8: Béziers – Cap d´Agde, approx. 40 km

Along lonely roads and paths you cycle at a leisurely pace through shady pine forests. The further you cycle the saltier the air becomes. A sign that the sea is not far. Do you fancy a dip in the cool wet? Or would you prefer to simply relax? You can do either on the long beaches in Cap d'Agde. The town also has a lot to offer in terms of cuisine. Try the fresh specialities such as olives, goat cheese and mussels from one of the many markets.

Day 9: Cap d´Agde – Sète, approx. 35 km

Cap d`Agde and Sète are connected by a 15 km long sand bank. Surrounded on all sides by water and interspersed by canals, go on a wander through the town. You'll see why the charming harbour town of Sète is also known as Venice of the Languedoc. A breath-taking view of the houses, harbour and sea can be had from Mont Saint-Clair.

Day 10: Individual departure or extended stay

After breakfast, your cycling holiday along the Canal du Midi unfortunately comes to an end. You get back to Toulouse either by train or transfer.

Applies for accommodation in rooms with 2 full-paying guests.

Types of rental bikes

• 7-gear unisex bike, hub gears with back-pedal brakes (men's frame from 185 cm)
• 21-gear unisex bike, derailleur gears with free-wheel (men's frame from 185 cm)
• E-bike

Fittings

Pannier, handlebar bag, milometer, pump, repair kit