8 Days
From US $3,295
Self-guided Canal Du Midi in Style Bike Tour
The Canal du Midi Bike Tour offers a captivating journey through southern France’s sun-drenched countryside, combining peaceful waterside cycling with the region’s rich cultural heritage. Over eight days, you will follow the gentle flow of the 17th-century canal from Toulouse to the Mediterranean, pedaling along shaded towpaths, through historic towns, and past charming vineyards, olive groves, and sunflower fields. Designed as a self-guided adventure, this tour gives you the freedom to ride at your own pace while your luggage is conveniently transferred each day.
Starting in the vibrant pink city of Toulouse, you will quickly settle into the relaxed rhythm of canal-side cycling. The route leads you through picturesque villages like Castelnaudary, known for its cassoulet; medieval Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and tranquil Homps and Capestang, where history and natural beauty converge. You will see centuries-old locks, stone bridges, aqueducts, and other engineering feats that make the canal one of France’s most impressive manmade waterways.
This tour is perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the laid-back charm of southern France, with opportunities to enjoy wine tasting, explore markets, or simply relax under plane trees by the canal. The Canal du Midi Bike Tour promises an unforgettable blend of gentle cycling, cultural richness, and timeless scenery.
Self-guided
Casual+ hotels
Toulouse
Sete
easy
44 km / 27 mi
6
Min. 2, Max. 10
Toulouse-Blagnac Airport ( TLS)
Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport (BZR)
Highlights
Carcassonne – A Medieval Masterpiece
Explore the UNESCO-listed Cité de Carcassonne, a breathtaking fortified city with double-walled ramparts and fairy-tale towers.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | casual_plus Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Toulouse | Villa du Taur (4-Star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Castelnaudary | Les Ordalies | B | 61 km / 38 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Carcassonne | Hôtel le Pont Levis (4-Star) | B | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Homps | Château de Paraza | B | 41 km / 25 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Capestang | Château les Carasses | B | 43 km / 27 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Béziers | Palmyra Golf Hôtel (4-Star) | B | 42 km / 26 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Sete | La Singulière | B | 35 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Toulouse
Your adventure begins in vibrant Toulouse. After checking into your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to explore. Whether you prefer wandering on foot or renting a bike, Toulouse is full of architectural charm and local flair. Visit the iconic Capitole, unwind in the peaceful Japanese Garden, or treat yourself to fine dining at chef Michel Sarran’s renowned restaurant. This is the perfect introduction to the southwest of France—lively, cultural, and irresistibly French. Enjoy dinner at your leisure in the city, then return to your comfortable hotel for a restful night.
Day 2: Castelnaudary
Today marks your first day of cycling along the peaceful Canal du Midi. You will ride out of Toulouse’s outskirts and onto a beautifully shaded towpath, tracing the canal past barges, locks, and sleepy villages. The route is mostly flat and car-free, letting you relax and settle into the rhythm of rural France. Your destination is Castelnaudary, known as the home of cassoulet. Before dinner, take time to stroll the charming old town or visit the Grand Bassin, an expansive canal port that once welcomed cargo-laden barges from the Atlantic.
Road surface: 90%paved / 10%unpaved
Day 3: Carcassonne
You leave Castelnaudary behind and follow the canal as it winds toward one of France’s most striking medieval cities—Carcassonne. Along the way, you will pass fields of sunflowers, bridges built by Pierre-Paul Riquet, and countless plane trees lining the path. Carcassonne’s UNESCO-listed cité rises dramatically on the horizon with its double ramparts and fairytale towers.
You will have time this evening to explore the cobbled streets, browse artisan shops, or sip wine in a quiet courtyard.
Road surface: Mostly unpaved
Day 4: Homps
After breakfast, you will cycle from Carcassonne’s medieval walls and continue through vineyards and canal-side hamlets. The path leads you through sleepy villages like Marseillette and Puichéric, offering perfect opportunities for picnic breaks or café stops. Your destination is the Minervois region, known for bold red wines and sun-drenched countryside. Spend the evening in Homps or the nearby village of Olonzac, both offering a warm local welcome and delicious southern French cuisine.
Road surface: Mostly unpaved
Day 5: Capestang
Today’s ride takes you along one of the most scenic stretches of the Canal du Midi. Leaving Homps behind, you will encounter remarkable engineering feats designed to navigate the region’s varied terrain—locks, aqueducts, and shaded towpaths line your route. As you pedal, the tranquil beauty of southern France unfolds around you: peaceful waters, old stone bridges, and scattered vineyards.
Your journey ends in Capestang, a charming 14th-century village with a rich medieval past. The elegant surroundings and top-tier amenities offer a relaxing retreat after your day’s ride. Enjoy dinner at your leisure in Capestang before a restful night in your accommodation.
Road surface: Mostly unpaved
Day 6: Béziers
Today, the Canal du Midi begins to flirt with the sea. You will leave the elegant château in Capestang and pedal eastward, tracing the winding path of the canal through sun-drenched vineyards and sleepy hamlets. The scent of salt air becomes stronger with every kilometer, hinting at your coastal destination. Before reaching Agde, take time to enjoy the tranquility at the Pointe des Onglous, where the canal quietly meets the shimmering Etang de Thau.
Road surface: Mostly unpaved
Day 7: Sete
This day is a coastal dream. From Agde, you'll follow a gentle, scenic bike path that hugs the sliver of land between the Mediterranean Sea and the Etang de Thau. The views are endless—on one side, turquoise waves; on the other, tranquil lagoon waters often dotted with oyster beds. Pause along the way for a refreshing swim or a seaside picnic. The route brings you into the heart of Sète, a lively port town known for its colorful canals, maritime traditions, and delicious seafood.
Watch fishing boats dock at the quay or sip a chilled glass of local wine at a waterfront café. This is the perfect place to celebrate your journey. End your tour here if you’ve chosen the 7-day package, or opt to stay an extra night in one of our handpicked accommodations and soak in the vibrant charm of Sète.
Road surface: Mostly paved
Elevation : Fully flat along the Sea.
Day 8: Departure
After a relaxed breakfast, your cycling journey officially comes to an end. You can spend a bit more time soaking in the last views of the Mediterranean coastline, or explore Sète’s charming streets before departing.
If you have extra time, consider a boat tour of the canals or a visit to the Paul Valéry Museum. Whether heading home or continuing your travels, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of cycling through historic towns, lush vineyards, medieval fortresses, and sun-kissed beaches.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
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Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Trek Hybrid Bike or similar
Included in your trip price
Trek e-bike or similar
Available at a surcharge
What to Expect
We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:
Road Surface
Please note that large parts of this route are on unpaved surface.
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Arrive at the Toulouse-Blagnac International Airport in Toulouse.
Departure
Your tour end in Sete. It is served by the Béziers Cap d'Agde Airport International Airport located 36 kms (22mi) away. The airport has direct flights to major European cities such as London, Oslo, Stockholm, etc. Sete also has connectivity by train to Montpellier, which is located only 15 minutes away by train. Montpellier also has an international airport with flights to major European cities.
Weather
The Canal du Midi offers varied cycling conditions throughout the year.
Peak season runs from June to August with warm, sunny weather.
May and September are ideal with milder temperatures. April and October can be mixed, while winter months (November to March) are off-season with cooler, wetter, and quieter conditions.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Good
June
Good
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tour is mostly on unpaved surface.
Yes, we can provide downloadable GPX files that you can use on your own device. Kindly let us know of your requirement beforehand.
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
Yes, we can provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Yes, panniers will be provided.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
