Canal du Midi by Bike: Toulouse to Sète Biking Tour

Your tour begins in the lovely “Pink City” of Toulouse, known for its brick buildings. Toulouse boasts several fine restaurants and a lively town center.

Settle into your accommodations here, then set out to discover some gems of this riverside town, perhaps taking a walk to the Place du Capitole or the 13th-century Dominican monastery, Couvent des Jacobins.

Set out on the first leg of your cycling tour along the Canal du Midi this morning, ready to take in the beautiful French countryside as you ride to Castelnaudary! Setting out from Toulouse, you’ll pedal the Paul Riquet Bridge, cruising alongside the Canal du Midi and noting its classic barges along the way.

Entering the Lauragais area, you’ll encounter a true hidden gem in the south of France, a vibrant agricultural area full of colours and life. Pause in Avignonet to discover a site of medieval ruins before continuing to Castelnaudary.

Gastronomy is synonymous with Castelnaudary, and the town is particularly well-known for its Cassoulet dish. Bon appetit!

Another scenic ride awaits you this morning as you set out towards the Bram River port. With your path lorded over by the Montagne Noire to the east and the majestic Pyrenees to the south, you’ll find yourself completely enveloped in marvellous mountain scenery.

On the route, you’ll pass through several ancient villages as you ride to Carcassonne. On the way, you’ll take in the Cugarel mill, the Rebente aqueduct, and the Villepinte Dam.

Today’s route is quiet and peaceful, with plenty of time to reflect and enjoy the tranquillity afforded by the beautiful French countryside. Follow the canal as the route unfolds through forests of sycamores. Admire the impressive bridge at Orbiel and a 12th-century chapel in Trèbes.

Continue through sprawling vineyards, taking in the splendour and vitality of some of France’s most fertile lands. Arrive in Homps or Olonzac, where you’ll find tonight’s accommodations.

Begin your day on two wheels with a pleasant ride on a gently winding path past the lock of Argens and on to Le Somail. It’s recommended to enjoy some time on foot in Le Somail, perusing its old stately library before returning to your bike to complete the final leg of today.

Tracing the Canal de la Robine, you’ll pedal to Capestang, then on to Poilhes la Romaine and Foncérannes, finally arriving in Béziers.

With the salty scent of the Mediterranean in the air, you’ll ride towards the coast today, making your way to the seaside town of Sète. Dunes, swamps, and large lagoons will flank your path as you enjoy this gorgeous coastal route. Ride past the Pont bâche du Libron and Agde’s round lock, eventually reaching the lighthouse of Onglous where the Canal du Midi comes to an end. Continue the route to Marseillan, where you’ll trace the sandy shoreline to charming Sète.

Sète is the perfect place to end your cycling tour, home to several lively restaurants and bars and in a truly magical coastal setting. Enjoy a farewell dinner this evening, celebrating the completion of your tour!

Your tour ends in pleasant Sète this morning. Check out and head to the airport to depart.