Canal du Midi and Mediterranean by bike, from Carcassonne to Collioure

Canal du Midi and Mediterranean by bike, from Carcassonne to Collioure.

The grape varieties of Languedoc Roussillon invite you on a cycling adventure to discover the wine route, offering sumptuous landscapes and unforgettable taste experiences. At the heart of estates and châteaux, explore the largest wine-growing region in France, renowned for its grape varieties such as Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah, Mourvèdre and Carignan. Don't delay in exploring the treasures of Pays d'Oc, revealing the secrets of its fifty-eight grape varieties with exceptionally varied organoleptic profiles.

Day 1: arrival in Carcassonne

Welcome to Carcassonne, a medieval hilltop town in the Languedoc region, renowned for its citadel and ramparts. Before settling into the hotel, take the time to stroll through the picturesque streets of this magnificent city to discover all its riches. Whether in the city center, with its cultural heritage and its past linked to the cloth industry, or in the heart of the medieval city itself, admire the vestiges of the past. Spend the night in an exceptional establishment for an experience as close as possible to the medieval city. You can also relax in the swimming pool while enjoying a cocktail offered by your accommodation.

Night in Carcassonne.

Day 2: from Carcassonne to Paraza - 55/60 km

To start your first day of cycling, explore the vineyards and charming little villages typical of the South of France. Take a break at the small port of Homps: by stopping in this village steeped in history, you can savor the best wines of the region. Once in Paraza, explore the village by visiting the many artists' shops and participating in the various workshops and tastings offered by the castle which dominates the village. Night in Paraza.

More information on our partner accommodation (subject to availability): here you will discover one of the most beautiful castles in the area, ensuring you an exceptional setting and welcome. Enjoy moments of relaxation by the swimming pool or treat yourself to a well-being break at the spa, before delighting yourself with finely prepared dishes to delight your palate.

Day 3: from Paraza to Narbonne - 45 km

Your journey along the water continues among the vineyards of Minervois, through charming historic villages and breathtaking panoramas. After a break at Le Somail, you follow the Rebigue canal a few kilometers further. Then you reach Narbonne, rich in its heritage dating back more than 2500 years. Don't miss a visit to this ancient city before heading to a wine estate to spend the night.

Night in Narbonne.

More information on our partner accommodation (subject to availability): discover natural and elegant luxury that promises total renewal. Enjoy a moment by the swimming pool, surrounded by the estate's wine fields, or take some time at the spa and in the spaces dedicated to sports well-being to fully live this experience.

Day 4: from Narbonne to Leucate - 35/40 km

Get back on the saddle from your charming estate to reach the Sainte Lucie nature reserve. A change of atmosphere takes place here: you leave the vast fields of vines to cycle among the ponds and salt pans, characteristic of the Mediterranean coast. Take advantage of the various viewpoints to observe the pink flamingos. Make a stop on the wild beach of La Vie Nouvelle, a must for a swim in the heart of a landscape worthy of a postcard. When you arrive in Leucate, discover other more subtle wines, notably reds made from Syrah. Our partner hotel will be happy to introduce you to quality local wines.

Night in Leucate.

Day 5: from Leucate to Argelès / Collioure - 55/60 km

The last stage takes you to the discovery of Collioure, this fishing village with ancestral charm. For this final day, cycle along the coast, offering spectacular panoramas of the sea. Le Barcarès, Canet en Roussillon, Saint Cyprien, so many names that encourage you to taste a platter of oysters at the different cabins on the edge of the sea. sea, accompanied by a glass of regional wine: a grape variety that is both powerful and velvety, offering a sublime palette of flavors and aromas. Arrival in Collioure, this charming little Catalan village which inspired the famous painters Matisse and Derain. Bordered by terraces of vines descending in steps from the mountains to the sea, you can enjoy the panoramas, intertwining cobbled streets, art galleries and beaches. A wine tasting is possible at our wine merchant partner Sylvain.

Night in Collioure or Argelès.

More information about our partner accommodation (subject to availability): on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea, you stay in an old house dating from the 1870s which has preserved all its former splendor. In the heart of the old stones, enjoy a moment of relaxation while admiring the architecture of this magnificent residence which embodies French know-how.

Day 6: Argelès / Collioure

End of stay after breakfast.

General informations :

• 6 days and 5 nights
• Comfort level of accommodation: 4* hotels
• Child rates: contact us.
• Group reduction of - €15 / person (from 4 people)

The dates :

• Departures every day, from 04/15 to 10/15/2024
• Low season in April, May June, September and October
• High season in July and August

Included :

• Online tour
• 5 nights in 4* hotels (subject to availability)
• 5 breakfasts
• Transportation of luggage between accommodations
• Assistance in the event of a breakdown (except puncture)
• Travel diary (digital)

Not included :

• Transport to the place of departure
• Personal expenses
• Anything not specified in “included”.

The options :

• Additional night(s) at the start or end of the tour
• VTC or VAE rental
• Theft insurance for the rented bike
• Transfer from Perpignan airport or train station to Collioure and from Collioure to Perpignan
• Return transfer of personal bike (from Cadaquès to Collioure)
• Cancellation insurance.

Levels:
1 2 3 4 5 6

Ground :
Circuit presenting no particular difficulties. Flat and on cycle paths along the Canal du Midi. Some secondary roads from Narbonne

Climate :
Mediterranean. Very hot summers, mild temperatures all year round.

Technicality:
Cycling: 35 to 60 km per day or 2 hours to 4 hours of cycling.
Itinerary on cycle paths (65 %)  and secondary roads (35%).

Accommodation:

4* level hotels. If there is no availability in our partner 4* hotels, it is possible that some nights will be in 3* hotels.

Additional nights:
An additional night is offered to you at the start and end of the tour.

Meal :

• Breakfasts: copious
• Lunch: not included
• Dinner: not included.

Travelogue :
A link to a mobile application allows you to access all the information necessary for carrying out the circuit.

The bike :

• Rental bike: VAE with 400-500 Wh battery or 24-speed VTC. If you rent a bicycle, it will be given to you upon your arrival. A security deposit will be required. At the end of the tour, you will need to leave this bike at the last hotel and notify reception. Our correspondent will take care of his return.
• Personal bicycle: We do not recommend bicycles with small tires. VTC and mountain bikes are excellent. Remember to service your bicycle before leaving. At the end of the tour, you will need to take charge of your own bicycle.

Support:
Assistance in the event of a breakdown (except punctures for which there is no intervention).

Transportation :

• By plane: Carcassonne airport
• Train: allow around 6 hours from Paris to go to Carcassonne
• Car: Collioure is 770 km from Paris

Cancellation insurance :
To guarantee reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay, you can take out cancellation insurance. To learn more about insurance, click here.