Canal du Midi

Follow in the footsteps of Pierre-Paul Riquet and cycle the Canal du Midi! This architectural masterpiece, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, winds its ribbon of water from Toulouse to the shores of the Mediterranean. The historic towpaths invite you on a unique adventure, punctuated by the lilting strains of the Midi.

The route takes in one remarkable site after another. From Toulouse, the pink city, to Sète, the landscapes unfold like tableaux vivants. The majestic city of Carcassonne appears at the turn of a lock and Castelnaudary perfumes the air with its legendary cassoulet. The prestigious vineyards of the Languedoc and Minervois regions line the route, promising memorable wine-tasting breaks.

The well-maintained towpaths make cycling easy. The ballet of barges and pleasure craft brings the canal to life in a uniquely friendly atmosphere. The mild Mediterranean climate caresses your face, between majestic umbrella pines and centuries-old olive trees.

Local gastronomy is a delightful feature of every stopover. From vineyards to renowned restaurants, every stop is an opportunity to discover the authentic flavours of the South.

Frequently asked questions about the Canal du Midi by bike :

  • Which season to choose?
From spring to autumn, particularly May-June and September-October for their ideal climate.

  • Which bike to choose?
The VTC or hybrid bike is perfectly suited to towpaths. The electric option provides extra comfort.

  • How many kilometres a day?
Between 30 and 45 km, you can combine discovery and cultural breaks.

  • At what level?
The flat terrain and safe paths are suitable for all cyclists.

  • Where to sleep?
Carefully selected accommodation is available along the way, from authentic B&Bs to boutique hotels.

  • How do you get organised?
Packages include accommodation, luggage transport and a full road book.

Why tour the Canal du Midi with Randovelo?

The team’s recognised expertise on this legendary itinerary ensures a holiday without any false notes. The rigorous selection of accommodation and restaurants, luggage transport and constant assistance mean you can concentrate on what’s really important: discovering the hidden treasures of this unique historic route.

Reduce
6 cycling tour(s)
Order by
Carcassonne

Enjoy the longest version of the ‘Canal du Midi by bike’: the most famous water canal in Europe for its amazing measurements and for its peaceful surroundings. The idea of digging this channel linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean sea dates back to Antiquity but it was under Louis the 14th’s reign that it has been built.

Along the channel, discover the countryside landscapes and farms of the ‘Laugarais’ area, the gentle slopes sprinkled with vineyards, the chateaux of the Aude area and the city of Carcassonne up to the Mediterranean beaches.

w
8 days / 6 days riding  / ref. CM5
Difficulty Moderate
from 980 €
Linear trip
Carcassonne

Let the route of the canal guide you as it presents all its history punctuated by conquests, boat cruises, sunny walks. The ‘Canal du Midi’ offers you all its numerous architectural and cultural treasures : amazing civil engineering structures, Cathar vestiges…

This is also an opportunity to meet with numerous house-boats and its inhabitants in a country of ‘art de vivre’. Vineyard landscapes, countryside, pine and olive trees will punctuate your stay.

w
4 days / 3 days riding  / ref. CM1
Difficulty Moderate
from 450 €
Linear trip / 5 testimonials
Canal du Midi - Mirepeysset

The ‘canal du Midi’, architect Pierre-Paul Riquet’s masterpiece, is the most famous water canal in Europe for its amazing measurements and for its peaceful surroundings. The idea of digging this channel linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean sea dates back to Antiquity but it was under Louis the 14th’s reign that it has been built.

Along the channel, discover the countryside landscapes and farms of the ‘Laugarais’ area, the gentle slopes sprinkled with vineyards, the chateaux of the Aude area and the city of Carcassonne up to the Mediterranean beaches.

w
5 days / 3 days riding  / ref. CM2
Difficulty Easy
from 590 €
Linear trip / 6 testimonials
canal du midi

The ‘Canal des 2 Mers’ link up the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. This bike itinerary leads you along the Canal de Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse. Then, you will join the Canal du Midi, UNESCO World Heritage, to the Mediterranean Sea. You will follow this ancient canal towpath, converted as a promenade and discovery space, to share with walkers and boaters.

w
12 days / 10 days riding  / ref. CGCM1
Difficulty Moderate
from 1790 €
Linear trip / 6 testimonials

Enjoy the longest version of the ‘Canal du Midi by bike’: the most famous water canal in Europe for its amazing measurements and for its peaceful surroundings. The idea of digging this channel linking the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean sea dates back to Antiquity but it was under Louis the 14th’s reign that it has been built.

Along the channel, discover the countryside landscapes and farms of the ‘Laugarais’ area, the gentle slopes sprinkled with vineyards, the chateaux of the Aude area and the city of Carcassonne up to the Mediterranean beaches.

w
7 days / 5 days riding  / ref. CM4
Difficulty Moderate
from 860 €
Linear trip / 5 testimonials
Canal du Midi

Let the route of the canal guide you as it presents all its history punctuated by conquests, boat cruises, sunny walks. The ‘Canal du Midi’ offers you all its numerous architectural and cultural treasures : amazing civil engineering structures, Cathar vestiges…
This is also an opportunity to meet with numerous house-boats and its inhabitants in a country of ‘art de vivre’. Vineyard landscapes, countryside, pine and olive trees will punctuate your stay.

w
5 days / 3 days riding  / ref. CM3
Difficulty Easy
from 560 €
Linear trip / 8 testimonials
View more trips