On arrival in Toulouse, make your way to the joining hotel. Toulouse is France’s fourth largest city and has a rich heritage. Known for its ultra modern aerospace industry, it also has a charming centre, distinctive for its rose-red brick buildings. Take time to visit some of the city's great sites including St Sernin church, the largest Romanesque church in France, ‘Capitole’ square, and numerous other examples of fine architecture. Your bikes will be available either late in the afternoon or the morning of Day 2 from the nearby bike shop. Overnight Toulouse.

Meals:  Nil

‘The pink city’ of Toulouse is where the ‘Canal du Midi’ begins. Using your directions and maps you'll navigate the route that travels mainly along the canal banks, initially passing through Lauragais country with its numerous farms. Take a break in Avignonet, scene of battles during the Albigensian crusades and with several medieval remains, statues of crusaders and churches. This region is particularly famous for its gastronomy. Your destination today is Castelnaudary, famous for its Cassoulet. (Monday is market day in Castelnaudary.) Ascent 100m, descent 35m

Meals:  B

Today's cycle takes you through the heart of Cathar country along original, thousand year old tow paths to the river harbour of Bram. The landscape changes from cornfields to vineyards. You'll pass old villages and the Béteille and Lalande locks. Carcassonne and its impressive medieval citadel is a highlight of the tour. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, you should plan to spend some time exploring the one of the most beautiful fortifications of Europe. Ascent 50m, descent 100m

Meals:  B

After visiting Carcassonne you go back to the peace and quiet of the Canal. Along the cycle path today you can admire the bridge at Orbiel, the overflow of canal water at Argendouble and the church Saint Etienne at Trebes. Take a rest in the Gallic village of Marseillette and walk over to Capendu (just over 2km) to view the remains of the 13th century Roman chapel. Continue through undulating vineyards to your destination of Homps. Ascent 25m, descent 125m

Meals:  B

From the lock at Argens you'll follow a winding path along the hillside to the hamlet of Le Somail, where you can take a break and visit the old library. Continue along the Canal de la Robine to Capestang with its collegiate church, visible from afar. From the tower there are views of the sea and a nearby 14th century castle. As you cycle once again you will pass some Gallo-Roman remains, the village of Poilhes la Romaine and ancient hill town of Oppidum d'Ensérune. You can also admire the Malpas tunnel and the nine locks of Foncerannes en route to your destination, the township of Béziers, known particularly for wine and bullfighting. You can enjoy great views from the cathedral. Ascent 75m, descent 50m

Meals:  B

Although the sea is not yet visible, you can sense it. The landscape becomes flatter and you will encounter dunes, swamps and lagoons. In this coastal region you will pass the unique Pont Bache du Libron and the round lock of Agde. At Agde you cross the Herault river and head towards the Thau Lagoon. The Canal du Midi ends at the lighthouse in Onglous. From Marseillan you cycle along the beach to Sete, the last stop on your cycle trip. Sete is a major fishing port and is well know for its beaches. We recommend visiting the large covered market, and there are many seafood restaurants near the harbour. Ascent 25m, descent 75m

Meals:  B

Your trip concludes after breakfast. Or if you'd like to stay an extra night, please ask for our rates.

Meals:  B