Self-Guided Cycling Canal de la Garonne

Over View

The Canal de la Garonne in the southwest of France makes the perfect setting for this easy self-guided cycling holiday. From Bordeaux start cycling through winelands over gently rolling hills before connecting with the Garonne canal, which leads you to Toulouse.

Easy cycling – Follow the historic canal from Bordeaux to Toulouse

Picturesque landscapes – Rewarding views of southwest France from the saddle

Delicious local gastronomy – Accompany regional delicacies with a glass of Bordeaux

Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Bordeaux

The first night of your holiday is spent in a charming 18th century hotel, complete with grand original features. From its city centre location, you are well-placed to explore Bordeaux, with its wealth of beautiful neoclassical architecture.

Your bike will be delivered either today or tomorrow morning.

Public transport options are available from Bordeaux Airport (BOD). Taxis can also be arranged locally at the airport

Day 2 Cycle to Cadillac through villages and vineyards

After breakfast you head to the bike supplier on foot or you can choose to take a tram. You will be supplied with your bike and be able to make the necessary adjustments with the help of the friendly bike shop owner and after signing the agreement of care for the bike, you will set off to Latresne on a cycle path along the Garonne River. From here, your route turns north, winding through the hills and between impressive wine estates and typically-French villages. In La Sauve, you turn south again, following quiet tarmac lanes for the last leg of your ride to Cadillac. Here, your can look forward to a refreshing dip at your hotel swimming pool (in summer months), as well as views of the impressive 18th-century ‘Chateau de Cadillac’.

Your total cycling distance today is approximately 47 kilometres (150 metres total ascent).

Day 3 Start your journey along the Garonne Canal to Meilhan-sur-Garonne

Today’s route starts off on winding inland lanes, avoiding the busy road between Cadillac and Saint Macair. Although you face some ascents, a rewarding landscape awaits of impressive estates, vineyards and picturesque villages. After passing through Bastide de Saint Macair, you cross the Garonne to commence your route along ‘La Veloroute des Deux Mers’ – your cycling path along the Garonne Canal ‘between two seas’. Tonight’s accommodation will be in one of two charming chambre d’hotes (B&Bs), situated in either Meilahn-sur-Garonne, or a bit further inland in Marcellus.

Our total cycling distance today is approximately 51 kilometres (Total 200 metres ascent and 140 meters descent)

Day 4 Pedal to Serignac; Enjoy plenty of stops en route

Today you continue along the Canal de la Garonne, cycling on flat terrain all the way to Serignac. Enjoy the shade of ancient plane trees along your route, and take time to make small detours. The church in Mas d’Agenais is worth stopping off at, with its authentic Rembrandt painting. You may also choose to enjoy a cup of coffee on the beautiful village square in Damazan, with its fortress and historic arcades. Another option is a visit to the town of Tonneins, worth the 10 kilometre detour for its wide choice of restaurants, cafes and shops. Tonight’s accommodation in Serignac is in a converted 17th century convent, boasting exceptional hospitality.

Our total cycling distance today is approximately 66 kilometres (Total 30 metres ascent and 60 meters descent)

Day 5 Continue along the canal to UNESCO-listed Mossaic

Today commences with a gentle ride between the plane trees and orchards along the canal. After 10 kilometres, the channel protrudes through an aqueduct over the river, providing a unique entrance to the city of Agen. We recommend spending some time here to explore its pleasant city centre and renowned Museum of Arts. Continuing along the canal to Valence d’Agen, this is another beautiful town, with curious round washhouses. The last section of today’s route is particularly scenic as you pedal into the historic town of Mossaic. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a particularly important stop on the Chemin de Saint Jacques (Way of St James) coming in from Geneva. We recommend spending time exploring its 11th century Abbey of St Pierre, with its stunning cloister, before retiring to your comfortable and well-positioned hotel.

Our total cycling distance today is approximately 58 kilometres (Total 60 metres ascent and 30 meters descent)

Day 6 Arrive in Toulouse; explore ‘La Ville Rose’

Today’s ride takes you over an aqueduct and through pretty agricultural scenery. Passing from village to village, you will see elegant dovecots prodruding above old farms. From Montech, you may choose to jump on the train with your bike to avoid the busy roads in the outskirts of Toulouse. The last 10 kilometres of the route into Toulouse is especially busy. Once you have checked in to your conveniently-located hotel in Toulouse, the rest of your time is free to explore France’s fourth-largest city. Knicknamed ‘La Ville Rose’ because of its pink stone buildings, the city is renowned for its thriving caf and cultural scene, as well as its atmospheric old quarter.

Our total cycling distance today is approximately 67 kilometres (Total 75 metres ascent and 50 meters descent)

Day 7 Trip ends in Toulouse

After breakfast, the organised part of your holiday comes to an end.

Public transport options are available to Toulouse Airport (TLS). Taxis can also be arranged locally.