The most beautiful villages of France
Taking its start in Gaillac, this trip brings you to Albi, a recognized World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Along the way, you will discover at least 5 villages officially recognized as the Most Beautiful Village of France and the magnificent Gorges of Aveyron. This trip is for people who are in good physical condition. If you have any doubts, we suggest e-bikes that allow you to overcome any obstacles and offer a maximum of comfort.
BIKE INCLUDED
Region : Languedoc
Duration : 7 Days / 6 Nights
Level :
Type : On the way
Category : Bike
Trip : Self-guided
Activity : Hybrid
Dates : Starts any day
Click below to see hotels versions.
Day 1 : Arrival and welcome at Gaillac
We strongly suggest that you take advantage of your afternoon to discover the beautiful city of Gaillac and taste their regional wines! Before the end of the day, our guide will meet you at your hotel for a bike fitting, and to explain how to use the materials (bike, GPS) and gives you complete details about your trip.
Accommodation : Hotel La Verrerie - "Gaillac"
Accommodation : L'Occitan - "Gaillac"
Day 2 : From Gaillac to Puycelsi
Distance 1 : 21 Miles - 34 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 520 Meters
Your first day of travels will bring you to Château de Mauriac, home of painter Bistes, then towards Castelnau-de-Montmiral, a certified Most Beautiful Village of France. Overhanging the Vère valley, in the heart of Gaillac vineyards, is a walled village founded by the Count of Toulouse Raymond VII. Inside its church is a relic cross of the Armagnac Counts with 310 precious stones… After your visit, it’s time to go on to Puycelsi and its ramparts for the night (another certified Most Beautiful Villages of France). Check out the super surrounding vistas!
Accommodation : Chez Delphine - "Puycelsi"
Accommodation : Chez Delphine - "Puycelsi"
Day 3 : From Puycelsi to Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val
Option 1 : 21 Miles - 34 Km
Option 2 : 31 Miles - 50 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 400 Meters
Elevation gain 2 : 731 Meters
Take a moment to enjoy the ramparts of Puycelsi before crossing to the other side of the Vère Valley to reach another Beautiful Village, Bruniquel. Stone or wood homes with small towers, flowered balconies and bay windows, cobbled streets…There are a multitude of small details to explore at Bruniquel! This is a great spot for lunch. Then enter into the canyons of Aveyron to finish your day at the charming town of Saint-Antonin-de-Noble-Val, one of the oldest medieval towns to resist history. Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val and its surroundings where the set of the “The houndred foot Journey” film (2014), produced by Steven Spielberg, Oprah Winfrey and Juliet Blake for Dreamworks Pictures.
Accommodation : La Résidence (B&B) - "St Antonin Noble Val"
Accommodation : La Résidence (B&B) - "St Antonin Noble Val"
Day 4 : From Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val to Najac
Option 1 : 25 Miles - 41 Km
Option 2 : 33 Miles - 53 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 820 Meters
Elevation gain 2 : 820 Meters
Today there is no warm up! You will quickly leave behind the riverside and climb to Saint Antonin before reaching the Abbey of Beaulieu en Rouergue. Then cross the peaceful countryside to again find the Aveyron River and a remarkable panorama to join your hotel. It’s along this path that you are awed by the natural spectacle that unrolls before you…
Accommodation : Le Belle Rive - "Najac"
Accommodation : L'Oustal del Barry - "Najac"
Day 5 : From Najac/La Fouillade to Cordes-sur-Ciel
Distance 1 : 27 Miles - 43 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 951 Meters
Today’s itinerary leaves the wild canyon of Aveyron to join Najac and its castle. The village homes with slate roofs stretch along the Gorges of Aveyron. Then cycle through the countryside to the Viaur Valley and climb the ropes to heaven (literal translation of Cordes-sur Ciel). This village was voted as France’s favorite in 2014! It’s an exceptional site with remarkable medieval architecture making it one of the most important heritages in Europe.
Accommodation : Hostellerie du Vieux Cordes - "Cordes sur Ciel"
Accommodation : Au Jardin des Saveurs - "Cordes sur Ciel"
Day 6 : From Cordes-sur-Ciel to Albi
Distance 1 : 24 Miles - 38 Km
Elevation gain 1 : 440 Meters
Today you leave Cordes-sur-Ciel to reach Monestiés, fifth and last village of your trip with certified Most Beautiful Villages of France. Monestiés circles around the Cérou River. An old stone bridge crosses the river just before the entrance of the former fortified village. You will then take the direction to your final destination of Albi. This city is remarkable for its orange brick constructions and red tile rooftops, almost reminds you of a bit of Tuscany. Albi will seduce you with its love for art and elegant lifestyle. Beautiful ending to your trip!
Accommodation : Mercure Albi Bastides - "Albi"
Accommodation : Lapérouse des Cordeliers - "Albi"
Day 7 : Departure
It is time to leave after a good breakfast. Or, continue on a few nights more to visit Albi and its area. Or continue on with your next trip along the Canal du Midi to the Mediterranean Sea!
Click below to see hotels versions.
Day : 1
La Verrerie *** has 13 warm and comfortable rooms (bed 160 × 200, air conditioning, WIFI and flat screen TV). In our restaurant open 7 days / 7, Louis chef will discover a cuisine prepared using fresh produce with a menu that varies with the seasons.
Day : 2
You will fall in love with the charming guestrooms and appartement gîtes in a very big XVII century house in the middle of a medieval village, be it with it's charm, it's large open spaces, exposed beams, original flooring or even the private pool surrounded by roses. Breakfast is served in the dinning room but feel free to take it in front of a roaring fire, in the first rays of the morning sun, in your private garden or pool side with your feet in the water.
Day : 3
Chambres d'Hôtes La Résidence, in St Antonin Noble Val, is owned and run by Sabine and Evert Weijers, an English-speaking German-Dutch couple whose aim is to provide their guests with a tranquil, relaxing environment. This magnificent 18th century house has been restored to create a charming luxurious French country house atmosphere for our guests to enjoy.
Day : 4
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Day : 5
The Hostellerie du Vieux Cordes combines an easy-going atmosphere with an elegant setting. While the dining rooms for groups and conferences can hold 20 to 100 people, the charm and the calm of the courtyard, with its beautiful 200-year-old wisteria, is the perfect place to relax.
Day : 6
In the centre of Albi, the four star Mercure Albi Bastides is located on the banks of the Tarn in an 18th Century listed water mill , from which to explore the Episcopal City. You will love the modern design of our rooms, perfectly blended with the charm of Albi brickwork. To combine pleasure and relaxation at the Mercure Albi Bastides, enjoy our menu of regional delights and the superb view from the terrace.
Day : 1
Béatrice and Philippe welcome you in the heart of the Gaillacois vineyard. If you discover Gaillac, we hope that you find the atmosphere of joyful Occitan, worthy of a long tradition of hospitality and a dynamic living. We offer 12 spacious non-smoking rooms with shower and toilet, equipped with comfortable bedding. You benefit of a LCD TV . We also provide you with free WIFI access throughout the building.
Day : 2
You will fall in love with the charming guestrooms and appartement gîtes in a very big XVII century house in the middle of a medieval village, be it with it's charm, it's large open spaces, exposed beams, original flooring or even the private pool surrounded by roses. Breakfast is served in the dinning room but feel free to take it in front of a roaring fire, in the first rays of the morning sun, in your private garden or pool side with your feet in the water.
Day : 3
Chambres d'Hôtes La Résidence, in St Antonin Noble Val, is owned and run by Sabine and Evert Weijers, an English-speaking German-Dutch couple whose aim is to provide their guests with a tranquil, relaxing environment. This magnificent 18th century house has been restored to create a charming luxurious French country house atmosphere for our guests to enjoy.
Day : 4
Surrounded by a sea of greenery, the 13th-century walled town rises up in spectacular fashion above the steep gorges of the Aveyron. In this unique setting, combining nature and history, the Oustal del Barry has charming, cosy areas to make your stay in the Aveyron area really comfortable. Lounges, a library, games room, single, double or family rooms with a classic or contemporary feel, all offer comfort, peace and relaxation.
Day : 5
An elegant and spacious 19th century family mansion offering a range of facilities and amenities : large terrace, private shaded park, swimming pool, veranda, regional dishes made with local produce, a fine selection of Gaillac wines. Under the same ownership for the past 30 years, you are guaranteed a warm, friendly, family welcome.
Day : 6
Christelle & Quentin welcome you at hotel Lapérouse in a simple and friendly atmosphere. Let yourself be charmed by the authenticity of the place. Everything is within walking distance : cathedral, restaurants, theaters, movies and museums. After your day of business or tourism, a green oasis invites you to relax. The hotel was named Lapérouse in honor of the famous explorer born in Albi in 1741.
Bikes available for your tour |
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The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure. Available in men and women versions. Available sizes : Men's M, L, XL ; Women's S, L
Hybrid bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - ( or equivalent) INCLUDED 
The SCOTT EA-SUB Active 10 make getting around easier. With comfortable geometry, and ePowered by Bosch with a 400wh battery, those bikes are the ideal touring bike and are ready to provide many kilometers with no worries.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride. Included with your bike rental : -Helmet -Lock -Hand pump -2 spare tubes -Rear pannier -Toolkit -Tire levers -Patch kit -1 souvenir water bottle -Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Electric assist bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 10 - ( or equivalent) with supplement (135€) 
The SCOTT Addict 20 was redesigned from the ground up with those longer days in mind. With new geometry that is less focused on racing and more on enduring, the Addict 20 will be your go to when you're looking to put the miles.
Saddle Bag Containing:
Road bike - Standard
SCOTT ADDICT 20 - ( or equivalent) with supplement (135€) 
The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise. Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Road bike - Performance
TREK EMONDA SLR7 - ( or equivalent) with supplement |
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The characteristics of this bike are presented as an example and are not guaranteed Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee. |
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Hybrid bike - Standard
SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 - ( or equivalent)
INCLUDED
The SCOTT SUB Sport 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty trekking geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 30 speed transmission, integrated front and rear lights, a custom Racktime carrier and compatibility with Snap'it accessories, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Available in men and women versions. Available sizes : Men's M, L, XL ; Women's S, L
- Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
- Included with your bike rental :
- Helmet
- Lock
- Hand pump
- 2 spare tubes
- Rear pannier
- Toolkit
- Tire levers
- Patch kit
- 1 souvenir water bottle
- Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Accessories
INCLUDED
Roadbook for Discovery allows you to travel freely with all the information you need for your trip: Stages, points of interest, itineraries with interactive guidance, travel documents.
All in offline mode, you download your file before leaving, then you have all the information necessary for your trip. (Phone not provided).
INCLUDED
Our roadbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. We have invested significant time and incorporated the feedback of our customers over many years (since 1997!) to make our roadbooks even better. Our roadbooks include: color maps, highlighted routes, touristic information, orientation points to reach hotels, and easy to follow step by step directions (cue-sheets). Please note that for custom itineraries you will not have cue sheets. Only maps and GPS routes.
INCLUDED
Our Travelbooks are complete packages of information that will help you to guide yourself through the itinerary that we have planned and laid out. You will find information about the hotels, itinerary, regional informations...
Option 1: 21 Miles - 34 Km Elevation gain 1 : 520 Meters
Option 1: 21 Miles - 34 Km Elevation gain 1 : 400 Meters
Option 2: 31 Miles - 50 Km Elevation gain 2 : 731 Meters
Option 1: 25 Miles - 41 Km Elevation gain 1 : 820 Meters
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Option 2: 33 Miles - 53 Km Elevation gain 2 : 820 Meters
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Option 1: 27 Miles - 43 Km Elevation gain 1 : 951 Meters
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Option 1: 24 Miles - 38 Km Elevation gain 1 : 440 Meters
Included
- 6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
- 3 dinners (2 dinners included for the Basic version on day 4 & 5)
- Daily breakfast at each hotel
- Hybrid bike rental included
- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including details maps, touristic information
Guidance Application (phone not provided)
- All luggage transfers
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
What's not included
- Airfare to and from the trip
- Lodging before and after the trip
- Drinks
- Step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook.
Informations & Recommendations
How to reach Gaillac :
You first need to reach Toulouse by train or plane. Then take the train from Toulouse train station to Gaillac (duration 35min every 45 min). You can ask a taxi as well, the fare is about 120euros. How to leave from Albi :
If you have a plane from Toulouse :
take a train to Toulouse train station (duration 1h, 6 trains by day) then a bus from train station to air plane (or taxi). If you need to go to Paris (by train) : take a train to MONTAUBAN VILLE BOURBON train station (1h15) then a train to Paris (5h).
Tour rates
Contact our tour consultants for more information and an exact rate based upon your travel dates.
| Price from* & per person | Double occupancy | Single supplement (traveling with a group) | Solo traveler (traveling alone) |
| Basic | 1290 € | 160 € | 2020 € |
| Standard | 1570 € | 350 € | 2520 € |
Accessories
| Accessories | |
| Guidance Application | Included |
| Biking Roadbook | Included |
| Travelbook | Included |
Bikes available
| Bikes available | Options per person |
| Hybrid Bike Rental | |
| Standard | Included |
| Road Bike Rental | |
| Standard | 135 € |
| Premium | 275 € |
| Electric assist bike | |
| Standard | 135 € |
Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.
Services available
| Services available | |
| Cancelation insurance | 6% |
Casual : Beginners and occasional cyclists. Easiest tours we provide. Typically flatter terrain, no notable hills or anything of a steep gradient.
Hobby : Weekend riders. People with some cycling experience, rolling countryside, possible short climbs.
Active : Cyclists with experience on longer rides. Hilly terrain with reasonable amount of climbs and difficulty
Pro : Avid cyclists, ride every week and love long and challenging rides. Dream on riding the Tour de France cols.
Comparison chart : (15km/hrs)
| Average dist (miles) | Average dist (km) | Elevation max/day (m) | Average hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual |
< 28 | < 45 | < 300m | 3-4 |
| Hobby |
18 - 35 | 30 - 55 | 300-550m | 3-5 |
| Active |
30 - 60 | 50 - 100 | 550-1000m | 4-6 |
| Pro |
> 60 | > 100 | > 1000m | > 5 |
Some of our tours can be in 2 different level, we have itinerary for both versions
Casual : Beginners and occasional hikers. Typically flatter terrain with just rolling hills.
Hobby : Weekend hikers. People with some experience hiking around trails.
Active : Hikers with experience on longer hikes. Hilly terrain with some steep gradients.
Pro : Randonneurs avides, randonnée chaque semaine et adore les longues et difficiles randonnées.
Comparison chart : (4km/hrs)
| Average dist (miles) | Average dist (km) | Elevation max/day (m) | Average hours | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Casual |
< 6 | < 10 | < 150m | 2.5 |
| Hobby |
6 - 9 | 10 - 15 | 150-300m | 25-375 |
| Active |
9 - 11 | 11 - 18 | 300-450m | 3.75 - 4.5 |
| Pro |
> 11 | > 18 | > 450m | 4.5-6 |
Some of our tours can be in 2 different level, we have itinerary for both versions