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Highlights

Discover sunny Languedoc on a fabulous route that takes you way off the beaten tourist path. On this tour we take you immediately into the countryside to the charming village of St Guilhem le Desert with its medieval old town and pedestrian alleys. You will cross vineyards, visit the region icon Pic St Loup, the Lake of Salagou, and take you in the Gorges of Herault. The tour starts with an easy arrival in Montpellier - accessible by train or plane. We meet you and take you to the quiet calms of the countryside. St Guilhem le Desert ! This is one of the best cycling discoveries of the Herault Department with low logistics and very inclusive ! Sunny most of the year, it is good just about any time!

To see

- Lac du Salagou/ Gorges de l Herault/ the Chateau and vineyards of Jonquieres
- Glass blowing museum/ Dolmen of Ferrieres
- Nimes, an historic town, with a very old past. The arenas, the square house, 'Jardins de la Fontaine' and the tower Magne, these monuments invite you in the roman antiquity
- Montpellier triumphal arch, the “Garden of Peru”

Gastronomy

The macaronade, the tielle of Sète, the oysters, the bull meat PDO, the olive trees, the eggplants or zucchini

Wine

Pic Saint-Loup, Minervois, Corbieres, PDO Sommières

Feedbacks


PROGRAM

J-1

Arrival in Montpellier train station & transfer to Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert


Arrive at the Montpellier Saint Roch train station (old town), Sud de France train Station (outside town) or Montpellier Airport where you will meet our guide who will transfer you to Saint Guilhem le Désert to start your bike tour. Settle into your charming hotel, where you will have an orientation by our staff, and then you can explore this fabulous village.

The village is a UNESCO classified village and is a well known spot on the Camino de Santiago, not only for its Abbey, but also because it is built in a narrow valley. Go to the central plaza for a coffee or drink of your choice to soak up the ambiance of a village dating back to the year 804!

NOTE: In the Montpellier St. Roch train station, your guide will meet you at the "Information Desk" on first floor (Check 'Train Station Map' on the hyperlink below).

Link : Train Station Map here




Accommodation : Guilhaume d'Orange*** - St Guilhem le Desert show
Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,arrival transfer with english speaking guide,client transfer,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)

J-2

From Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert LOOP & options around


During your stay in Saint Guihem du Désert, you have a choice between 3 loops :

Loop trip from St Guilhem le Désert to the Lac du Salagou 75km (46mi) - The lake is itself fairly large with a lot of visitors in the summer, but it is unique with a surrounding of red clay soil; the rocks dating back millions of years. The ride is rolling bypassing many small villages and wine country. Return to St Guilhem, and if you have the energy, walk some of the trails leading out to the surrounding peaks.

Elevation : 373 m

Loop trip from St Guilhem le Désert to the Gorges de l'Hérault 51km (32mi) - Varying in depth from 200 to 300 meters, the gorges are a real canyon hollowed out of the heart of the garrigues by the River Herault, its one and only architect. A magnificent sight, and a real oasis in the heart of these arid lands, the Herault Gorges all have their own special characteristics: whether the waters are calm or turbulent, they are, above all, a fascinating spectacle.

Elevation : 866 m

Loop trip from St Guilhem le Désert to the Chateau and vineyards of Jonquieres 39km (24mi) - The soil comes from the local chalky rock (limestone consisting of calcareous fossil skeletal fragments of microscopic algae) of the Larzac Plateau. It is in this terroir that the wines find their fundamental characteristics: power, aroma, and a typical elegance. Return again to St Guilhem tonight.

Elevation : 1013 m


Accommodation : Guilhaume d'Orange*** - St Guilhem le Desert show
Included : bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)

J-3

From Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert to Lauret


After breakfast, you will leave St Guilhem heading towards Lauret. On your way, Saint Etienne d'Issensac and its charming stone bridge (XIVth) and chapel. You will also stop in Brissac, a modest village settlement, but it is nevertheless notable for its 12th century church (listed as a monument historique), and for the castle perched on the rocky outcrop, which dominates and protects the village.

Distance : 50 Km (31 mi).

Elevation : 661 m.

NOTE : You have limited possibilities to get supplies today before reaching your hotel at the end of your itinerary, so plan ahead and get everything you need in St Guilhem le Désert before leaving.




Accommodation : Auberge du Cedre B&B - Lauret show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)

J-4

From Lauret LOOP to Pic Saint-Loup


Stop at the Glass blowing museum to discover the art and many steps followed. You can see the Dolmen of Ferrieres, located nearby village of Ferrieres les Verreries, a Neolithic dolmen dating back to almost 9000 years. Then, discover the surrounding countryside by heading south towards Saint Martin de Londres, with several views on the Pic Saint Loup which is the main peak of the Montpellier backcountry. The Pic Saint Loup is also an area that has its own wine designation because there are the vineyards of very high quality. You can include a stop in one of the wineries for a tasting. Return to Lauret.

Distance : 46 Km (29 mi).

Elevation : 464 m.


Accommodation : Auberge du Cedre B&B - Lauret show
Included : bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)

J-5

From Lauret to Sommières


Ride first to Claret, famous for its many glass blowers, where the art was created in the 14th century. You could make a stop here in order to visit the glass blowers museum. The first glassblowers in the area arrived in 1280, attracted by the abundant resources of wood in the region. Today you will ride through the vineyards on 'le chemin des Verriers' (the glassblowers route). The villages on the chemin des verriers are Claret, Lauret, Sauteyrargues, Vacquieres and Sommieres.

Distance : 39 Km (24 mi).
Elevation : 318 m.

NOTE : There are few glassblowers left in the area. Below are some suggestions. If you want to visit their workshop we strongly advise making an advanced appointment.


Accommodation : Hotel Estelou*** - Sommieres show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast

J-6

From Sommières LOOP to Nîmes


You will use the cycle path called 'voie verte' just behind your hotel to Caveirac and will pass through the vineyards. You will see some bulls of Camargue on your way. Then you could enjoy the city center of Nimes, an historic town, with a very old past. The arenas, the square house, 'Jardins de la Fontaine' and the tower Magne, these monuments invite you in the roman antiquity. This rich past earned him the nickname 'French Rome'. You will come back to Sommieres by the same way.

Distance : 60 Km (37 mi).

Elevation : 382 m.


Accommodation : Hotel Estelou*** - Sommieres show
Included : bedroom and breakfast

J-7

From Sommières to Montpellier


For your last ride, you will return to Montpellier. Built in the 1040s, Montpellier quickly became known for its trade with the Orient, and its medical schools. With winding streets that date back to the Middle Ages and ultra-modern facilities such as the indoor Olympic sized swimming pool, skating rink,planetarium, and tramway system, Montpellier has something for everyone. Your hotel is in the heart of the historic center. You are close to the Triumphal arch, the “Garden of Peru”, which is continuing with the magnificent and huge Aqueduct St Clement and the central square “place de la Comédie” with its Opera.

Distance : 34 Km (22 mi).

Elevation : 345 m.


Accommodation : Grand Hotel du Midi**** - Montpellier show
Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast

J-8

Departure from Montpellier


You can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Trains depart in all directions throughout the day.


Included : breakfast

CUSTOMIZED
TOUR

This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).

ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES

Arrival in Montpellier :

By train : from Paris Gare de Lyon (around 3h)
By plain : possible from many european cities (around 1h from Paris Orly)

Departure from Montpellier :

By train : to reach Gare de Lyon (around 3h)
By plain : possible possible to reach many European cities (around 1h to Paris Orly)

BIKES


included

Hybrid Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.

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

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30 unisex (or equivalent)

All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.

Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L

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

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."




optional

Road Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)

With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.

Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.

Included with your bike rental :

  • Front pannier containing:
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 2 spare tubes
  • 1 hand pump
  • Rear pannier
  • Helmet
  • Odometer
  • Lock
  • 2 souvenir water bottles
  • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.

Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Road Bike - Excellence

More info

Bike rental description :

PINARELLO Pinarello X3 - 105/Di2 (Excellence) (or equivalent)

Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next

road.

Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.



Included with your bike rental :

  • Front pannier containing:
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 2 spare tubes
  • 1 hand pump.
  • Helmet
  • 2 souvenir water bottles
  • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Road Bike - Premium

More info

Bike rental description :

TREK Emonda SLR 7 (Premium) (or equivalent)

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

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.

Included with your bike rental :



  • Front pannier containing:
  • Toolkit
  • Tire levers
  • Patch kit
  • 2 spare tubes
  • 1 hand pump
  • Helmet
  • 2 souvenir water bottles
  • Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."


optional

Gravel Bike - Standard

More info

Bike rental description :

SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)

A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.

Available sizes :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL

Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.

Included with your bike rental :

  • Helmet
  • Bottles (2)
  • Front bag (S)
  • Rear saddlebag (L)
  • Computer
  • Padlock
  • Patch Kit (tire levers, spare tubes, multi-tool, patches, pump)
  • Pedals : flat, cages or own available

Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."

Details

Included


ACCOMODATIONS

- 7 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath

MEALS

- Daily breakfast at each hotel
- 4 dinners included

BIKES

- Hybrid bike rental included

GEAR

- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)

SUPPORT

- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed Road Book, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times itinerary and cue sheets
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)

TRANSFER

- All luggage transfers

Not included


- Airfare to and from the trip
- Lodging before and after the trip
- Drinks
- 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.
- Multirisk travel insurance

Other questions?

See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.

FAQ

Rates

Tour rates vary based on hotel availability and specific start date

PRICE FROM / PER PERSON
STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION
Double occupancy *
1890 €
Single supplement **
395 €
Solo traveler ***
2405 €

* Please contact us for triple hotel rates. ** Traveling with a group. *** Traveling alone.

Upgrade your bike

From / Per person

Electric Assisted Bike - Standard
135€
Road Bike - Standard
135€
Road Bike - Excellence
290€
Road Bike - Premium
360€
Gravel Bike - Standard
135€

CANCELLATION INSURANCE

Cancellation insurance 6%

STANDARD HOTEL ACCOMODATION FROM

Guilhaume d'Orange*** - St Guilhem le Desert

Located 30 minutes Montpellier, on the road to Compostelle, hotel and village will enable visitors to discover the southern Romanesque art as well as exceptional nearby natural sites such as the "Clamouse" cave, the gorges of the "Herault" river, the "Infernet" cirque, and more. The hotel allows visitors to spend unforgettable vacations in a unique medieval village: Saint Guilhem le Desert which is a world heritage site by Unesco.
https://www.guilhaumedorange.fr/

Guilhaume d'Orange*** - St Guilhem le Desert

Located 30 minutes Montpellier, on the road to Compostelle, hotel and village will enable visitors to discover the southern Romanesque art as well as exceptional nearby natural sites such as the "Clamouse" cave, the gorges of the "Herault" river, the "Infernet" cirque, and more. The hotel allows visitors to spend unforgettable vacations in a unique medieval village: Saint Guilhem le Desert which is a world heritage site by Unesco.
https://www.guilhaumedorange.fr/

Auberge du Cedre B&B - Lauret

It’s hard to define the Auberge du Cèdre it’s neither a hotel nor a guest house but rather a largeold family home with its many living rooms and bedrooms its maze of stairs and refreshing corridorsits vast sun-drenched terraces and its lovely hundred-year-old gardens.It was formerly the manor house of the Domaine de Cazeneuve a well known wine-producing estate. People come here with their loved ones with their family or with friends for a country break;or for a course a seminar to work or to learn in a beautiful calm and simple environment.
http://www.auberge-du-cedre.com/

Auberge du Cedre B&B - Lauret

It’s hard to define the Auberge du Cèdre it’s neither a hotel nor a guest house but rather a largeold family home with its many living rooms and bedrooms its maze of stairs and refreshing corridorsits vast sun-drenched terraces and its lovely hundred-year-old gardens.It was formerly the manor house of the Domaine de Cazeneuve a well known wine-producing estate. People come here with their loved ones with their family or with friends for a country break;or for a course a seminar to work or to learn in a beautiful calm and simple environment.
http://www.auberge-du-cedre.com/

Hotel Estelou*** - Sommieres

Located in Sommieres, in the Languedoc-Roussillon, close to the Camargue and Mediterranean beaches, the hotel Estelou in Sommieres it’s clearly an unusual and very charming 3 star hotel hotel with a very original architecture inside a former train station.This hotel offers a quiet and verdant setting at the entrance of the village of Sommieres, a picturesque village with its medieval town centre and its Roman bridge built in the 1st century. The hotel Estelou has 24 comfortable and quiet rooms, a swimming pool and a wide garden spanning over 5 000m2. It's set at the departure the greenway, which follows the route of the old railway tracks, many opportunities for walks and discoveries.
http://www.hotelestelou.com/

Hotel Estelou*** - Sommieres

Located in Sommieres, in the Languedoc-Roussillon, close to the Camargue and Mediterranean beaches, the hotel Estelou in Sommieres it’s clearly an unusual and very charming 3 star hotel hotel with a very original architecture inside a former train station.This hotel offers a quiet and verdant setting at the entrance of the village of Sommieres, a picturesque village with its medieval town centre and its Roman bridge built in the 1st century. The hotel Estelou has 24 comfortable and quiet rooms, a swimming pool and a wide garden spanning over 5 000m2. It's set at the departure the greenway, which follows the route of the old railway tracks, many opportunities for walks and discoveries.
http://www.hotelestelou.com/

Grand Hotel du Midi**** - Montpellier

The Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier - Opéra Comédieenjoys the ideal location for discovering Montpellier: it is situated where the heart of the town beats away, the famous Place de la Comédie. It is there, at the foot of the Fontaine des Trois Grâces, that the people of Montpellier have always arranged to meet. The Grand Hôtel du Midi Montpellier - Opéra Comédie is a charming hotel in a privileged location; historical curiosities as well as shows at the Opera are within walking distance.
https://www.grandhoteldumidimontpellier.com/en/