Languedoc, Cathar Country

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This trip through the Cathar region begins in the wonderful medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO world heritage site in the South of France famous for its Castle, and ends in the charming village of Collioure by the Mediterranean Sea.
In between, you will stop at Limoux where you can taste the famous sparkling white wine, named after the town: the Blanquette de Limoux. Cycling on further, you will travel through the wild landscape of the Hautes Corbières, with its breathtaking views, delightful villages nestled among rows of vineyards, and majestic Cathar castles such as Chateau de Queribus and Chateau de Peyrepertuse, perched high on the hills of the countryside.
The final cycling portions are rewarding: riding along the Cote Vermeille and visiting Collioure, a small Catalan port where the Mediterranean waters meet the Pyrenees Mountains. With an exceptional climate and guaranteed sunshine, Collioure is a unique spot. Stone and sandy beaches, creeks and crystal clear water. What better way to end your holidays!

Price from : 1190€
BIKE INCLUDED
Region : Languedoc
Duration : 7 Days / 6 Nights
Level : or
Type : On the way
Category : Bike
Trip : Self-guided
Activity : Hybrid
Dates : Starts any day
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Itinerary

Click below to see hotels versions.

Day 1 :   Arrive in Carcassonne

Our guide will meet you at your hotel. Weather permitting you can try your bicycle along the famous Canal du Midi. You can dine and discover the fascinating medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO world heritage site.

Day 2 :   Cycle to Couiza

Distance 1 : 32 Miles - 52 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 921 Meters 

On your first day of cycling you will travel south through grapevines to the village of Limoux, renowned for its famous Blanquette (bubbly white wine). On this stop you can taste it. You will then need fresh legs to climb some hills before to join the village of Couiza for one night in a magnificent 16th century historically classed château. Gastronomic dinner included. Breakfast also included.

Day 3 :   Cathar Castles in Corbieres on to Cucugnan

Distance 1 : 29 Miles - 47 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 758 Meters 

This route between the Pyrenees and the wild Corbieres traverses the beautiful Hautes Corbieres countryside with the Pic de Bugarach 1230m. Here you will see the famous Citadelles du Vertige, the Queribus and Peyrepertuse Castles deeply embedded in the epic Cathar history. The uphill challenges are well compensated with the awaiting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Evening meal included as well as breakfast.

Day 4 :   From Cucugnan to Thuir

Distance 1 : 35 Miles - 56 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 438 Meters 

You will leave the Corbieres passing in front of the Padern Castle on its rocky peak and you will go towards the village of Tautavel where there is the European Centre of Prehistory. After this visit there are some more hills to climb before reaching Thuir.

Day 5 :   Ride to Collioure

Distance 1 : 25 Miles - 41 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 315 Meters 

Before leaving Thuir we would recommend a little detour (+11kms) to Castelnou, a charming village classed among the Most Beautiful French Villages. Today's itinerary is easier than the previous days. Faced with the Pyrenean summits and then go on the beach at Argeles sur Mer, and the magnificent village of Collioure, where a well-deserved swim can be enjoyed.

Day 6 :   Short Hike or Free day to Enjoy the Beach.

Distance 1 : 6 Miles - 9 Km 
Elevation gain 1 : 356 Meters 

On your last day you will have the choice of visiting Collioure, a snooze on the beach or else a walk through the vineyards which surround the sea. The splendid landside is there to be enjoyed. It is the ideal spot to end your trip and return home with lots of special memories.

Day 7 :   Departure Day

Depending on your wishes and plans, we can arrange additional accommodation or transportation before or after your tour.

Average / Day : Distance : 41.00 Km / 25.40 Miles - Elevation gain : 557.60 Meters

Click below to see hotels versions.


Day : 1

The Hotel Montmorency, ideally situated at the foot of the city walls and opposite the entry to the medieval city of Carcassonne, offers the charm of the Middle Ages with contemporary comfort. The hotel is charming and cozy with 20 individually decorated bedrooms. Within tree-lined gardens of half a hectare you will find the heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, perfect for relaxation. There is a private car park for guests as well.


Day : 2

The hotel is situated near Carcassonne in hte heart of the Cathar country, 5 minutes from the mystery of Rennes-le-Chateau. The hotel combines the medieval character of its rooms and junior suites and the modern comfort of its bathrooms.


Day : 3

In a friendly and warm atmosphere, come and discover the charm of our hotel situated at the foothills of the Pyrénées. The Auberge du Vigneron is fitted out in a former winery, with the authentic frame which kept : visible stones, fireplace and oak barrels decorate the restaurant. In the Auberge du Vigneron, everything is made to feel at home.


Day : 4

Near the small town of Thuir, nestling in the lush green countryside, this traditional Catalan mas dating from XIth and XVth centuries will captivate you with its gentle pace of life. With all the comforts of home, Casa9 is a wonderful place to stay with swimming pool, large residents lounge, beautiful gardens with shaded patios and stylish, entirely refurbished rooms.


Day : 5, 6

This 3-star hotel La Casa Pairal, a magnificent town house that was formerly the home of a 19th century Catalan family, is a haven of peace and tranquility situated in the heart of Collioure, right on the Mediterranean coast. They have 27 comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, each decorated differently in its own unique, appealing style. The hotel's typical Catalan architecture sits amid beautiful flowers and lush green vegetation.


Day : 1

The charm of the Hotel du Chateau is that it is rural yet metropolitan and sophisticated yet comfortable. You will feel at home with a heated pool from Easter until November, an outdoor jacuzzi open all year, and a stylish yet cozy bar. The exclusive location of the Hotel du Chateau surrounded by greenery and serenity provides an idyllic break with an emphasis on the art of living.


Day : 2

The hotel is situated near Carcassonne in hte heart of the Cathar country, 5 minutes from the mystery of Rennes-le-Chateau. The hotel combines the medieval character of its rooms and junior suites and the modern comfort of its bathrooms.


Day : 3

In a friendly and warm atmosphere, come and discover the charm of our hotel situated at the foothills of the Pyrénées. The Auberge du Vigneron is fitted out in a former winery, with the authentic frame which kept : visible stones, fireplace and oak barrels decorate the restaurant. In the Auberge du Vigneron, everything is made to feel at home.


Day : 4

Near the small town of Thuir, nestling in the lush green countryside, this traditional Catalan mas dating from XIth and XVth centuries will captivate you with its gentle pace of life. With all the comforts of home, Casa9 is a wonderful place to stay with swimming pool, large residents lounge, beautiful gardens with shaded patios and stylish, entirely refurbished rooms.


Day : 5, 6

Blessed with a perfect location, The Hôtel le Relais des Trois Mas offers comfortable accomodation. In the shade of 100-year old pine trees, the rooms offer a superb view of the Bay of Collioure and the church Notre Dame des Anges. The 23 Rooms and Suites have been refurbished with new beds, new tubs, free WiFi internet. The Suites with private gardens also have Spa Bathtubs. The new Jacuzzi with an amazing view over the Village and the sea, the sauna and the swimming-pool with its terrace overlooking the bay are the best way to relax. The Restaurant La Balette is one of the best of the region. The chef Frédéric Bacquié, 1 Star in Michelin's Guide since 2009, invites you to discover at a nice table the Mediterranean Products. With his desserts, the Pastry Chef will take you through the Orchards from Catalunya. We strongly recommend you to book your table before your arrival.


Day : 1

The Hotel Montmorency, ideally situated at the foot of the city walls and opposite the entry to the medieval city of Carcassonne, offers the charm of the Middle Ages with contemporary comfort. The hotel is charming and cozy with 20 individually decorated bedrooms. Within tree-lined gardens of half a hectare you will find the heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, perfect for relaxation. There is a private car park for guests as well.


Day : 2

The hotel is situated near Carcassonne in hte heart of the Cathar country, 5 minutes from the mystery of Rennes-le-Chateau. The hotel combines the medieval character of its rooms and junior suites and the modern comfort of its bathrooms.


Day : 3

In a friendly and warm atmosphere, come and discover the charm of our hotel situated at the foothills of the Pyrénées. The Auberge du Vigneron is fitted out in a former winery, with the authentic frame which kept : visible stones, fireplace and oak barrels decorate the restaurant. In the Auberge du Vigneron, everything is made to feel at home.


Day : 4

Near the small town of Thuir, nestling in the lush green countryside, this traditional Catalan mas dating from XIth and XVth centuries will captivate you with its gentle pace of life. With all the comforts of home, Casa9 is a wonderful place to stay with swimming pool, large residents lounge, beautiful gardens with shaded patios and stylish, entirely refurbished rooms.


Day : 5, 6

The hotel is located 100 meters from the harbor, the famous Boramar beach and Royal Castle, in the heart of Collioure. The hotel consists of 30 rooms and suites combining comfort, design and technology. The hotel was completely renovated in 2009 and offers a unique and specific style to each floor.

Bikes available for your tour

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.

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...

Daily Elevation Profiles
Average / Day : Distance : 41.00 Km / 25.40 Miles - Elevation gain : 557.60 Meters
Day 2 :   Cycle to Couiza

Option 1: 32 Miles - 52 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 921 Meters 

Day 3 :   Cathar Castles in Corbieres on to Cucugnan

Option 1: 29 Miles - 47 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 758 Meters 

Day 4 :   From Cucugnan to Thuir

Option 1: 35 Miles - 56 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 438 Meters 

Day 5 :   Ride to Collioure

Option 1: 25 Miles - 41 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 315 Meters 

Day 6 :   Short Hike or Free day to Enjoy the Beach.

Option 1: 6 Miles - 9 Km  Elevation gain 1 : 356 Meters 

Included

  • 6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
  • Daily breakfast at each hotel, 2 dinners included
  • Hybrid bike rental included
  • Orientation in person with our local guide
  • Detailed ROAD BOOK, including details maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets

  • 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
  • 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

Train: From Paris Gare de Lyon to Carcassonne; 5 hours 20min. Tour depart from Sete to Paris same, 4 hrs. Flights to/from Beziers and Montpellier possible.

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 1190 € 180 € 1890 €
Standard 1380 € 280 € 2120 €
Upgraded 1690 € 490 € 2650 €
*Rates vary according to hotel availability and specific start date. Please contact us for triple room rates

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 €
Tandem Bike Rental
    Standard 40 €



Please note that any bike changes during the trip may incur an extra fee.

Services available

Services available
Cancelation insurance 6%

Bot scann is mandatory