Key Information: Tour Duration: 5
day(s) Group Size: 1
- 20
people Destination(s):France Specialty Categories:Bicycle TouringEcotourism Season: April - November Airfare Included: No Tour Customizable: No Minimum Per Person Price: 330 Euro (EUR) Maximum Per Person Price: 2000 Euro (EUR)
Work started on the canal to link the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans in 1666 under Louis XIV and was completed in just 14 years by 12,000 men and women. This cycling break in the heart of the Corbieres and Minervois follows a short section of the incredible canal-du-midi between Carcassonne and Beziers.
The spillway at La Redorte and the double lock at Argens Minervois are some of the feats of engineering conceived by Vauban and Riquet to be seen during this tour.
Starting in medieval Lagrasse, one of the 'plus belles villages de France', you have time to explore the exceptional collection of 11th to 18th century buildings including the Benedictine Abbey founded in 800 AD and a 12th century bridge over the Orbieu river.
The first day’s ride descends through Corbieres vineyards towards Marseillette and the nights stop by the Canal. Wind and water mills dotted across the landscape tell of an age before the vines were planted in place of wheat.
From Marseillette the tour reaches Puicheric with its 11th century chateau, 13th century church and streets bordered by ancient houses. You leave the canal to see a very pretty 10th century church at Escales before returning to see the 'epanchoir' at La Redorte.
A magnificent view of the Montagnes Noir from Castelnau d'Aude, then on to the double lock at Argens before stopping for two nights back by the canal at Homps. The history of the Canal is best appreciated by taking a boat trip from Homps in the afternoon.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
4 night break on pays basis - from 330 EUR per person. This tour runs from April to the end of November and can be modified to match your requirements. Ask and we will help make it happen!
