Suggested Dates: May, Jun, Jul, Aug, and Sep
Duration: 9 nights / 10 days
Accommodation: Boutique Hotels, B&Bs
Daily Mileage: 45
Activity Level: Level 2 | Intermediate
Tour Interests: Off the beaten path / Low traffic / Nature
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Explore the hidden heart of Southern France by bike, where dramatic landscapes, ancient strongholds, and vibrant culture blend into an experience as rich as the wines you'll taste along the way.
This is ancient Catalan France - the ancestral Languedoc - Rousillion, nowadays known as Occitania. Imagine it as the undiscovered Provence: a land of beautiful gorges, abbeys and hilltop villages with deeply rooted wine-making traditions, yet without the crowds.
Starting in the legendary citadel of Carcassonne, you'll journey through the sun-soaked Corbières and Roussillon regions, tracing quiet, winding roads to places most travelers never see. From the storybook village of Lagrasse, with its Benedictine abbey and artisan markets, to the windswept Cathar castles perched above the gorges, every stop reveals a piece of history carved into the landscape.
Along the way, discover timeless hilltop hamlets, scenic river valleys, and secluded stone villages where life moves at a gentler pace. You'll visit boutique wineries, dine on regionally inspired cuisine, and stay in carefully selected accommodations—converted wine estates, medieval manors, and artful boutique hotels that are as much a part of the experience as the ride itself.
This is a tour designed for travelers who seek more than mileage: it’s for those who value authentic cultural connection, unspoiled scenery, and the thrill of uncovering places that still feel undiscovered.
Ride through landscapes that have inspired artists, resisted empires, and remained gloriously true to themselves over the many centuries.
DAY 1 – Arrival in Carcassonne
Arrive in Carcassonne via air or train. Check in at Hôtel Le Donjon, located inside the medieval citadel. In the afternoon, enjoy bike fittings followed by a gourmet welcome dinner at Comte Roger.
Activity: Arrival, bike fittingHighlights: Carcassonne citadel, Welcome dinnerAccommodations: Hôtel Le DonjonMeals: Dinner
DAY 2 – Carcassonne to Lagrasse
A scenic 44km ride through rolling hills to the medieval village of Lagrasse, one of France’s most beautiful. Visit the 8th-century abbey and enjoy time exploring local crafts, artists, and vinegar tastings.
Activity: Ride of 44kmHighlights: Abbey of Ste-Marie d’Orbieu, Lagrasse old townAccommodations: Hostellerie des CorbièresMeals: Breakfast / Picnic Lunch / Dinner
DAY 3 – Lagrasse Loop Ride
A gentle 33km loop ride through the Gorges du Congoust and surrounding countryside. Enjoy lunch in the charming village of Val-de-Dagne before returning to Lagrasse via historic bridges.
Activity: Ride of 33kmHighlights: Gorges du Congoust, Pont-Vieux, Val-de-DagneAccommodations: Hostellerie des Corbières / BouquerieMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 4 – Lagrasse to Duilhac-sous-Peyrepertuse
Ride 47km to the Cathar stronghold of Cucugnan via Villerouge-Termenes and Padern. Visit either Queribus or Peyrepertuse castle in the afternoon. Group dinner at your countryside hotel.
Activity: Ride of 47km, castle visitHighlights: Cathar castles, medieval villagesAccommodations: Hostellerie du Vieux MoulinMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 5 – Duilhac to Bélesta
A spectacular 45km ride through the Galamus Gorge and the Torgan River valley. Stop for lunch in Caramany, then continue to Bélesta, a charming village known for its wines and ancient dolmen.
Activity: Ride of 45kmHighlights: Galamus Gorge, Caramany, Dolmen de BélestaAccommodations: Domaine RiberachMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 6 – Bélesta Loop Ride
Today’s 41km loop passes through Estagel and leads to Château de Jau for a winery tour and lunch. Return to Bélesta for a second night and dinner at the hotel’s restaurant, La Coopérative.
Activity: Ride of 41km, winery tourHighlights: Château de Jau, wine tasting, EstagelAccommodations: Domaine RiberachMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 7 – Bélesta to Céret
Ride 55km through Mediterranean forests and past Les Orgues rock formations. Lunch in the tranquil village of Calmeilles. Arrive in artistic Céret, once home to Picasso and Braque.
Activity: Ride of 55kmHighlights: Les Orgues d’Ille-sur-Têt, Calmeilles villageAccommodations: Hôtel le Mas TrillesMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
DAY 8 – Céret to Collioure
Ride 42km beginning with a crossing of the Devil’s Bridge. Continue through coastal hills to the Mediterranean port town of Collioure, long beloved by artists. Farewell dinner at La Bodeguita.
Activity: Ride of 42kmHighlights: Devil’s Bridge, Collioure town and coastAccommodations: Le Relais Des Trois MasMeals: Breakfast / Lunch / Farewell Dinner
DAY 9 – Departure from Collioure
Depart Collioure via train, bus, or shuttle to nearby airports. Let your guides know if you need specific transport assistance.
Activity: Departure transfersHighlights: Farewell from the MediterraneanMeals: Breakfast
Accommodations
Meals
Activities
Equipment
Support
Not Included
More Questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
What is the food like on this tour?Languedoc cuisine is hearty, rustic, and full of Mediterranean character. Expect cassoulet, duck confit, fresh seafood, and flavorful regional cheeses, all paired with local wines from historic vineyards.
When is the best time to travel?The ideal time to join this tour is May through June or September through October.
What type of bike is recommended?We recommend a touring or gravel bike suited to Languedoc’s mix of quiet paved roads and smooth rural lanes. E-bikes are available for those who prefer added support on climbs or longer rides.
How challenging is the cycling?This is a moderate-level tour designed for recreational cyclists. Daily rides range from 40 to 70 km (25 to 43 mi), with rolling hills, vineyard climbs, and scenic plateaus. A support van is always nearby, and shorter or alternate routes are available.
Where does the tour start and end?The tour begins in Carcassonne, famous for its medieval walled city, and ends near the Mediterranean coast, in Collioure. All ground transfers and luggage transport are included for a seamless and stress-free experience.
Choose your dates, your group and your interests. We'll create a bike tour tailor made for you!
Our team of experts is always ready and eager to assist you with any inquiries.
1-321-392-0616