7 days
From US $1,495
Self-guided Bordeaux to Toulouse Garonne Canal Bike Tour
This scenic bike tour takes you through the heart of southwest France, blending history, culture, and natural beauty. Over seven days, you ride from the elegant city of Bordeaux to the lively streets of Toulouse, following peaceful cycle paths and the picturesque Garonne Canal.
The adventure begins in Bordeaux, a city known for its grand architecture, world-famous wines, and vibrant atmosphere. From here, you set off on the Voie Vertes greenway, also called the Roger Lapebie track after the famous French cyclist and 1937 Tour de France winner. This is a dedicated cycling route that winds through lush vineyards and historic villages. Along the way, you discover medieval towns, impressive abbeys, and bastides—fortified towns that date back to the Middle Ages.
As you reach the Garonne Canal, the landscape changes to tranquil waterways, shaded by centuries-old trees and dotted with charming lock houses. You pass through delightful villages such as La Réole, Le Mas d’Agenais, and Damazan, where history and tradition are deeply rooted in daily life. Moissac, with its UNESCO-listed abbey and famous cloister, offers a glimpse into France’s rich religious heritage.
The final stretch leads you to Toulouse, the "Pink City," where red-brick buildings glow in the sunlight. Here, you celebrate the end of the journey with a stroll through bustling squares, visits to historical landmarks, and perhaps a taste of the city’s famous cassoulet.
Bordeaux
Toulouse
casual
easy to moderate
52km / 32mi
5
Bordeaux Merignac Airport (BOD)
Toulouse–Blagnac Airport (TLS)
Min. 2, Max. 10
Highlights
Cycle Along the Garonne Canal
Enjoy peaceful rides along the scenic Garonne Canal, surrounded by lush landscapes, historic villages, and picturesque lock houses.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Place | casual Inns (subject to availability) | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Bordeaux | Hôtel Maison bord'Eaux (4-star) | |||
| DAY 2 | Camiran | La Camiranaise | B, D | 63km / 39.1mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Mas d'Agenais | Domaine de Méroc | B | 37.5km / 23.3mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Sérignac-sur-Garonne | Hôtel Le Prince Noir | B | 37km / 23mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Moissac | Hôtel L'Armateur | B | 55km / 34.2mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Toulouse | Hôtel de Brienne (4-star) | B | 67km / 41.6mi | cycling, birding |
| DAY 7 | Toulouse | B |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Bordeaux
Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Bordeaux, renowned for its rich history, exquisite wines, and stunning architecture.
After checking in to the hotel, you have the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace. A stroll along the Garonne River, a visit to the UNESCO-listed Place de la Bourse, or a stop at one of the many lively squares filled with cafés and boutiques allows you to immerse ourselves in Bordeaux’s unique atmosphere.
As the evening sets in, settle into your comfortable accommodations and prepare for the cycling adventure ahead.
Day 2: Camiran
Our team will meet you at your hotel at 10 AM to deliver your bikes and the other accessories you need to start your adventure.
Leaving Bordeaux behind, you set off along a well-maintained cycle path that leads onto the famous "Voie Verte" (Greenway), named after Tour de France champion Roger Lapébie. As you ride through picturesque landscapes and charming villages, you experience the tranquility of the region.
You pass through the Bastide de Créon before reaching the impressive ruins of La Sauve Majeure Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery dating back to 1070. The gentle ride through rolling countryside provides a wonderful introduction to the area.
98% paved /2% unpaved
Day 3: Mas d'Agenais
Today’s route takes you through rolling countryside toward La Réole, a historic town overlooking the Garonne River. From here, you join a peaceful, tree-lined cycling path along the Garonne Canal, a 19th-century waterway that offers a relaxed and scenic ride towards Le Mas d’Agenais.
Upon arrival, you have the chance to visit the village’s Romanesque church, home to an original painting by Rembrandt. With vineyards surrounding the town, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a wine tasting before settling in for the night.
98%paved /2% unpaved
Day 4: Sérignac-sur-Garonne
Following the gentle curves of the Garonne Canal, you continue the journey through the peaceful countryside. Along the way, pass through the medieval village of Damazan, a bastide town founded in 1259, where vibrantly colored shutters and arcaded squares create a picturesque setting.
As you ride further, the scenic canal path, lined with cypress trees and historic stone bridges, offers a truly relaxing experience. Sérignac-sur-Garonne welcomes you with its charming ambiance where you spend the night in a beautifully restored former monastery.
98% paved / 2% unpaved
Day 5: Moissac
Back on the canal path, today’s ride leads you to one of the region’s engineering marvels: the Pont-Canal d’Agen, a striking bridge that carries the canal over the Garonne River. Take time to explore the historic center of Agen before continuing toward Moissac, a town rich in history and renowned for its Romanesque architecture.
Moissac holds an important place along the Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage route, with its UNESCO-listed abbey and cloister among the finest in Europe. The surrounding landscape is filled with lush vineyards and golden-hued Chasselas grapes. As you arrive, breathtaking views of orchards and rolling hills provide a beautiful backdrop to end the day.
98%paved /2%unpaved
Day 6: Toulouse
The final cycling leg follows the Garonne Canal as it leads you into the heart of Toulouse. Known as "La Ville Rose" (The Pink City) for its distinctive terracotta buildings, Toulouse welcomes you with its lively energy and cultural heritage.
As you arrive, take time to explore the city's historical highlights, including the UNESCO-listed Basilica of St. Sernin, one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Europe. The bustling squares, charming cafés, and unique boutiques make for a perfect way to celebrate the completion of our journey.
98%paved /2%unpaved
Day 7: Toulouse
After breakfast, check out and bid farewell to this beautiful region. If time allows, you can take a final stroll through Toulouse’s charming streets, visit one of its fascinating museums, or simply relax at a café with a view of the Garonne River.
With its perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and world-class cuisine, this cycling adventure through Bordeaux and the Garonne Canal leaves you with an unforgettable memories of southwest France.
You can leave your bikes at the hotel for our team to pick them. Alternatively, you can consider extending your France cycling adventure by combining this tour with our Self-guided Canal du Midi bike tour which starts at Toulouse and ends at beautiful seaside resort of Sète following the famous Canal du Midi all along.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Dates and Prices
Single Supplement
From US $150
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $580
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup and drop
We recommend to book direclty from airport or hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.
Trek Verve 2 or similar
Included in your trip price
Trek Verve 1 or similar
Included in your trip price
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival
Your tour begins in Bordeaux which is served by the Bordeaux Merignac International Airport.
You can also arrive at Bordeaux by train by taking the TGV (high-speed train) from Paris to Bordeaux. The journey takes around 2 hours.
Departure
Your tour ends in Toulouse which is served by the Toulouse-Blagnac International Airport with connectivity to major European capitals.
You can also depart form Toulouse by taking the TGV to Paris.
Weather
The best time for the Bordeaux to Toulouse bike tour is May to August, when the weather is warm, dry, and ideal for cycling.
April and September also offer good conditions, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
October can be unpredictable, with a mix of pleasant days and occasional rain.
The off-season from November to March is generally not recommended due to colder temperatures and higher chances of rain.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, we can provide panniers for this tour. Kindly let us know of your requirement when you book the tour.
This tour is largely on paved surface.
We provide an app-based navigation system that can also be used offline. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we will share the login details ahead of your trip. Since the app works offline, it helps conserve your phone's battery during use.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
We provide 24/7 emergency support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
For answers to broader questions, please visit our Comprehensive FAQs section.
