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Cycle Through the Heart of Occitanie: Self-Guided Adventure in France

Hop on a bike and pedal through the heart of Occitanie, one of France’s most gorgeous regions, where bucolic landscapes and serene surroundings reign supreme. This week-long adventure is self-guided, meaning that everything is arranged for you, and you’ll just cruise at your own pace—so you’ll have plenty of time to savor local wines, artisanal treats, and lovely villages. With welcoming towns, medieval villages, sun-drenched vineyards, and so many more different sights, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t come here sooner. This adventure offers the perfect mix of cycling, history, and authentic French charm.

Adventure highlights

  • Stunning medieval villages

    The cobblestone streets, gates, and centuries-old architecture of Cordes-sur-Ciel and Penne will transport you back in time

  • Scenic vineyards & countryside

    This whole region is rich in winemaking tradition, so sampling prestigious wines might just be on the itinerary every day

  • Pedal at your own pace

    Occitanie is too gorgeous to be rushed—you just focus on enjoying yourself, and we’ll arrange everything else

Itinerary

Peaceful roads, medieval villages, and a leisurely pace that lets you savor every moment—this is your week-long adventure through the heart of Occitanie in a nutshell! You’ll cruise through gorges, past castles perched on cliffs, along sun-drenched vineyards, quiet canals, shady canopy-lined paths… The views and landscapes are seriously diverse and endless. We’ll arrange everything for you—accommodation, luggage transfers, breakfasts, route notes, maps, even bike rentals, so all that’s left to do is kick back and enjoy the journey.

  • Today is all about arriving in Toulouse and settling into your hotel. You’ll receive your bike and a route booklet. We certainly recommend arriving early and exploring all the highlights, including the famous Place du Capitole and the Garonne River quays—which are especially beautiful at sunset. Nicknamed the “Pink City” for its terracotta-brick buildings, Toulouse has a distinctive charm. It’s also called the “City of Violets” due to its association with the flower, which can be discovered in many forms, from candies to syrups.

    Accommodation: 3-star hotel or guesthouse

    Toulouse street in France
  • Your first day of cycling takes you from the lively energy of the city to the tranquil charm of quiet country roads. Along the way, you’ll explore the picturesque Pays de Cocagne and the first Albigensian bastides, including Saint-Sulpice-la-Pointe and L’Isle-sur-Tarn. Don’t miss Rabastens and its stunning Church of Notre-Dame du Bourg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The journey then leads you through the rolling vineyards of Gaillac, France’s oldest wine region, before arriving in the historic town that shares its name.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Cycling: 63 km (39 miles)
    Elevation gain: 400 m (1,315 ft)
    Accommodation: 3-star hotel or guesthouse

    Gaillac on water in France
  • Set off on your bike to explore Castelnau-de-Montmiral, a hidden gem nestled along scenic, gently rolling roads. Classified as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” this medieval town offers stunning views over the Tarn Valley. Wander through its magnificent arcaded square, admire the half-timbered facades, and take in the charming mix of red brick and white stone architecture.

    Your journey ends on a high note in Albi, an episcopal city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dominating the skyline is the awe-inspiring Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, the largest brick cathedral in the world and a true jewel of the South-West. With its majestic presence, it’s impossible to miss as you arrive. Wrap up the day by soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Albi, often called the “red city,” as the evening light transforms its brick buildings into a warm, glowing masterpiece.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Cycling: 44 km (27 miles)
    Elevation gain: 410 m (1,345 ft)
    Accommodation: 3-star hotel or guesthouse

    Albi at night, France
  • Start your day with a visit to the breathtaking medieval village of Cordes-sur-Ciel, perched dramatically atop a rocky outcrop. Park your bike and wander its steep cobbled streets to discover one of the oldest bastides in Occitanie. This Gothic architectural gem will captivate you with its fortified gates, ancient ramparts, and intricately sculpted facades, while its artisan workshops and artists’ galleries add a vibrant touch to the timeless atmosphere.

    From there, the scenery shifts dramatically as you enter the stunning Aveyron Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs rise above lush, untamed landscapes. The day’s journey concludes in the charming medieval town of Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val, beautifully situated at the confluence of the Aveyron and Bonnette rivers, offering the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Cycling: 54 km (34 miles)
    Elevation gain: 415 m (1,360 ft)
    Accommodation: 3-star hotel or guesthouse

    Aveyron gorge, France
  • Begin your day immersed in the wild, verdant beauty of the Aveyron Gorges. The scenic Route de la Corniche offers stunning views of the cliffs and valleys as you cycle through the charming hamlet of Brousses, where nature and history intertwine seamlessly.

    This stage is a journey through history, taking you to the medieval village of Penne with its impressive Middle Ages castle, and Bruniquel, one of Occitanie’s most picturesque gems, known for its narrow, winding lanes. Continue through the fortified village of Montricoux, nestled along the banks of the Aveyron, before arriving in Montauban, a Grand Site of Occitanie. This welcoming and vibrant town is cherished for its relaxed pace of life, making it the perfect place to end your day.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Cycling: 58 km (36 miles)
    Elevation gain: 610 m (2,000 ft)
    Accommodation: 3-star hotel or guesthouse

    Montauban, France
  • Start your day at Port Canal, Montauban’s serene marina surrounded by lush greenery—a true haven of peace. From there, head to the Canal de Garonne at Montech, known for its charming marina and the unique engineering marvel of its water slope.

    This tranquil stage, shaded by rows of plane trees, offers a relaxing ride until the final stretch. As you approach Toulouse, the pace picks up slightly, but the reward is well worth it: direct access to the heart of the city, where comfort and vibrant city life await.

    Meals: Breakfast
    Cycling: 60 km (37 miles)
    Elevation gain: 100 m (330 ft)
    Accommodation: 3-star hotel or B&B

    Vineyard near Toulouse
  • After breakfast, it’s time to pack up and leave the hotel. This marks the end of your self-guided journey!

    Meals: Breakfast

    Toulouse dome, France
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Meet your guide

Evazio
5.00
Evazio
Evazio is a travel agency dedicated to offering unique, tailor-made experiences in France. With over 20 years of expertise, they’re committed to helping travelers discover the beauty and diversity of France in an authentic and unforgettable way. Whether you’re looking for adventure, culture, or relaxation, Evazio offers something for everyone. They are dedicated to delivering personalized, high-quality experiences while prioritizing sustainable travel practices.
5.00 (2 reviews)
David Hunter-Smith (source: Google Reviews)

fantastic bike ride – great accommodation and details. The app used work ed a treat and was easy ++. Great recommendations for places to eat. Bikes were excellent. Needed all the tubes! – maybe 2 more would have been nice. Accommodation all good. highly recommend. booked late, no issues. very happy indeed.

Pablo Taraciuk (source: Google Reviews)

We have been travelling with Evazio since 2001. More than 10 bike circuits along France and Italy. It’s an extraordinary experience combining sport, food, wine and amazing landscapes. The organisation has been always outperforming. We just finished a trip in Bretagne and are planning a new one for 2924.

Things to know

  • Included:

      • 7-day self-guided Toulouse cycling holidays through the heart of Occitanie
      • Accommodation for 6 nights in 3-star hotels and charming B&Bs
      • 6 breakfasts
      • Travel book (maps and tourist information)
      • GPS app for a smartphone
      • Luggage transfers
      • Support every day of the week (between 7:30am and 8pm)

    Add-ons:

      • Bike rental (available to add upon checkout)
        • Touring bike — $140 per person for the whole trip
        • E-bike — $260 per person for the whole trip
        • Gravel bike — $240 per person for the whole trip
      • Bike insurance — let us know if you’re interested upon checkout
      • Single supplement — $370

    Not included:

      • Flights to France
      • Lunches and dinners
      • Drinks
      • Travel and medical insurance — optional
  • These Toulouse cycling holidays are ideal for cyclists who are prepared to pedal 50-60 km (31-37 miles) per day, with up to 600 m (1,970 ft) of elevation gain. Detailed day-by-day distances and elevation gains can be found in the itinerary.

    If you’re looking to make the adventure easier, your guides offer e-bike rental. As this is a self-guided adventure, you can move at your own pace and stop whenever you want. This is not a race, it’s all about taking in the gorgeous views and enjoying the journey!

    For more bike adventures in France, click here!

  • Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

      • Day pack large enough to carry everything you might need throughout the day (around a 25-40L bag)
      • Helmet
      • Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
      • Comfortable cycling clothing
      • Lightweight shoes
      • Spare clothes for layering
      • Waterproof rain jacket
      • Sunhat
      • Emergency kit
      • Spare phone battery
      • Swimsuit
      • Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
      • Headlamp or flashlight
      • Sunglasses
      • Camera — optional (but recommended)

    Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

    Please note that your luggage may still be on its way by the time you reach your accommodation—it’s best to take spare clothes with you each day in your bike pannier.

  • Indeed you can! Skip the hassle of bringing your own bike with you and simply rent one with your guides. You can choose between three types of bikes, add your preferred one(s) upon checkout:

      • Touring bike — $140 per person for the whole trip
      • E-bike — $260 per person for the whole trip
      • Gravel bike — $240 per person for the whole trip
  • A self-guided tour is an independent exploration without a formal guide leading the way. Instead of being part of a group with a tour leader, you will navigate the tour yourself, using resources provided by the operator, such as a travel book (containing routes, maps, and tourist information) and a GPS app for a smartphone.

    Your guide will also take care of other parts of the tour, such as support, accommodation, and luggage transfers. They also offer bike rentals to make your journey go as smoothly as possible.

  • One of the best things about these self-guided Toulouse cycling holidays is that your luggage will be transferred for you—you travel light and enjoy the day’s cycling!

    Every morning, you’ll leave your luggage at the reception desk of your accommodation before departure. After a day of cycling, you’ll get to your accommodation and either pick it up at the reception desk or it will have already been delivered to your room. Please note that if you arrive a bit earlier on some days, your luggage may not already be there.

    Keep your luggage to one suitcase/travel bag (maximum 23 kg) and one carry-on.

  • Group sizes and pricing

      • For these self-guided Toulouse cycling holidays, there is no minimum people required—even a solo traveler can sign up for this adventure!
      • There’s no limit to the group size! Your guiding company can seamlessly organize this journey for a group of any size, no matter how large.

    Self-guided Toulouse cycling holidays can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

    Min. age requirements

      • If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
      • Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join these self-guided Toulouse cycling holidays on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.

    If your group has cyclists under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

  • The starting point of your self-guided Toulouse cycling holidays is Toulouse, France. To get there, most people fly into Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach the city—you’ll get there in just 15 to 30 minutes!

    Day 1 is all about arrival (no cycling), so feel free to arrive whenever suits you, but we always recommend arriving on time so you can have a stroll around the town and rest before your adventure begins.

  • We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

    Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

    Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

  • Deposits
    You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

    Cancellations
    Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

    Basic

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 30-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, there is no refund.

    Super Flexible

      • In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
      • For cancellations 30 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
      • For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  • 57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.
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