Self-guided: Languedoc Long Weekend

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Self-guided: Languedoc Long Weekend

635.00895.00

Self-guided, point-to-point cycling tour through the rolling countryside of Languedoc to the Mediteranean sea. Pedal at your own pace as you explore the amazingly varied terrain and history of this area.

The Languedoc is not only the oldest and largest wine-growing area in the world, but it is also one of the most historically interesting regions in Europe. Of 37 “Grand sites de France” areas protected for their natural beauty or historical significance, 10 are located in Languedoc. A landscape of contrasts, boasting coastline and mountains, ancient history and lively contemporary market towns full of gastronomic delights and culture. This itinerary will provide you with a taste of all of the above!

After a day’s ride, relax at one of many fine restaurants and lively bars around the region.

4 days

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Product Description

Level: medium, some hill climbs, designed for active riders (can be adjusted for recreational or more avid riders)

Tour includes:

  • 3 nights accommodation in 3 star hotels or chambre d’hôtes
  • Transfer for you and your bike from Montpellier or Beziers airport
  • Luggage transfer to next destination each day
  • 4 days self-guided cycling. We will provide route directions and GPX files for a Garmin device or similar.
  • Breakfast each morning
  • 1 evening meal in table d’hôtes format

Accommodation

You will stay one night in each of the following locations:

  • Pézenas, the ancient capital of Languedoc
  • Mourèze, a charming hamlet amongst stunning scenery
  • St. Guilhem le Désert, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

All our accommodation is bike-friendly, rated 2 or 3 stars and includes breakfast each day.

Standard pricing is based on double occupancy, but single occupancy can be arranged for a supplement.

Sample itinerary

Typical daily routes are approximately 50km in length and gently rolling. The intention is to allow sufficient time to stop, explore and enjoy the experience. They can be extended for keener cyclists who are looking for a more challenging ride.

Arrival in Pezenas
We will pick you up at your arrival airport or train station and transport you and your bike to the starting point of your tour, the historic town of Pezenas.

Pezenas was once the capital of ancient Languedoc and has maintained a regal character. Explore the pedestrian-only medieval centre and the ancient Jewish Quarter. You will want to keep a camera handy. Pezenas is also a local artistic hub. Pop in to the many artisan workshops and galleries; there are marked routes you can follow.

Your arrival time will dictate how much time you have for cycling today. We will provide you with a customised cycle route to let you explore the region directly around Pezenas.

You will be spoiled for choice with an abundance of quality restaurants from local to gourmet cuisine.

On Saturday, there is an all-day market in the Cours Jean Jaures which is one of the largest and most vibrant in the area.

  • Pezenas-with-bougainvilla
  • Pezenas street scene
Explore the historic town of Pezenas
Pezenas to Moureze
Moureze is a quaint town surrounded by some of the most unique landscapes in the region. The Cirque de Moureze is one of the oldest “Grand Sites” of France. The limestone rock has been carved and sculpted by erosion creating unusual rock formations resembling fairy chimneys.

Keep your eyes open for the mountain goats that cling to the side of the rocks along the route.

  • Cirque de Moureze, Languedoc
Distance: 55km, Climbing 820m
Moureze to St. Guilhem le Desert
The route leaves Moureze and passes by Lac Salagou providing some amazing vistas over this beautiful lake which is popular with campers and triathetes alike. There are some short and sharpish hill climbs through the red rocky hills which are typical of the unique terrain around the lake.

You will pass by the roman “Pont de Diable” as you approach St-Guilhem le Desert, your final destination for the day. St-Guilhem le Desert is both the name of an abbey and the village that grew up around it. The romanesque abbey is a rare beauty and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The village has retained its medieval personality with old houses in amber stone, an ancient tower, and a shady square with a fountain at its centre. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is counted among the “Plus Beaux Villages” of France and is home to numerous artists’ studios, shops and restaurants.

The extensive underground stalagmite caves the “Grottes of Clamouse” are nearby and are worth a visit.

  • View of Lac Salagou, Languedoc
  • Abbey St Guilhem le Désert, Languedoc
  • St Guilhem le Désert, Central Square, Languedoc
Distance: 55km, Climbing 772m
St. Guilhem le Désert to Bouzigues

No tour of Languedoc would be complete without a trip to the Mediterranean coast. Bouzigues is one of the prettiest villages along this stretch of coastline. Facing the Etang de Thau it is a hub of mussel and oyster cultivation. The waterfront is filled with bustling cafes preparing fresh seafood delights for you to sample.

Your tour ends here. We will pick up your bikes and transport you on to your next local destination or the nearby airport/train station for your onward journey.

  • Bouzigues Parcs Moules, Languedoc
Distance: 60km, Climbing 680m

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