Arrival We will pick you up at your arrival airport or train station and transport you and your bike to Narbonne, the starting point of your tour. We will hold a welcome meeting to go over the daily routes and itineraries and answer any questions you may have. After this meeting, you are free to explore the roman town of Narbonne – there are many interesting sites to see including the Cathedral de Saint Just and the renowned foodie market “Les Halles” where you may want to indulge in the local charcuterie and wine. Near the cathedral, the grand Archbishop’s Palace houses archaeology and art museums. There are numerous quaint shops, cafes and private galleries to discover. The spectacular Fontfroide Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery, is situated 15 kms south-west of Narbonne towards the Spanish border. Day trips can be arranged at the tourist office.
No formal cycling today. Canals & Coastline Your first day of cycling will start by following the canal de Robine out of the bustling centre of Narbonne. Tranquil and easy pedalling. The route then crosses through part of the “Massif de la Clape” a region famous for its fine wine production and along the Mediterranean coast to the pretty fishing villages of St Pierre la Mer and Gruissan. Stop for a leisurely lunch at one of the many seafood cafes along the waterfront in St Pierre la Mer. Later, take the time to explore the medieval centre of Gruissan and climb to the view point to look out over the Etang and the sea. Your route finishes in back in Narbonne where you will stay for a second night.
Distance: 60km, Climbing 250m Narbonne to Minerve The route today meanders through the vines of the famous Minervois wine region, passing through the sleepy golden-stoned village of Bize-Minervois on the Cesse river. There is a romantic feel to Bize-Minervoise, with old stone houses covered in ivy with bright shutters and decorative iron balconies, old fashioned little shops, narrow cobbled alleys and gingham table cloths. Visit the nearby co-operative of L’Oubilo for fantastic olive tasting and the Chateau de Cabezac to sample the local red wine. Your destination for the day, Minerve, is an ancient Cathar village and stronghold. A designated “Grand Site de France”, the walled fortifications are still mostly intact. Strategically placed on a plateau in order to be more easily defended from marauding crusaders, the approach to Minerve by a single narrow winding road is nothing less than spectacular.
Distance: 68km, Climbing 680m Rest Day: Explore Minerve The tiny village of Minerve was once the historical capital of the ancient Minervois region as well as a fortified Cathar village. It is now designated as one of the “Plus Beaux Villages de France”. Resting on a rocky ridge above the deep gorges of Cesse and Brian rivers, where water has shaped amazing natural bridges make it also an exceptional geological site. Minerve is best known for the siege she suffered in 1210 during the crusade against the Cathars. Explore the historic centre where many the Cathar fortifications are still intact. You will want to keep a camera handy. The small but interesting Hurepel museum recounts this history. Another museum is devoted to the important paleontological discoveries made in the nearby Aldène cave. Minerve’s medieval town centre is thriving in the summer months with a variety of artisan boutiques and cafes. Finish your day with a complimentary 4 course table d’hotes at the hotel restaurant which is renowned in the region.
OPTIONS: Cycle: For those who want to explore on two wheels, an optional route through the nearby Montagnes Noire of approximately 35km will be provided. Guided Wine Tour: Wine lovers can add an optional guided wine tour which includes pick up and drop off from your hotel, lunch and two comprehensive wine tastings with an expert English speaking guide.
Rest day: relax and explore the historic town of Minerve Minerve to Capestang he route on Day 5 winds through the surrounding countryside, passing through the picturesque village of Olonzac which sits in the vines, a short distance from the Canal du Midi. Its lively weekly market makes it the economic heart throb of Minervois. Constructed in the 1600’s, the Canal du Midi is a feat of early engineering. It formed a vital transport link for taking the regional wine to far horizons and thus greatly influenced growth in the region. It is now a popular greenway for boaters, hikers and cyclists. Your route finishes in Capestang, which is a bustling centre full of cozy bars and restaurants. Capestang spans the Canal du Midi and it is possible to eat dinner right on the canal.
Distance: 58km, Climbing 780m Explore Capestang Capestang is a charming village nestled on the Canal du Midi. It was an important centre for commerce in the middle ages and as the secondary residence of the archbishops of Narbonne. The historic centre of the village has retained its character from this era and the Cathedral of Saint-Étienne dominates the skyline from all directions as you approach the town. The cathedral in Southern Gothic style is a designated historic monument. Markets on Wednesday and Sunday mornings on the Place Jean Jaurès provide an opportunity to sample the local produce and specialities. Enjoy the final evening meal of your tour – freshly prepared by your host based on traditional recipes and local produce.
OPTIONS:Cycle: For those who want to explore on two wheels, an optional route meandering through the vineyards of the well known wine appellation of St. Chinian and the market town of the same name (approximately 35km) will be provided. Canal Cruise: Add an optional boat tour with lunch on the Canal de Midi. Olive Oil and Wine Tasting Cruise: Add an optional guided tasting experience which includes pick up and drop off from your hotel, a visit to a local olive producer, followed by a guided wine tasting with lunch on a canal cruise an expert English speaking guide.
Rest day: relax and explore the Canal de Midi Departure After a hearty breakfast at your chambre d’hotes, 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.
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