Organized tours along the Canal du Midi and Canal de la Garonne

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Estelle Torterotot

Travel expert in France and Switzerland

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Cécile Henard

Travel expert in France and Switzerland

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Why choose the Canal des Deux Mers for your next cycling trip?

The Canal des Deux Mers offers a unique cycling experience through the heart of Southwest France. This route, linking two seas, is more than just a path; it’s a journey through centuries of history and diverse landscapes. You’ll ride along peaceful towpaths, passing through charming villages, bustling market towns like Marmande, and historic cities such as Bordeaux and Toulouse. The terrain is predominantly flat and well-suited for all levels of cyclists, making it an ideal choice for a relaxing and accessible adventure.

How does a self-guided trip along the canal work?

A self-guided bike tour with Grand Angle is designed to give you maximum freedom with minimum hassle. We provide you with detailed roadbooks, GPS tracks, and carefully selected accommodations. Each morning, you simply leave your luggage at the reception, and we transport it to your next stop. This allows you to pedal at your own pace, stopping whenever you wish to visit a medieval bastide, taste local specialties, or simply enjoy the view. It’s the perfect formula for those seeking independence without sacrificing the comfort and serenity of an all-inclusive trip.

Our flagship itinerary: Bordeaux to Toulouse

Our main trip on this route, the Garonne Canal by bike, from Bordeaux to Toulouse, is a fantastic way to discover the first part of the Canal des Deux Mers. You’ll start in the world’s wine capital and traverse the vineyards of Entre-Deux-Mers before joining the canal’s shaded greenway. This journey of discovery takes you through orchards, past ancient abbeys, and over remarkable structures like the Agen canal bridge.

Practical advice for your canal cycling holiday

When is the best time to go?

Spring and autumn are often considered the best seasons for cycling the Canal du Midi and Garonne. From April to June and again in September and October, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for a peaceful ride. Summer is also a great option, as the many plane trees provide welcome shade along the towpaths.

How to prepare for your trip?

The route is mostly flat and follows well-maintained paths, making it suitable for most cyclists. A hybrid or touring bike is ideal for the terrain. While the cycling is not strenuous, being comfortable on a bike for several hours a day is recommended. For a detailed list of what to bring, check out our comprehensive bike trip packing guide.

Explore further: other waterside cycling trips

If you enjoy the unique tranquility of cycling along waterways, Grand Angle offers many other self-guided bike tours in Europe. The towpaths of the Canal du Midi offer a different, yet equally captivating experience. Consider pedaling through the magnificent castles of the Loire Valley, following the course of one of Europe’s most famous rivers on a Danube bike tour, or exploring the picturesque canals of the Netherlands on a bike and boat tour. Each destination offers a new perspective on discovering a region at your own pace. And for those who love adventure travel in France, why not complement your cycling trip with a hiking tour in a different region?