This trip will begin in the wonderful medieval city of Carcassone. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near the Mediterranean Sea. The tour ends in the charming village, Collioure. The initial stages will be the most strenuous, as there are a lot of valleys. The essentiel first stop is at Limoux to taste the famous bubbly white wine, named after the town; Blanquette de Limoux. Enjoyed with a chocolate dessert, it is a real treat. You will then discover the calm and paradoxically wild landscape of the Hautes Corbières. There are breathtaking views with delightful villages nestled among rows of vines and majestical castles; Château de Queribus and Château de Peyrepertuse perched high on hills in the Cathare countryside. The final cycling stages are less labourious. You will be by the sea enjoying the Cote Vermeille for one day where you can visit Collioure. This is a Catalan port sheltered in a creek where the Mediterrean waters meet the Pyrenees Mountains. With an exceptional climate and guaranteed sunshine, Collioure is a unique spot, the source of Catalan know-how and way of life. Stone and sandy beaches, creeks and crystal clear water will entice you to a refreshing swim. What better way to end your holidays !
To
see
Carcassonne castle and city unesco, the Pic de Bugarach, the Padern Castle on its rocky peak and you will go towards the village of Tautavel where there is the European Centre of Prehistory
Gastronomy
The cassoulet of Carcassonne, the cargolade, the olive trees, the eggplants or zucchini, the Catalan cream, the anchovy of Collioure
Wine
Minervois, Corbieres, the Byrrh, PDO Collioure, PDO Banyuls
Feedbacks
We very much enjoyed our self-guided cycling tour. We had great support and communication in the planning. Throughout our week everything went off as planned.
Mark B.
This was my second experience with Discover France and had, again, an amazing time with my children. If you want to discover, on your own, little cities in France, this is what you have to do.
Linda G.
Our first but certainly not our last trip to beautiful France! The routes were well laid out, the app worked well, the bikes were comfortable and the hotels were excellent.
Ingrid A.
We truly had a glorious time and only have compliments for you and your company. Equipment, information, assistance, accommodation were faultless and Solène at Discovery France took care of us from the first e-mail of enquiry until the end of the cycle trip. We truly can’t wait for our next adventure with Discover France. Anna.V
Hands down the best adventure organization I’ve ever worked with abroad. This will be my 5th time returning to the TdF in 2025 with Discover France. Gabriel and the reservation team do everything they can to make your trip exactly as you hope. If there’s something they can or cannot do they work with you all the way. It’s a very one-on-one, professional and reassuring process for reservations abroad.
The programs are incredibly memorable, with exclusive VIP access that exceeds any other TdF organizations. Their focus is the riding, course, and to make sure your experience on a bike is as good as it can possibly be. Other programs offer different bells and whistles to their TdF packages but absolutely nothing is as exclusive, personalized, and uniquely small-group as Discover France programs.
You do not need to be an expert rider for the programs. But experience and at least comfort on a bike is needed. The rides can also be tailored on a daily (or even hourly) basis to the rider/group skill, weather, overall energy level that day, and your personal preferences. Support vehicle with special French credentials allows for Discover France to provide a van with you the entire trip. Sun, clouds, rain, sleet/snow (yes…it’s the Pyrenees or Alps), hot and cold: there is always a vehicle that can help you along the way and offer a place to bring along your gear like the professionals.
Shout out to: Florentin and Titouan for spectacular rides and support expertise. Finally, Thomas and Aurelian are two of the most dedicated cycling enthusiasts and leaders of a one-of-kind organization. Their dedication and leadership is evident from the top down as all of the guides and employees seem to love their works as much as they do.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Basic : 2* or 3* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Standard : 3* or 4* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
Our hotels or B&B > provide amenities that are ideal
for
active vacations , located in easy walking distance to
downtowns,
restaurants and sightseeing. We prioritize family-owned , authentic
accomodations
over large chains.
Upgraded : 4* or 5* hotels.
If the hotel advertised on our website is full, we will book you in another
establishment equivalent in category.
J-1
Arrival in Carcassonne
Arrive in Carcassonne - what a great place to start your biking tour! Transfer on your own to the hotel. Settle into your hotel which is located at the foot of the walls of the citadel and explore the fascinating medieval city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Accommodation : Hotel Montmorency*** - Carcassonne
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Accommodation : Hotel Montmorency*** - Carcassonne
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Accommodation : Hotel du Chateau**** - Carcassonne
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Included : Emergency support,concierge service,phone not provided,mobile guidance application,roadbook,travelbook,Orientation with a local guide,luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast
J-2
From Carcassonne to Couiza
On your first day of cycling you will travel south through grapevines to the village of Limoux, renowned for its famous Blanquette (bubbly white wine). On this stop you can taste it. You will then need fresh legs to climb some hills before to join the village of Couiza for one night in a magnificent 16th century historically classed château.
Distance : 52 Km (32 mi).
Elevation : 920 m.
Accommodation : Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse**** - Couiza
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Accommodation : Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse**** - Couiza
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Accommodation : Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse**** - Couiza
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)
This route between the Pyrenees and the wild Corbieres traverses the beautiful Hautes Corbieres countryside with the Pic de Bugarach 1230m. Here you will see the famous Citadelles du Vertige, the Queribus and Peyrepertuse Castles deeply embedded in the epic Cathar history. The uphill challenges are well compensated with the awaiting breathtaking panoramic views.
Distance : 46 Km (29 mi).
Elevation : 758 m.
Accommodation : Auberge du Vigneron** - Cucugnan
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Accommodation : Auberge du Vigneron** - Cucugnan
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Accommodation : Auberge du Vigneron** - Cucugnan
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Included : luggage transfer,bedroom and breakfast,dinner (no drinks)
You will leave the Corbieres passing in front of the Padern Castle on its rocky peak and you will go towards the village of Tautavel where there is the European Centre of Prehistory. After this visit there are some more hills to climb before reaching Thuir.
Before leaving Thuir we would recommend a little detour (+11kms) to Castelnou, a charming village classed among the Most Beautiful French Villages. Today's itinerary is easier than the previous days. Faced with the Pyrenean summits and then go on the beach at Argeles sur Mer, and the magnificent village of Collioure, where a well-deserved swim can be enjoyed.
Distance : 42 Km (24 mi).
Elevation : 315 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Princes de Catalogne*** - Collioure
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On your last day you will have the choice of visiting Collioure, a snooze on the beach or else a walk through the vineyards which surround the sea. The splendid landside is there to be enjoyed. It is the ideal spot to end your trip and return home with lots of special memories.
Distance : 9 Km (5 mi).
Elevation : 356 m.
Accommodation : Hotel Princes de Catalogne*** - Collioure
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You can take your time getting started in the morning to have breakfast and depart at your leisure. (Depart on your own). Depending on your wishes and plans, we can arrange additional accommodation or transportation before or after your tour.
Included : breakfast
CUSTOMIZED TOUR
This is a catalog tour, it can be modified as you wish : add extra nights, extra activities (wine tastings, visits, transfers...).
ARRIVALS & DEPARTURES
Arrival in Carcassonne by train: From Paris Gare de Lyon to Carcassonne; 5 hours 20min
Flights to/from Beziers and Montpellier possible
Departure from Collioure by train depart from Sete to Paris same, 4 hrs
Flights to/from Beziers and Montpellier possible
The SCOTT SUB SPORT 20 (or equivalent) features a sporty "trekking" geometry that suits trips of all distances. Equipped with a Shimano 27 speed transmission and integrated front and rear lights, this bike is begging to go on an adventure.
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your stuff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT SUB TOUR ELECTRIC-RIDE 30unisex (or equivalent)
All the fun of cycling in an electric version. The SCOTT Sub Tour eRide 30 will assist you in all your rides in town or in the countryside thanks to its 500 Wh Bosch battery.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L
Your bike rental comes with 2 bags (1 Rear pannier + 1 front pannier) so you can easily carry your staff during your ride.
Included with your bike rental :
Helmet
Lock
Hand pump
2 spare tubes
Rear pannier
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
1 souvenir water bottle
Pedals are included, flat by default or toe straps on request
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The SCOTT ROAD BIKE ADDICT 30 Disc (Standard) (or equivalent)
With a new geometry that focuses more on endurance. The SCOTT ADDICT 30 Disc will become your preferred choice for long distance travel.
Available sizes : XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Rear pannier
Helmet
Odometer
Lock
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Equipped with a Shimano 105 Di2 12 speed drivetrain and a brand new carbon frame, the Pinarello X3 is designed to go the distance thanks to its ability to filter vibrations and absorb the shocks present on your next road.
Sizes available: XXS,XS,S, M, L, XL,XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump.
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
The all-new TREK Emonda SLR 7 is the lightest model of the American Brand. Equipped with the Shimano Ultegra Di2 transmission, the gear shift is faster and more precise.
Available sizes : XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Included with your bike rental :
Front pannier containing:
Toolkit
Tire levers
Patch kit
2 spare tubes
1 hand pump
Helmet
2 souvenir water bottles
Pedals (flat or cages on request). You can bring your own pedals to clip in but remember to bring a pedal wrench to take them off at the end of the tour.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
SCOTT Speedster Gravel 30 (Standard) (or equivalent)
A talented and versatile gravel road bike. Designed to go the distance, explore the roads less traveled or speed up your daily commute. It's high enough for long-distance comfort and forward-leaning enough for speed.
Available sizes :XXS, XS, S, M, L, XL, XXL
Availability: This type of bike has limited availability, and is likely to move very quickly.
Note: "’Please note that any bike change during the trip may incur an extra fee."
Details
Included
ACCOMODATIONS
- 6 nights of accommodation in superior hotels of charm with private shower and/or bath
MEALS
- Daily breakfast at each hotel
- 2 dinners included
BIKES
- Hybrid bike rental included
GEAR
- Complimentary Discover France Gear (including water bottle, drawstring bag)
- Guidance Application (phone not provided)
SUPPORT
- Orientation in person with our local guide
- Detailed ROAD BOOK, including detailed maps, touristic information, step by step itinerary and cue sheets
- Comprehensive trip literature
- Technical and emergency support available at all times
- Concierge service available to assist you for your requests during your trip (taxi transfer, restaurant, activities...)
TRANSFER
- All luggage transfers
Not included
Airfare to and from the trip
Lodging before and after the trip
Drinks
Some meals are not included in each destination, which gives you the opportunity to explore regional cuisine on your own. You will find all information needed with our team support in your roadbook
Multirisk travel insurance
Other questions?
See our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
The Hotel Montmorency, ideally situated at the foot of the city walls and opposite the entry to the medieval city of Carcassonne, offers the charm of the Middle Ages with contemporary comfort. The hotel is charming and cozy with 20 individually decorated bedrooms. Within tree-lined gardens of half a hectare you will find the heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, perfect for relaxation.
https://www.hotelmontmorency.com/en/3-star-spa-hotel-carcassonne
The Hotel Montmorency, ideally situated at the foot of the city walls and opposite the entry to the medieval city of Carcassonne, offers the charm of the Middle Ages with contemporary comfort. The hotel is charming and cozy with 20 individually decorated bedrooms. Within tree-lined gardens of half a hectare you will find the heated swimming pool and jacuzzi, perfect for relaxation.
https://www.hotelmontmorency.com/en/3-star-spa-hotel-carcassonne
The charm of the Hotel du Château is that it is mediaeval yet contemporary, rural yet metropolitan, sophisticated yet confortable. The hotel has 17 rooms, including 3 junior suites. Stylishly decorated using a combination of luxurious materials, leather, wood, local stone and vaulted ceilings, with hi-fi stereo, CD player, flat-screen TV and air conditioning. You'll feel at home here : with a heated pool from Easter until November, an outdoor jacuzzi which is heated all year round, and a stylish yet panoramic ans cosy bar. An exclusive address surrounded by greenery ans calm.
http://www.hotelduchateau.net/en/home
The Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse, built in 1540, is located at only one hour from Toulouse, south of Carcassonne, close to Limoux where the famous “Blanquette” (sparkling wine) comes from. Set in a lovely park through which the river Aude flows, this fortified castle, classified as an historical monument, offers a legendary hospitality. Its modern comfort is skillfully combined with the splendor of its past. The bedrooms and junior suites are perfectly associated with the medieval decoration; all of them with private bathrooms, some with a four-poster bed or a Renaissance fireplace. The restaurant is decorated with medieval tapestries and shields; in this felted atmosphere you can taste dishes and wines, symbols of our regional gastronomy.
http://www.chateau-des-ducs.com/
The Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse, built in 1540, is located at only one hour from Toulouse, south of Carcassonne, close to Limoux where the famous “Blanquette” (sparkling wine) comes from. Set in a lovely park through which the river Aude flows, this fortified castle, classified as an historical monument, offers a legendary hospitality. Its modern comfort is skillfully combined with the splendor of its past. The bedrooms and junior suites are perfectly associated with the medieval decoration; all of them with private bathrooms, some with a four-poster bed or a Renaissance fireplace. The restaurant is decorated with medieval tapestries and shields; in this felted atmosphere you can taste dishes and wines, symbols of our regional gastronomy.
http://www.chateau-des-ducs.com/
The Chateau des Ducs de Joyeuse, built in 1540, is located at only one hour from Toulouse, south of Carcassonne, close to Limoux where the famous “Blanquette” (sparkling wine) comes from. Set in a lovely park through which the river Aude flows, this fortified castle, classified as an historical monument, offers a legendary hospitality. Its modern comfort is skillfully combined with the splendor of its past. The bedrooms and junior suites are perfectly associated with the medieval decoration; all of them with private bathrooms, some with a four-poster bed or a Renaissance fireplace. The restaurant is decorated with medieval tapestries and shields; in this felted atmosphere you can taste dishes and wines, symbols of our regional gastronomy.
http://www.chateau-des-ducs.com/
In Aude, in the heart of the Cathar country with its castles put on rock peaks, its proximity to the Peak of Bugarach The Auberge du Vigneron welcomes you. In a friendly and warm atmosphere, come and discover the charm of this hotel situated at the foothills of the pyrénées. The Auberge du Vigneron is fitted out in a former winery, with the authentic frame which kept : visible stones, fireplace and oak barrels decorate the restaurant. Each guest room at the Logis Auberge du Vigneron is individually decorated and equipped with a TV and telephone. A continental breakfast is served every morning. The hotel restaurant serves regional French cuisine.
http://www.auberge-vigneron.com/uk/index.php
In Aude, in the heart of the Cathar country with its castles put on rock peaks, its proximity to the Peak of Bugarach The Auberge du Vigneron welcomes you. In a friendly and warm atmosphere, come and discover the charm of this hotel situated at the foothills of the pyrénées. The Auberge du Vigneron is fitted out in a former winery, with the authentic frame which kept : visible stones, fireplace and oak barrels decorate the restaurant. Each guest room at the Logis Auberge du Vigneron is individually decorated and equipped with a TV and telephone. A continental breakfast is served every morning. The hotel restaurant serves regional French cuisine.
http://www.auberge-vigneron.com/uk/index.php
In Aude, in the heart of the Cathar country with its castles put on rock peaks, its proximity to the Peak of Bugarach The Auberge du Vigneron welcomes you. In a friendly and warm atmosphere, come and discover the charm of this hotel situated at the foothills of the pyrénées. The Auberge du Vigneron is fitted out in a former winery, with the authentic frame which kept : visible stones, fireplace and oak barrels decorate the restaurant. Each guest room at the Logis Auberge du Vigneron is individually decorated and equipped with a TV and telephone. A continental breakfast is served every morning. The hotel restaurant serves regional French cuisine.
http://www.auberge-vigneron.com/uk/index.php
In the sunny South of France, discover the wealth of a region with many wonderful qualities from the sea to the mountains, with a deep-routed history and culture . In the Languedoc Roussillon, at the gateway to the Aspres a the Casa9 hotel invites you to discover where art and the art of living come together every day. Near the small town of Thuir, nestling in the lush green countryside, this traditional Catalan mas dating from XIth and XVth centuries will captivate you with its gentle pace of life. With all the comforts of home, Casa9 is a wonderful place to stay with swimming pool, large residents’ lounge, beautiful gardens with shaded patios and stylish, entirely refurbished rooms.
http://www.casa9hotel.fr/en
In the sunny South of France, discover the wealth of a region with many wonderful qualities from the sea to the mountains, with a deep-routed history and culture . In the Languedoc Roussillon, at the gateway to the Aspres a the Casa9 hotel invites you to discover where art and the art of living come together every day. Near the small town of Thuir, nestling in the lush green countryside, this traditional Catalan mas dating from XIth and XVth centuries will captivate you with its gentle pace of life. With all the comforts of home, Casa9 is a wonderful place to stay with swimming pool, large residents’ lounge, beautiful gardens with shaded patios and stylish, entirely refurbished rooms.
http://www.casa9hotel.fr/en
In the sunny South of France, discover the wealth of a region with many wonderful qualities from the sea to the mountains, with a deep-routed history and culture . In the Languedoc Roussillon, at the gateway to the Aspres a the Casa9 hotel invites you to discover where art and the art of living come together every day. Near the small town of Thuir, nestling in the lush green countryside, this traditional Catalan mas dating from XIth and XVth centuries will captivate you with its gentle pace of life. With all the comforts of home, Casa9 is a wonderful place to stay with swimming pool, large residents’ lounge, beautiful gardens with shaded patios and stylish, entirely refurbished rooms.
http://www.casa9hotel.fr/en
The hotel Princes de Catalogne is located on a quiet square in picturesque Collioure, 100 meters from the port, the famous beach of Boramar and the royal castle. It has 30 rooms and suites, combining comfort, design and technology. The hotel was completely renovated in early 2009 and offers a unique style specific to each floor.
http://www.hotel-princescatalogne.com/
Our 3-star hotel La Casa Païral, a magnificent town house that was formerly the home of a 19th century Catalan family, is a haven of peace and tranquillity situated in the heart of Collioure, right on the Mediterranean coast. We have 27 comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, each decorated differently in its own unique, appealing style. The hotel’s typical Catalan architecture sits amid beautiful flowers and lush green vegetation.
http://en.hotel-casa-pairal.com/
Blessed with a perfect location, The Hôtel le Relais des Trois Mas offers comfortable accomodation. In the shade of 100-year old pine trees, the rooms offer a superb view of the Bay of Collioure and the church Notre Dame des Anges. The 23 Rooms and Suites have been refurbished with new beds, new tubs, free WiFi internet. The Suites with private gardens also have Spa Bathtubs. The new Jacuzzi with an amazing view over the Village and the sea, the sauna and the swimming-pool with its terrace overlooking the bay are the best way to relax.
The Restaurant La Balette is one of the best of the region. The chef Frédéric Bacquié, 1 Star in Michelin's Guide since 2009, invites you to discover at a nice table the Mediterranean Products. With his desserts, the Pastry Chef will take you through the Orchards from Catalunya. We strongly recommend you to book your table before your arrival.
http://www.relaisdestroismas.com/uk/
The hotel Princes de Catalogne is located on a quiet square in picturesque Collioure, 100 meters from the port, the famous beach of Boramar and the royal castle. It has 30 rooms and suites, combining comfort, design and technology. The hotel was completely renovated in early 2009 and offers a unique style specific to each floor.
http://www.hotel-princescatalogne.com/
Our 3-star hotel La Casa Païral, a magnificent town house that was formerly the home of a 19th century Catalan family, is a haven of peace and tranquillity situated in the heart of Collioure, right on the Mediterranean coast. We have 27 comfortable, air-conditioned rooms, each decorated differently in its own unique, appealing style. The hotel’s typical Catalan architecture sits amid beautiful flowers and lush green vegetation.
http://en.hotel-casa-pairal.com/
Blessed with a perfect location, The Hôtel le Relais des Trois Mas offers comfortable accomodation. In the shade of 100-year old pine trees, the rooms offer a superb view of the Bay of Collioure and the church Notre Dame des Anges. The 23 Rooms and Suites have been refurbished with new beds, new tubs, free WiFi internet. The Suites with private gardens also have Spa Bathtubs. The new Jacuzzi with an amazing view over the Village and the sea, the sauna and the swimming-pool with its terrace overlooking the bay are the best way to relax.
The Restaurant La Balette is one of the best of the region. The chef Frédéric Bacquié, 1 Star in Michelin's Guide since 2009, invites you to discover at a nice table the Mediterranean Products. With his desserts, the Pastry Chef will take you through the Orchards from Catalunya. We strongly recommend you to book your table before your arrival.
http://www.relaisdestroismas.com/uk/
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DURATION 7 days/6 nights
PRICE FROM 1845 €
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