5 bike rides in and around Toulouse

Cycling in Haute-Garonne is a great way to explore the department. And for good reason: the Departmental Council has really invested in developing over 200 km of routes! Safe roads, a veritable network of tourist-oriented routes connected to the city for the greatest pleasure of cyclists. As for the town hall, it also promotes this mode of transport. You can thus travel 580 km of cycle paths in Toulouse. So, let's get on our bikes and set off to explore the Toulouse region...

The 5 most fun family routes

1. Discovering the pink city

Let's begin our bike ride in Toulouse. And to get off to a good start, you need to choose the right equipment.

2. From Toulouse to Portet

Then, we suggest you follow the Green Way which runs along the Garonne, from the city center to Portet. It is part of the Véloroute route which crosses Toulouse. On the path, lined with plane trees, the bucolic walk is very easy and accessible to the whole family.

Photo: Along the canal

3. The Garonne Cycle Route

Moreover, we continue on the Véloroute de la Garonne, going from the Canal de la Garonne to the Canal du Midi. We are therefore on this famous " Canal des Deux Mer" which covers both sections. On the way, you will see many barges, locks and small traditional bridges. A good initiative: the agency Le Petit Cyclo rents you bikes that you can drop off at a relay point and it organizes stays with routes in several stages.

Photo: Canal du Midi Source: Le Petit Cyclo

4. The Hers Valley

We move away from the city a little to cross the Hers valley on the Green Way. The setting is very natural, between the Argoulets and the Grande Plaine. However, the track is safe and dotted with play, sports and picnic areas. This makes it an ideal route for families, especially with small children.

The corner of good addresses

Looking for bike routes in Toulouse ? Our top tip is the city's self-service rental service: VélôToulouse.

There are 283 bike collection and storage stations in Toulouse. These are urban bikes, accessible on a self-service basis, 24/7 for a fee. You can subscribe if you often come to the pink city or if you are a resident, or rent one for the day. This is a system that is developing more and more in large cities to limit car traffic! Note that the first 30 minutes are free. For short trips, it's perfect and you can go from one corner of the city to another for free all day :) The bikes are unisex, easy to ride and they are equipped with all the essential accessories and safety equipment. Wide handlebars, powerful braking, reflective strips and lights, you even have a basket and a lock, 3 speeds and a quick saddle adjustment. The only thing that is not provided is the helmet. We absolutely recommend you wear one !!

In Toulouse, discover La Maison du Vélo. It's the perfect place to become a cyclist and get to grips with these two wheels, moving with the power of your thighs! Cycling is easy, but in an urban environment, there are rules to know and respect. La Maison du Vélo is a place that promotes bicycle travel for work (the famous vélotaf), for leisure and vacations. In this friendly place, you can take lessons, rent a bike, and also learn how to repair it to be independent and not panic if you derail or get a flat tire. Route advice is also available.

Now you're ready to explore Toulouse and the surrounding area by bike. All we can do now is wish you a great time enjoying sport and discovery with your family.

Did you like our article? Find more on our blog. Follow us on the Toulouse Pyrénées Guide Facebook page and on Instagram @guidetoulousepyrenees.