The Canal du Midi by bike, in Haute Garonne from Toulouse

When the weather is good, it's the time for two-wheel enthusiasts to go on beautiful bike rides along France's greenways. Our cycling trip begins in Toulouse along the Canal du Midi, which can be traveled all the way to Sète, for a total of 240 km.

In Haute-Garonne, it's possible to cycle from Toulouse to Villefranche-de-Lauragais, on the border with the Aude department. Before heading along the canal, we'll cycle through the streets of the Ville Rose to discover the history of the Canal du Midi and, of course, the must-see places in Toulouse !

The history of the Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi was born under the impetus of Pierre-Paul Riquet, a tax collector, keen to find solutions to facilitate the movement of goods. He then launched the largest project of the 17th century and at the same time revolutionized river navigation in the south of France. With the agreement of Louis XIV, he carried water from the Montagne Noire (in the Tarn) to the Naurouze threshold (in the Aude): the highest point of the Canal which would later become the dividing line between the waters of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. The project lasted 15 years. Today, the Canal du Midi is one of the oldest canals in Europe still in operation and since 1996, it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Before being renamed the "Canal du Midi" in 1789 by the revolutionaries, it was known as the "Canal Royal de Languedoc." In the 14th century, the completion of the Canal Latéral à la Garonne (which doubles the Garonne from Bordeaux to Toulouse) made river navigation possible from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Together, the two structures form what is known as the Canal des Deux Mers.

Tips for cycling on the Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is originally a towpath, which was used to tow boats going up the canal, using a rope pulled by men or animals. It is therefore perfect for walkers, but be aware that the section in the Aude region does not have an optimal surface for cyclists. The path is very stony, with roots sticking out: it is seriously shaken! We recommend that you set off with a mountain bike or an electric all-terrain bike.

Choose your frame carefully

When cycling, especially during the summer, the essential element is the water supply, which is sometimes difficult, because there is a serious shortage of fountains on the Canal du Midi. You will find a few after Toulouse, but they are discreet...

The ideal time to cycle along the Canal du Midi ? Spring is! The sun isn't yet too hot, and the flora and fauna are slowly waking up to offer you some very pleasant colors.

The beauty of the Canal du Midi, in all seasons (but spring is the best)

The Canal du Midi in Toulouse

Before heading out on the Canal du Midi, a stroll through the city of Toulouse is a must, with several stops to enjoy the must-see places : the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the Place du Capitole, the Pont Neuf, the Musée des Augustins. Don't miss the hidden interior courtyards where you can relax, away from the hustle and bustle of traffic.

Enjoy the pink city!

The Canal du Midi from Toulouse to Villefranche-de-Lauragais

With a total of 38 kilometers, the cycle path, which runs from Toulouse to Villefranche-de-Lauragais, is perfect for a cycling weekend in Haute-Garonne! If you don't have your own bike and want to rent one, you can take the metro from Toulouse to Ramonville and go to the Le Petit Cyclo rental agency. They can bring the bike to Toulouse to set off directly on the Canal du Midi, or you can start at the Ramonville agency.

On the way to the Canal du Midi!

As you leave Toulouse, you will begin to see locks. You are leaving an urban environment, there is no longer the noise of traffic, and all around you, the environment is very flowery. Many curious people come to discover or rediscover the maneuvers to make flat-bottomed boats, like barges, cross the difference in level ! Take the opportunity to take a break and admire this ingenious system.

There are a total of 63 locks of all kinds along the 240 km of the Canal du Midi. Some serve solely as passageways for boats, while others also house barges converted into restaurants for dining along the canal. Local products (honey, sausages, fruit, etc.) are also sold there. Some have even been converted into small stalls selling food and drink.

The boats you'll see passing by are no longer those that transport goods, as in the days of the boatmen. These are mostly boats offered for rental for pleasure navigation. It's also a good way to discover the Canal du Midi, although it's still much slower !

The pleasure of cycling on the Canal du Midi

It's a really nice section that can be done with the family without any problem. If you leave relatively early, you can see very active wildlife: ducks, grey herons, moorhens and geese. Sometimes, wild boars come timidly to drink, in the company of a few coypus. It's magnificent when the sun is out.

The lively surroundings of the Canal du Midi

It's virtually impossible to take the wrong bank when cycling. If you're unsure, simply ask someone who walks along the canal or the lock managers for advice. Also, keep an eye on your GPS or Google Maps, as the canal is clearly marked.

A few days on the Canal du Midi by bike, with family or friends, is a truly unique experience that we recommend! And why not continue in Aude, then Hérault to make it a magnificent trip of several days? We quickly become attached to the Canal du Midi, take the time to admire it.

Have a nice walk!

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Article and photos prepared by Jenny DIAB, follow her on her website JDRoadTrip!