This tour visits the foothills of the French Pyrenees, a beautiful land steeped in history and with a people still following the traditional way of life. You'll explore the Cathar castles of Peyrepertuse, Queribus and for the energetic, Monstsegur. You bike through the narrow, deep Gorge de Galamus, one of the most famous gorges in France and still totally unspoilt. You spend time in Lavelanet, famous for the medieval houses that overhang the central square and the market town of Quillan. The regional food is legendary and the local wine superb. This is a place that, once visited, you will never forget.

terrain

The tour, although often hilly, keeps to the foothills and avoids the longer, hard climbs of the high Pyrenees. You also have the reassurance of our support vehicle if you want a lift up any of the hills or to the overnight stop. There are always longer options for those seeking more of a challenge.

includes

• bike hire
• safety helmet hire
• accommodation and meals

7 nights B&B on twin-share basis.

Transfers from Carcassonne included if you meet us at the recommended transfer time.

Itinerary

Day 1:  Meet at Carcassonne then a short transfer to Limoux, home of the fabled Champagne-style Blanquette de Limoux.

Day 3:  Today you have the option of a direct route or a longer ride via some of the charming small hillside villages. Overnight at Lavelanet, a town well worth exploring. 15 or 35 miles.

Day 4:  First thing there is the option to visit the castle at Montsegur, one of the last bastions of the Cathars. You then cross the Pays de Sault before a long descent to the tranquil market town of Quillan, in the Aude valley. 35 miles.

Day 5:  Today's route takes you over the Col de St Louis before joining the Fenouilledes valley. There's time to visit the fantastic castle at Queribus before reaching the hotel and castle at Duilhac. 40 miles.

Day 6:  Beginning with a ride through the Gorge de Galamus, you bike along small country lanes to the village of Sougraigne. The magnificent Pech de Bugarach will be in your sights for much of the day. A warm welcome and superb food awaits! 25 miles.

Day 7:  After passing through the spa town of Rennes les Bains, there's an optional climb to the fabled hilltop village of Rennes le Chateau. You then rejoin the Aude valley, returning to Limoux and a celebratory last night dinner. 35 miles.

Day 8:  Transfer to Carcassonne.