Cycling the Mediterranean: From Narbonne to Sète

Littoral

Nature

Two days of cycling through the heart of the Mediterranean arc. This ride offers full immersion in nature and an exceptional diversity of landscapes—from canals and coastline to vineyards and salt marshes. Along the way, uncover a rich and vibrant historical heritage.

Day 1

62 km

Narbonne → Béziers

Begin your journey in Narbonne, known as the “eldest daughter of Rome outside Italy,” pedaling along the tranquil towpath of the Canal de la Robine. Peaceful waters guide you to Sallèles-d’Aude, where you join the Canal de Jonction, soon connecting with the legendary Canal du Midi.

The scenery begins to shift—vineyards, plane trees, and wetlands unfold as you ride through Capestang, overlooked by the striking Collegiate Church of Saint-Étienne. You’ll then pass through the Malpas Tunnel, a 17th-century engineering marvel carved through the Ensérune hill.
Before long, one of the canal’s crown jewels appears: the Fonseranes Locks. This staircase of 8 basins and 9 gates allows boats to rise 21.5 meters over just 300 meters. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a must-see for any cyclist exploring France by bike.

You’ll wrap up your day in Béziers, where you can stroll the leafy Allées Paul Riquet, visit the grand Saint-Nazaire Cathedral, and enjoy a quiet evening in this charming, history-rich city.

Day 2

53 km

Béziers → Sète

Back on your saddle, head out from Béziers following the Canal du Midi once more as it winds toward the sea. En route, you’ll pass the Ouvrages du Libron—clever 19th-century hydraulic structures that showcase the region’s rich river heritage.

Next stop: Agde, the “Black Pearl of the Mediterranean,” with its distinctive lava-stone round lock and vibrant old streets. From there, follow the Hérault River to the Onglous Lighthouse, where the Canal du Midi flows into the Étang de Thau. Keep your eyes out for flamingos, egrets, and salt-loving flora.

A scenic bike path then leads you between lagoon and sea, straight to Sète. With the Mediterranean on your side and salty air in your lungs, take a refreshing swim before rolling into the bustling fishing port. Celebrate the end of your ride with a glass of Frontignan muscat and a few Bouzigues oysters—flavors of the sea to mark this unforgettable journey between land and water.