Cycling the Mediterranean: From Sète to Narbonne

Histoire

Littoral

Nature

Sea air, shimmering waters, and echoes of ancient history—this two-day cycling trip from Sète to Narbonne takes you deep into the heart of slow travel along the Canal du Midi. Between lagoons, vineyards, historic villages, and canal engineering marvels, explore southern France at your own pace. With one-way bike rental and hybrid or electric bikes, this is the perfect itinerary for a first taste of long-distance cycling—along a UNESCO-listed route rich in charm and heritage.

Day 1

55 km

Sète → Béziers

Set off from Sète, feet in the sea and wind in your hair. Ride along the Étang de Thau, breathing in the salty air, spotting flamingos, and gliding gently toward the Onglous lighthouse, where the lagoon merges with the Canal du Midi. Your cycling adventure has begun.

Roll on toward Agde, a striking town built of basalt and bathed in light. Don’t miss its rare round lock—allowing boats to turn around—and the floating structures of the Libron works, feats of 17th-century ingenuity. It’s a quiet journey through history, carried by the rhythm of the canal.

From there, the path weaves between vineyards and plane trees. Your arrival in Béziers, perched high on its hill, is nothing short of majestic. Take a break on the Allées Paul Riquet, wander to the old bridge, and be awed by the Saint-Nazaire Cathedral—a surprise star of Game of Thrones. A beautiful first stop on your bike trip through France.

Day 2

54 km

Béziers → Narbonne

Begin the day in style at the Nine Locks of Fonseranes—arguably the most spectacular structure along the Canal du Midi. Eight oval basins, nine gates, and centuries of canal history, all recognized as UNESCO World Heritage.

Next up: the Malpas tunnel, carved in 1679 through the hill of Ensérune—against Colbert’s orders, no less. A bold move by Riquet that changed canal history. Just a few pedal strokes further, stop at the Oppidum of Ensérune, where you’ll get a breathtaking view of the drained Montady lagoon, with its star-shaped fields.

Continue through Capestang, a lively little port with inviting cafés and shady terraces. At Port la Robine, you’ll leave the main canal to follow the Canal de Jonction, then peacefully drift onto the Canal de la Robine, heading toward Narbonne. Roman outpost, medieval stronghold, wine capital—Narbonne is a rich blend of history and southern art de vivre. Climb the Archbishop’s Palace, stroll along the riverbanks, or treat yourself to a refreshing swim to wrap up your journey. A perfect finish for a simple, beautiful, and accessible one-way cycling adventure.