The Lauragais Backcountry Along the Canal du Midi

From Toulouse, take a TER Occitanie regional train with your bike to Castelnaudary.

⚠️ Important: bike spaces are limited—be sure to book your spot in advance for both legs of the trip via the SNCF platform or at a ticket counter.

Once in Castelnaudary, your ride begins along the peaceful banks of the Canal du Midi. From your very first pedal strokes, you’re immersed in the scene: houseboats drifting by, reflections on the Grand Bassin, the scent of the South, and a sky that seems to go on forever.
You’ll pass through Mas-Saintes-Puelles, a classic Lauragais village. Look up and you’ll spot its two restored windmills perched on the hill—a proud local landmark. Feel free to climb up for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
The route continues through open fields and shaded hedgerows until you reach La Bastide-d’Anjou. From there, follow the quiet Rigole de la Plaine—once built by Riquet to feed water into the canal. The landscape shifts, the atmosphere softens, and soon, the only sound you’ll hear is the gentle trickle of water beside you.

You’ll arrive at the Seuil de Naurouze, the canal’s highest point (189 meters above sea level). This is no ordinary stop—it’s a symbolic, historic place known since antiquity. Wander around the octagonal basin, pause by the obelisk honoring Riquet, and let the spirit of the place wash over you. Enjoy a picnic in the shade, or settle in for a meal at a nearby restaurant.

On the way back, take a break at the Méditerranée Lock to visit the Not pottery workshop, where clay is still shaped using time-honored methods—a beautiful encounter with Lauragais craftsmanship.
Back in Castelnaudary, why not treat yourself to a cassoulet by the basin before boarding your return train to Toulouse?

⚠️ Don’t forget to double-check your reserved bike space on the return train—weekends in particular tend to fill up quickly.