Bordeaux → Toulouse by bike
The Bordeaux to Toulouse cycling route is today one of the most popular cycle touring itineraries in France. Connecting two major cities of the South-West, this route follows the Garonne Valley and then the Canal Lateral Ă la Garonne, offering a peaceful and accessible journey. Over nearly 250 kilometers, cyclists ride through diverse landscapes of vineyards, orchards, historic villages, and shaded greenways bordered by century-old plane trees.
Why choose this route?
Unlike many cycling itineraries, the Bordeaux–Toulouse route is extremely accessible. Most of the ride is on dedicated greenways and cycle paths.
Easy and safe riding
The majority of the route is on greenways, cycle paths, or very low-traffic roads, allowing you to fully enjoy the journey without major technical difficulties.
Spectacular scenery
The Canal de la Garonne is lined with long rows of plane trees providing pleasant shade. Cyclists pass through orchards, forests, agricultural fields, and river landscapes.
Rich historical heritage
The route passes through several historic towns and medieval villages: La Réole, Agen, Moissac, and Toulouse.
Perfect for everyone
This itinerary is suitable for experienced cycle tourists, families, international travelers, and slow tourism enthusiasts alike.
Practical Info
- Distance : ~250 km
- Duration : 5-7 days
- Difficulty : Easy
- Best period : April to June, September and October
Route Stages
Here is an example of a 6-day itinerary. Most travelers choose to spread the route over approximately 6 days.
Bordeaux → La Réole
Approx. 65 km
Departure from the Garonne quays in Bordeaux. The city quickly gives way to the agricultural landscapes of Entre-deux-Mers. Sights: Bordeaux quays, Bordeaux vineyards. La Réole is a beautiful medieval town classified as a City of Art and History.
La Réole → Marmande
Approx. 35 km
A short stage to enjoy the landscapes and villages along the way. The route runs along the Garonne through agricultural areas. Marmande is famous for its orchards and peaceful atmosphere.
Marmande → Agen
Approx. 65 km
This stage joins the Canal de Garonne. The cycle path runs alongside the canal through green landscapes. Agen is famous for its canal-bridge of over 500 meters and its prunes.
Agen → Moissac
Approx. 45 km
A peaceful stage along the canal. The plane trees offer pleasant shade. Moissac is a must-stop for its Romanesque cloister, one of the most beautiful in Europe, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Moissac → Toulouse
Approx. 65 km
The final stage leads progressively to Toulouse, the Pink City. Highlights: Place du Capitole, Saint-Sernin Basilica, Garonne quays, and the Canal du Midi.
Highlights
The Canal Lateral Ă la Garonne
Built in the 19th century to complete the Canal du Midi, it connects the Atlantic to the Mediterranean by waterway. Its banks have become a major cycling route.
The Agen canal-bridge
This spectacular engineering structure allows the canal to cross the Garonne River. Spanning over 500 meters, it offers impressive views of the valley.
Moissac and its Cloister
The cloister of Moissac is a masterpiece of Romanesque art. It is also an important stop on the Saint James Way pilgrimage route.
Toulouse – The Pink City
Famous for its pink brick buildings and warm atmosphere. Key sights include the Place du Capitole, the Saint-Sernin Basilica, and the Garonne quays.
Route Map
Which bike for this route?
For a multi-day trip along the canal, we recommend using a bike suitable for towpaths and gravel tracks.
- Touring Hybrid Bike
- Versatile Electric Hybrid Bike
- Gravel Bike
Rent a bike in Bordeaux
Pierre qui Roule, bike rental specialist, offers hybrid bikes, travel panniers, and accessories.
16 rue Castelnau d'Auros, Bordeaux
Gastronomy along the way
The journey between Bordeaux and Toulouse is also a culinary discovery.
- Bordeaux Cannelés
- Foie gras
- Agen prunes
- Toulouse Cassoulet
Accommodation
- Hotels
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Gîtes / Holiday rentals
- Campsites
- Accueil Vélo certified accommodations
Our travel agency partner Evasio is at your disposal to organize your accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Bordeaux to Toulouse cycling trip is an exceptional experience to discover the landscapes and heritage of the South-West. Between medieval villages, local gastronomy, river landscapes, and shaded greenways, this route offers an accessible and exotic adventure. Thanks to Pierre qui Roule, Bordeaux's bike rental specialist, it is easy to prepare your trip and set off to discover the Canal des Deux Mers.
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