Bordeaux to Toulouse by Bike – Saint-Émilion Vineyards & Exceptional Stays

A WORD FROM GUILHEM, OWNER OF NATURE OCCITANE AND CYCLING INSTRUCTOR

The route from Bordeaux to Toulouse has two quite different profiles. The first stages, through the Bordeaux vineyards, Saint-Émilion and the Entre-deux-Mers, are the hillier sections of the trip. Once you reach the Canal de Garonne, the route gradually becomes flatter and easier to ride all the way to Toulouse.

To make the most of the journey, I recommend an electric bike (e-bike) for occasional cyclists or anyone looking for greater comfort, particularly during the first part of the route.

Which bike should you choose for the Canal de Garonne?

We offer several categories of bikes suited to this journey. We work primarily with Trek and Sunn and may also use specialist partners depending on availability, your height and the type of bike selected.

Models may therefore vary. In all cases, we ensure that you are provided with a bike of an equivalent category and equipment level, suitable for a multi-day cycling trip.

E-bike – Electric bike

An e-bike is particularly recommended if you would like to enjoy the route with greater comfort or if you only cycle occasionally. The electric assistance is especially useful on the rolling terrain of the Bordeaux vineyards and the Entre-deux-Mers.

Our e-bikes offer a range suited to the daily distances included in the programme, with several assistance levels allowing you to adjust the effort according to the terrain. They are selected for their comfort, reliability and equipment suited to multi-day cycling.

Hybrid bike

Versatile and comfortable, a hybrid bike is particularly suitable for regular cyclists who would like to complete the journey without electric assistance.

Our hybrid bikes are equipped to provide a comfortable riding position over several hours and to handle the different surfaces encountered during the trip. Their range of gears allows you to adjust your effort according to the terrain, particularly during the hillier stages at the beginning of the journey.

They also include the equipment required for a multi-day cycling trip: effective brakes, tyres suited to both roads and cycle paths, lights, a rear rack and a kickstand.

Gravel bike

Lighter and more dynamic, a gravel bike is ideal for cyclists looking for a sportier riding experience. Combining some of the characteristics of a road bike with the versatility required for mixed surfaces, it offers excellent efficiency on smoother sections while remaining well suited to the paths and cycle routes encountered along the itinerary.

Our gravel bikes feature gearing suited to changing terrain, versatile tyres and effective brakes. The riding position is sportier than on a hybrid bike or e-bike, so we recommend this option for cyclists who are already comfortable with this type of bike. If you prefer SPD pedals, please let us know.

Pre-ride bike set-up: Before setting off, you will have a dedicated session with a member of the Nature Occitane team. We assist you remotely by video call (via WhatsApp, for example) to help you adjust your bike, familiarise yourself with your equipment and share practical advice for your journey. This gives you the opportunity to get comfortable with your bike and equipment before beginning your self-guided cycling holiday.

The models and brands shown are those we generally use. Depending on your height, travel dates and availability, you may be provided with a different brand or model of an equivalent category.

What equipment is provided with your bike?

For your comfort throughout the journey, your bike is supplied with the equipment required for your cycling trip:

• Waterproof Ortlieb rear pannier
  
• Waterproof handlebar bag with smartphone/roadbook holder (on some models, this may be replaced by a smartphone holder only)
  
• Front and rear lights
  
• Bike lock
  
• Repair kit
  

Equipment may vary slightly depending on the bike provided.

A is available on request when booking for a small supplement of €5 for the entire trip.undefined

Insurance

Cancellation, assistance and repatriation insurance

Cancellation, assistance and repatriation insurance can be taken out when you book your trip. The cost is 7.5% of the total trip price.

This insurance is provided under a separate contract and must be taken out at the time of booking. Full details of the cover, exclusions and applicable conditions are set out in the insurance policy.

Our advice: some bank cards, particularly premium cards such as Gold cards, may include travel insurance and assistance cover when the trip is paid for using the relevant card. Before taking out our insurance, we recommend contacting your bank or card provider to check the cover you may already have, the conditions that apply and the level of protection provided.

Bike insurance

Specific insurance for your rental bike can also be taken out to limit your financial liability in the event of theft or damage, subject to the terms and conditions of the policy.

This insurance is separate from the cancellation, assistance and repatriation insurance. Prices, excesses and applicable conditions will be provided when you book and are detailed in our General Terms and Conditions.

Practical information for your self-guided cycling holiday

Starting your trip in Bordeaux

Your trip begins in Bordeaux. Details of your first accommodation, bike collection or delivery arrangements and the start of your cycling itinerary will be provided in your travel documents.

Ending your trip in Toulouse

Your journey ends in Toulouse after your final cycling stage. Details of how and where to return your bike will be provided before your departure.

Travelling to Bordeaux and returning from Toulouse

Bordeaux and Toulouse are both easily accessible by train and both have an airport. As your journey starts and finishes in two different cities, we recommend travelling by public transport whenever possible. If you are travelling by car, remember to plan your parking arrangements in Bordeaux as well as your return journey from Toulouse in advance.

What should you pack for your cycling holiday?

Bring comfortable clothing suited to cycling and to the weather conditions expected during your travel dates.

We particularly recommend:

• Breathable clothing suitable for cycling
  
• One or two pairs of padded cycling shorts
  
• A waterproof and breathable jacket
  
• A lightweight warm layer
  
• Comfortable shoes suitable for both cycling and walking
  
• Sunglasses
  
• Sun protection
  
• Comfortable clothes and shoes for evenings and sightseeing
  

You should also bring a main bag containing your personal belongings. This will be transferred from one accommodation to the next while you are cycling.

This list should be adapted according to the season and the weather forecast before your departure.