ITINERARY
Day 1 / Arrival in Boussens and introduction to the region’s lesser-known history
Your tour starts in the charming town of Boussens, located in the beautiful department of Haute-Garonne. Guests arrive by mid-afternoon with time to relax before a leisurely three-course dinner with the group, during which time tour leaders will discuss plans and points of interest for the upcoming days. Then, an early night before the exciting start the next day!
Pickup Time / 11 AM
Pickup Location / Boussens
Included / Dinner
Lodging / Hotel
Day 2 / Ride to the Palace of the Bishops
Begin the day with practicalities -- learn about your bike, fit your helmet, and see route notes and GPS for the coming days. Then start your adventure in the picturesque village of Roquefort-sur-Garonne and follow the Salat River, which offers gentle, rolling trails through verdant countryside, allowing you to warm up your legs after traveling. Catch glimpses of the majestic high Pyrenees, the border with Spain. It was over those treacherous mountain escape routes that people fled persecution during times of occupation and repression. End the day’s ride in the ancient fortified town of medieval Saint-Lizier, where the past feels ever-present amid Roman walls and medieval architecture. In the afternoon, explore the city, visit the Palais des Evêques, walk down medieval side streets to discover potters, artisans, and galleries, or enjoy a cool drink at a café. The evening’s lodging is in nearby Saint Girons.
Profile of the Route / DISTANCE 31.7 km/19.7 mi | ASCENT 170 m/55.8 ft | DESCENT 50 m/164 ft | TIME 2.75 hours
Included / Breakfast, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte
Day 3 / Arrive at the ramparts of the Chateau de Foix
The picturesque trail from Saint Girons to Foix offers numerous pastoral and mountain views. Passing the village of Rimont, you will see the World War II memorial for a tragic event that occurred on August 21, 1944. Homes and businesses were burned, and people slaughtered by the infamous second SS Panzer Division Das Reich in reprisal for the village’s support of the Resistance.
About a third of the ride left, the route turns gently downhill as the Château de Foix, a medieval stronghold perched high on a rocky hill, suddenly comes into view. Wander through the old town’s narrow streets, visit the Church of Saint-Volusien, or explore the Château de Foix and its museum.
Profile of the Hike / DISTANCE 45.8 km/28.5 mi | ASCENT 340 m/1,115.49 ft | DESCENT 350 m/1,148 ft | TIME 3 hours
Included / Breakfast, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte
Day 4 / Meander the medieval town of Mirepoix
Leaving Foix, the route gently ascends and descends through rolling hills and lush landscapes. The ride is delightfully scenic, passing through quaint villages and pastures dotted with grazing herds of cattle, sheep and goats.
Stop at the remarkable Église Notre-Dame de Vals, a church partially built into a rocky hillside, with elements of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The more 'modern' portion of the Church of Vals dates to the 11th century; however, evidence suggests that the site was used for worship even earlier, during the prehistoric and Gallo-Roman periods.
As you approach your destination for the day, Mirepoix, you’ll ride through the walled gate into its charming medieval square, for which it is renowned. Mirepoix is a gem with its colorful half-timbered houses and remarkably preserved medieval architecture. Upon completion of the day’s ride, relax in one of the cafés under the arcades or visit the shops of the many talented artisans. The vibrant, historical ambiance of Mirepoix is sure to captivate you.
Profile of the Hike / DISTANCE 38.2 km/24 mi | ASCENT 150 m/492 ft | DESCENT 230m/756 ft | MAX ELEVATION 1,030 m/3,380 ft | TIME 2.75 hours
Included / Breakfast, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte
Day 5 / Travel a railroad route through the countryside
Take in the full charm of rural France with today's ride from Mirepoix to Lavelanet. Leaving Mirepoix, wind through the rolling countryside. Your first stop is Le Château de Lagarde, a striking ruin of a once-grand castle perched on a hill. Known as the "Le petit Versailles des Pyrénées," this castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Take some time to explore the ruins and imagine the grandeur of its past.
Continuing along, the charming village of Camon soon comes into view. Often referred to as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France,” Camon is famous for its picturesque abbey, rose-filled gardens, and medieval architecture.
The final stretch of the trail enters Lavelanet, a town nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees. Known for its textile industry heritage, Lavelanet offers a mix of historical sites and natural beauty. The next two evenings of lodging are in Puivert.
Profile of the Bike / DISTANCE 31.1 km/19.3 mi | ASCENT 330 m/1,083 ft | DESCENT 150 m/492 ft | TIME 2.75 hours
Included / Breakfast, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte
Day 6 / Visit powerful WWII & medieval historical sites
Today, there is a break from biking to see a few significant historical landmarks. You begin by visiting the Maquis de Picaussel Memorial. This memorial commemorates the courageous efforts of the French Resistance fighters, known as the Maquis, who operated in the region during World War II. The Maquis de Picaussel played a crucial role in the French Resistance movement against Nazi occupation during World War II. They were part of the larger network of Maquisards who engaged in guerrilla warfare, sabotage, and intelligence gathering to disrupt German operations and aid the Allied forces. The memorial honors the bravery and sacrifice of the Resistance fighters who risked their lives for the freedom of France. It serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the resilience of those who fought against oppression.
Next, you travel farther back in time to the 12th century. A visit to the medieval Château de Puivert offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The castle served as a stronghold for the Cathars and played a significant role in the region’s tumultuous history during the Middle Ages. The castle is noted for its unique layout, which reflects the architectural innovations of that time. The various defensive structures and residential areas provide insight into medieval life. Château de Puivert is famous for its historical connections to the troubadours, medieval poet-musicians.
There is plenty of time in the afternoon to relax in the garden at your lodging, walk to a nearby craft brewery, or visit the Troubadour Museum.
Included / Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Lodging / Chambre d’hôte
Day 7 / Enjoy the final ride through mountain valleys
In the morning, ride through Puivert’s charming village, filled with traditional stone houses and narrow streets. Continue along a dirt farm track, following the valley floor of what was once the renowned Lac de Puivert. Upon arrival at Nébias, a small, tranquil village surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the journey continues along roads and dirt trails, offering stunning views at every turn. Notice how the climate and terrain change as you venture farther into the Aude Department. Passing through vineyards, eventually arriving at Esperaza, a lively market town along the Aude River. Esperaza boasts a vibrant arts scene with several galleries and workshops. Reach destination in Couiza, a historic town situated at the confluence of the Aude and Sals rivers. Couiza is best known for the Château des Ducs de Joyeuse, a Renaissance castle that now operates as a hotel and restaurant where the final evening is spent.
Profile of the Bike / DISTANCE 32.5 km/20.2 mi | ASCENT 280 m/919 ft | DESCENT 540 m/1772 ft | TIME 2.25 hours
Included / Breakfast, dinner
Lodging /Hotel
Day 8 / Review the living history of the region and arrive at the departure location
After breakfast, the group is brought to the Carcassonne train station, where there are opportunities to visit the Cité, shop, or enjoy lunch. There are various lodging options near the train station, should you wish to stay in Carcassonne for the night.
Included / Breakfast
Dropoff Time / 12 PM
Dropoff Location / Carcassonne
This itinerary is given for your information and may be changed at the discretion of the leaders depending on the weather conditions, physical ability of clients and the trail 'options' decided together.