Published by Lyn on 26 June 2012
Further to our article on canal boats and bikes, Cycling For Softies is now offering a 'biking by barge', writes Lynette Eyb.
A stretch of the Canal de Garonne in Tarn-et-Garonne, Midi-Pyrenees. The Canal de Garonne can be cycled from Bordeaux; it eventually links up with the Canal du Midi. Photo: Pierre Metivier
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UPDATE Dec 2017: This tour is no longer being offered, however there are dozens of companies offering bike-barge holidays in France – why not use our bespoke service for a recommendation?
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Cyclists can board the barge, called La Chouette, near Bordeaux at Castets-en-Dorthe or in Agen (depending on which direction the cruise is going that week) for a cycling holiday along the Canal de Garonne (previously known as the Canal Lateral a la Garonne). You can choose a three-, four- or five-night option.
The barge has space for just 6 guests, and is run by its owners, Bob & Bobbie Marsland. Bikes are included, so you can either sit back and enjoy the cruise or use the canal towpaths to ride alongside the barge. The bikes are also great for ducking into nearby towns and villages for a spot of exploration or a baguette run.
If you're thinking about a cycling holiday along French canals, see also...
Cycling the Canal du Midi by Declan Lyons
A Cycling Guide to the Canal de Garonne and the Canal du Midi by Iain Griffiths
The Nantes-Brest Canal: A Guide for Cyclists and Walkers by Wendy Mewes
Watersteps Through France: To the Camargue by Canal by Bill and Laurel Cooper
Canals on Wheels: Cycling Adventures Along the Canals of France by Martha Marino
Floating Through France: Life Between Locks on the Canal du Midi by April Orcutt
The Canal Du Midi: A Cruiser's Guide by Bernd W Kiessler
Through the French Canals by David Jefferson
Cruising The Inland Waterways Of France & Belgium (2012 Edition) by Brenda Davison
Keeping Afloat: Up a French Canal ... Without a Paddle by John Liley
IGN Map No. 913 Tourisme Fluvial en France (Map of Waterways and Canals in France
