The best cycling routes around Poilhes
4.4
(819)
5,390
riders
212
rides
Touring cycling routes around Poilhes are characterized by the presence of the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering flat towpaths and scenic waterways. The region features rolling hills and verdant French countryside, providing diverse landscapes for exploration. Views of Capestang Lake and distant sea vistas are common along many routes. The terrain combines canal-side tranquility with broader views of ponds and vineyards.
Best touring cycling routes around Poilhes
- The most popular touring cycling route is The Canal du Midi – Malpas Tunnel loop from Poilhes, an easy 13.3 miles (21.4 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 40 minutes to complete. This route follows the historic Canal du Midi and passes the Malpas Tunnel.
- Another top favourite among local touring cyclists is Malpas Tunnel – Colombiers loop from Poilhes, a difficult 20.7 miles (33.3 km) path. This route explores the area around the Malpas Tunnel and the village of Colombiers, offering varied terrain.
- Local touring cyclists also love the Canal du Midi – Canal du Midi loop from Nissan, a 72.9 miles (117.3 km) trail leading through the wider Canal du Midi region, often completed in about 7 hours 25 minutes.
- Touring cycling around Poilhes is defined by the Canal du Midi, rolling hills, and views of Capestang Lake. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy canal paths to more challenging routes through the countryside.
- The routes in Poilhes are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from more than 800 reviews. More than 5,000 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Poilhes's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 24, 2026
4.3
(59)
430
riders
33.3km
02:35
200m
200m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
4.5
(28)
189
riders
122km
07:50
340m
340m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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4.7
(10)
86
riders
117km
07:23
370m
370m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
3.9
(8)
41
riders
75.1km
04:36
270m
270m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
37
riders
28.6km
02:34
390m
390m
Hard bike ride. Good fitness required. You may need to push your bike for some segments of this route.
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Tips from the Community
The Palace of the Archbishops of Narbonne is an imposing, castle-like complex dating from the 12th to the 18th centuries, symbolizing the power and history of the region. Today it houses the town hall as well as art and archaeology museums.
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A wonderful old bridge over the Canal du Midi. Old villages, old buildings, all so well preserved and still in use. Where else can you find that these days?
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A tour is worthwhile
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A must-see when you're in NARBONNE.
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A fascinating aqueduct which carries the Canal du Midi over the River Orb. The canal was drained at this part in February 2025 to enable work to be carried out on the nearby ecluse/lock.
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Very pretty canal, less known than the Canal du Midi, shaded. Do not miss the Gailhousty site, at the downstream outlet of the Canal de Jonction on the Aude river. This canal, put into operation in 1787, allows to make the connection between the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine de Narbonne. The Gailhousty site consists of a lock, a spillway, a bridge and a dry dock. Upstream of the lock, the canal is protected from the floods of the Aude thanks to a system of dikes which surround it up to Sallèles-d'Aude. Downstream of the lock is a space designed to be able to be submerged during heavy floods: the spillway. The bridge is designed to provide rapid access to all points of the site, is of neat architecture, with a low arched vault and four quarter-circle staircases placed at each corner. During floods, it is necessary to be able to react quickly and maneuver the defense systems in time. Placed on the downstream head of the lock, it participates in the system of containing the strongest floods. The monumental spillway, 30 meters long, is located on the left bank of the canal between the Gailhousty lock and the Aude. Its front facade on the canal side is pierced with vertical crenellations that plunge into the water. At the rear, it has 5 arched openings at the foot of which launches an 8km long landing channel called "La Saignée" directed towards the Capestang pond. This building houses no less than 15 oversized valves. It is not intended to evacuate excess water from the Jonction canal but must allow the passage of flood water from the Aude river. Originally, it was planned that this water loaded with fertile silt would be directed into the Capestang pond to fill it and promote crops there.
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It is one of the most emblematic places on the canal: its buildings, its chapel, its inn, its humpback bridge, its stores, bear witness to the activity of the time around the canal. Once the work on the canal was finished, an administration was set up to manage navigation on the canal. Seven divisions were created along the canal. The Somail division covered 45 km. A passenger transport service was also set up, the stop at the Somail inn corresponded to the third day of navigation from Toulouse. The building even had a dungeon...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Poilhes?
There are over 220 touring cycling routes around Poilhes, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes more than 5,000 times, with an average rating of 4.4 stars.
What makes touring cycling in Poilhes unique?
Touring cycling in Poilhes is unique due to the presence of the iconic Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which provides flat towpaths and scenic waterways. The region also features rolling hills, verdant French countryside, and picturesque views of Capestang Lake and distant sea vistas, blending canal-side tranquility with broader landscapes.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Poilhes?
Yes, Poilhes offers over 60 easy touring cycling routes. A great option for beginners is The Canal du Midi – Malpas Tunnel loop from Poilhes, an easy 21.4 km (13.3 miles) trail that follows the historic Canal du Midi and passes the impressive Malpas Tunnel.
What historical landmarks or natural features can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Many touring cycling routes in Poilhes offer access to significant landmarks. You can explore the Malpas Tunnel, the impressive Fonseranes Locks, and the Orb Canal Bridge, all part of the Canal du Midi. Other nearby attractions include the ancient Oppidum d'Ensérune, the scenic Capestang Lake, and the unique dried-up Montady Pond.
Are there circular touring cycling routes around Poilhes?
Yes, many routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. For example, Malpas Tunnel – Colombiers loop from Poilhes is a challenging 33.3 km (20.7 miles) route that explores the area around the Malpas Tunnel and the village of Colombiers.
What is the terrain like for touring cycling around Poilhes?
The terrain around Poilhes is quite varied. You'll find flat, well-maintained towpaths along the Canal du Midi, which are ideal for leisurely rides. Away from the canal, the landscape transitions to rolling hills and vineyards, offering more challenging sections with some elevation gain, such as on the Church in Nissan-lez-Enserune – Weißwein oder Rotwein? loop from Nissan.
Are the touring cycling routes around Poilhes suitable for families with children?
Yes, the flat and well-maintained towpaths along the Canal du Midi are particularly suitable for families with children, offering a safe and scenic environment for cycling. These paths are generally free from vehicle traffic, making them a pleasant option for all ages.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling trails in Poilhes?
Many of the outdoor areas and towpaths along the Canal du Midi are generally dog-friendly, especially if your dog is well-behaved and kept on a leash. It's always a good idea to carry water for your pet and be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Poilhes?
The spring and autumn months typically offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Poilhes, with milder temperatures and less crowded trails. Summer can be warm, but the shade provided by the plane trees along the Canal du Midi can offer some relief.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling routes that pass through or near Poilhes?
Yes, Poilhes is situated along the iconic Canal du Midi, which forms part of longer routes like 'The 2 Seas Canal by Bike' and 'The Mediterranean by Bike'. For a significant regional tour, consider the Canal du Midi – Canal du Midi loop from Nissan, a 117.3 km (72.9 miles) trail that explores the wider Canal du Midi region.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Poilhes?
Parking is generally available in and around Poilhes, particularly near popular access points to the Canal du Midi. Look for designated parking areas in the village or near key attractions like the Malpas Tunnel, which often have facilities for visitors.
Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Poilhes?
Yes, you'll find charming cafes and restaurants in Poilhes itself and in the nearby villages along the Canal du Midi. These establishments often cater to cyclists and offer opportunities to refuel and relax, enjoying local cuisine and refreshments.
Most popular attractions around Poilhes
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