A hidden gem

The Haut Languedoc natural park is a well-kept secret, perched between mountain ranges and the Mediterranean, midway between Toulouse and Montpellier, and to the south of the Massif Central. Once off the main roads, it is rare to see a vehicle or another cyclist. Thanks to its unique position, in one day you can cycle up mountains, through forests, around lakes, and along sun-soaked vineyards. This location also offers great diversity in climate, so if it is raining in one direction, the sun can usually be found in another.

Haut Languedoc natural park

Diverse routes

The region is loved by cyclists who find their way here, with routes catering for all abilities. The popular Passapaïs, a former railway line, is now a dedicated ~80km cycle route that cuts through the Languedoc Mountains. The Espinoise-Caroux and Black Mountain ranges offer fantastic road cycling with challenging climbs and breathtaking descents. The region is also a popular mountain biking destination, with 616 km of trails from leisurely excursions to skilled endurance routes.

Passapaïs green way

Cols & Climbs

Aside from the Passapaïs cycleway, the region is very hilly. The Maison de l'Aguze sits in a valley at ~300m altitude, with stunning climbs in every direction. For fit beginners, there are several rewarding loops right on the doorstep, with an elevation gain of ~550m over ~25km. For the more seasoned riders, routes encompassing the cols of Espinoise, Fontfroid, or Pic Nore offer climbs approaching 1000m. The availability of e-bike rental makes all of the routes more accessible than ever before.

Top 20 rides on Komoot

Single base cycling

The Maison de l'Aguze is the perfect base for exploring the cycling routes of the Haut Languedoc region. The house is in the heart of Saint-Pons de Thomières, an authentic rural town offering supermarkets, restaurants, bars, and a popular weekly market, all within walking distance. Departing in any direction brings you to a different landscape: from the mountain lakes of the north to the Mediterranean vineyards of the south, and from the Atlantic forests of the west to the rugged gorges of the east. With so much variety on the doorstep, there is no need to pack up your bag every day. Make Maison de l'Aguze your home for the week.

SAINT-PONS DE THOMIERES