Cycle through the vineyards, medieval villages, and breathtaking landscapes of the Corbières
Lagrasse, located in the Corbières wine region of Occitanie, is an ideal destination for cycling enthusiasts. With its rich history dating back to the Middle Ages and its breathtaking natural landscapes, Lagrasse and the surrounding area offer a variety of bike routes for all skill levels. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through vineyards and medieval villages or a more challenging mountainous adventure, there’s a route for every taste and level of expertise. We share some of our favorite routes with you.
Route 1: On the Roads of Medieval Heritage
Distance: 35 km | Level: Easy | Elevation Gain: 295 D+
This 35 km route takes cyclists through picturesque medieval villages, including Tournissan, Lagrasse, and Villerouge-la-Crémade. Along the way, make sure to pause and soak in the beautiful landscapes while exploring the region’s historical gems.
Key highlights include the Abbey of Sainte-Marie-de-l’Orbieu in Lagrasse, a stunning medieval site, and the Chapel of Notre-Dame-de-Consolation in Fabrezan. A stop by the river in Ribaute offers a chance to admire the medieval bridge. Winding through vineyards, valleys and mountains, this route provides an authentic cycling experience that blends nature, history, and culture – perfect for those looking to explore Corbières’ medieval past while enjoying the fresh country air.
Route 2 – Travel Back in Time on the Roads of the Corbières
Distance: 62 km | Level: Difficult | Elevation Gain: 1080 D+
For cyclists seeking a challenge, the “Remontez le temps par les routes des Corbières” route offers a demanding yet captivating journey through the heart of the Corbières region. Starting in Fabrezan, take a short detour to the Chapelle Notre-Dame-de-Consolation, where you’ll be rewarded with stunning panoramic views over the surrounding vineyards.
This route then leads you to Ribaute, where a visit to Domaine des Cascades offers the perfect opportunity to sample regional wines. Continuing on, you’ll reach the medieval village of Lagrasse, home to a beautiful abbey and charming cobbled streets that are a joy to explore.
As you pedal through landscapes shaped by the region’s winemaking heritage, don’t miss stops at Terroirs du Vertige in Talairan, Cellier des Demoiselles in Saint-Laurent-de-la-Cabrerisse, and Château Pierre Guillaume in Tournissan, where you can savor some of the best wines the area has to offer.
This route is ideal for cyclists seeking to explore the vineyards, medieval villages, and the wine culture of Corbières.
Route 3: Red Lands Challenge
Distance: 80 km | Level: Difficult | Elevation Gain: 970 D+
This demanding route takes cyclists through some of the most stunning landscapes in the heart of Corbières. Starting at Les Terroirs du Vertige in Talairan, the journey takes you through picturesque villages such as Albas, where you can explore its iconic church with its striking high-warp tapestry. In Villerouge-Termenès, the impressive castle stands as a major highlight, part of the Pays Cathare network. The informal La Taverne serves up excellent food or you may wish to try the medieval offering of the Rotisserie du Chateau!
Cycling through valleys and hills, the route leads to the charming medieval village of Lagrasse, home to the renowned Abbaye Sainte-Marie de l’Orbieu, the historic market, and narrow, cobblestone streets. The ride continues to Tournissan, where the Chapelle Saint-Roch invites cyclists to stop and appreciate its beauty before heading back to Talairan. A wine tasting not to be missed is at the family owned Domaine Serres Mazard on the outskirts of Talairan.
Spanning 80 km through hills, vineyards, and quaint villages, this route is physically challenging, but the breathtaking scenery along the way makes it well worth the effort. Perfect for cyclists looking to experience both a physical challenge and the natural beauty of Corbières.
For the best experience, plan your cycling adventure during the springtime. With mild temperatures, vineyards coming back to life, and fields bursting with flowers, the landscapes of Corbières are at their most breathtaking. In summer, we recommend taking a bathing costume as you the cycling routes we mention often close to rivers and springs and you may want a quick refreshing swim before continuing your ride.
The Corbières wine region offers a true paradise waiting to be explored on two wheels. To complete your day, there’s no better way than to relax in a peaceful and welcoming place like Bouquerie Lagrasse. We recommend a relaxing drink in the hotel courtyard or even in our small but beautiful cellar. For more details about these routes or to discover other incredible trails in the region, visit the Tourisme Corbières Minervois website and start planning your next adventure!