Family cycling tours in Tarn valley

Light cycling tour on 1937 railway line. This tour is an almost flat tour while surrounded by hills up to 700m.

Tarn meander at Ambialet

Albi market

8-Day Cycling Adventure: Albi to Saint-Affrique

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day cycling journey along the historic railway line from Albi to Saint-Affrique. This scenic route takes you over six railway bridges and through ten tunnels, with options to bypass the longer tunnels (over 100m) for those who prefer open skies. It’s a perfect blend of adventure and history, ideal for families and cycling enthusiasts.

Why Albi?

Your adventure begins and ends in Albi, a charming town along the Tarn River that feels like a slice of Southern Italy. Known for its distinctive red-brick architecture—reminiscent of nearby Toulouse (just 75 km away)—Albi is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can explore the awe-inspiring Cathar-era Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and the world-famous Toulouse-Lautrec Museum, making it an inspiring start and finish for your cycling holiday.

A Medieval Masterpiece

Albi’s old city is a treasure trove of medieval history. The Old Bridge (Pont-Vieux) and the Saint-Salvi quarter, with its historic church, reflect the town’s early development in the 10th and 11th centuries. After the Albigensian Crusade, Albi flourished as a powerful episcopal city. The fortified Cathedral, built in a unique southern French Gothic style, dominates the skyline, while the Palais de la Berbie overlooks the river, surrounded by medieval residential quarters. Together, these monuments form a remarkably preserved ensemble, offering a journey through time.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Family-Friendly Stops: Along the route, you’ll find picnic spots, local markets, and quaint villages perfect for breaks. Don’t miss the vibrant market along the Tarn River in Albi, where you can sample local flavors and crafts.
• Accommodation: Family-friendly hotels and guesthouses are available in Albi and along the route, many with secure bike storage.
• Cycling Routes: The route is well-marked, with gentle gradients suitable for families. For a shorter ride, consider a 3-4 day option to Cordes-sur-Ciel, another stunning medieval village. See our B07-plus package.

Albi is more than a destination—it’s an experience that seamlessly combines cycling, culture, and history for a truly memorable family adventure.

You will be cycling daily 35 km average through the friendly Valley of the Tarn.
In Albi and Millau you will stay in a BnB Hotel.

Click here for some pictures of your tour in Tarn Valley.

All details of a moderate version of this cycling tour in Tarn valley: surf to Moderate package.

Planning a tour with us