The best cycling routes around Barry-D'Islemade
4.2
(150)
1,113
riders
132
rides
Touring cycling routes around Barry-D'Islemade traverse a landscape characterized by canals, rivers, and gently rolling terrain. The region features waterways such as the Montech Canal and the Garonne River, providing mostly flat paths suitable for cycling. Elevation gains are generally modest, with routes often following river valleys and canal towpaths. This area offers a mix of rural scenery and historic towns.
Best touring cycling routes around Barry-D'Islemade
- The most popular touring cycling route is Montech Canal – Cacor Canal Aqueduct…
Last updated: October 11, 2026
4.9
(31)
151
riders
62.0km
03:36
110m
110m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(18)
121
riders
57.6km
03:23
90m
90m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
14
riders
31.8km
01:56
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
riders
62.2km
03:39
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(4)
5
riders
41.2km
02:27
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The abbey and its cloister, the historic center, the Art Deco buildings, the Napoleon bridge, the towpath, and the Cacor canal bridge are must-sees. Everything can be easily discovered on foot. Moissac is a major stop on the Camino de Santiago thanks to its exceptional heritage, particularly its abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its Romanesque cloister and sculpted tympanum make it an emblematic place for pilgrims from all over the world.
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Abbey founded in the mid-7th century. After its affiliation with Cluny in 1047, the abbey was consecrated in 1063. Cloister built at the end of the 11th century (high altar consecrated by Urban II), portal completed between 1115 and 1135, fortifications and cloister arcades in the 13th century. After the troubles of the Hundred Years' War and the looting due to the Wars of Religion, the abbey came under commendatory abbots in the 17th century. After the Revolution, the abbey was bought back as national property and saved by the town hall secretary. The church was returned to worship in 1801 and was restored at the initiative of Viollet-le-Duc in 1847. In 1856, the conventual buildings located on the site of the seminary were destroyed and divided for sale. The repurchase of the plots allowed for the construction of the minor seminary and a chapel between 1860 and 1865. The seminary is built on medieval remains of the abbey, particularly the cistern and the Hall of the Dead, which retains painted decoration from the 14th century.
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The abbey and its cloister, the historic center, the Art Deco buildings, the Napoleon bridge, the towpath, and the Cacor canal bridge are must-sees. Moissac is a major stop on the Camino de Santiago thanks to its exceptional heritage, notably its abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its Romanesque cloister and sculpted tympanum make it an emblematic place for pilgrims from all over the world.
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The abbey and its cloister, the historic center, the Art Deco buildings, the Napoleon bridge, the towpath and the Cacor canal bridge are must-sees. Moissac is a major stop on the routes to Santiago de Compostela thanks to its exceptional heritage, notably its abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its Romanesque cloister and sculpted tympanum make it an emblematic place for pilgrims from all over the world.
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On July 29, 1808, Napoleon I arrived in Moissac, crossing the Tarn on a pontoon bridge. Since the Wars of Religion and floods, previous structures had been destroyed, and the perilous crossing was done by ferry. Work began quickly but ceased with the fall of the First Empire (1814). It resumed in 1820, leading to the inauguration of the Marie-Thérèse bridge on December 19, 1824. It was named in honor of the Dauphine, daughter of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, who is said to have laid the keystone of the bridge. It finally became the "Pont Napoléon" in 1859, after Napoleon III's visit to Moissac.
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The Pont Cacor is the Canal des 2 mers that passes over the Tarn. With a length of 356 meters and 15 arches, it is the third largest canal bridge in France. Built in 1845, the canal was intended for the transport of goods to Bordeaux. The structure of the bridge, made of Toulouse bricks and white stones from Quercy, symbolizes the meeting of the two waterways and two territories. In addition to being impressive, the Pont Cacor offers a superb view of the Tarn and the orchards of Moissac and Terres des Confluences.
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The Montech water slope on the Canal de Garonne. A beautiful technical achievement that ceased to function in 2009.
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In the early 60s, Jean Aubert, an engineer from Ponts et chaussées, worked with his team on the construction of an innovative structure to allow boats to overcome significant differences in height in a minimum of time on the lateral canal of the Garonne (municipality of Montech). vnf.fr/vnf/points-d-interetss/la-pente-deau-de-montech
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Barry-D'Islemade?
There are over 120 touring cycling routes around Barry-D'Islemade, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find paths ranging from easy canal towpaths to more challenging routes with gentle climbs.
What are the typical distances and elevations for touring bike trails in Barry-D'Islemade?
Routes in Barry-D'Islemade vary in length, with many popular options between 25 km and 65 km. For instance, the Montech Canal – Cacor Canal Aqueduct in Moissac loop from La Ville-Dieu is about 62 km with around 110 meters of elevation gain. The terrain is generally gently rolling, often following canal towpaths and river valleys, so significant climbs are rare.
Are there easy touring bike trails suitable for beginners in Barry-D'Islemade?
Yes, Barry-D'Islemade offers a good selection of easy touring bike trails, with 35 routes classified as easy. These often follow the region's canals and rivers, providing mostly flat and accessible paths. A great option for beginners is the Montech Canal – Montech Water Slope loop from La Ville-Dieu, which is about 25 km with minimal elevation.
What kind of scenic viewpoints can I expect along the touring bike routes?
The routes often feature picturesque views of the Montech Canal and the Garonne River, as well as rural landscapes and historic towns. You can enjoy sights like the impressive Montech Water Slope, a unique engineering marvel, or the historic architecture in Montauban, including its Old Bridge.
Are there any circular touring bike routes in the area?
Many touring bike routes in Barry-D'Islemade are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Montech Water Slope – Montech Canal loop from Villemade offers a moderate 64.8 km circular journey.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions to explore near the cycling routes?
Beyond the cycling itself, you can explore several points of interest. The Montech Water Slope is a must-see, and the historic town of Montauban offers cultural sites like the Old Bridge and the Four Hundred Cannon Shots of Montauban. These are often accessible directly from or very close to the touring routes.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Barry-D'Islemade?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 110 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful canal towpaths, the gentle terrain suitable for relaxed touring, and the charming rural scenery that defines the region.
Are there family-friendly touring bike routes in Barry-D'Islemade?
Yes, the predominantly flat and well-maintained canal towpaths make many routes ideal for families. The easy difficulty routes are particularly suitable, offering safe and enjoyable cycling experiences away from heavy traffic. Consider routes that stick to the canal paths for the most family-friendly experience.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Barry-D'Islemade?
Spring and autumn generally offer the most pleasant conditions for touring cycling in Barry-D'Islemade, with mild temperatures and less chance of extreme heat or cold. Summer can be enjoyable, but it's advisable to start earlier in the day to avoid the midday sun, especially on longer routes.
Are there opportunities for wild swimming along touring bike routes in Barry-D'Islemade?
While the region is characterized by canals and rivers like the Garonne, specific designated wild swimming spots directly adjacent to the touring bike routes are not widely promoted. It's always recommended to check local regulations and safety information before considering swimming in natural waterways.
Where can I find cafes or pubs near the touring bike trails?
Many of the touring routes pass through or near small towns and villages, especially those along the canals and rivers. These settlements often have local cafes, bakeries, or small restaurants where you can stop for refreshments. Larger towns like Montauban, which is featured in routes like the Montauban – Pont Vieux de Montauban loop from Villemade, offer a wider selection of dining options.
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