The “Royal Canal in Languedoc”, designed and built by Pierre-Paul Riquet, Baron de Bonrepos, under Louis XIV (1666-1681), connects the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. Renamed “Canal du Midi” after the French Revolution, this 241 km long structure with 126 bridges, 63 locks, 55 aqueducts, and 7 canal bridges has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.
Tranquil. Soothing. A highly relaxing journey awaits you along the Southern Canal, offering a serene experience both along the banks and in the surrounding areas. Time seems to slow down on the water. Whether by boat, bike, or car, the canal invites the whole family for delightful excursions and walks. While some of the famous old plane trees had to be cut down at certain spots due to fungus infestation, the many remaining trees still provide the original, magnificent landscape.
The Fonseranes Lock Staircase (Béziers)
The immersion cinema at the “Maison du Site” of the nine locks showcases the personalities who shaped the history of canal construction in a 14-minute film. The family entrance fee includes a puzzle booklet that allows children to explore the lock staircase in an amusing way. The game’s objective? To help Alice, the daughter of the canal’s archivist, find a wishing well. The tools? Magnifying glass, fishing rod, ruler, and pencil. beziers-in-mediterranee.com
Boating on the Water
Essential, brand new, and suitable for all ages: A short cruise on the canal is a must during this journey in Languedoc. Boats with low horsepower and no license requirement can be rented by the week. After a 60-minute introduction, you’re off! Since passing through a lock requires the assistance of several people, the whole family gets involved in this trip. On the agenda: mooring the boat at the shore, enjoying the peace, playing cards, reading on the bridge, sunbathing, visiting the surrounding villages, or taking time for longer conversations once again…leboat.fr
Exploring the Banks by Bike
From Toulouse to Port-Lauragais, the former towpath has been transformed into a “Voie verte,” exclusively for non-motorized users, including pedestrians, inline skaters, kick scooter riders, and cyclists… Cars and motorcycles are prohibited, ensuring a safe cycling tour.
The 52 km route passes by remarkable sites such as the Naurouze threshold, where the watershed between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean runs. The path is easy to navigate and has no inclines.