Canal du Midi - Languedoc Barge Cruises

Barge cruises on the Canal du Midi sail through rolling countryside and canal-side vineyards - all under the dappled shade of plane trees lining the canal. The Canal du Midi, which connected the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, was completed in 1681. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this may be the most beautiful waterway in all of France.

LOCATION: This is the southernmost region of France

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and lies in the Mediterranean climate zone. The canal stretches from Toulouse at the far western end to the Mediterranean ports at the eastern end. It is easily reached from the eastern end through Montpellier – several TGV trains daily can you from Paris in four hours, as well as flights from Charles de Gaulle and Orly. The smaller towns of Beziers and Narbonne have excellent TGV service as well. Many guests combine a Canal du Midi barge cruise with several days in Provence.

LANGUEDOC WATERWAYS: The Canal du Midi, broken up into smaller sections for your six night cruise. Most of the itineraries take in the region between Beziers and Carcassonne, although some vessels extend to the Mediterranean.

WHY BARGE ON THE CANAL DU MIDI?
Lined with trees and at times surrounded by small vineyards in this up and coming wine region, the canal and surrounding area have a real “holiday” feeling! Relax on deck and enjoy the sheer beauty around every turn - or walk into town for the local market. Bring the family on your barge cruise, and we’ll take you and the kids to the beach! This is an extremely historic area, with many influences from the Romans, the Crusaders, and life of French royalty.

SIGHTSEEING HIGHLIGHTS: Carcassonne, largest walled Medieval fortress city extant in all of Europe. Narbonne, the farthermost outpost of the Roman empire and where you can view the Via Dominta, a road which linked this city to the rest of the territories. Taste wine in small, family-run vineyards from the up-and-coming wine region. The charming artisan village of Lagrasse. Olive oil factory and tasting.

CANAL DU MIDI BARGES: The Canal du Midi is home to many small, family-run barges, where you will be welcomed warmly! We adore the Canal du Midi and have visited it many times, never failing to be charmed by this ancient and fascinating area. Tour the French Languedoc while cruising the Canal du Midi!

ALEGRIA - Canal du Midi, France
4 Guests, Deluxe
Alegria is the only "boutique barge" experience cruising the Canal du Midi. Lucky guests enjoy spacious cabins and interesting decor.

ALOUETTE - Canal du Midi, France
4 Guests, Ultra Deluxe
Alouette is now owned by Orient Express. Expect top service and food on this fantastic gem.

ANJODI - Canal du Midi, France
8 Guests, First Class
Your Canal du Midi cruise on Anjodi features wide-ranging sightseeing and comfortable cruising on this nautical-inspired barge.

ATHOS - Canal du Midi, France
10 Guests, First Class
Athos cruises the Canal du Midi between Salleles d'Aude and Marseillan, The relaxed and personalized ambiance aboard owner-operated Athos perfectly matches the mood of the Canal du Midi!

EMMA - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, First Class
Emma cruises a beautiful route between Beziers and Carcassonne. Emma is the inspired cross-cultural creation of Irish Chef Liz and French captain Rene. Enjoy al fresco meals on deck under their unique canopy!

ENCHANTE - Canal du Midi, France
8 Guests, Deluxe
Enchante is a deluxe barge offers amenities such as in room cell phones and a hot tub on deck. Comfortable and spacious cabins await you!

ROI SOLEIL - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, Ultra Deluxe
The handsome Roi Soleil offers sleek lines and elegant decor that epitomize French luxe. Guests can watch the chef in an open kitchen.