Venture into the heart of wine country with stops at pretty waterside villages and a visit to the atmospheric mediaeval city of Carcassonne. A working farm and wine domain with 12th century origins, Millepetit is home to a wonderful little cooking school. Enjoy a cruise in the sun and discover the "canal des deux mers" built by Baron Riquet (1604-1680). Its a great base if you wish to travel far and see lots with loads of villages and attractions and very few locks to the east. Of course, cruising times are approximations and access to waterways, attractions and restaurants are all subject to availability at time of cruising. Thank you for your review of your boating holiday on the Canal du Midi. Good Day Colleen, This Roman-built bridge is one of only three of this kind in all of France and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The kids will love watersports at Lac de Jouarres in Homps and Toulouse's Cit de L'Espace! Select your boating holidays. View Homps - Port Cassafieres one-way route in Google Maps, View Homps - Trebes one-way route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 80km 42 Locks 20hrs. Nowhere is this more evident than at the locks of Fonserannes. You wont even find much in the way of shops or restaurants here. It's 52km of easy cruising to the famous Fontserranes lock ladder near the historic city of Beziers. Once you have navigated the famous locks of Fonserannes, a stop off at the hilltop town of Bziers is an easy detour. There are plenty of public moorings before and after the bridge. As the Canal du Midi route winds to a close, spirits may be low as your France Canal du Midi cruise holiday is nearly over, yet the jaw-dropping views of the Mediterranean Sea will put a smile back on your face. It is the perfect getaway when you need to slow down and just relax. The village of Paraza has a caf-restaurant, a grocery store and a lovely church, Notre-Dame de lAssomption, which was once located on the path of the canal. Europe's largest and best preserved medieval fortress is at nearby Carcassonne. Best Wishes, Excellent staff, clean boat, great training. Payable locally, where applicable and if used. Le Boat Team. One Way 10-11 Days 157km 63 Locks 33 hrs. The town was the first stop of the Mail Boat which ran from Toulouse to Agde in the 19th century. A week-long one-way cruise that takes in a good balance of must-see sights (including not-to-be-missed Carcassonne) as well as the quieter parts of the canal. Part of the sprawling suburbs of Toulouse and a short walk or cycle from the Canal, Castanet-Tolosan has a busy shopping centre where you will find everything you should need, including local produce and crafts. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, this amazing fortress stands guard beside the River Aude, with two thousand years of conquests and crusades echoing inside its walls. Perhaps divert onto the Canal de la Robine to the old Roman city of Narbonne. This beautiful example of middle Gothic architecture demands a good amount of time to absorb and appreciate. We are delighted to hear that you enjoyed your boating holiday once again and we look forward to welcoming you onboard again soon. Discover our range ofexclusive offers, only available to Le Boat customers. The route was marvellous as was the food and plonk along the way but perhaps its equally important the horizon three that we had hired was spotless inside and extremely comfortable for four people but could have easily catered for six. 1 Sarastro Paris, France Destination Expert for Paris, Loire Valley Level Contributor 29,971 posts 2 reviews 6 helpful votes 1. With or without a licence Skippered and bareboat charter Best deals and prices. For your waterways cruise on the Canal du Midi, boat hire regulations limit your speed to 8 km an hour, reduced to 3 km an hour when approaching bridges, docks or locks, to avoid disturbing the canals natural features or damaging the banks. We look forward to welcoming you on board again in the future! Nestled in the Languedoc wine region, the Canal du Midi is an ideal locale for wine tasting vacations. See our guide Diary of a week on the Canal du Midi for more information about this route. A World Heritage Site, the Canal du Midi has unusual oval locks and beautiful bridges and aqueducts. Our collection of boating holidays in France is one of the biggest on offer - with 20 Nicols bases in 12 different regions. Select your boating holidays. You can follow it religiously or just use it for ideas whatever 'floats your boat'. This is an excellent spot to stock up on supplies. The best way to see this remarkable feat of construction and navigate the 150 miles of waterways on a Canal du Midi boat holiday. Boating holidays on the Canal du Midi aboard your own self-drive river boat charter. A week-long return cruise that takes you through tranquil villages on a quieter section of the canal, before you arrive at Toulouse with its cosmopolitan buzz and ample cultural attractions. Inside, the nave, the choir and the vaults are adorned with beautiful stencilled decoration dating from the 19th century. Narbonne has a rich heritage where grand and ancient buildings sit majestically among a network of clean, modern and lively streets and boulevards. Historic Carcassonne is a quiet and peaceful 10hr cruise to the west. Smaller vessels will also only hold a few people, so if your party is large, its more advisable to choose a bigger boat. Take advantage of the short breaks to sail on a Pnichette! We would highly recommend! Kevin Knights said. Canal du midi barge holidays will move from the epic citadel of Carcassonne towards the town of Narbonne, another historic settlement on the Canal du Midi. The word-famous Canal du Midi, boat hire hub of the south of France, is a perfect blend of unspoilt natural surroundings, listed heritage sites and amazing food and drink. This is a busy seaside resort with a plethora of fun activities for kids, including the beach, an aquarium, a fairground and a huge waterpark. Please be aware that although it is possible to complete this route in one week, due to the number of locks it is ideally suited to a 10 or 11 day cruise. In 1996, the canal became a UNESCO World Heritage site. Useful link with Spar for food shopping, Slow at the beginning, quick at the end. Shaded by plane trees you journey along the canal through villages such as pretty Le Somail, the start of a long lock-free section. You cant leave Homps without travelling 12km inland to the beautiful town of Minerve, perched high on a rocky promontory surrounded by deep gorges spectacular! East of Toulouse is our Penichette boat base at Negra. It is now arguably one of the canal routes most picturesque villages and is also known for Le Somail boat hire. The sun shone and everybody was extremely friendly and helpful. Finding the right type of boat for sailing down the Canal du Midi is one of the most important things to figure out before you set out on your trip. If you are navigating the Canal du Midi with a large group such as a family or a group of friends, it is much better to hire a medium-sized boat. CANAL BOATS; Traditional English style, all steel "narrowboats" & "wide beam boats" for canal cruising. After a 300m stroll into the village, youll find a lovely patisserie, more restaurants and a pretty church. More than 42,000 plane trees line its often-shaded banks! Hiring your boat from here will allow you to travel the Canal du Midi route in its entirety. Thecitadel, known as La Cit de Carcassonne, is certainly not to be missed! Like all cities with a long history, Bziers is best discovered by ambling through its medieval streets, its bright squares and its leafy parks. The Canal du Midi is easy to navigate and ideal for beginners. Le Boat is a member of the Travelopia Group, Calls are charged at the standard rate, but calls from mobiles may be higher. Thank you for taking the time to provide a five-star review of your Le Boat experience. If you spend over 100 they will usually be able to deliver your goods to your boat. Le Somail was once an important harbour for trade and served as a lying stop for passengers coming from Ste or from Toulouse. A short 2hr cruise to the west will find you in Bziers, a city bursting with history, art and culture with a flight of seven locks just a little further along the canal, at Fonserranes. Just south of Montpellier, youll get a friendly welcome at the small marina in Lattes. View our Port Cassafires base on Google Maps, You need to select a base in order to see the available boats. The extra care is also needed at this point of the canal because of its much shallower depth, limiting boaters to 3mph. If youre planning that romantic canal trip for two or simply wish to navigate the Canal du Midi with an easy-to-drive and manoeuvrable boat, then opting for a smaller, compact boat may be the right choice for you. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service and we are delighted to hear that you received that throughout your experience with us. Sailing yacht > 24 meters with crew. Bziers is the capital of Languedocs wine industry and birthplace of Pierre-Paul Riquet, who was responsible for building the Canal du Midi. Visit the highest point of the Canal du Midi at Seuil de Naurouze and the 16th century village of Villepinte with its beautiful aqueduct. There is a grocery store, a small selection of restaurants, a wine shop and a caf-bar in the village. Boat was great. The canal passes under the Merchant's Bridge, one of the few left in France lined with houses and shops. Going south east, the old port of Castelnaudary is noted for its fine buildings and as the home of 'cassoulet' - a local stew made from meat and beans. Taking centre place in the quarter is the Cathdral St-Jus and is also one of the tallest cathedrals in all of southern France. One of the key features of the village includes a stone bridge built in the 17th century, known as the le Pont de Saint-Marcel. However, you will need to cross a busy main road at an intersection to get there, so please take care. Ask our base team for help arranging transport. A week-long one-way cruise that lets you explore both the Canal du Midi and the Embranchment de la Nouvelle. The iconic Cathar stronghold of Carcassonne is a 3hr cruise, and only a 15minute drive (8km) west,from our Carcassonne (Trbes)base. The instructions at the boat yard were very helpful. A short return cruise along a section of the Midi with lots to see and to do on your way to beautiful little Languedoc village of Le Somail. Although in contrast to all this, the famous, fortified citadel at Carcassonne is the turnaround point on this 7nightsuggested itinerary a UNESCO heritage site and a must-see for anyone visiting this region. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront caf in medieval Castelnaudary, and admire the ancient ruins and grand chteaux like islands of history amidst the lush Languedoc vineyards. Before you reach Argens-Minervois, (or after you leave it if you are heading west), you can get some great views over the village by scaling a short but steep path at Pechlaurier Lock which leads to a look-out. The village itself is overlooked by the square towers of a 14th century chteau and is a lovely little place to stop, with its narrow cobbled streets to wander around. Explore guest reviews and book the perfect boat for your trip. = Click the arrow icon on each route suggestion, to flip the 'card' and reveal more details. A week-long return cruise that takes you past the Midis most impressive engineering feats at the Malpas Tunnel and the Fonserannes Locks. Seek out the pretty church and clock the Sully Elm, planted in the square outside; it is one of the last elms still alive in France; all the others were killed by Dutch elm disease. The Canal du Midi continues to the interesting village of Capestang and the worlds oldest canal tunnel at Malpas. You could also moor where you want to along the canal thanks to the ropes and spikes on-board your boat. There's a description at the link below: The coastal lagoon region of tang de Thau is the final stop off on the long canal route and what an ending it is. This is another iconic religious and historic landmark, one of many that call the French canal routes home. Along with the bridge, Le Somail is home to an 18th-century church that started life as a granary and old ice house. A week-long return cruise past quiet villages and historic sites, all within short distance of Mediterranean beaches. Canal du Midi vacations are amongst our most popular offerings, and with so many bases to choose from theres a perfect cruise for you! Cruise the Canal du Midi to the edge of the Camargue to Roman Narbonne. Here, local wines can be sampled for free under the arches of its amazing vault. Then its onwards past a multitude of historic sites and pretty villages until you reach a junction (9hrs from Port Cassafires) you must decide whether to travel south towards historic Narbonne, or maintain course along the Midi, past pretty Le Somail. On this itinerary, you'll also visit the working L'Oulibo olive grove, dine at a fancy chateau in Capestang, visit the very pretty village of Le Somail and taste the exquisite wines of the Paraza estate. If you find yourself short on provisions, this quiet little village has a bakery and a small grocery store, although dont expect a wealth of choice. Scroll down using the grey bar to the right. Please do not cross the pathway with the ropes in order to allow the passage of walkers and cyclists. Thank you very much for your five-star review of your boating holiday on the Canal du Midi. This tiny village is noted for its waterside wine cellar in the attractive canal-side Chteau de Ventenac-en-Minervois. Known as the 'Seaside Cruise', this leisurely cruise takes you to the beach resorts of le Grau du Roi, la Grande-Motte, and Palavas-les-Flots. Youll find moorings at Montigiscard Lock, with a pharmacy and a good restaurant just over the road, the Brasserie de lEcluse. We do hope we can welcome you on board again in the future! Riquet had it dismantled and rebuilt where it stands today. Rent a boat in Canal du Midi, Charter a motorboat or a yacht quickly and at the best price with Click&Boat. The Canal du Midi has its fair share of obstacles and routes to navigate, making it an interesting route to travel down at the best of times. It should definitely be on your bucket list. A week-long return cruise along a peaceful section of the canal that takes in charming small villages on the way to the impressive Carcassonne. Public holidays: Locks are closed on some public holidays: 1st May & 1st November. The sun-drenched South of France - home of vineyards, sunflower fields and the world-famous, historic, Canal du Midi. Boat along the picturesque Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We are very pleased to hear that you would recommend a Le Boat vacation based on your recent experience. = Le Boat base = Canal. Traverse the staircase of locks at Fonsrannes and feel the coolness as you pass from the sun into the oldest canal tunnel at Malpas. Visit Cavayre Lake and Carcassonne for family fun that is sure to keep the little ones (and big ones) entertained. A cruise in the sun. Short breaks and longer cruises are available form all the bases along the Canal Du Midi. With many boat bases on the Canal du Midi we offer a huge variety of one-way and out-and-back routes along the canal on over 60 different boat types. The large and lively village of Villeneuve-ls-Bziers has very good amenities including several restaurants, bars, and a Spar supermarket. Le Boat Team. Hiring your own holiday boat is an ideal way to explore and experience the pleasures and treasures that the Canal du Midi has to offer. You wont have time to stop at every single place listed on each suggestion but they should give you an idea of whats possible. Photograph: Peter Titmuss/Alamy Starting from Narbonne we meandered along sections of the 240km Canal du. Combine the tranquil and quieter end of the Canal du Midi with the famous, fortified citadel at Carcassonne, a UNESCO heritage site and a must-see for anyone visiting this region. Good Afternoon, We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon! *, Boat damage protection deposit payable locally. Hire a boat in Canal du Midi, Boat hire and yacht charter at the best price with Click&Boat. Scenic Le Somail leads to a long lock-free section, with the interesting village of Capestang To the west of Beziers is the remarkable engineering feat of the seven lock flight at Fonserannes. Journey through the centuries on your canal boat and discover the timeless treasures of this famous region. Relaxation is what its all about as you glide along through fascinating landscapes, shaded by cypress trees and umbrella pines, with vineyards on the port side and Mediterranean villages to starboard. Take a look at ourwaterway and lock closures pageto find out if there are any scheduled cruising restrictions that will affect your vacation plans. Waterside services (moorings, pump-out, electric, water, etc.) Everything worked pretty well.. wifi was borderline, Good Afternoon Jim, The medieval sites dont simply end with Carcassonne; a little further down the Canal du Midi is the medieval village of Minerve. self-drive boat Check your booking details CONFIRM YOUR BOOKING Cast off. Passing through historic water locks you will discover charming medieval villages and ancient fortress cities. Boating holidays in Frances Canal du Midi appeal to a wide range of people because they cover all manner of different activities. Please be aware that although it is possible to complete this route in one week, due to the number of locks it is ideally suited to a 10 or 11 day cruise. Another must-see historical site along the Canal du Midi is the city of Narbonne. Moor here to eat downtown in one of the good restaurants, or visit the church Saint-Etienne, built in the 14th century. Hire boats are self-catering and self-drive which allows you freedom to plan your own day and create your perfect trips. Its medieval towers and walled city, a romantic World Heritage site, can be explored from the convenient town centre canal basin. From Toulouse, the Canal du Midi takes you through one of France's most fascinating regions to the mediterranean coast and the Camargue. A week-long one-way cruise along an action packed section of the canal, taking in idyllic villages and the engineering marvels of the Malpas Tunnel and the Fonserannes Locks. They're location in Castelnaudary was convenient to the train. View Homps - Carcassonne one-way route in Google Maps, Short Break Return Trip 3 Days 40km 12 Locks 11hrs. As one of the leading boating holiday specialists, Nicols has created many different cruising itineraries made up of loop cruises, one-way trips or a return . Best Wishes, Although these smaller boats are great for manoeuvring the occasional narrow routes of the Canal du Midi, boaters must remember that fewer supplies can be taken on board. From Agde, a famous little fishing town or from Homps . However, you mightliketo be guided by one of our day-by-day suggested itineraries, complete with estimated cruising times and restaurant recommendations. One Way 1 Week 118km 45 Locks 4 hr 30 / day, View Argens - Negra one-way route in Google Maps, One Way 1 Week 185km 17 Locks 4 hr / day, View Argens - Lattes one-way route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 92km 34 Locks 3 hr 30 / day, View Argens - Carcassonne out and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 151km 40 Locks 4 hr / day, View Argens - Beziers out and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 10/11 days 200km 54 Locks 4 hr / day, View Argens - Marseillan out and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 2 Weeks 291km 102 Locks 4 hr 45 / day, View Argens - Toulouse out and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 2 Weeks 288km 56 Locks 4 hr 00 / day, View Argens - Lattes out and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 3 Weeks 396km 116 Locks 4 hr 30 / day, View Argens - Agde out and back route in Google Maps. A short return cruise ideal for those looking to visit the magnificent citadel of Carcassonne - the biggest medieval construction in all of Europe. The flight of locks at Fonseranes will start your boating adventureon day 1- you'll be'lock perfect' in no time. One Way 10-11 Days 157km 63 Locks 33hrs. Please speak to our sales team for more advice. Gardouch is a villagetypicalof the area. This famed settlement has the gruesome title of being the sight of one of the bloodiest sieges of the 13th centuries Albigensian Crusade. There is a supermarket, pharmacy and newsagents right at the port. We thank you for your honest feedback and letting us know about the late start at the base. It tells you everything you need to know about this majestic waterway: its history, its construction and its continued operation. Sights such as the Basilica of Saint Sernin, one of the grandest churches in France and the Muse des Augustins, a fine art museum that is up there with some of the best in Europe. Stretching from Ste on the French Mediterranean coast to the beautiful city of Toulouse, it's one of the oldest waterways in France that was built in the 17th century to link the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea. Moor up in the village of Le Somailand explore the famous antique bookstore or linger at the graceful 17th-century St Marcel Bridge. Hire a boat in Canal du Midi, Boat hire ##VILLE## at the best price. The canal's route winds from the city of Toulouse in the country's Occitanie region down through to the Mediterranean coastal lagoon region of tang de Thau. The canal du Midi gives you the chance to set sail on an adventure with family or friends. This unique French cooking class will provide you with useful skills and simple tips that will help you to create classic French cuisine with a modern twist! Canal du midi boat hire. One of the biggest challenges when driving canal boat rentals in France is navigating the ever-changing routes of the waterways. There's something for the entire family on the Canal du Midi - amusements and rides at Luna Park in Le Cap d' Adge and the Raymond Chsa Leisure Park near Carcassonne. During the busy Summer season (from 17 March until 30 October) locks are open between 09:00 and 19:00 (7:00 p.m.). Just outside the city of Bziers you will encounter one of Riquets most ingenious engineering solutions, the Fonseranes Locks. Explore the quaint villages along the Canal du Midi to Carcassonne, a magnificent walled fortress. Find and book deals on the best boats in Canal du Midi, France! We are pleased that to hear that you had an enjoyable experience and that you received nothing short of wonderful service from our base team in Castelnaudary. From the simple pleasures of boating down the canal and picturesque French countryside to enjoying the many cuisines and food explorations as you go. 100% Secure, 100% User-Friendly. This quiet 13th century town has a Gothic church with a typical Toulouse-style bell tower worth a 500m stroll into town for a photograph if the weather is nice. Quality boating holidays from the French canal specialist There are various different packages available, maybe you fancy a weekend, a week or longer. You will find all you need in town to replenish your provisions, including a chemist and a service station which doubles as a supermarket. Ahoy! The Canal du Midi is steeped in history and heritage. View Castelnaudary - Carcassonne out and back route in Google Maps. Moor here to enjoy a peaceful walk downtown. With many boat bases on the Canal du Midi we offer a huge variety of one-way and out-and-back routes along the canal on over 60 different boat types. To the west of Paraza is the Rpudre Aqueduct, the first canal bridge ever built in France and the second in the world! Horizon 5. Pre cruising briefing was concise and the person doing the briefing was very knowledgeable. Further east, once you have crossed the open waters of the Etang du Thau, the flamingoes, wild horses and sandy beaches of the Camargue await. Les Canalous' adventure began in Burgundy in the early 1980s . Port-la-Nouvelle, the last town on the Embranchment de la Nouvelle, is a bustling fishing port. You will find a grocery shop here too. Of course, youll also enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere and lifestyle as you pass through lively villages, after sampling some local seafood on the quayside. This makes for the perfect start or finish to you boating adventure,and the short distance by car means you can save cruising time if you'd rather. This idyllic scene of flowing water, green fields and a charming stone bridge are what draws many to the south of France and the Canal du Midi in the first place. Compare listings in seconds and book the best deals with SamBoat. Don't miss the slow-cooked bean and meat cassoulet (casserole), a French gastronomy specialty of Castelnaudary. View Negra - Argens one-way route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 152km 40 Locks 4 hr 00 / day, View Negra - Argens out and back route in Google Maps. Sorry if this was not clear in our pre-planning communications. This historic town looms large over the canal and makes a stunning view as your boat approaches. Reservoirs and dams were built. Homps toCarcassonne (Trbes)via Narbonne & Carcassonne ONEWAY. On entering the city itself, the winding medieval ramparts and towers transport you to a time gone by, perfectly preserved in stone. Feefo is an independent and impartial review service that requests reviews directly from those who have been on a Le Boat vacation. The Le Boat Team, Good Day Rory, Shaded by plane trees you journey along the canal, stopping for refreshment and regional specialities at towns and villages such as pretty Le Somail. Castelnaudary, the capital of Cassoulet offers a variety of things to see not least the impressive views over the Black Mountains from the Cugarel Windmill view point. Memories of the fabulous tree-lined Canal du Midi cruise will remain with you forever. The base at Bram is in an ideal spot located just a few kilometres from Castelnaudary which is renowned for its cuisine, including cassoulet. A week-long one-way cruise that takes in most of our Canal du Midi cruising region, all the way from our base Castelnaudary in the west to Port Cassafires in the east. Thank you so much for taking the time to provide a five-star review of your boating vacation on the Canal du Midi! As well as being one of the home ports for the Le Boat Midi fleet, the historic market town of Castelnaudary is home of the Cassoulet, a regional dish of white beans and chunky pieces of pork and duck. Just to the west of the town you'll come across the Malpas Tunnel, the first canal tunnel in Europe. Motor yacht > 24 meters with crew. The best way to see this remarkable feat of construction and navigate the 150 miles of waterways on a Canal du Midi boat holiday. Its proximity to Spain gives it some interesting flourishes in cuisine, architecture and culture and as a result it is a truly cosmopolitan spot to explore. Friendly cafs and gourmet restaurants abound on the Canal du Midi! The sun shone and everybody was extremely friendly . Please bear in mind that our itineraries are just suggestions. Toulouse is the fourth largest city in France and is renowned as a center of aviation and spaceflight, the home of French rugby and for being a University town. Homps toCarcassonne (Trbes)via Carcassonne ONEWAY. The charming little port of Le Somail can be found halfway between Carcassonne and Bziers on the longest continuous section of canal in France, at 52km without seeing a lock! This is a bustling little village which boats a fine example of a wall bell-tower, flanked on each side by two octagonal towers. Making your way through the best rivers, lakes, and canals can bring a whole new lease of life and enjoyment [], Journeying along the Canal du Midi has long been one of the most sought after adventures in European canal boating holidays. Go on a cruise with a full crew. It can be reached only by a high bridge and was the site of a famous siege in the medieval age. When you hire a boat on the Canal du Midi, your children will have endless enjoyment on the most beautiful of holidays. You can hire any of the boats listed above from the town of Ngra, only half an hour's drive south of Toulouse. From Castelnaudary, famous for its meat and bean cassoulet stew, pass through the Midi's famous oval locks to Europe's largest and best preserved medieval fortress at Carcassonne. Thank you for your five-star review of your boating holiday on the Canal du Midi. Explore guest reviews and book the perfect boat for your trip. Gruissan was originally a fishing village on a small island surrounded by marshland. Moor here and take a walk downtown to discover the flower-lined streets and the old romanesque chapel built in the 11th century. However, most boaters choose to head east where, after two days of tranquil cruising, youll reach the spectacular fortified citadel of Carcassonne, the second most visited tourist attraction in France. As you cruise along the Rhne canal in your self-drive boat, following the Mediterranean coastline, the lands of the Petite Camargue stretch out in front of you, a countryside where nature has never given way to the modern world. Sorry, it looks like there arent any boats available based on the criteria youve selected. As the Canal du Midi runs from the Mediterranean sea to the city of Toulouse, you can start at either end and travel the entire route. Right on the Canal-du-Midi, the Argens-Minervois base will give you a taste of what to expect on your canal boat cruise. Boat Hire on the Canal du Midi with Click&Boat Located in the heart of the Occitanie region in the Southwest of France, the Canal du Midi is a must for your next sailing holiday. The canals route winds from the city of Toulouse in the countrys Occitanie region down through to the Mediterranean coastal lagoon region of tang de Thau. First in, first served! One of the canals most memorable features is the bridge at Capestang. At the very heart of the town, set on the highest point, is the 14th century Saint-Nazaire Cathedral. With two UNESCO listings to its name, it is no surprise that Carcassonne attracts millions of visitors every year. Its worth stopping at if you find yourself there when a market is on. Hiking up to the Pont Naturel de Minerve will give boaters a welcome change from the water and provide a chance to stretch their legs with a sun-soaked hike. Le Boat Team, Excellent staff, clean boat, great training. The larger boats are capable of holding bigger numbers of people, including capacities of five or six births. In 1516, King Francis I comissioned Leonardo da Vinci to survey a route. Because we rush around too much in our daily life, when we finally are "Out of Office," "Gone Fishing," or simply away, we should relax. Locks are fully automatic, manned and free to use. Cruising along the canal is taking a nomadic break from it all. If you are unable to find your perfect vacation on our website pleasecontact our Boating Expertswho may be able to help create a bespoke offering for you. Visiting this statue can be a little homage to the man that made your canal boat holidays possible. Set between Carcassonne and Castelnaudary, our new base in Bram is the perfect starting point to explore Audes wealth of attractions. Castelnaudary to Carcassonne (Trbes) ONEWAY, A short one-way cruise, that takes you past pretty quiet villages on your way to the magnificent Carcassonne. Located near the town of Bziers, the locks of Fonserannes consists of eight oval-shaped locks and nine different gates a marvel of engineering and beauty. Very late start at base. Please call me back Please call me back. Nonetheless, youll enjoy a gentle saunter up and down its quiet streets. Making your way through the best rivers, lakes, and canals can bring a whole new lease of life and enjoyment to the sport. The Fonserannes staircase of locks can get busy. The base at Negra was the first stop of the "Mail Boat" which ran from Toulouse to Agde in the 19th century. Kind regards, Homps is at the very heart of the Midi. 10-11 days 184km 40 Locks 3 hr 45 / day, View Bram - Argens one-way route in Google Maps, Short Break 2-3 days 48km 10 Locks 4 hr 15 / day, View Bram to Carcassonne and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 140km 44 Locks 5 hr / day, View Bram to Argens and back route in Google Maps, Return Trip 2 Weeks 300km 70 Locks 4 hr 15 / day, View Bram to Agde and back route in Google Maps. Please select a start date and duration above! SELF DRIVE BOAT ON THE MIDI. Rent the canal boat you need in Canal du Midi. Home > Boat hire prices 2023 Boat hire prices Season 2023 We guarantee you the best price Locaboat guarantees the best price on its boats and Pnichettes. Missed almost all of first day of vacation because of this. We found Le Boat on the Internet and took the plunge by calling Marcus who is based in France and this was able to guide us to what best suited our needs and expectations. These medium-sized boats can also carry a far greater amount of supplies, ideal if you are on the canal for weeks at a time. Use Click&Boat to find the best yacht charter in Canal Du Midi. Apart from the citadel walls, Carcassonne is home to the impressive Basilica of Saint-Nazaire, a 13th-century church constructed in both the Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. 8 Jul 2022 As every keen angler knows, finding the next best fishing spot is of great importance. We do try to be clear about the fact that our Vision Boats are quite large and they do take longer to clean and prep and because of this we cannot even provide clients with the Early Check-in Extra. Located in the south of France, the Canal du Midi has gone from one of the most impressive civil engineering projects of the early modern period to a UNESCO sight of extreme beauty. And take some away with you too! Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Canal du Midi is also one of the worlds most famous locations for boating holidays. View Port Cassafieres - Narbonne out and back route in Google Maps. See Trebes and Homps and take in the view from the 14th century chateau dominating the canal at Argens Minervois. Moor by the charming stone bridge, over which the road gives access to the village a short 500m away. There is little in the way of shops and eateries, but its a nice place to cycle to, if you want to expel some energy. Re: Canal du Midi boat hire 14 years ago Save Once you have the boat rental confirmed, then you can plan on the transportation to and from your departure/arrival points. Highlights include the Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur Cathedral (the third tallest in France) and the Archbishop's Palace dating back to the Roman era. ROI SOLEIL; Luxury Charter Cruises aboard the largest "htel barge" on the Canal du Midi & Rhne Ste these are real luxury cruises on board a fully staffed "River . The one thing that stands out for lovers of history and culture is the multiple historic sites scattered along the canal route, and there are a few more awe-inspiring than the town of Carcassonne. Capestang is a small market town with a good range of shops, including a supermarket, three bakeries, several caf-bars and restaurants and an impressive 14th century church. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this fortified, medieval, walled city is unique in Europe by its size and its state of conservation. Especially famous for oyster farming, this unspoiled natural area has an incredible diversity of species, which you can discover as you glide through the water. Its a staircase of locks, originally composed of eight chambers in a row, which allowed boats to be raised a height of 21.5m across a distance of 300m. Enjoy cycling along the towpath in the dappled sun of the Canal du Midi. The canal du Midi is listed by UNESCO as a world heritage site and everything is untouched, from its round and oval locks to its arched bridges in romanesque style. Please note that the locks along the Midi are not fully automatic. Many even choose to begin their Canal du Midi boat hire in Carcassonne, and it is easy to see why. Just to the southwest of Trbes youll find the Cavayre Lake, a popular summer spot full of family activities including swimming, a wildlife park and adventure trails. Leave the Mediterranean beaches behind on your way to picturesque Homps, as the Canal du Midi takes you over Roman aqueducts, through the Tunnel de Malpas and along the Fonsrannes staircase of locks. . You can walk freely around the lices, the area between the inner and outer walls, but you will need to book a guided tour to walk along the ramparts and see the Chteau Comtal. Where is the Canal du Midi? There was easy access to groceries (plus delivery!). We took a Connoisseur boat on the Canal du Midi in the first week of April, 2000. Take a look at the range of boats available before settling on one, as this will be both your transport and home for the duration of your France barge holidays on the Canal du Midi. Cabin cruise on a catamaran with crew. Although much larger than the compact boats, theyre more than capable of being agile and manoeuvrable when boating down the narrower canals. . Useful information. A short return cruise that takes you along a peaceful stretch of the canal with quiet villages, ideal for those looking for a relaxed getaway. The Canal du Midi is beautiful. Registered office: Origin One, 108 High Street, Crawley, West Sussex, RH10 1BD. Motor boat < 24 meters hire with hostess in option. Good Afternoon Rachel, View Port Cassafieres - Beaucaire one-way route in Google Maps. Your journey begins in Homps, a jewel of the Languedoc. The office was also helpful when we had an issue with the boat, resolving it quickly so we could continue to enjoy our holiday. *Thesesupplementary fees are automatically added where applicable and are included in prices shown on this website. When you rent a boat on the southern canals, youre within easy reach of historic sites such as Carcassonne and its famous medieval citadel, Toulouse with its basilicas, the pride of the Pink City, and the Minervois vineyards skirting the foothills of the Black Mountain. We had a wonderful trip with Le Boat. Cruising towards the Mediterranean you can easily get to Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Europes largest fortress. Often boaters will plan to stay at the base on the first evening and explore the town before heading out early the next day. Tips : If you are cruising down to Bziers, consider mooring at the top or bottom of the locks of Fonsrannes if you want to walk or cycle into Bziers for sightseeing. It is reccommended that you moor at the top/bottom of ther lock and walk or cycle into Beziers for sightseeing. Find canal boat routes in Canal Du Midi or choose another canal boat charter in France. The town also has many restaurants and cafes that boast the best version of this Castelnaudary. Enjoy wine tasting, cycling, and sightseeing at medieval villages. For 2 you can also tour the small museum, Grenier des Vignerons, which has a collection of tools for growing grapes and winemaking from the 19th century. Cruising this 300 year old waterway, you will savor the slow easy pace of travel as you pass lush vineyards in the heart of the Languedoc wine region. It has a wonderful southern French atmosphere with a Spanish twist. travel the waterways from Toulouse to the Mediterranean, discover all the delights of southern France, take in the historical landmarks and must-see sights, Special Offers up to 50% on a selection of cruises. Try La Raffinerie in Bziers, Carcassonne's La Marquiere and L'Arbousier in Homps. From here youre in the perfect location for exploring the riches of the Canal Royal du Languedoc - the original name of the Canal du Midi during the reign of King Louis XIV. We are pleased that overall you enjoyed your trip and we look forward to welcoming you on board again in the future. The clock tower in the centre, before it told the time, served as a relay for the first telecommunications network in the world. From our penichette base at Argens, dominated by a 14th century chateau, the Canal du Midi winds past vineyards. The town was the first stop of the Mail Boat which ran from Toulouse to Agde in the 19th century. We are experts in European self-drive boat hire. This is a busy little town, but theres not much to stop for besides the very large Intermarch supermarket, just 200m from the canal. Classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Canal du Midi links the Atlantic with the Mediterranean and takes you through sun-drenched vineyards . This meandering canal has its fair share of obstacles to navigate at the best of times and is what makes the adventure what it is. Thank you for taking the time to write a 5-star review of your experience. View Castelnaudary - Trebes one-way route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 104km 48 Locks 21hrs. Travel along the canals with our special offers on a selection of cruises. Le Boat has a base in the thriving town of Trbes and, whether you are starting your journey here or passing through, visitors are pleased to visit the very large supermarket, 1km from the moorings, for a chance to stock up on provisions (the base team can give you directions). We've increased our bases over the years and can now receive you on all France's waterways, as well as in . However, the 2km walk or cycle through the countryside to get there is a delight. The narrow streets of old Gruissan village are built around the 13th century castle and form a circular pattern. Arguably one of the most famous canals and waterways in Europe, if not the world, Frances Canal du Midi is as iconic as it is well known. As well as the suggested itinerariesshown above, all the routes available in this region are shown below. Bow and stern thrusters were a lifesaver. Up to 3 days after your booking was made, if you find cheaper elsewhere for the same departure date and for the same boat model, we will refund you the difference. There are ample public moorings, and there is a grocery store, a caf-bar and a restaurant. View Castelnaudary - Homps one-way route in Google Maps. We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon. The village of Le Somail started life as a purposely designed village by the Canal du Midi architect, Pierre Paul Riquet. On the way, enjoy the Etang de Thau lake, with its swimming, fishing and oyster beds, then cruise alongside the Mediterranean with easy access to superb beaches. 7 Best European Canal Boat Trips Ulrike Lemmin-Woolfrey Sep.25.2021 West London (Ekaterina Pokrovsky / Shutterstock.com Destinations Europe Slow travel is the only way to really appreciate a destination. One of the more famous spots along the Canal du Midi canal, Ngra Lock, is home to a small chapel and red-bricked aqueduct. Either starring your journey here or stopping as you make your way down the canal is a must when navigating the Canal du Midi. On average, the rental price of a houseboat on the Canal du Midi starts at $120/ day, which can be divided among . Visit the village's beautiful church and eat in one of the excellent restaurants. A week-long return cruise past some of the top sites on the Midi to the historic fortress of Carcassonne and back. By hiring a canal boat from the Nicols base at Le Somail you are in the ideal place to discover one of the most famous waterways in Europe - the Canal du Midi. The town is perched high on a rocky promontory with rivers running through deep gorges on either side. Would certainly recommend and buy again, Good Morning, It is a great start (or finish) for boaters looking to enjoy pleasant countryside and a lazy meander past quiet towns and villages. The lagoons are not only a source of incredible natural beauty but are also home to some of Frances most celebrated seafood, including the much-loved Bouzigues Oysters. As you approach the Etang de Thau, your boat gives you access to the largest stretch of water in the region. When cruising between Carcassonne and Toulouse along the Canal du Midi, boat hire customers love stopping off at Castelnaudary. Self-drive Boating Holidays in Europe from France Afloat. In an ideal location between Castelnaudary and Toulouse, Negra sets the tone for your boating holidays. The city is a perfectly preserved citadel, complete with ramparts, castle towers and idyllic medieval buildings contained within the citadel. The remains of a 13th-century castle and defences still remain in the village, intertwined with many buildings and homes all of this gives Minerve a unique air of being the quintessential medieval village of southern France. Return Trip 1 Week 128km 44 Locks 27hrs. Find and book deals on the best boats in Canal du Midi, France! Moving on from Ngra Lock and taking your barge rental along the Canal du Midi, you will soon arrive at the Castelnaudary commune, famed for its stone windmill known as Moulin de Cugarel and picturesque rolling foothills and fields. Boat Rental and Luxury Cruises on the Midi Canal in Southern France. The majestic Canal du Midi ranks among the most beautiful waterways not just in France, but anywhere in the world. HIRE A CANAL BOAT FROM 19 DIFFERENT NICOLS BASES ACROSS FRANCE. A pretty, but quiet village built on a circular plan with a 13th century church at the heart. We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon! This is a village full of medieval character with a lovely church although not a great deal else! From our base at Argens, the Canal du Midi winds through a typically Mediterranean landscape of vines, cypresses, and pine trees. Once a Greek city, a medieval fortress and a rich village during the Renaissance, Agde was largely built using black volcanic rocks. This natural bridge of rock creates an otherworldly range of caves, caverns and watering holes. The Le Boat Team, 3hrs (7 locks) to the publicmooringsin Carcassonne. What really stands out as one of Narbonnes shining features is the citys preserved and well-restored medieval quarter. We pride ourselves on delivering excellent customer service therefore we are delighted to hear that the handover went smoothly and everything was clear. These staircase locks, as they are known, are one set of over sixty historic locks that make up the many miles of the Canal du Midi. Almost 40 years ago, we had the idea of introducing waterway tourism to a wider audience and making the charm of cruising accessible to everyone. Costing was clear and checking in/out was very easy. Visit lovely Ventenac and perhaps dine at a local caf. There are usually plenty of moorings either side of the bridge. 100% Security 100% User-Friendly. They arent as detailed, but they should help you get an idea of how far you can travel in the time you have. The stone bridge over the canal has the reputation of being the lowest on the canal (the lowest is actually in Carcassonne). One reason is the towns famous speciality cassoulet a treat you really should try. The one-way itinerary was worth it. Book online or call us at 1-800-734-5491, Jun 9th: Available by phone until 1:00pm; Mon to Fri: 8:30am - 5:00pm ET / Closed: Weekends, Le Boat is a trading name of Crown Travel Limited, Crown Travel Limited Registered in EnglandNo 02095375. Canal du Midi Boating Vacations present an opportunity to experience this fabulous waterway firsthand with your family and friends, inviting you to travel at a pace that lets you meet the people and relax amidst stunning natural beauty. When it comes to barging in the South of France, the scenic Canal du Midi is a must. Whether you simply enjoy the town from the comfort of the barge or get out and explore by foot, there is so much to see in the city of Narbonne that you are sure not to be disappointed. Whether you choose a luxury boat or a more economically sized one, there are smaller boats in both categories. This is a magical part of the world to explore by Pnichette from the unspoilt landscapes of the Petite Camargue and its unique plants and wildlife, to the amazing works of engineering and medieval citadels of the Canal du Midi, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Sitting on the last leg of the canal, only a few miles from the Mediterranean coast, the city was historically a bustling port. This may be unnecessary if you are simply using the boat to travel between destinations. A short one-way cruise perfect for those travelling with kids. Once you have taken in the citys many sights, secure your canal boat hire and begin your journey southwards down the Canal du Midi. Towards the western end of the Canal du Midi, the Embranchment de la Nouvelle branches off and leads you south to the attractive city of Narbonne with its wonderful Spanish influences. Hire a boat to cruise on the Canal du Midi or canals in the Camargue region of France. Visit Roman Narbonne, relax in Le Somail and sample magnificent local wines. Our boatingvacations allow you the freedom to stop when you want and take each day as it comes. To find out how to get to each of our bases in this boating region, as well as what facilities and amenities are available at each base or nearby, click on the relevant base below: Download a detailed inventory of equipment supplied on all of our boats. To stock up on provisions there is a Spar supermarket 1.1km away in the town centre, where there are also ATMs, etc. Find out about the Midi including the iconic towns of Carcassonne, Beziers & Narbonne Our boat was the Corvette with two master suites. There is also enough activity with the locks to keep everyone engaged. Great trip in clean comfortable boats and very supportive team at the bases and in the office before we travelled. Yet the city is most renowned for being the first Roman settlement outside of Italy and it is this that makes it an attractive site for any culture or history buff. There are a variety of shops, cafs and restaurants here if you fancy a 2km walk or cycle from Renneville Lock where you can moor. It offers the chance to taste excellent wines and explore a 100-metre-long wine cellar. This popular route cruises a varied section of the Canal du Midi. They are then shown separately in the price summary, when you proceed to book. Best Wishes, Book your tickets online for Canal du Midi, Occitanie: See 1,088 reviews, articles, and 1,311 photos of Canal du Midi, ranked No.390 on Tripadvisor among 5,273 attractions in Occitanie. France Afloat is a small, privately owned UK company that has been operating successfully in France for many years. La Redorte is a pretty and leafy town built around a grand Chteau, which is now a luxury hotel with an excellent restaurant. The Pont des Marchands also makes the city of Narbonne famous. There are several places in town claiming to serve the best. Check with your network provider, Aerial view of Carcassonne, Canal du Midi, Waterside at night on the Canal du Midi, Toulouse. Then descend the amazing flight of seven locks at Fonserannes, to the west of Beziers. Deposit and charge payable locally. Explore medieval Carcassonne, try the local delicacy cassoulet and enjoy the small port town of Trebes. As well as the cathedral, the town of Bziers has a number of attractions of an artistic nature. First, choose your destination, then the boat of your dreams, and we'll train you to skipper it. Don't forget to try the seafood, it is as fresh as it gets! See. One of the biggest challenges when navigating your Canal du Midi barge hire is the winding waterways and the occasional boat that may pass. Yet the Pink City, so named because of the dusky-pink bricks used in many of its buildings, remains intimate and welcoming with a laid-back vibe. All of these add to the overwhelming charm of the Le Somail, and no journey down the canal is complete without a stop off here. Added on 5 October 2022. Bziers Fine Arts Museum continues this artistic theme and is home to a huge range of canvas by top European artist from across the centuries, including Hans Holbein, Vincent Van Gogh and Henri Goetz. Visitors can enjoy submersing themselves in true French caf culture, with a host of museums and cultural attractions to keep them occupied. Sightseeing, wine tasting, and sun-kissed cycle rides await, all the way from bustling Toulouse to the golden sands of the Mediterranean Sea. A 7-night cruise to the west is a peaceful return journey to the contrasting hubbub of cosmopolitan Toulouse. The town has a supermarket, pharmacy, bakery, butcher and a handful of restaurants. There are multiple routes to take, whether its branching out onto one of the many other canals in the area or venturing onto other major French attractions such as Montpellier or Nmes. Starting from Toulouse, the Canal du Midi winds down south, taking in the green banks, flora and fauna on either side of the canal. The medieval towers and walled city of Carcassonne form another World Heritage site, with a convenient town centre canal basin. Known as the island of a thousand scents, this is a nature reserve of exceptional beauty, comprising 825 hectares of peaceful surroundings, breath-taking vistas and abundant wildlife. Its about 7km from Agde Round Lock, and 5km from Bagnas Lock (should you choose to cruise further west), so youll need to cycle or arrange a taxi either way. The village of Roubia is very pretty with an old stone church and tower, and theres a grocery store and restaurant in the village. The locks of Fonserannes are also home to traditional buildings such as stables and the former lock keepers house. A wonderful canal to cruise along, including one long section that is entirely lock-free. The majority of the locks are electrified with a lock keeper. Best Wishes, View Trebes - Homps one-way route in Google Maps, Return Trip 1 Week 180km 58 Locks 34hrs. The vineyards and wine cellars at Ventenac & Paraza are an 8hr cruise away and the pretty village of Le Somail is not long after that. View our Castelnaudary base on Google Maps. The ancient citadel can be seen for miles around, looming large on the horizon like something out of a fairy tale. With the majority of Locaboat holidays starting from Toulouse, the city is a hub for canal boat hire in France. Port Cassafires is perfect for families, with the sandy beach of Portiragnes nearby and a 1hr cruise to the east await the fairgrounds, adventure golf and go-karts of Vias. Some simple locks are automatic, these can be found in the route towards Toulouse and towards Carcassonne. Passage through locks in Ireland & the Netherlands where a small fee is payable locally for each lock. From Castelnaudary, the canal takes you to one of the regions most historical cities, Carcassonne. Homps is a verdant and often sunny town. Its a journey of contrasts, inviting you to experience busy Bziers and quiet Le Somail. Canal de Garonne With 53 locks, this serene canal falls from the junction with the Canal du Midi at Toulouse to Castets-en-Dorthe at the Garonne river. So you can enjoy your cruise at a gentle pace, taking time to look at historic buildings, treasures of the middle ages and vast, green landscapes, while enjoying local specialities and Mediterranean treats. Completing the Canal du Midi from Toulouse to tang de Thau doesnt mean your French canal holidays have to end right there. The climate diagrams are based on 30 years of hourly weather model simulations. Back at your boat, why not chill with a drink after your walk/cycle at Llle aux Oiseaux right on the canal? We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon. Truly an outstanding feat of engineering when completed in 1694, the main course of the Canal du Midi runs 240 kilometres (150 miles). While you dont exactly need a special license to operate these locks, you may have to rely on the help of friendly locals to help you out and as historic locks, you need to take extra care. Book easily from a large selection of boats: catamarans, sailboats, motorboats and more. Rachel from Le Boat. The waterside buildings testify to these bygone days. They give good indications of typical climate patterns and expected conditions (temperature, precipitation, sunshine, and wind). In recent years, Gruissan has expanded considerably with the development of a modern yachting marina with a bar and restaurants and a casino built along the palm-lined quays. How do I select a cruise? 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