Sunday, Day 1 Narbonne to Puichéric
Passengers are met at the Narbonne TGV station, or Chateau l'Hospitalet Hotel in Narbonne if you have stayed here pre cruise, at 4pm and escorted by minibus to Enchante, moored at Aiguille lock near Puichéric. Champagne welcome followed by dinner on board.

Monday, Day 2 Puichéric to La Redorte
Fascinating morning tour of Carcassonne. Dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, this is the most complete mediaeval fortified city in existence today with its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defenses, which resisted the many armies that tried to storm this glorious Camelot setting. Afternoon cruise along the 330 year old Midi canal descending its trademark locks and past “l’Epanchoir”, one of the canal bridges invented by Pierre Riquet for the Canal du Midi. Upon arrival explore the village of La Redorte famous in the 11th century for its basket weaving. Dinner aboard.

Tuesday, Day 3 La Redorte to Homps
Morning cruise under the shade of the plane trees which line the canal, we gently circle the contours of the land to reach the port of Homps once an important commandery for the Knights Hospitaller. Afternoon excursion to Minerve, the ancient capital of the Minervois, which boasts a 12th century Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges. Besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1215, its hilltop location affords spectacular views. We continue cruising to a picturesque mooring under the trees, a perfect opportunity to try your hand at pétanque the local sport of boules followed by an alfresco dinner aboard.

Wednesday, Day 4 Homps to Roubia
This morning we take the minibus to a Benedictine Abbey founded in the 8th century. Nestled in the village of Lagrasse, awarded the title of “Plus beaux villages de France” (most beautiful villages of France), now home to many artisan who have set up workshops in the medieval center, the restored Abbey was once one of the most prosperous thanks to Charlemagne’s chart. A chance to sample some local cuisine with lunch ashore in a spectacular setting overlooking the Corbières. Afternoon cruise reaching Roubia situated on the “grand bief” another engineering prowess unique to the Canal du Midi. Dinner aboard.

Thursday, Day 5 Roubia to Le Somail
Morning cruise through vineyards and pine trees to the charming and historical village of the Le Somail, purpose built for the Canal du Midi. Take some time to explore the old bookstore of Le Somail. Afternoon excursion to a wine tasting in the Saint Chinian, the first village of the region to receive the much envied French mark of approval for wines known as A.O.C. (Appellation d’Origine Controlée), teamed with an excursion to “Oulibo”, Occitan for olive. This cooperative olive oil press is a great opportunity to sample the famous Lucques olive. Dinner aboard.

Friday, Day 6 Le Somail to Sallèles d’Aude
This morning’s excursion is to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Enjoy a visit to the Archbishop's Palace and the indoor market at the hub of this bustling canal side town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the relaxed atmosphere. Afternoon cruise through the series of locks and narrow bridges of the Robine Canal, built after the Canal du Midi to link Narbonne and the Mediterranean. Cycle ahead and explore the village of Sallèles d’Aude, our final mooring. Farewell Dinner aboard.

Saturday, Day 7 Sallèles d’Aude to Narbonne
After breakfast depart Sallèles d’Aude and return to Narbonne by 11am.

Note:
This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternative weeks the cruise operates in reverse direction and the pickup and drop off points are reversed.


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