Barging in France: Canal du Midi – French Barge Cruises

The 300-year old Canal du Midi skirts the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean before meandering inland through ancient villages, Roman fortifications and famed vineyards. The main canal is 241 kilometers long, and connects the Garonne to the Mediterranean from Toulouse to the Étang de Thau at Marseillan. There is also a branch between Moussan and Port-la-Nouvelle which incorporates part of the earlier Canal de la Robine. Considered a remarkable feat of engineering and one that paved the way for the Industrial Revolution, the Canal du Midi became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.

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The canal has beautiful areas lined with shady plane trees that often touch to form an arc of green above the water from bank to bank, and crossed by pretty arched bridges. The warm Mediterranean weather and relaxed pace of life is sure to lull you into unwinding as your luxury Canal du Midi barge meanders gently downstream.

This is the perfect place for cycling or walking along scenic tow paths, or simply watching the scenery pass by as you relax on the deck of your chartered barge with a cool drink. In the distance you can see the Pyrenees, whereas closer to hand are the vineyards that stretch for thousands of square miles. Enjoy private wine tastings at châteaux en route, the locations of which vary depending on your choice of Canal du Midi cruise.

You will discover a marvellous blend of ancient Gallo-Roman and traditional influences reflected throughout this very historic region. Explore this further with your tour guide when you visit the medieval walled city of Carcassonne, the cathar stronghold of Minerve or the underground Roman market in Narbonne.

Learn more about the Canal du Midi:

Map Canal du Midi France Barge cruises