Canal du Midi is our most sought after route – Commissioned by Louis XIV and now on the World Heritage list, this route takes you through rugged and scenic Languedoc. It makes for a charming navigation, the canal twists and turns above the valley and vineyards under a tree canopy, you will be spoiled with plunging views stretching to the Pyrenees.

Our route takes in the most scenic part but also the most dramatic locks and canal bridges.

The region of Languedoc unravels a rich history and architecture. This is a land of proud people devoted to their terroir and awarded wines … a passion they will share with you in private tastings.

Whether your passion is for history, arts and crafts, nature activities, village atmosphere, wine discovery or shopping – each day your Roi Soleil cruise will be tailored to your interest.

Of course you can also theme your entire cruise to be a Wine Discovery or Young Family cruise.

(Alternative route – Provence/Carmague/Languedoc route : Avignon – Béziers)

Sample Canal du Midi Itinerary

Béziers East – Carcassonne East (Homps mooring) (or reverse)

Sunday

Béziers East- Cassafieres to Portiragnes

• transfer, welcome on-board, and cocktails
• navigation along the canal through a rural area with wetlands, a reserve for flamingoes and horses.

Monday

Portiragnes to Fonserannes

• sailing through the great locks of Fonseranne (9 locks staircase) and Beziers canal bridge. (Few hotel barges do so- an experience not to be missed)
• excursion to historical city of Pézenas ( famed architecture, many artisans & antiques, option to add a wine tasting at a prized property)
• or excursion to the impressive hill village of Roquebrun by the river Orb (possible to swim or kayak)
• and / or – visit to the pre-roman Oppidum of Enserune, a major archaeological site with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys
• and / or – visit Béziers historical centre and shops

Tuesday

Fonserannes to Capestang

• sailing into the heart of the historic village of Capestang
• private visit to the cistercian Abbey of Fontroide, one of the finest examples in France
• or excursion to the impressive hill village of Roquebrun (possible to swim or kayak)
• and / or wine tasting at the cellar of a top sommelier to Michelin starred chefs.
• and / or a visit a bull ranch with the opportunity to round up the bulls on horseback.

Wednesday

Capestang to La Croisade or Somail

• morning excursion to the charming City of Narbonne that was the Roman Capital of the early Gaulles – its vibrant food market – the famed art and roman archeology museums within the Bishop Palace -many shops and cafes on cobbled streets – a highlight of the week
• afternoon sailing to the peaceful country village of Somail with an impressive antique bookstore
• sailing beneath the smallest bridge in France – with the largest boat on the canal.

Thursday

Somail to Paraza

• morning visit to the hill village of Minerve, which is a beautiful natural site with a dramatic history during the Crusades.
• visit to prized olive oil mill, Oulibo, and a historic Languedoc village
• an afternoon sail to Paraza and mooring by an ancient canal bridge with views across the valley.
• private wine tasting in a renown Minervois domain with up to 15 varietals

Friday

Paraza to Homps

• visit to the fortified city of Carcassonne – Europe’s largest Medieval Fortress – a great place to be transported into medieval history and a shopping opportunity.
• or visit medieval village of Lagrasse and its artisans.
• afternoon sailing to Homps with many locks.

Saturday 10 am.

• a leisurely breakfast onboard then transfer to departure point.