Imagine journeying at a leisurely pace through the sun drenched countryside and historic villages of Southern France aboard a canal barge, at times forgetting not only what hour of the day it might be, but what century the boat is floating through. Dreams become a reality when touring by barge along the fabled Canal du Midi through the Languedoc region of France.
Just a portion of France's unique canal system linking major towns and tiny medieval villages, the Canal du Midi passes through the coastal plain and stony hills where wine grapes flourish in the brilliant sunshine. A fiercely independent region, its rich history and deep traditions strongly influence the scenic area.
Originally built to support the region's trade in wheat and wine, the Canal du Midi is today a major tourist attraction. Whether traveling by barge or bicycling along the old towpath bordering the canal, it makes a remarkable journey through one of France's most treasured regions. Lined with trees, the canal's route is perfect for today's pleasure craft. The thousands of planted trees act as natural air conditioning, keeping boat travelers comfortable in the hot summers. The entire 240 kilometer canal, from Toulouse to the Mediterranean, is a World Heritage Site.
Step aboard a barge and enter a world of cruising like no other. The gentle pace allows full immersion into the life of the area. Perfect for a family vacation, stops can be easily made to explore the area's intriguing scenery, cultural offerings and incredible cuisine and wines.
Self-drive tours are perfect for the adventuresome. No license is required and the pace is slow enough for safe and fun family cruising. Prefer to be pampered as you travel the waterway? Take a luxurious cruise on a fully crewed hotel barge, experiencing the ultimate in travel along the historic Canal du Midi.
A photographer's dream, the barge moves slowly so incredible photographs of stone bridges, vineyards and medieval villages can be taken from on board. Want to spend an afternoon exploring? Just stop, disembark and enjoy. Keep a photo-journal of the adventure to preserve the precious memories.
After its original course around the outskirts of the city of Carcassonne proved inconvenient, the Canal du Midi was reconstructed to flow through the city in the late 1700s and early 1800s. Now travelers on the canal can conveniently stop at the canal harbor in the city to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The ancient stone-walled city of Carcassonne rises majestically above the canal, astonishing visitors with its beautifully restored splendor. Unbelievably, the ancient town was in such disrepair in the mid-1800, France's government ordered it demolished. Restoration began after an uproar from the citizens of France stopped its planned destruction. Today, the double ringed walls and 52 turrets gracefully soar above the town.
Take a horse drawn carriage tour within the fortifications seeing the sites within the medieval city. Bike tours, self-guided walking tours, and guided visits of many of the historic sites are available.
Walk the narrow cobbled streets, exploring the museums and churches in both the walled city and the rest of the historic city across the Aude River. Summertime brings thousands of visitors for the fabulous firework display on July 14th and the month-long cultural festival featuring over 100 performances, many of them free. The climate is mild enough to enjoy the area during the Christmas holidays when the whole region is celebrating with lights and incredible food.
All along the Canal du Midi, open air markets in villages welcome the travelers. Savor the incredible aromas of fresh herbs, flowers and outdoor cooking. Stop and lunch on roasted chicken and herbed vegetables while sipping a glass of the region's famous wines. Traveling along the canal, notice the change in foods. Duck and goat cheeses change to sea food and shell fish as the canal nears the Mediterranean. Regional wines vary from the white Viognier to the red St Chinian, all a delicate accompaniment to an incredible meal.
Sites to not miss along the route include many medieval churches, chateaus and villages. The charming town of Narbonne is the site of the wonderful architectural gems, including the Archduke's Palace and cathedral. Once the capital of Roman Gaul, the Via Domitia, a 2,000 year old road passes through the area. Other examples of Roman architecture nearby include ancient storehouses and viaducts. The smells of delicious food greet the hungry at the famed indoor market in Narbonne.
Originally founded in 799, the historic Benedictine Lagrasse Abbey at one time was one of the most important in France. By the 18th century the abbey had faded in importance and part of it was sold to a private owner. Today, the remaining public portion is open for touring. Climb the bell tower, constructed in the 1500s, for a wonderful view of the village and surroundings. While in the village of Lagrasse be sure to see the lovely village center with its medieval streets, local craftsmen and interesting stone bridges.
The Cabrespine cave in the limestone rocks of the Black Mountains is a natural wonder, a cool retreat on a hot summer day. While enjoying nature, watch for wildlife along the canal. Eagles and vultures soar in the blue skies, while deer and even a wild boar might be spotted in the countryside. Carefully tended flower gardens, fields of sunflowers and ancient farmsteads of stone grace the landscape.
Feel the need to stretch your legs? The pace of barges is slow enough to walk along the towpath for an afternoon, delighting in the dappled sunshine shining through the leaves of the plane trees bordering the canal. Journeying through history along the canal, you'll build memories to last a lifetime.
This fabulous Canal du Midi information is brought to you by Barge Connection, experts in luxury barge travel since 1998.
THE BARGE CONNECTION is a leading tour operator in the United States specializing in barge vacations since 1998. Unparalleled experience in providing the best in luxury barge vacations for individuals, groups and travel agents, http://bargeconnection.com/.
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