Cruises - Canal du Midi route : Béziers - Carcassonne

As you drift along the magnificent Canal du Midi you will step back into the time of Louis XIV- the "Sun King" or "Roi Soleil" - who commissioned this prodigious engineering feet; thus finally achieving the dream of linking the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean.

Deservedly, the Canal du Midi is now classed on the World Heritage List of Conservation.

The region of Languedoc, interlaced with the Canal du Midi, unravels a rich history from prehistoric time, through the Roman occupation, succeeded by the turbulent Middle Ages. The landscape and exceptional architecture captures the atmosphere of time revisited.

Whether your passion is for history, arts and crafts, adventure, village atmosphere, wine discovery or shopping ... your cruise onboard “Roi Soleil" will be personally tailored to your specific interests

The Canal du Midi meanders through the vast diversity of scenic landscapes that changes dramatically from the rugged, rural Languedoc regions to the sun-drenched, azure blues of the Mediterranean.

Within this vast region also lies a land of poetry, and of proud people devoted to the soil and of course the wine ... a passion they will share with you in private tastings of the local Minervois and Corbières wines

Be prepared for new sights, tastes and aromas that will take you on a voyage of aesthetic discovery.

Sample Itinerary Canal du Midi – Roi Soleil

Béziers – Carcassonne (Homps mooring) or reverse

A charter on ROI SOLEIL is all about CHOICE. Here's the route - and suggestions on what is available each day to customize your cruise. According to local festivities your guide will offer more options.

Underlined are overnight moorings for the boat.We have not included the cycling, running or walking opportunities.

Sunday
Béziers

transfer, welcome on-board, and cocktails
navigation along the canal and mooring by the impressive 9 locks of Fonseranne

Monday
Béziers to Colombiers

sailing through the great locks of Fonseranne and onto Colombiers
excursion to historical city of Pézenas ( famed architecture, many artisans & antiques)
or excursion to the impressive hill village of Roquebrun by the river Orb (possible to swim)
and / or - visit to the preroman Oppidum of Enserune, a major archaeological site with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys
and / or - visit Béziers historical centre and shops
and / or Wine tasting at cellar of a top French Sommelier and supplier to Michelin Starred Chefs

Tuesday
Colombiers 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
and private wine testing at a Corbieres Château
and / or a visit a Camargue bull and horse 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 and shops - a highlight of the week
afternoon sailing to the peaceful country village of Somail with an impressive antique bookstore
sailing beneath the smallest canal bridge in France

Thurday
Somail to Roubia

morning visit to the hill village of Minerve, which is a beautiful natural site that has a dramatic history dating back to the time of the Crusades.
visit to prized olive oil mill, Oulibo, and a historic Languedoc village
an afternoon sail to Roubia from where we have the option to take a short flight over the Cathar Castles in the Pyrenees- the famous fortresses of Vertigo

Friday
Roubia 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.