The Golden Midi Cruise

Port Cassafi�res <=> Castelnaudary

From the beaches and edge of the Camargue, cruise to the vibrant city of Bèziers. Head up the staircase of locks at Fonsérannes and cruise in the shade, stopping when the mood takes you. Visit the famous ice-house and book shop at Le Somail before heading on to the 14th century town of Castelnaudary – home to Cassoulet. Visit La Cité at Carcassonne en route.

Distance: 157 km
Cruising Time: 45 hrs
Locks: 62
One Way - Either Direction

Port Cassafi�res <=> Castelnaudary

Beziers

Beziers is the second largest town on the Canal du Midi. Once a Roman city; it's rich in history including the Cathars. Today it is renowned for winemaking, rugby summer festivals and bullfights.

Ventenac

This lovely little town has many features typical of the Minervois region. The village of Ventenac with restaurants, a post office and a bakery. also has a ch�teau, with it own wine museum, and this is the focal point of the village. Try the local wines which are reputed to be excellent!

Roubia

This is a pleasant little village, surrounded by vineyards and near the river Aude with it's Cave Co-operative

Argens

Argens is a beautiful little town, typical for the Minervois region, clustered around a 14th century ch�teau and overlooking the canal and the river Aude.

Homps

Homps is an ancient commercial port where barrels of Minervois and Corbi�res wines were loaded for their journey to Bordeaux. Several wine producers are situated here and you can visit them for tours and tastings.

Marseillette

A charming little village which retains a relatively 'undiscovered' air but boasts its very own radio station!

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a world renowned UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of France's top tourist attractions. It has easy access from the airport and railway station and is an unmissable stop if you are cruising this part of the canal.

Bram

Bram is an attractive town in pretty countryside, surrounded by vines. Built in a circular style, with the houses arranged in a concentric circle around the church, Bram is in the heart of Cathar country, and the remains of many castles can be spotted on the hilltops close to the town. There is a good range of shopping and faciltities here and it makes a very pleasant spot to moor and spend some time. The village is a bit of a walk (approx 1.5 kms) from the port.

Castelnaudary

The ancient streets are lined with half-timbered houses and private mansions dating from the XVIIIth century. During the last weekend of August the town hosts a Cassoulet festival, celebrating its main claim to fame.