Explore the beauty and history of Southern France by luxury barge in 2024
Discover the wonders and history of Southern France as you glide down a section of the 360 kilometre-long Canal Du Midi – a UNESCO World Heritage site constructed in the 17th century.
These exclusive 7 day/6 night journeys start from $7,374 AUD per person twin share*
Considered by many as “the” engineering masterpiece of the 17th century, this impressive canal joins the Canal de Garonne to connect the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean. Aside from its many locks, aqueducts and tunnels, the canal boasts sensational scenery, and meanders past picturesque villages, ancient Roman fortifications and renowned vineyards.
Natural Focus offer a selection of superb hotel barges that slowly meander their way along different parts of this famed canal. Explore the medieval fortified city of Carcassonne, discover the fascinating city of Narbonne, and enjoy a winery tour and tasting at the Château Pech-Celeyran. There are also plenty of chances to walk or cycle along the canal tow path.
With everything taken care of, this really is the ultimate way to experience a country in all its wonder.
*Valid for select 2024 itineraries. Price advertised based on 16 April departure aboard the Anjodi (inclusive of saving), other vessels available. Strictly subject to availability. Single travellers on request. Conditions apply.
Tour details
- Private wine tasting at the beautiful Château Pech-Celeyran
- Cruise through the world’s oldest canal tunnel at Malpas
- View the Pyrenees mountains and marvel at quintessential French scenery
- Explore Narbonne and visit the Archbishop’s Palace and Cathedral
- Tour Carcassonne – the most complete medieval fortified city in existence
- Relax onboard and simply watch canal life pass you by.
- Excellent towpath for walking and cycling
- Transfers to/from the vessel
- 6 nights onboard barge accommodation
- All meals onboard
- Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks
- Excursions and admittance fees as per itinerary
- Use of barge facilities, which include bicycles and spa pool
- Airfares
- Travel Insurance
- Items of a personal nature
Narbonne is located in Southern France on the Mediterranean coast. The closest major French cities are Toulouse and Montpellier. From Toulouse it is approximately 1h 50 minutes by car, or between 1h30 – 2 hours by train. Montpellier is a little closer, approximately 1h15 minutes by road or between 1h – 1h15 minutes by train.
Itinerary
Sample Itinerary
7 days/6 nights
Day 1
Le Somail
Today you will be met in Narbonne and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the Anjodi. Meet the crew and be welcomed onboard with a chilled champagne and canapés. You will also have a chance to walk around the charming village of Le Somail, and perhaps explore its beautiful bookshop. Enjoy a short evening cruise before dinner on board. D
Day 2
Sallèles d’Aude
This morning, tour legendary Carcassonne. The city dates back to the Gallo Roman era, and is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence. With its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defences, it resisted the many armies that tried to storm its walls. In the afternoon, cruise along the 330-year-old Canal du Midi and through a series of locks on the Canal de la Robine. This section of the canal offers excellent walking and biking opportunities en route, to tonights mooring at Sallèles d’Aude. Dinner on board. B L D
Day 3
Sallèles d’Aude to Capestang
Wake up this morning and head to Mas d’Antonin for some truffle hunting. Follow the expert truffle dogs searching under the oak trees to find the “black gold” which you can help to dig up and then sample, judging its appearance, colour and most importantly, its aroma.
You will also learn about the different olives of the region and taste the oils that they produce. After lunch on board, cruise to Capestang, passing vineyards and pine trees, with magnificent views of the Pyrenées along the way. There is time to explore the village today, which was once the summer retreat of the Bishops of Narbonne, with its magnificent 14th century collegiate church before dinner on board. B L D
Day 4
Capestang to Fonserannes
Start your morning with a visit to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Tour the Archbishop’s Palace, Cathedral and Via Domitia and explore the indoor market at the hub of this bustling town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the vibrant atmosphere. Return to the barge for a cruise via the world’s oldest canal tunnel at Malpas, perhaps pausing en route at the Poilhes brewery for a tour and tasting, then on to your mooring spot at Fonserannes. There may also be time to view the star-shaped fields and the 13th century irrigation channels of Montady from L’Oppidum d’Enserune. Tonight, enjoy dinner ashore at a gastronomic restaurant in Beziers. B L D
Day 5
Fonserannes to Portiragnes
After breakfast, descend through the unique flight of 7 oval locks, before crossing the aqueduct over the River Orb to moor in Portiragnes. This is where the Canal du Midi is at its closest to the Mediterranean. For those who are feeling active, the beach is only 20 minutes away by bicycle. This afternoon, enjoy an informative winery tour and tasting at the Château Pech-Celeyran; their diverse 145-hectare plot includes 38 hectares of scrubland and pine forests and has been owned by the Saint-Exupéry family for five generations, producing an exceptional array of diverse wines. Dinner on board. B L D
Day 6
Portiragnes to Marseillan
This morning, Anjodi sets off through the famous round lock and then the nature reserve of Bagnas, with potential sightings of flamingos, white egrets and other migrating birds. The vessel will then head out onto the inland saltwater lake of Étang de Thau, past the oyster beds.
Moor in the fishing village of Marseillan tonight, home of Noilly Prat vermouth. Take an excursion to Pezenas, the delightful 16th century capital of the Languedoc, mostly known for its associations with the French playwright Molière. On the way back to the barge, there is the option to visit a local oyster farm to sample its delicious produce with a glass of white wine while enjoying a view of the oyster beds. Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board. B L D
Day 7
Marseillan, Tour Ends
After a final breakfast, you will be transferred by private chauffeured minibus to your choice of location in Narbonne. B
B = Breakfast | L = Lunch | D = Dinner
Please note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The cruise will be in the reverse direction on alternate weeks.