Barging on the Canal du Midi

Q: Our family of four is going barging in the South of France on the Canal du Midi during April. Could you advise as what places of interest there are between Homps and Port Cassafieres? - Steve Lambert


A: Your 77km trip along the lovely Canal du Midi passes through no less than 18 locks, so you will have plenty of time to admire the pretty waterside villages and vineyards. You will cruise through over arched bridges and ancient aqueducts. However, before you set off from Homps, you can visit the beautiful medieval town of Minèrve. Located about 20 minutes drive from Homps, it has been selected as one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France ("The Most Beautiful Villages Of France"). It's not too touristy and the local people are very friendly. You could also visit Fontfroide Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery which is now in private hands. Also located 20 minutes drive from Homps, the abbey produces wine and has a bookstore and restaurant. One of the highlights of the cruise is the amazing staircase of locks at Fonsérannes near Béziers. It consists of eight lock chambers which allow boats to be raised a height of 21.5 m, in a distance of 300m. In Béziers you can visit the splendid Roman Catholic cathedral and spend time visiting the magnificent art galleries and museums. Dine at one of the charming pavement cafés and restaurants buy fresh produce at the covered market, Les Halles. Finally, at Port Cassafières, you can take a stroll to a beach on the Mediterranean and enjoy the Spanish influence on this charming little port town. (13/3/11)