Along this historic waterway there are several scenic and charming spots to explore. Here are four excellent sites to visit on a Canal du Midi barge cruise:
- Carcassonne
This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see for its medieval fortress, La Cité de Carcassonne. Cruising near this walled city offers breathtaking views of its towers and drawbridges, making it one of the most iconic stops on the Canal du Midi. The surrounding region also features vineyards and picturesque villages. - Homps
A small, peaceful village nestled along the canal, Homps offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. You can visit the local wine cellars, take leisurely walks around the village, or simply enjoy the tranquility of the canal. It’s a great stop for those looking to enjoy the slower pace of life along the water. - Béziers
One of the oldest towns in France, Béziers sits at a stunning point along the Canal du Midi. Its famous Canal du Midi lock system, along with the 13th-century Saint-Nazaire Cathedral perched atop a hill, gives this town a rich historical charm. Don’t miss the nine locks at Fonserannes, which are a marvel of engineering. - Trebes
A charming village with a peaceful atmosphere, Trebes is a lovely stop on a Canal du Midi cruise. It’s known for its ancient stone bridges and lovely streets lined with cafés and restaurants. The village is a great place to explore local history and indulge in the region’s culinary delights.
Each of these locations offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them perfect for exploring during a barge cruise along the Canal du Midi.
What are some great restaurants to explore while enroute?
Several off-the-beaten-path restaurants along the Canal du Midi offer exceptional local flavors and unique dining experiences. Here are a few to try during your week along the Canal:
- La Table de Rousson (Rousson, near Béziers)
This charming restaurant is tucked away in the small village of Rousson, just a short distance from Béziers. It offers a warm, rustic ambiance and serves up a wonderful selection of Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with an emphasis on fresh, local produce and regional wines. The setting is intimate, making it a perfect stop for a cozy meal. - Le Comptoir du Marché (Carcassonne)
A short detour from the Canal du Midi in Carcassonne, this small but exceptional restaurant offers a contemporary take on traditional French cuisine. Located near the local market, it is known for its fresh, seasonal ingredients and warm, welcoming atmosphere. It’s a fantastic place to experience high-quality, locally sourced dishes in an unpretentious setting. - Le Moulin de l’Abbé (Cazouls-lès-Béziers)
Located just a little off the Canal du Midi in the village of Cazouls-lès-Béziers, Le Moulin de l’Abbé is set in a beautiful, restored mill. The setting is idyllic, with a lovely terrace overlooking a stream. The restaurant offers a refined dining experience with a focus on French cuisine made from fresh, local ingredients. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for a quiet, picturesque meal away from the crowds. - Auberge du Somail (Le Somail, near Narbonne)
This historic auberge is located in the quaint village of Le Somail, where the Canal du Midi meets the river. Set in a beautiful old building, the restaurant serves classic French and Mediterranean dishes, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce. It’s a perfect stop for a leisurely lunch while taking in the scenic views of the canal.
Personal recommendations
These five restaurants offer a mix of traditional French and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, all within a short distance from Capestang, giving you plenty of wonderful dining options for your trip. We have enjoyed them all!
- Le Chat Qui Peche – Venezac (Near Capestang)
Located just a short drive from Capestang, Le Chat Qui Peche is a charming, traditional French restaurant in the small village of Venezac. Known for its warm atmosphere and creative take on local cuisine, the menu typically features fresh regional produce, meats, and seafood. It’s a perfect stop for anyone looking for a cozy, rustic dining experience with excellent service.
- L’Auberge de la Croisade – Pouzolles
Situated around 15-20 minutes from Capestang in the village of Pouzolles, L’Auberge de la Croisade offers a delightful and welcoming dining experience. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean and French-inspired dishes, with a focus on seasonal ingredients and local flavors. The charming interior and the beautiful outdoor terrace make it a great place for a relaxed meal with friends or family. It’s a great spot to enjoy some regional wines and traditional dishes in a peaceful, picturesque setting.
- Le Pourquoi Pas – Lignan-sur-Orb
About 20 minutes from Capestang, Le Pourquoi Pas is a well-regarded restaurant in Lignan-sur-Orb, offering a delightful French menu. Known for its warm ambiance and high-quality food, Le Pourquoi Pas serves both classic French cuisine and more modern interpretations of local dishes. The restaurant is perfect for enjoying fresh, local produce and regional wines in a comfortable, unpretentious setting. It’s a great choice for a relaxed yet flavorful dining experience.
- Pizzeria La Table d’Emilie
Located in the heart of Homps, La Table d’Emilie offers a cozy atmosphere with a great selection of pizzas, as well as other Italian and Mediterranean dishes. Known for its delicious, freshly made pizzas, it’s a great place to enjoy a casual meal while relaxing in this lovely village by the canal. The outdoor terrace also makes for a pleasant dining experience, especially during warmer months.
- Lo Cagarol
For a wonderful day trip from the IPS properties in the Languedoc, head to Lo Cagarol for the fixed price luncheon menu and then linger around the visit the smallest circulade I’ve ever seen in France. It’s absolutely charming! At that point, you are just a few kilometres from Minerve, a must-see historical wonder in this corner of France.