Enjoy More Than Wine On A Canal Holiday To Languedoc

If you're a wine drinker, you might want to book your next canal holiday to France's most prolific wine region - Languedoc. And even if you don't enjoy the tipple, you're sure to be enchanted by the scenery and historical sights that are common to the area.

Opting for a canal holiday in France can be the perfect way to take in the sights while relaxing from the comfort of your boat and if you choose a canal boat holiday to the region you'll find you have plenty of options for Midi canal boat hire, whether it's a small boat for two you need or a larger vessel to house the whole family.

The Midi waterway links the Atlantic Ocean with the Mediterranean and was constructed by prominent canal builder Pierre-Paul Riquet in the 17th century. Journey along the canal and you'll travel through some of France's most well-known wine-making areas.

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the waterway passes through waterside villages and alongside vineyards, so sit back and enjoy Languedoc's beautiful countryside. You're sure to discover some of the reasons that make the south of France such a popular holiday destination.

During your holiday on the water you'll take in locations such as the ancient walled city of Carcassonne. Here you're sure to want to climb ashore and see the fairytale-style castle firsthand. Positioned on a hillside, the city overlooks the distant Pyrenees mountains and dates back in parts to the first century, making it a haven for history buffs.

As you continue your journey you're also likely to pass the medieval town of Castelnaudary, where you'll spot antique mansions and half-timbered houses. Thought to be the birthplace of the cassoulet dish, the town holds a festival in the meal's honour every August, so be prepared for a feast if you call in at the location during the month.

And if you're after a spot of sightseeing, venture into the town and pay a visit to the Presidial Museum and take a look at some of the greatest archeological finds discovered in the area during prehistoric and medieval times. Also in the area is the Cugarel windmill, which is a highlight of the region's cereal-making heritage.

Next on your list of stop-off points may be the Roman town of Narbonne, which houses a number of monuments you might like to visit. The area was the first colonial Roman city to be built outside the Italian peninsula and holds some thriving markets on Thursdays and Sundays, as well as a cathedral. Here you'll also find the famous Pont des Marchands, which translates in English to Merchant Bridge. The overpass dates back to the Roman era when it is thought to have been made up of as many as six arches. Now, it serves as the foundation for a row of houses.

If you visit the Archbishop's Palace, you'll be able to view a rich collection of paintings and porcelain at Le Musee d'Art et d'Histoire. And while at the Port la Nouvelle part of the town, why not enjoy some of the fresh seafood on offer at the various restaurants? There are also a number of beaches here and how better to relax after a delicious meal than on the sand with the sound of the waves in the background?

You might like to make a day trip to Nimes during your canal boat holiday to France and take in the sights of the Roman ruins and the aqueduct, which dates back to the same period. The construction is spectacular, made up of three levels of arches.

But of course, a big draw for visitors to the Languedoc region is wine. You'll usually be able to sample the wines of your choice before buying, so you're sure to find something that suits your taste without having to worry about paying for whole bottles that you haven't tried. Locations in the area where you might like to enjoy some samples include Fitou, Minervois, Corbieres, Limoux and Clairette.

For a complete wine fan experience, you might want to call in at Terra Vinea in Portel-des-Corbieres - a former gypsum quarry 80 metres below ground that now houses wine cellars, a light and sound show, an underground lake and a Gallo-Roman villa. Part of the tour of the centre is conducted on a small train and the trip finishes at a wine bar, which serves the tipple alongside platters of local foods.

You're sure to find plenty to see and do on a canal vacation to the region.

By: Dipika Patel

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A canal boat holiday could be a great way of exploring the Midi waterway and its surroundings. And with Midi canal boat hire widely available you’re sure to find something to cater for your needs on a canal holiday. Check out Le Boat for a wide selection of canal holidays in France.