ROUTES AND ITINERARIES FOR LUXURY HOTEL BARGE 'N'
CANAL DU MIDI, SOUTH OF FRANCE

Canal du Midi Sample Itinerary: Narbonne to Carcassonne
Seven Days/Six Nights
Luxury Hotel Barge "N"

Sunday

You are collected by the Captain in Narbonne at 4pm and escorted by minibus to your luxury barge, moored at Sallèles d’Aude. Your cruise will begin with a Champagne welcome.

Monday

Morning cruise through the series of locks and narrow bridges of the Robine Canal, to the charming village of Le Somail. Afternoon excursion to the olive oil press “Oulibo” to sample the famous Lucques. We continue to Minerve, ancient capital of the Minervois, once besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1215 and surrounded by deep limestone gorges.

Tuesday

This morning’s excursion is to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Enjoy a visit to the Archbishop’s Palace and the indoor market and absorb the bustling atmosphere. Afternoon cruise through vineyards and pine trees along the “grand bief”, one of the engineering prowess unique to the Canal du Midi.

Wednesday

This morning we set off by minibus to a Benedictine Abbey founded in the 8th Century in the village of Lagrasse, now home to many artisans. A chance to sample some local cuisine with lunch ashore. Afternoon cruise reaching Puicheric, past “l’Epanchoir”, one of the oldest canal bridges of France.

Thursday

Morning cruise along the 330-year old Midi canal ascending its renowned locks to reach Marseillette. Afternoon excursion to a wine tour coupled with a tasting in the Minervois, one of the few regions to receive the much envied French mark of approval A.O.C.

Friday

You will be taken on a fascinating morning tour of Carcassonne, which dates back to the Gallo-Roman era and is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence. We cruise in the afternoon through the dappled Cathedral-like canopy of the plane trees to Trèbes. Farewell Dinner aboard.

Saturday

After breakfast you are escorted by minibus to Narbonne, departure 10am.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks the cruise is in the reverse order.