               Canal Du Midi France

Holiday accommodation near Canal du Midi France.
Villa, Apartments and Gites holiday accommodation in Aude
Languedoc Roussillon South of France.

Pierre Paul Riquet Baron of Bonrepos engineered the
construction of the Canal Du Midi linking the Atlantic Ocean
with the Mediterranean Sea. Work began in 1666 by 15,000
workers taking 15 years to complete. 240 km long it
comprises of 64 locks, 55 aqueducts, 7 canal bridges and
126 hump back bridges. Locks are still worked by hand just
as it was more than three centuries ago. The tow path is lined
with oak trees 300 years old planted in Napoleonic times to
shade troops. In December 1996 the canal was included in
the UNESCO World Heritage list.

The source of the canal is Saint Ferreol lake this was the
first lake dam in Europe. Collecting water from the
Montagne Noir it channels it through the Rigole. From Port
Lauragais it runs down to the intersection with the Canal de
Robine at Narbonne. A tremendous piece of architecture
and a vision of a man who France and tourists owe so much of
today. An obelisk was erected in 1825-27 and stands proud
at the natural watershed 'The Seuil De Naurouze'. ' Pont
Vieux' the 17th century bridge near Castelnaudray is also an
amazing piece of architecture. Here Saint Roch lock carries
boats through a drop of 9.5 metres.

In 1676 Riquet built the Repudre Aqueduct it was the first
canal carrying bridge in France and second in the World. In
1689 the Pechlaurier Aqueduct was built by plans drafted
by Vauban. Steps leading under the canal give visitors
surprising views of the construction. The overflow outlet at
the Argent Double is also the work of Vauban 50 metres long
it regulates the excess water.

Plenty to do on the canal. Boats called a 'peniche' can be
hired between March and November. No licence is needed
and top speed is limited to 6-8km per hour. Cycle along the
towpath there are numerous cycling hire stores. Fishing
supply shops are available too here you can purchase a
permit to fish in the calm waters. Plenty of restaurants,
shops and wine tasting cellars line the way. Picnic or stroll
this is a compelling place to spend some time.