River cruise for a roud trip trip from Le Somail up to Fonsérannes

No licence, no experience, and completely safe

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Le Somail - Fonsérannes - Le Somail - 84 Km - 14 Locks - 14 h of navigation - 3 Nights

From Le Somail to Le Somail, 0 km, 0 Lock(s), 0 h of navigation

Stopover : Le Somail

Le Somail

In addition to its Hat-making Museum and its old bridge, Le Somail has 4 structures listed as historical monuments: the former icehouse, the chapel, the old guard building and the former inn.

La bibliothèque

The bookstore "Le trouve tout du livre" contains over 50,000 books and manuscripts.

From Le Somail to Béziers, 42 km, 7 Lock(s), 7 h of navigation

Stopover : Le Somail > Capestang > Colombiers > Béziers

Le Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The oppidum ofEnsérune

Located above the Malpas tunnel, the Oppidum d'Ensérune is an archaeological site where relics of the Greek, Celtic and Roman civilizations were discovered. There are still traces of the human occupation of this site from 800 B.C. through to the Christian era.

the Canal Bridge of Beziers

Built in 1856, this aqueduct allows the Orb river to be crossed in a barge. 198m in length and 8m wide, it is considered the most beautiful stone canal bridge of the 19th century.

the scale of Fonserannes

In order to descend from 20m and get back to the level of the Orb river, Paul Riquet, the designer of the Canal du Midi, constructed a ladder of 7 locks; one of the most impressive sections of the Canal du Midi.

the Tunnel of Malpas

In fact there are 3 tunnels placed on top of each other: an underground culvert for draining the water from the Montady Lagoon, the SNCF rail tunnel, and at the top the passage of the Canal du Midi. A unique piece of work navigated by barge without a permit.

Colombiers Castle

The former cellar of Colombiers Castle offers tours and exhibitions dedicated to viticulture.

Les Arènes de Béziers

The Béziers Arena, built in 1897, has long been a major center for bullfighting, earning Béziers the nickname "The French Seville." Throughout the year, this arena serves as the main meeting place for various festivities and events, notably the famous Béziers feria.

Saint-Nazaire Cathedral

Saint Nazaire Cathedral is a city landmark, visible for miles around. Its history is told through its architecture. During your visit, explore the bell tower to enjoy panoramic views of the Biterrois wine plains, discover the unfinished cloister leading to the Bishops’ Garden, and stroll around the cathedral’s forecourt while admiring the surrounding landscape.

The Collegiate Church of Saint Stephen

In perfect Gothic style, the Collegiate Church of Saint Stephen in Capestang was built in the 13th century on the site of an earlier Romanesque church, likely by the same team that constructed the Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Cathedral in Narbonne. The building was listed as a historic monument in 1906.

Colombiers

You'll be charmed by the appeal of its small river port, perfect for a stopover during your cruise on the Canal du Midi. Nearby, the Oppidum of Ensérune rises, known for its archaeological site and museum. Take advantage of this walk to admire the exceptional view of the drained Colombiers-Montady pond.

Capestang

Charming village nestled in the bends of the Canal du Midi, Capestang experienced prosperous times in the Middle Ages. Today, its heritage bears witness to that history.

The Archbishops' Castle

Come and discover the summer residence of the Archbishops of Narbonne in Capestang. This castle houses a painted ceiling dating back to the 15th century. You can admire numerous scenes from the era (animals, romantic and religious scenes) on the beams. At the end of the Middle Ages, the castle was a splendid residence that some documents even describe as a palace. The Interpretation Center will provide you with insights into the ceiling and the history of the castle.

the Saint Chinian

Les Coques de Béziers

The Saint-Aphrodise coques, also known as Béziers coques, are a culinary specialty of the city. They are traditionally enjoyed during the feast of Saint Aphrodise, the patron saint of Béziers. Made with poolish, a liquid starter essential for achieving a soft and fluffy crumb, these delicious brioches are distinguished by their elongated shape and captivating aroma. They are perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack. To taste the best in Béziers, we recommend the bakery "Le Cristal," which won the "Golden Coque" contest. 44 Allées Paul Riquet, 34500 Béziers – 06 68 98 36 61

Le Pont-Canal de Cesse

The Cesse Aqueduct, built from 1689 to 1690 by Vauban and engineer Jean Goudet, is 64 meters long and 14 meters high. It is located at the level of the main reach of the Canal du Midi, which is primarily fed by the Cesse River.

Aqueduc de Quarante

This aqueduct was built by a certain Rusquier under the orders of Vauban. When it was completed in 1693, it had two arches, and a third was added in 1737.

From Béziers to Le Somail, 42 km, 7 Lock(s), 7 h of navigation

Stopover : Béziers > Colombiers > Capestang > Le Somail