Our articles about the Canal Du Midi

In 1996, the Canal du Midi was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, and in 2026, it will celebrate 30 years of this prestigious recognition. This milestone stands as a testament not only to its historical relevance but also to the extraordinary blend of beauty and ingenuity that defines it.

Situated in the southwestern region of France, the Canal du Midi spans over 240 kilometres (150 miles), the canal connects the Canal Lateral à la Garonne in Toulouse to the Thau Lagoon near the Mediterranean Sea. The two canals make up le Canal des Deux Mers, linking the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. Not just a remarkable feat of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Canal du Midi is an iconic boating holiday destination where any crew will find activities to suit them. Whether you want to discover the beautiful vineyards and sample their produce, cycle along the tow path and discover pretty villages or just relax and soak up the captivating scenery from the top deck of your boat, our advice and tips from our boating holiday expert, Patrice, have you covered!

A boating holiday with Le Boat is the perfect opportunity for the whole family to spend time together! Regardless of age, a boating holiday is perfect for taking some time out and sharing precious moments together. The Canal du Midi is one of the top destinations where you’ll cruise through sun-soaked landscapes amidst fields and vineyards, as well as stunning medieval villages and towns. Marianne and her family, based in France, embarked on a 4-day cruise from Castelnaudary – we want you to be inspired by their family boating experience. Read on to find out more.

Did you know that the Canal du Midi flows through the largest wine-growing region in the world? With no fewer than 240,000 hectares of vines, the Languedoc-Roussillon wine region has something to offer to all palates. Since a boating holiday on the Canal du Midi is a great way of discovering the wine and gastronomy of the region, we’ve compiled this guide of wines to discover along the route, vineyards, and shops to visit, not forgetting a few food pairing recommendations! To avoid disappointment, be sure to book tours in advance!

Welcome to Castelnaudary! Castelnaudary is located in the south of France, in Languedoc Roussillon, and overlooks the Fresquel plain. It is the capital of Lauragais and the birthplace of the traditional dish “Le Cassoulet.” It’s also where one of Le Boat’s bases is located, right on the Grand Bassin. Its brick houses and mansions tightly surround the présidial (old civil and criminal court) and the collegiate, reflecting in the waters of the Grand Bassin. Follow us on a walk around the town! It’s ideal for families because the path is well-marked with white/red and yellow markers. If you’re walking with children, don’t forget to bring water, binoculars, and some  cookies!

The Canal du Midi is an extremely popular cruising destination visited by thousands of tourists every year. It meanders through countryside, wineries, beautiful landscapes, vast fields, historic towns, and historic sites. In 1996, the 240 km long Canal du Midi was even listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What could be better than taking a bike on a boat and exploring the surrounding sites of the Canal du Midi? In the morning, it will be your most useful means of transport to get your bread from the baker. As the weather is very often sunny between May and September on the Canal du Midi, a bike will be your ideal companion. See our recommended itineraries on the Canal du Midi.