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'Belmond Alouette'
Canal du Midi
Tour Description:
Designed for just four guests, 'Belmond Alouette' drifts gently between Béziers and Carcassonne on the historic Canal du Midi, a brilliant feat of 17th-century engineering and UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996. Its 328 locks, bridges, aqueducts and tunnels have scarcely changed since their creation. Soak up the views from the sun deck, enjoy the passing scenery through large picture windows in the salon, or walk or cycle along the towpath. Watch your gourmet chef prepare meals using the fresh ingredients you helped purchase at the morning market.
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Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
ITINERARYDay 1 - SUNDAY
Meet at the Paris hotel chosen by the group and transfer to the rail station for the TGV high-speed train to Béziers. Join ‘Belmond Alouette’ for a welcome reception and a cruise to the pretty village of Colombières, followed by a first gourmet dinner on board.
Day 2 - MONDAY
Visit l’Abbaye de Fontfroide, an 11th-century Cistercian monastery, lovingly restored with a well-kept garden and peaceful cloister. After lunch, cruise to Capestang.
Day 3 - TUESDAY
Journey to l’Oppidum d’Enserune, an ancient hill town that is one of the region’s most important archaeological sites. Occupied from the sixth century and expanded because of its strategic location, it served as a melting pot for the many civilizations that made southern France their home. Return to ‘Belmond Alouette’ for a relaxing afternoon on the beautiful Canal du Midi, the 17th-century creation of Pierre-Paul Riquet.
Day 4 - WEDNESDAY
Experience the wonderful covered market in Narbonne, a lively Mediterranean city and important center of wine production. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood bistro near the market before returning to your barge for a leisurely afternoon cruise .
Day 5 - THURSDAY
After breakfast, visit Minerve, an old village on a limestone cliff that dominates the vineyards below. The ruined castle, once a Cathar stronghold, was besieged and captured by Simon de Montfort in 1210. Stop at Peyriac-Minervois for a wine tasting before returning to ‘Belmond Alouette’ for lunch and a cruise to the pretty town of Trèbes.
Day 6 - FRIDAY
Explore Carcassonne, Europe’s largest medieval fortress town, admiring the intricate fortifications. The cathedral here is remarkable for its stained-glass windows, fine statues and elegant transepts. Back on board the barge this evening, enjoy a memorable farewell dinner.
Day 7 - SATURDAY
After breakfast, transfer to Carcassonne for the TGV high-speed train to Paris, where your journey ends on arrival.
