Sail on our Southern rivers and canals

Sail on our Southern rivers and canals
C&A Bayonne
11 / 2003
Crédits photo : Couverture : CRT Midi-Pyrénées / D. Viet, CRT Aquitaine, CRT Languedoc-Roussillon, VNF. Pages 4 et 5 : CRT Aquitaine, Corbis. Pages 6 et 7 : CRT Aquitaine, Graphic Obsession. Pages 8 à 15 : CRT Midi-Pyrénées, D. Viet. Page 14 : CRT Midi-Pyrénées,
D. Viet / CDT Haute-Garonne. Pages 16 et 17 : CRT Languedoc-Roussillon, D. Faure, C. Bertrand, M. Buffe, G. Zimmermann. Pages 18 et 19 : CRT Languedoc-Roussillon, F. Orel, C. Bertrand, G. Zimmermann. Pages 20 à 23 : CRT Aquitaine, CRT Midi-Pyrénées, Connoisseur (illustrations).
From the Atlantic to
the Mediterranean,
sail on our
Southern rivers
and canals.
W
hat a fabulous story the building of the "Canal du
Midi" was! It was achieved by Pierre Paul Riquet at
the end of the XVllth century and completed, in 1856 by the
"Canal Latéral" (side canal) joining the river Garonne, called
nowadays "Canal de Garonne". This junction allowed the
creation of an important commercial waterway, which had
been expected for quite a long time in the South of Europe,
between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. The rivers Lot
and Baïse, although they are partly navigable, now wild, now
majestic, complete this vast water system. Today you will see
new boats but the country is as attractive as it used to be and
Rivers and Canals keep surprising holiday makers who have set
out to explore the area off the beaten tracks. The navigable
waterway promises rich quiet and original holidays, combining
different and beautiful landscapes with the warm welcome and
help of the local people. The navigation sectors presented in
this brochure are perfectly adapted to waterway tourism.
Some other rivers, partly navigable, such as the
Dordogne, the Isle, the Adour and the river Tarn,
as well as the Gironde estuary, the widest in
Europe, deserve a call too.
Welcome on
the southern
rivers and
canals!
Summary
8 itineraries for the southern
rivers and canals
The river Garonne
from Bordeaux to Castets-en-Dorthe . . . p.4-5
The Canal de Garonne
from Castets-en-Dorthe to Agen . . . . . . p.6-7
The river Lot
from Aiguillon to Saint-Cirq-Lapopie . . . . p.8-9
The river Baïse
from Buzet-sur-Baïse to Valence-sur-Baïse . p.10-11
The Canal de Garonne
from Agen to Toulouse . . . . . . . . . . . p.12-13
The Canal du Midi
from Toulouse to Carcassonne . . . . . . p.14-15
The Canal du Midi
from Carcassonne to the Thau lagoon . p.16-17
The Canal from the river Rhône to Sète
from Sète to Beaucaire . . . . . . . . . . . p.18-19
Practical information . . . . . . . . . p.20-23
Useful addresses . . . . . . . . . . . . p.24-27
HIGHLIGHTS
Rive gauche...
rive droite
OUR FAVORITES
The river festival or the wine festival takes place
every other year.In June 2004 it will be the wine
festival to come.
● The Espace Lillet of Podensac is a charming museum
telling the story of the famous bordelais aperitif at the
very place where it was created, thanks to the '’tools'’
and publicities of yester year.The place "Lillet
Novation" combines contemporary art and the story
of the family firm.
● The Canelé bordelais… It has always been imitated
but it still is the true delicious cake our grand mothers
used to love and the favourite of our young ones and
gourmets nowadays.
● The Maison des Vins de Bordeaux is where you can
learn wine tasting, discover the vineyard
and get information about the various
interesting places of the country.
●
● In Bordeaux, a few steps from the river:
- Behind the embankments, the districts of
Saint-Pierre and Saint-Michel, the oldest parts
of the town, well-known for their wealthy
inheritance and their delicate environment.
- The area of Chartrons, the historical first place
for Bordelais trade and the antique shops
of Notre-Dame street.
- The old "Entrepôt des Denrées Coloniales" (Old
Wharehouse for colonial products) on the so-called
embankment, built in the XIXth century, with the
prestigious exhibition of the CAPC Museum,
worlwide famous for contemporary art.
● Discovery of the grand vineyards:
Visits of the wine "Châteaux" and tasting
of the different registered appellations.
- Cadillac en Entre-Deux-Mers and the Château of the
Dukes of Epernon: an old fortified castle, standing on
the right bank. Erected at the very beginning of the
XVIIth century, the castle shows the magnificent
architecture of the time and has kept remains
of the sumptuous decorations (monumental
marble fireplaces decorated with sculptures).
- Saint-Macaire : a beautiful and picturesque
medieval village, recognised as "an old
village" and historical monument with the
unrivalled Mercadiou Square.
La Ga ronne
BORDEAUX
When you hear the word Bordeaux your mouth waters and your
nose fills with those various marvellous enjoyable fragrances and
you will be carried away with the best beverage in the world…
the wine of Bordeaux. Here is the beginning of our great sailing
adventure in the South of France. Here is the paradox of these
waters frisking about, in the very heart of a world where vine
reigns supreme. Our history starts in Bordeaux, prettily named
"Port de la Lune" (Harbour of the Moon), because of the sketch
drawn by the river in its centre, and will come with us all along
the river. You will read it in the castles and palaces around: from
the castle of "Vayres" built in the Middle Ages to the palace of
"Louvières", an elegant, neo classical building erected during the
Montesquieu
CASTETS-EN-DORTHE
Revolution. You will see it in the vineyards that have
generated an important international trade for
centuries, and the growing progress of famous estates
such as Château Yquem on the lands of Sauternes.
There is the environment, too, those beautiful
landscapes with the Pyrénées as a
background, far off mountains from where
the river Garonne springs. Everything, here,
is passion and the sweet things of life and,
Montesquieu, who used to enjoy and love this
country so deeply, would not disagree. As he wrote:
"In those places they create a powerful art of living".
La Grosse
Cloche in
Bordeaux
Le Palais
de La Bourse
Saint-Macaire Porch
A CRUISE
●
Salon
des antiquaires
Bordeaux-Castets-en-Dorthe: Only one reach leading to the entry into the
canal of the Garonne, 60 kms long, two locks, 6 hours minimum.You can only
do that trip during the day, according to the tides that are felt as far as Castets.
Château Yquem
4
5
OUR FAVORITES
HIGHLIGHTS
● Le Mas d’Agenais where the famous
"Venus du Mas" was found (nowadays it is in
the museum of Agen). The church of Saint Vincent,
a splendid romanesque "collégiale" which houses
"the Christ on the Cross" (Rembrandt, 1631),
the old Granary and the Galiane fountain.
● Damazan: a fortified house, built by
Alphonse de Poitiers in 1259 and its beautiful
central square with angle posted houses.
● Montesquieu: the orchard museum at the
"Domaine de Barolle", the museum of the
regional Flora Conservatory of Aquitaine
(various fruit trees of the past).
● Agen: "the pearl of the South" as the Occitan
poet Jasmin described it with a rich heritage which
puts it among the finest towns for art and history.
The Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most interesting
in the South West, housed in four wonderful private
mansions. Its famous collection of Goya stands
among the finest pieces of the museum.
● Le Pont Canal is a spectacular building
with 23 arches, 549 meters long, and offers
a splendid view on both sides.
●
The excellent produces for the tables of the
Lot et Garonne treated according to the South
West traditional way.
●
The area is well known for the dried plums of
Ente, the prunes, with their gorgeous taste,
full of character, brought from Palestine by the
KnightsTemplar, according to the legend. You
can enjoy them in different recipes.
●
Le floc de Gascogne, a delicious
liqueur which comes from must and
best Armagnac, is still traditionally
made in Gascony farms and jealously
guarded in oak barrels.
●
Cycling on towpaths will nicely
allow the whole family to get near
the unspoilt banks of the river. Bird
watching, picnicking, you can do
whatever pleases you here.
Le canal d e Garonne
CASTETS-EN-DORTHE
Little by little vineyards give place to lands of plenty. In the plain
of Marmandais, you can have as much fruit as you wish, full of
a generous sunny weather. The Lot et Garonne, "producer of
holidays" as it calls itself, grows gorgeous peaches, juicy melons,
fragrant strawberries, and other enjoyable foods. Perched on a
terrace overlooking the river, you can catch a glimpse of "Le
Mas d'Agenais", the halting-place on the road to Compostelle,
the famous pilgrimage, worldwide renowned for the painting of
Rembrandt hidden in the choir of the Romanesque Church.
The architecture of the villages stands in harmony with the
geometry of the orchards and the rectilinear fields. It is most
AGEN
interesting to stop and visit the old fortified castles
(bastides) built between the XIIth and the XIVth centuries,
to discover this country while sailing along. You will stroll in
a maze of narrow streets, lined with old stone houses, with
fortified churches, and angle-posted squares. After a glass
of the red wine of Buzet, you will soon get to Agen, the first
important town after leaving Bordeaux. The famous "Pont
Canal" (bridge and canal at the same time!) that spans the
Garonne helps the pilot on his way. After eating a few prunes,
you will be led into a giddy round of marvellous things to admire
in the town that has been elected "the happiest town in France".
Tonneins
Picking
the famous
prunes
Mas d’Agenais Halt
A CRUISE
●
Buzet-sur-Baïse - Le Mas d’Agenais Castets-en-Dorthe as a round trip means
114 kms, 22 locks, and 3 or 4 days sailing.
● Buzet - Agen: 28kms, 7 locks, 6 hours sailing.
Pont Canal d’Agen
6
7
HIGHLIGHTS
OUR FAVORITES
●
● Villeneuve-sur-Lot: the old fortified
castle, built in 1264, the romanesque cathedral
with Byzantine influence, the old parts near
the Lot embankments, the Festival of Humour
(Festival du rire) on the first days of July and
the Horse Festival at the end of September
●
Laparade: wonderful village,
overlooking the banks of the Lot.
●
● Penne d’Agenais: formerly called
"Bloody Penne" (Penne la Sanglante),
ancient fort built on a spur overlooking
the Lot valley, its Basilica, Notre Dame
de Peyragude is still attended by pilgrims.
●
● Cahors: beautiful, so mysterious with
the bridge of Valentré, its narrow streets, its
sculptured doors, fountains, its shady little
squares, where you can have a glass of the
local red wine. Cahors, warm and busy
on market days when people gather here
from all the villages around, symbol
of their particular art of living.
La vallée
du Lot
● Saint-Cirq-Lapopie: "an impossible
rose in the night" as André Breton wrote
about it. The whole village is classified as
a historical monument, with its fortified
gates, and half-timbered houses, its walls
of loose stones, where hollyhocks happily
grow. The special atmosphere of the
village will put a spell on you. It was
the favourite meeting place of the
"Surréalists" poets, how clever! Here you
will find marvellous examples of Gothic
Art to admire wherever you look.
Le Lot
AIGUILLON
Villeneuve-sur-Lot
Pont Valentré in Cahors
The terroir produces! Every village keeps
in store full flavoured produces for the most
prestigious chefs (on the market stalls on
Wednesday and on Saturday mornings, here
in Cahors).
The Bastides Tour, founded between
the Xllth and the XlVth century they were all
built according to the same new urban
planning, in chequer pattern.
The cycling track of the Lot Valley, has been
developed and marked out for 80 kms, 42 miles,
offering new sights on the valley at every turn of
the road, green landscapes, painted churches,
bastides. A nice programme to please everyone.
Here you will be offered the choice between two
representations, either grand landscapes or delicious nectars,
glorifying Bacchus! The first itinerary stretches through the
orchards and the tobacco fields from the beautiful
Villeneuve-sur-Lot to Aiguillon. Do not miss Penne d'Agenais,
a little way out. The second route will take you near the
impressive limestone sentries guarding Saint-Cirq-Lapopie!
Perched at the top of the cliffs, the village commands the Lot
Valley. You can have a walk on the towpath, cut in the huge
SAINT-CIRQ-LAPOPIE
blocks in 1877. It rises above the river for more than
one km (1/2 mile). You will proceed to Cahors by easy
stages, seeing old chapels or nautical stopover on
your way. At last the medieval bridge of Valentré,
which has spanned the Lot for more than six
hundred years now, will appear. Little by little the
landscape changes, the Lot meanders lazily,
watering wide expanses of vineyards, the terroir of
Cahors wine, the most important in Midi-Pyrénées.
Cellars of the
Château of Mercuès
Troglodyte
houses
Château de Bonaguil
A CRUISE
●
●
Half-timbered house
in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
●
The cliffs of Bouziès
8
Return discovery itinerary between Luzech and Crégols means
128 kms, 71 miles and 28 locks. It will take you a week.
Little train and boat for a different approach of the Lot with
stopoff inland.
You can start from Buzet-sur-Baïse, through Clairac,
Castelmoron, Villeneuve-sur-Lot et Penne d'Agenais, return.
It means 140kms (77miles), 15 locks, 5 or 6 days sailing.
9
HIGHLIGHTS
OUR FAVORITES
Vianne: one of the most beautiful bastides
in Lot & Garonne, famous for the cut glass
workshop, and artistic glassmaking (school
of Nancy), one of the most important
factories in the world.
● The fortified mill of Barbaste: built in the Xllth
century, it belonged to Jeanne d'Albret
and to her son, who was to become Henri lV.
● Nérac: a gallic-roman city, where
Jeanne d'Albret decided to live and later her son,
Henri de Navarre. It was Queen Margot's
favourite residence.
● Condom: Bossuet was its bishop,
the reputed beautiful mansions of Armagnac
producers, its Cathedral and Cloister.
● The Collégiale Church of La Romieu:
built in 1265, where Southern Gothic Art
crosses Northern architectural influence.
A few yards away, do not miss the
"Arboretum Coursiana."
● Larressingle: one of the most beautiful
fortified villages in France. A moat runs
along the thick walls, protecting a church,
the castle and the Pilgrim's Hall.
● The Cistercian Abbey of Flaran:
built in 1151. Nowadays it shows a
beautiful architectural Xll and XVIIIth
century building. Surrounded
by a beautiful XVlllth century park,
it houses an interesting collection
of Gallo Roman mosaïcs.
●
●
●
●
●
●
Le Pastis Gascon is a kind of pie made of apples
soaking in Armagnac, in a thin, crusty pastry.
Le foie gras. Gers is the realm of geese and fat
ducks. Foies gras, (goose or duck liver pâté),
confits (cooked for hours in their fat) and
magrets (duck breast) are a must on Gers tables.
La fête des menteurs (the Liars Festival)
in Moncrabeau takes place on the 1st Sunday
in August.
Night Markets in Vic-Fezensac attract a lot
of visitors during the whole summer.
The festival of Bandas in Condom.
The town is given up to rejoicing with the
sound of "bandas" in summertime.
La Romieu
Le val de Baïse
BUZET-SUR-BAÏSE
Between Valence-sur-Baïse and Condom you will sail
past beautiful rolling landscapes and historical places:
castles and fortified villages. All along the medieval
centuries ecclesiastical and feudal alliances resulted in
building quite interesting monuments and villages in the
Baïse valley. You will enjoy visiting the wonderful bastide
of Valence-sur-Baïse, founded in the Xlllth century, as well
as Vianne. Here was the foremost place for glassmaking
and there is still a glass blower whose workshop is worth
a visit. On the bank of the Baïse, the superb Cistercian
Abbey of Flaran deserves a stopoff, as well as the local
cuisine which gastronomes will enjoy. Then Condom, its
cellars and its traditional production of Armagnac that
Charles de Batz
de Castelmore ... D’Artagnan
VALENCE-SUR-BAÏSE
connoisseurs consider as the best of all brandies, Lectoure,
a town of Art and History, Vic Fezensac, so fond of bulls
and horses with famous Summer festivals. It is the birthplace
of some well known characters too. D'Artagnan, born
Charles de Batz de Castelmore, in Lupiac, a famous
Musketeer, was immortalized by Alexandre Dumas. Arriving
in Buzet you will immediately be taken to the renowned
cellars of that very famous wine AOC. In that land of
sunshine, historic memories will attract the traveller to
Nérac. Here the impetuous Henri of Navarre (Henri the
Fourth) spent his boyhood in the family château des Albret.
Do not forget, you will never be able to leave before you
have tasted the rich cooking of Gascony.
Nérac
Nérac
Foie gras
A CRUISE
●
Buzet-sur-Baïse, Nérac, Condom,
Valence-sur-Baïse, return:
130 kms (80 miles), 40 locks, a week.
Armagnac
Larressingle
10
Abbaye
de Flaran
11
HIGHTLIGHTS
OUR FAVORITES
Moissac: a key stop on the way to Santiago de
Compostela, for the pilgrims coming from the
Puy en Velay. Moissac as beautiful and golden
as the stones of its Romanesque Cloister, built
in 1100, with the rich wealth of its 76 capitals,
making it a unique masterpiece, known all
over the world, as golden as the Chasselas
grape, first grape to be granted an AOC
("appellation d'origine contrôlée":
name with a registered origin).
● Montech water sluice (pente d'eau):
this system was applied for the first time in the
world in 1974. It enables barges to climb a slope
of 14 meters (nearly 45 feet), in less than
10 minutes. Boats move in their own
water, in a reach, pulled by two self
propelling engines. Small boats,
more reasonably, go through
the 5 traditional locks.
● The Montech canal: this 13 kms
long canal (8 miles) was restored to
make it navigable in 2003. It links the
Garonne Canal from Montech to
Montauban, on the river Tarn.
●
●
●
Downstream ("au fil de l’eau")… a story:
in Valence d'Agen you will attend a light show
which is a reconstitution of the local life during a
century in a life-size setting of the port of the
Garonne Canal, a show that both parents and
children will enjoy, for all the beautiful things
they will be able to discover (in July and August).
From the Ocean to the sea, a brochure, available
in every Tourist Office, will let holidaymakers
know about entertainments and dates of Festivals
between May and October on the Canal: "Canal
en Fête". Full of information, ideas to make the
most of your holidays, you wil get it free.
Le canal de Garonne
AGEN
Ingres Museum
in Montauban
The marvellous combination between Nature and History
is an invitation to visit the local art of living and
Romanesque Art. It is a new adventure marked by
discoveries and sensual pleasures. Senses are thrilled by
small images between sweet Agen and Toulouse, the
capital of Midi-Pyrénées. Agen, which has always treated
gourmands to its dried plums of Ente, can also change
itself into stone with the Canal Bridge, rich with its 23
arches, that you will pass on arriving. There are only a few
hours of navigation between the Church of Jacobins in Agen
and the Church of Jacobins in Toulouse. But, in between,
wonderful stops will mark your way, such as the Abbey of
Moissac. This resplendent Romanesque "Abbaye" built in
the Xllth century is well known beyond the French frontiers.
You will be greatly moved at the sight of Montauban,
mother of the South West bastides, and birthplace of two
TOULOUSE
famous artists, Emile Antoine Bourdelle and
Jean-Auguste Dominique Ingres. This museumtown retains in its heart an extaordinary collection
of sketches, paintings, sculptures of its local artists.
This immersion in creativity leads you straight on
to Montech water sluice, (pente d'eau) a unique
system in the world. As fortune never comes
singly, you will be offered the most prestigious
product of the terroir: the golden Chasselas
grapes matured on the hillsides of the Tarn
and Garonne, putting a final touch to that
horn of plenty, so rich with delicious fruit:
cherries, apples, pears, strawberries,
greengages. Do not miss any gourmand stop
off on the small square of a village, a real bright
coloured postcard with a full scented market.
Chasselas
"Au fil de l’eau"
lightshow in
Valence d’Agen
Montech
water sluice
"Place Nationale" in Montauban
A CRUISE
Departure from Agen: Moissac, Montech, Toulouse, return:
232 kms long (144 miles), 74 locks, 10 days long.
● Departure from Agen: Moissac, Catelsarrazin, Montech, return:
140 kms (87 miles), 46 locks, a weekend.
●
Romanesque cloister
in Moissac
12
13
HIGHLIGHTS
● Toulouse: wealthy historical town with
the Capitol (the city Hall), the Jacobins, (church
and monastery), the museum of the Augustins,
and the wonderful architectures of pink bricks.
Also a contemporary industrial town with the
Aerospatiale and the Cité de l'Espace, to help
you discover some secrets of the Universe.
That busy University town, with a Spanish
touch, houses lots of youngsters who enjoy
life on the squares and café terraces till
the early hours of the hot summer nights.
● The Cabardès: perched on a steep slope
of the Montagne Noire, opposite Carcassonne,
offers a great many charming landscapes,
as well as small villages to discover, and
characters to come across while tasting wine.
● Revel: for more than a century, a major
place for the manufacturing of furniture,
and marqueting, visit of the workshops
and the Conservatoire of woodcrafts.
Do not miss the Résevoir of Saint Ferréol,
the main supply for the Canal du Midi.
OUR FAVORITES
●
●
Le canal du Midi
TOULOUSE
It had already occurred to the Romans to link the Atlantic
to the Mediterranean, an unfulfilled dream, of course!
However, in 1662, Pierre-Paul Riquet, fascinated by the
Montagne Noire that he used to pace up and down,
managed to convince Louis XIV and Colbert. Then the
Canal Royal started the first hours of its history.
It took 12 000 workers and more than 14 years to achieve
this 240 km canal, fed by a unique hydraulic system and
punctuated by 350 works of art. The "rigole of Riquet" was
opened in 1681 and in 1996 classified as world heritage by
the U.N.E.S.C.O. The original trading purpose has changed
into a major tourist attraction. Sailing on the "Canal du
Midi" will always bring the same happiness, while watching
the magical reflection of the hundred-year-old plane trees
in the waters. Toulouse, the ever lasting red brick city, that
Cycling tracks: the ancient tow paths
meandering along the Canal du Midi and the
Canal de Garonne make walkers enjoy nature.
Nearly 70 kms of cycling and walking tracks
have been developed in the surroundings of
Toulouse between the Seuil de Naurouze and
the lock of Embalens. That is the best way to
enjoy the light on the Canal and to discover
the treasures Nature keeps hidden to those
who will not take time to look for them.
The Art of Living: that really means something
when you glide peacefully on the waters of the
Canal, tasting the wines of Cabardès, the
cassoulet of Castelnaudary, the violets of
Toulouse, the Blanquette of Limoux.
Sausages and ham from the Montagne Noire,
veal from the farms of Lauragais, everything
to make you hungry, and that nice inn, located
in an old granary or a medieval abbey!
Reservoir of Saint-Ferréol
CARCASSONNE
Claude Nougaro, born here, sings so successfully, hides
many secrets in its enchanted little historical squares and
in the choir of the famous basilique Saint Sernin. The waters
flow serenely like a fairy tale that feeds the imagination of
adults as well as children...Sunflowers and wheat gently
quiver in the breeze, followed by vineyards promising
bewitching and heady wines. The "Seuil de Naurouze", a
parting place where the rivers flee respectively towards the
Mediterranean or the Ocean, gives way to Castelnaudary
well renowned for its food. Its "Grand Bassin" is as
interesting as the art of cooking the famous "cassoulet".
We will come back to History with the Ramparts of the city
of Carcassonne, the wonderful medieaval town, with its
stoned narrow streets and charming shops, restored in the
XIXth century by the architect Viollet Le Duc.
Carcassonne
"La Cité de l’Espace" and
the "Place du Capitole"
in Toulouse
Basilique of Saint-Sernin and
Cloister of the "Jacobins" in Toulouse
A CRUISE
●
14
Departure from Toulouse
to Castelnaudary is a round
trip of 80 kms (50 miles),
with 46 locks, 7 days long.
15
HIGHLIGHTS
Le Somail: a hamlet created by Pierre Paul
Riquet, where you can still see a chapel, an
interesting ice pit, and the ancient buildings
of an inn. Quite a few craftsmen have settled
here, like painters, potters and for a dozen
years it has housed the most important
library for old books, in France.
● Narbonne: a town of Art and History, with its
famous "Palais des Archevêques" (archbishopric
Palace) and the Basilica. You will be deeply moved
by the visit of the native house of Charles Trénet,
the French singer, which was turned into a museum.
You must not miss the Abbey of Fontfroide, built in
the Xlth century, reshaped in the XVlllth, and tastefully restored at the beginning of the XXth. Here you
will be dreaming and meditating through the
chapel, the cloister, the rose garden and the farm.
● Béziers: the native town of Pierre
Paul Riquet, inventor of the "Canal
du Midi". You must not miss the
Cathedral of Saint Nazaire, (built
from the Xllth to the XVth century).
● Agde-Cap d'Agde: first French
seaside resort, one of the most
important nudist centre in Europe.
The Ephèbe Museum, the
Romanesque church of Saint
Etienne, fortified in the Xllth century.
There you can play tennis and golf.
OUR FAVORITES
Pierre Paul Riquet: born in Béziers, in 1604, this modest tax
collector will make his dream come true: the Canal du Midi.
● Les Ecluses de Fonséranes: 9 well designed locks which
allow a 20 meters (80 feet) high water drop in level.
● The Oppidum of Ensérune: an ancient hillfort, as early
as the Vth century B.C. Gallic peoples gathered in these
"oppida", fortified villages, built on hilltops. From Ensérune
you will enjoy a complete panorama over the plain, the
Canal du Midi, and the dried swamp of Montady, with
curious radiating cultures.
● "Noilly Prat" cellars in Marseillan: this famous vermouth
apéritif traditionally elaborated for two hundred years,
matures in oak caskets left out in the open sunshine.Visits
of the cellars and a permanent exhibition.
● L'Etang de Thau: an inland sea, 18 kms long (11 miles), and
5 kms wide, (3 miles), lined by fishing villages, is the most
important oyster and mussel
farming center in Mediterranean.
● Le Tunnel du Malpas: 160 meters
long. Over it, an aqueduct, built in
the Xllth century, collects the
Montady waters. Sailing along is
quite an impressive adventure!
●
●
Le canal du Midi
CARCASSONNE
District Area from the Somail to Sète, towards Béziers,
the Bassin de Thau, and the coast of Languedoc
When you leave the City of Carcassonne the meandering
Canal Royal plays with an environment of wide expanses of
vineyards reminding us that we are in the first area for wine
production, such as Cabardès, Minervois, Corbières, all
AOC (controlled origin). In the waters of the Canal you will
see the reflection of wonderful villages, Colombiers,
Poilhes… When approaching Béziers sailing through the
9 locks of Fonséranes or gliding on the Canal Bridge, the
city looks quite spectacular. The Ensérune hillfort, the old
fishermen's village of Marseillan. And now Sète the
favourite island of Paul Valéry, the philosopher and poet
born here, then the Etang de Thau (a lagoon) waiting for
the gourmets to visit and enjoy the oyster farms products.
Equstie
consequat,
vel illum
onsequstie
Béziers
SETE
The area from the Somail to Port-la-Nouvelle
An old branch of the river Aude, converted into a canal in
the XVllth century, and the joining Canal, which was developed
a century later, opened a new waterway from the Somail to
Narbonne and further towards Port-la-Nouvelle. In Sallèles
d'Aude the elegant mansions let their admirers enjoy their
reflection in the Canal. Amphoralis, with its museum for Gallo
Roman pottery, shows through its modern architecture that it
has definitively entered future. The extraordinary "épanchoir"
of Gailhousty, (kind of overflow) listed in the National Trust,
tells us we are near Narbonne, the capital during the Roman
Times. To get to the seaside resort of Port la Nouvelle, you
have to go through wide wild pieces of ground, the Lagoons
of Bargès and Sigean and you can catch a glimpse of the lush
vegetation of Sainte Lucie island, nearby.
Canal de la Robine
Narbonne
Malpas Tunnel
Pierre-Paul Riquet
A CRUISE
●
From Carcassonne, a week's cruise, to Agde,
125 kms long (78 miles), 36 locks, 25 hours navigation.
●
From Colombiers, a return cruise, to the Somail, within a weekend.
68 kms (42 miles), no lock, and 8 hours navigation.
Etang de Thau
16
17
OUR FAVORITES
HIGHLIGHTS
Sète: "l'île singulière" (strange island) of
Paul Valéry is an unmissable stop. Italian
emigrants gave it life and sunny colours.
You will notice their influence in the architecture,
in the local gastronomy, in public rejoicings such
as the famous "sétois" water tournament. Sète,
the birthplace of the famous contemporary singer
Georges Brassens, and his museum, the Di Rosa
brothers, the International Museum
of Art Modeste, and the panorama
from Mont Saint Clair…
● Aigues-Mortes: a masterpiece
of medieval military Art, the
Aigues Mortes ramparts can
boast of some centuries existence.
Louis lX (Saint Louis) set sail for the
Holy Land, on the 8th Crusade.
His spirit still lies in its walls. From
the tower of Constance, you will
wander aimlessly on the ramparts
to discover their most remote secrets.
The sight of the surroundings lagoons, the
Mediterranean, the Salins du Midi (Midi salt
marshes) leads you towards an endless horizon.
● Beaucaire: lying between Provence and
Languedoc, Beaucaire offers various faces,
according to the seasons: coquettish on the right
bank of the river for the boats, off handed during
the DRAC festival, Camarguais in the turmoil
of the "encierro", whereas in Autumn and Winter
times it comes back to its serene historical Centre.
● Traditional festivals: inherited from legends, or from
●
Le canal du Rhône à Sète
SETE
Here is a maritime itinerary, which is a long ramble along the
Mediterranean coast, taking you downstream, serenely, from
Sète, where the Canal runs along the lagoons, beaches and
seaside resorts, to Beaucaire, at the door of Provence.
A pink cloud of flamingos brightens the horizon, the rustling
reeds are covered by the gallopping hoofs of Camarguais
horses, bulls and gardians (local cow boys) live together in a
legendary osmosis. It is time to rest, for the body as well as for
the soul. The lagoons present a peaceful sight, made more
customs, the inhabitants of Languedoc Roussillon have
kept them for generations. In Camargue, the passion
for bulls appears in their bullfights in Camargais style
(the animals are not killed). In Sète, in August, for
Saint-Louis celebration, water games take place.
● The vineyard: along the coastline, the Picpoul white
wine of Pinet goes perfectly well with the oysters and
mussels of the Thau Lagoon.The sweet muscat of
Mireval and Frontignan will be served as an aperitif
or with a dessert.The very light rosé, called "vin des
sables", grown on sandy grounds, is enjoyable with
Camargue cuisine, such as "rouille" (mayonnaise
flavoured with pepper and garlic) or telline
(a thumbnail sized clam).
● La Camargue: after la Grande
Motte, the "Canal du Rhône à
Sète" comes into Camargue, land
of invading sands and salt, born
from the sea and the sun.
You will discover rice fields, wide
spaces marked by
"mas" and cowboys
huts (cabanes de
gardians).
BEAUCAIRE
impressive by the wonderful cathedral of Maguelone, papal
fief at the Xllth century. Aigues-Mortes has become famous
because of its remains, and Saint Louis took to the 8th
Crusade from its ramparts. Nearby the modern architecture
of La Grande Motte, has opened new horizons. After the
calm landscapes of small Camargue, the lovely little port of
Beaucaire lets everybody know that it is as lively as in the
XVlllth century, during which the "Foire de la Madeleine"
(kind of scone festival) made it become rich and famous.
Aigues-Mortes
Petite Camargue
Festival
of Aigues-Mortes
A CRUISE
●
●
●
18
From Lattes: a one-way week
cruise to Agde, 170 kms long
(105 miles), 7 locks, 4 hours
navigation a day.
From Aigues-Mortes:
a return mini-cruise (from Monday
afternoon till Friday morning) to
Frontignan. 100 kms (62 miles),
no lock, 14 hours navigation
within 4 days.
From Carnon: return cruise to
the small branch of the Rhône.
Water Tournament
in Sète
19
Have a go!
Necessary information
for a houseboat,
you can enjoy a river cruise on different boats,
such as excursions boats, boat hotels…
(see useful addresses pages 24 to 27).
Hiring a houseboat to learn
how to steer is quite easy!
You do not need a license
to steer a boat!
The boat owner will give you basic instructions before
you start your cruise. This will include how to cope with
maintenance, how to handle a boat, cruising tips and…
how to go through a lock. Most of the time, these
instructions are written down in a comprehensive and
understandable cruising guidebook "manuel du capitaine"
(the captain's manual), which is aboard.
Once you have been through this tuition cruise and you
have chosen your destination and confirmed your cruising
route, you are ready to depart on the waterways at a
gentle pace, between 6 km/hour and 8km/hour on canals
(10km/hour on rivers).
When you have signed your contract, the professional
will give you the "carte de plaisance" (pleasure cruising
certificate) which testifies that the boat is insured and in
good working order. This certificate is valid for the time of
your trip and has to remain on board at all time, along
with the other official papers, such as the waterway taxes
card related to the payment of taxes inherent to canal
holiday cruisers. You will not have to pay any tax when
you sail on the river Lot and on the river Baïse
20
Which type of boat?
You will find a wide range of boats in terms of comfort
and room. Some boats offer more inner space and others
will favour outer space. The owners usually give you a
brochure to take your choice.
These houseboats are as comfortable as a house and
combine comfort and functionality. Each one has at
least individual cabins, a bathroom (with shower and
hot water), flush toilets, a well-equipped modern galley
and heating.
How much will it cost? (for information)
●
●
●
Enjoy midseason better prices:
out of summer holidays prices decrease!
Average price for a boat for 6 people
in low season: 1 000 € per week.
Deposit: from 600 to 800 € according to the size
of the boat
● Fuel: whereas water and gas are usually included,
you will be charged for fuel. Most of the boats use
diesel, it costs about 15 € per day for 6 to 8 hours
sailing at average speed. You will be given a full tank
at departure, that will last 4 to 7 days. There are many
places along the river where you will be able to refuel.
● Bed sheets hire: 4 to 5 € a pair.
● Pets: some companies can charge as much as 30 €.
● Bicycle hire: from 20 to 30 €.
●
Sheets, blankets and other house linen are usually
already on board. You can hire bicycles to explore
the countryside or go shopping. Car parking is provided.
Some companies can ensure your car transfer when
you book a one-way trip.
4 people : from 800 à 2 780 € per week
6 people : from 930 à 3 730 € per week
10 people : from 1 800 à 4 350 € per week
Going through locks,
highlight of your cruise
You will meet other amateur sailors and feel the local
atmosphere, buy terroir products. Locks are free, but
close for dome bank holidays such as the 1st of May,
the 14th of July and the 1st of November. You will meet
two types of locks: manual, that is operated by a lock
keeper or the skipper, and automatic with a swipe card.
When they are manoeuvred by a lock keeper, they
open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. with an hour break at
lunchtime. Therefore it is very important to check
the locks timetable!
On the Lot and the Baïse rivers, you will have to
manœuvre the locks yourself, so you will not have to
worry about closing time and holidays. Operating locks
is easy but requires at least two agile persons.
Automatic locks are regulated by traffic lights.
It is the case between Bordeaux and Castets-en-Dorthe
on the Garonne Canal.
21
Navigation Information
Sailing on the canal du Midi and Canal de Garonne:
Voies Navigables de France
Direction Interrégionale du Sud-Ouest
2, port Saint-Etienne - BP 7204 - 31073 Toulouse Cedex 7
Tél : +33 (0)5 61 36 24 24 / Fax : +33 (0)5 61 54 66 50
Have a go!
(continuing)
Sailing on the Lot River and the Baïse River:
Unité départementale des routes du confluent
et de la navigation
● Coteau de Romas
47130 Port Sainte-Marie
Tél : +33 (0)5 53 77 29 00 ou +33 (0)5 53 79 10 85
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 67 44 35
● Direction Départementale de l’Equipement
du Lot-et-Garonne
1722 avenue de Colmar - 47916 Agen Cedex 9
Tél : +33 (0)5 53 69 33 33 / Fax : +33 (0)5 53 69 33 69
● Direction Départementale de l’Equipement du Gers
19, place de l’Ancien Foirail - BP 342 - 32007 Auch Cedex
Tél : +33 (0)5 62 61 46 46
● Direction Départementale de l’Equipement du Lot
127, Quai Cavaignac - 46009 Cahors Cedex
Tél : +33 (0)5 65 23 60 60 / Fax : +33 (0)5 65 23 61 61
Regulations
Waterway regulations are stated in the Police General
Regulations called “Code Fluvial” and in the Police Special
Regulations. Always keep to the right of the navigable
channel, observe speed restrictions and do not stay on
the way are the most important rules of the regulation.
Other main information can be displayed at locks.
The panels on which you will find them are called
“Avis à la Batellerie”.
Rivers can be in rising especially during springtime.
It then becomes necessary to stay informed of the
rivers level (Lot and Baïse) before departing.
It is recommended to take on board maps or waterway
guides concerning the route you want to sail.
Sailing on Canal from the river Rhône to Sète:
● Service Maritime et de Navigation du Languedoc Roussillon
27, quai Général de Gaulle - BP 122 - 30302 Beaucaire Cedex
Tél : +33 (0)4 66 59 80 50
Example of comfort and functionality: 4+2 berths
5- Fully equipped galley with
cooker with oven and grill,
refrigerator and microwave.
6- Central cabin with separated
bathroom.
7- Spacious saloon with bunks
that can convert to a double
berth.
1- Wide picture window
and bright wardroom.
2- Two cockpits, one inside,
the other on deck.
3- Engines at rear for your
quietness.
4- Front cabin with bathroom.
1
2
2
1
4
2
2
6
4
5
5
6
7
7
3
22
3
Example of comfort and functionality: 8 berths
1- Spacious foredeck.
2- Two cockpits, one inside,
the other on deck.
3- Engines at rear for your
quietness.
4- Front cabin with separated
bathroom.
5- Fully equipped galley cooker
with oven and grill, refrigerator
and microwave.
6- Cabins with shower, flush toilet
and wash basin separated.
7- Spacious saloon with bunks that
can convert to a double berth.
23
Useful addresses
Renting
a houseboat
THE CANAL DE GARONNE
● AQUITAINE NAVIGATION
Halte nautique - Port de Buzet
47160 BUZET-SUR-BAÏSE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 84 72 50
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 84 03 33
E-mail : [email protected]
www.aquitaine-navigation.com
● CROWN BLUE LINE
44 L’Ecluse
47430 LE MAS D’AGENAIS
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 89 50 80
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 89 81 13
E-mail : [email protected]
www.crown-blueline.com
ÉMERAUDE NAVIGATION
Base de Départ
Pont des Sables
47200 FOURQUES-SUR-GARONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 64 46 86
(0)6 13 45 44 85
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 64 58 53
www.canaldumidi.org/emeraudenavigation
●
LOCABOAT PLAISANCE FRANCE
Port de la Gare du Pin
47000 AGEN
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 66 00 74
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 66 74 90
E-mail : [email protected]
www.locaboat.com
●
● NAUTIC AQUITAINE
Port de Plaisance
47160 DAMAZAN
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 79 59 39
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 79 34 49
E-mail : [email protected]
www.nautic.fr
NICOLS
Halte Nautique - Port de Plaisance
82700 MONTECH
Tél. : +33 (0)5 63 64 71 73
Fax : +33 (0)5 63 26 09 85
E-mail : [email protected]
www.nicols.com
●
THE CANAL DU MIDI AND CANAL
FROM THE RIVER RHÔNE TO SÈTE
● NAVICANAL
139, rue Bonnat
31400 TOULOUSE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 55 10 91
E-mail : [email protected]
www.navicanal.com
SUNSHINE CRUISERS
20, rue des Martinets
31170 TOURNEFEUILLE
Tél. : +33 (0)6 10 28 88 08
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 78 84 21
E-mail : [email protected]
●
24
LOCABOAT PLAISANCE
Écluse de Negra
MONTESQUIEU-LAURAGAIS
31450 MONTGISCARD
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 81 36 40
(0)3 86 91 72 72
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 81 36 43
(0)3 86 62 42 41
E-mail : [email protected]
www.locaboat.com
●
RIVE DE FRANCE
PÉNICHE SAINT-LOUIS - Route du Grau du Roi
30220 AIGUES MORTES
Tél. : +33 (0)4 66 53 81 21
Fax : +33 (0)4 66 51 02 61
E-mail : [email protected]
www.rivedefrance.com
●
● RIVE DE FRANCE
Port de plaisance
34440 COLOMBIERS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 37 14 60
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 37 60 03
E-mail : [email protected]
www.rivedefrance.com
AD’NAVIS
8, rue des péniches - La Maison du canal
34500 BÉZIERS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 62 18 18
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 35 05 12
E-mail : [email protected]
www.adnavis.com
●
CASTEL NAUTIQUE
Port de Bram - BP 25l
11150 BRAM
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 76 73 34
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 76 19 33
E-mail : [email protected]
www.castelnautique.com
●
NAUTIC
Port Fluvial
34301 AGDE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 94 78 93
E-mail : [email protected]
www.nautic.fr
●
CAMARGUE PLAISANCE
Base fluviale - BP 8
34280 CARNON
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 50 77 00
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 50 65 27
E-mail : [email protected]
www.camargueplaisance.com
●
CAMINAV
Base fluviale - CD 62
34280 CARNON
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 68 01 90
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 50 68 15
E-mail : [email protected]
www.caminav.com
●
● CROWN BLUE LINE
Le grand bassin - BP 21
11492 CASTELNAUDARY Cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 94 52 72
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 94 52 73
E-mail : [email protected]
www.crownblueline.com
● MINERVOIS CRUISER
Napton Marina - Stockton Southam
WARWICKSHIRE
CV478HX
Tél. : 44 (0)19 26 81 18 42
E-mail : [email protected]
www.minervoiscruisers.com
● CONNOISSEUR
7, quai d’Alsace
11100 NARBONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 65 14 55
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 90 66 72
E-mail : [email protected]
www.connoisseur.fr
● CONNOISSEUR
Port de Plaisance - Route de Béziers
11800 TRÈBES
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 78 73 75
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 78 92 79
E-mail : [email protected]
www.connoisseur.fr
● CONNOISSEUR
Paletos Bassos
11200 HOMPS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 91 24 00
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 91 24 11
E-mail : [email protected]
www.connoisseur.fr
● LOCABOAT PLAISANCE
ZAC Port Ariane
34970 LATTES
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 20 24 12
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 20 99 97
E-mail : [email protected]
www.locaboat.com
● LOCABOAT PLAISANCE
Avenue du Port
11200 ARGENS-MINERVOIS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 27 03 33
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 27 71 96
E-mail : [email protected]
www.locaboat.com
● LUC LINES
35, quai des Tonneliers
Port Minervois
11200 HOMPS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 91 33 00
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 91 33 87
● NICOLS
Allée de la Glacière
11120 LE SOMAIL
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 46 00 97
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 46 00 98
E-mail : [email protected]
www.nicols.com
● AROLLES MARINE SARL
Quai Paul Riquet
30127 BELLEGARDE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 66 01 75 15
Fax : +33 (0)4 66 01 75 16
● LEVEQUE EURL
Chemin de la Pagèze
Route de Bessan
34300 AGDE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 21 44 60
THE BAÏSE
GASCOGNE NAVIGATION
Capitainerie - Quai de la Bouquerie
47, rue Gambetta
32100 CONDOM
Tél. : +33 (0)5 62 28 46 46
Fax : +33 (0)5 62 28 37 28
●
THE LOT
THE GARONNE
● BABOUMARINE
Port St Mary
46000 CAHORS
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 30 08 99
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 23 92 59
E-mail : [email protected]
www.baboulene-jean.fr
● ALIÉNOR
Embarcadère des Quinconces
Quai Louis XVIII
33000 BORDEAUX
Tél. : +33 (0)5 56 52 27 81
(0)5 56 51 27 90
Fax : +33 (0)5 56 52 17 67
● CROWN BLUE LINE
46140 DOUELLE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 20 08 79
(0)4 68 94 52 72
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 30 97 96
(0)4 68 94 52 73
E-mail : [email protected]
www.crownblueline.com
● LE BURDIGALA
Halte nautique
Rue Louis Blériot
33130 BÈGLES
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)5 56 49 36 88
(0)6 07 19 75 86
E-mail : [email protected]
LOT NAVIGATION - NICOLS
46330 BOUZIES
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 24 32 20
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 31 72 25
●
● NAUTIC
Cévennes de Caïx
46140 LUZECH
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)5 65 22 21 91
(0)6 12 32 52 35
E-mail : [email protected]
www.nautic.fr
CONNOISSEUR CRUISERS
Port Lalande
47260 CASTELMORON-SUR-LOT
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 79 58 17
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 79 56 20
E-mail : [email protected]
www.connoisseurafloat.com
●
Pleasure boats with
or without catering
During a half-day or a day trip on a
pleasure boat, you discover the natural
and urban heritage by an unusual way.
The trip will be covered by a guide for
any kind of tourists (for groups or
individually). Some of those boats offer
catering facilities.
Some boat owners offer to cruise on old
barge like in the past. If you would rather
be the skipper, other boat owners will let
their electrical cruisers.
"LES GABARES"
These are the old french barges usually
seen on the Dordogne river and the Lot
river. During the last century, they were
used to carry goods such as wine, wood
and cereals. They can be hired for a
half-day or a day for up to ten people.
ELECTRICAL CRUISERS
For half an hour, a half-day or a day, be
your own captain and take on board your
friends or family unrestrainedly.
On those cruisers, no need to have a
licence, anybody can drive them - there is
even a steering wheel! - and take along
up to four people.
To get information about electrical
cruisers, their sites and addresses, inquire
at the "département" tourist board.
● LE VILLE DE BORDEAUX
Embarcadère des Quinconces
Quai Louis XVIII
33000 BORDEAUX
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)5 52 88 88
● BORDEAUX & GIRONDE
CROISIÈRES
21, Bel Horizon
33370 POMPIGNAC
Tél. : +33 (0)5 57 34 06 40
(0)6 62 92 07 11
● LA CIVELLE
4, Avenue Domaine de Saure
33270 BOULIAC
Tél. : +33 (0)6 08 61 26 31
● L’ESCAPADE
43 bis, rue des Salières
33210 LANGON
Tél. : +33 (0)5 56 63 06 30
Fax : +33 (0)5 56 76 19 36
● LE RÉGULA
Avenue Jean- Jaurès, les Quais
33190 LA RÉOLE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 56 61 13 55
Fax : +33 (0)5 56 75 25 40
E-mail : [email protected]
THE CANAL DE GARONNE
AND CANAL DU MIDI
GABARRE VAL DE GARONNE
Maison du Tourisme, Pont des Sables
47200 FOURQUES-SUR-GARONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 89 25 59
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 93 28 03
E-mail : [email protected]
●
● L’AGENAIS
Port de Plaisance d’Agen
47000 AGEN
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 87 51 95
(0)6 64 22 29 95
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 87 27 42
● MOISSAC NAVIGATION PLAISANCE
PÉNICHE LE GRAIN D’OR
PÉNICHE VILLE DE MONTECH
Port de Plaisance
Quai Charles de Gaulle
82200 MOISSAC
Tél. : +33 (0)5 63 04 48 28
(0)6 16 01 13 88
Fax : +33 (0)5 63 04 26 70
● BATEAU LOU MALAOUSENC
Mairie - Halte nautique
82200 MALAUSE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 63 39 55 78
(0)6 80 95 30 17
Fax : +33 (0)5 63 39 77 01
● LE CATHY
Port de Plaisance
82700 MONTECH
Tél. : +33 (0)6 09 33 15 96
● LES CROISIÈRES EN DOUCE
LE SURCOUF
BP 01
31290 GARDOUCH
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 27 14 77
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 81 75 07
E-mail : croisieresendouce@club-internet
www.lescroisieresendouce.com
● LE CAPITOLE - TOULOUSE CROISIÈRES
Quai de la Daurade
31000 TOULOUSE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 25 72 57
(0)5 61 11 02 22
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 14 19 03
● LE CAP D'AMBRE
1, rue des Peupliers
31700 BLAGNAC
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 71 45 95
www.fr / public html / frb /
● PÉNICHE BALADINE
BP 233
31004 TOULOUSE cedex 6
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 80 22 26
(0)6 07 43 48 28
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 80 52 28
E-mail : [email protected]
www.bateaux-toulousains.com
● L'OCCITANIA
Écluse Bayard face à la gare SNCF
31000 TOULOUSE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 63 06 06
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 63 41 15
www.loccitania.com
● BATEAU LUCIE
Aire de Port Lauragais - A61
31290 AVIGNONET LAURAGAIS
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)4 68 60 15 98
(0)6 88 12 92 24
● BATEAU SAMSARA
Boulevard Griffoul-Dorval
Passerelle des Soupirs
31400 TOULOUSE
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 54 58 07
(0)6 03 02 14 50
E-mail : [email protected]
www.samsara.fr
THE CANAL DU MIDI AND CANAL
FROM THE RIVER RHÔNE TO SÈTE
● BATEAU ROUSSILLON PROMENADE
28, rue Raymond Aris
N°1 Mas des Silènes
34300 AGDE
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)4 67 01 71 93
(0)6 08 46 60 94
● LES BATEAUX DU SOLEIL
6, rue Chassefières
34300 AGDE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 94 08 79
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 21 28 38
E-mail : [email protected]
www.bateaux-du-soleil.fr
● LES BATEAUX DU SOLEIL
Neuf Écluses
34500 BÉZIERS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 49 34 55
E-mail : [email protected]
www.bateaux-du-soleil.fr
25
Useful addresses (continuing)
● BÉZIERS CROISIÈRES
BP 4052
34545 BÉZIERS Cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 49 08 23
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 28 06 23
● ISLES DE STEL
12, rue Amiral Courbet
30220 AIGUES MORTES
Tél. : +33 (0)4 66 53 60 70
Fax : +33 (0)4 66 53 70 74
www.croisiere-camargue.com
ULYSSE VOYAGES
Berge du Rhône - Quartier du vieux moulin
30400 VILLENEUVE LES AVIGNON
Tél. : +33 (0)4 90 49 86 08
(0)6 07 50 55 17
Fax : +33 (0)4 90 93 11 82
●
L'AVENTURE
BP 54
30220 AIGUES MORTES
Tél. : +33 (0)6 03 91 44 63
Fax : +33 (0)4 66 29 34 62
● BATEAU LUCIE
M. PARSCHAU
En Ramounas
11320 MONTFERRAND
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 60 15 98
(0)6 88 12 92 24
● LE PESCALUNE
BP 76
30220 AIGUES MORTES
Tél. : +33 (0)4 66 53 79 47
Fax : +33 (0)4 66 53 86 47
E-mail : [email protected]
www.pescalune-aiguesmortes.com
● SÈTE CROISIÈRES
BP 429
34200 SÈTE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 46 00 46
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 74 94 50
E-mail : [email protected]
www.setecroisieres.com
●
LE SAINT ROCH
1, rue des Lauriers
11400 MAS SAINTES PUELLES
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)4 68 23 49 40
(0)6 62 03 49 40
E-mail : infos@saintroch11
www.saintroch11.com
●
● CROISIÈRES DU MIDI
35, quai des Tonneliers
11200 HOMPS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 91 33 00
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 91 33 87
E-mail : [email protected]
www.croisieres-du-midi.com
● TRAMONTANE
BP 5
11105 NARBONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 49 12 40
● ASSOCIATION TRAMONTANE
"Les Coches d'Eau du Patrimoine"
Le cagnard du Bourg - BP 513
11100 NARBONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 90 63 98
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 49 12 99
E-mail : [email protected]
● SERGE PAJOT
Mandirac
11105 NARBONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 48 35 48
E-mail : [email protected]
ANDRÉ RIBO - Artisan Batelier
BP 2508
34555 BÉZIERS Cedex
Tél. : + 33 (0)6 12 06 08 00
Fax : + 33 (0)4 67 28 27 04
●
AMICA TOURS
La maison du canal
8, rue des péniches
34500 BÉZIERS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 62 18 18
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 35 05 12
●
26
● LOU GABARET
27, rue des 3 couronnes
11000 CARCASSONNE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 71 61 26
THE BAÏSE
● AQUITAINE NAVIGATION
& GABARES DE LA BAÏSE
Capitainerie du Port.
47600 NÉRAC
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 84 72 50
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 84 03 33
● CROISIÈRE DU PRINCE HENRY
Capitainerie du Port
47600 NÉRAC
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 65 66 66
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 65 06 44
GASCOGNE NAVIGATION
Le d’Artagnan - Capitainerie
Quai de la Bouquerie
47, rue Gambetta
32100 CONDOM
Tél. : +33 (0)5 62 28 46 46
Fax : +33 (0)5 62 28 37 28
●
THE LOT
● LA GABARRE FUMELOISE
Office de Tourisme, place Georges
Escande - BP 56
47500 FUMEL
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 71 13 70
(0)5 53 40 88 06
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 71 40 91
● LOT ÉVASION
La Plage
47320 CLAIRAC
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)5 53 84 34 48
● NAVILOT
Les Berges de Caix
46140 LUZECH
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)5 65 20 18 19
(0)6 70 02 59 50
E-mail : [email protected]
www.ville.luzech.fr
● LE SCHMILBLIC DE CAJARC
Base : port de Cajarc - Le Bourg
46320 GRÈZES
Tél. : +33 (0)6 03 02 08 04
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 11 46 09
● SOCIÉTÉ DE NAVIGATION
ET DE TOURISME - SAFARAID
LES FALAISES DE BOUZIÈS
Port de Bouziès
46330 BOUZIÈS
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 35 98 88
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 35 98 89
E-mail : [email protected]
LE FÉNÉLON
Pont Valentré
46000 CAHORS
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 30 16 55
(0)5 65 30 55 05
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 23 91 89
E-mail : [email protected]
●
● SOCIÉTÉ DE NAVIGATION
ET DE TOURISME - SAFARAID
LE VALENTRÉ
297, rue Saint-Géry
46000 CAHORS
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 35 98 88
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 35 98 89
E-mail : [email protected]
Barges and
boat hotels
● ANJODI
Go Barging
Tél. : +1 800 394 86 30
Fax : (44) 1 784 48 30 72
E-mail : [email protected]
www.gobarging.com
● LE PHÉNICIEN - Rhône Croisière
Claudette JOLY
Port de Plaisance
30127 BELLEGARDE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 42 41 19 14
Fax : +33 (0)4 42 41 19 15
E-mail : [email protected]
www.rhone-croisiere.com
AD'NAVIS
La Maison du Canal - 8, rue des péniches
34500 BÉZIERS
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 62 18 18
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 35 05 12
E-mail : [email protected]
www.adnavis.com
●
● PÉNICHE LA TORTUE
Maison du forgeron - Place de l'église
11200 PARAZA
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)4 68 43 28 66
E-mail : [email protected]
www.latortue.com
Considered as the “must”, those cruisers
flourish especially on the French Canal
du Midi. They combine the charm of
cruising along picturesque waterways
with the use of the same equipment as
provided in a high standard hotel.
Usually with all modern conveniences,
each boat is equipped with at least ten
berths. Every stop at moorings and visits
are planned and provided all along your
cruise (one week in average). Some meals
are taken ashore in local restaurants to
vary your pleasures.
● PÉNICHE HÔTEL AVENIR
11, rue du Four
34600 FAUGÈRES
Tél. : +33 (0)6 09 55 55 47
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 95 78 37
E-mail : [email protected]
THE GARONNE
AND CANAL DE GARONNE
● ATHOS CRUISES LIMITED
Shakespeare House, Theatre Street,
LONDON SW11 5ND, ENGLAND
Tél. : +44 (0)207 801 63 16
E-mail : [email protected]
www.athoscruises.com
● PÉNICHE HÔTEL MIRABELLE
CONTINENTAL DE CROISIÈRES
1, Promenade du Rhin
21000 DIJON
Tél. : +33 (0)3 80 53 15 45
Fax : +33 (0)3 80 41 67 63
www.continentalwaterways.com
● ROSA CROISIÈRES
47, avenue Calderon
31600 MURET
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 51 03 59
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 51 75 00
E-mail : [email protected]
www.rosa-croisieres.com
THE CANAL DU MIDI
● HÔTEL PÉNICHE ISATIS
Port Lauragais
31290 AVIGNONET LAURAGAIS
Tél. : +33 (0)6 86 40 00 75
(0)6 62 72 16 39
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 73 55 82
E-mail : [email protected]
www.canal-cruise.com
ROSA CROISIÈRES
47, avenue Calderon
31600 MURET
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 51 03 59
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 51 75 00
E-mail : [email protected]
www.rosa-croisieres.com
●
● PÉNICHE CLAIR DE LUNE
E-mail : [email protected]
www.hotelbargeclairdelune.com
● ASSOCIATION PÉNICHE CARABOSSE
BP 2532
34555 BÉZIERS cedex
Tél./Fax : +33 (0)4 67 11 21 62
● C.A.N.A.L.
17, boulevard Jean Jaurès
34620 PUISSERGUIER
Tel : +33 (0)4 67 93 69 61
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 93 69 03
● BATEAU EMMA
René et Liz JACQUOT
Chemin de la Pagèse
34300 AGDE
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 77 41 39
(0)6 07 99 38 78
E-mail: [email protected]
● CANALS OF FRANCE
PÉNICHES FANDANGO ET TANGO
US Office - Hazel Young, Owner
5708 MALLOW TRAIL - MASON NECK, VA 22079
E-mail : [email protected]
www.canalsoffrance.com
● RIVER YACHT CRUISES
PÉNICHE ROI SOLEIL
E-mail : [email protected]
www.riveryacht.com
Péniches chambres
d’hôtes (b'n'b on a barge)
● PÉNICHE CAROLINE
Ted et Anne Marie HUSBERG
Tél. : +33 (0)6 62 46 15 05
www.penichecaroline.com/
● PÉNICHE SOLEÏADO
Chemin des sables
31520 RAMONVILLE ST AGNE
Tél. : +33 (0)6 86 27 83 19
www.canal-du-midi.org/soleiado/index.htm
Comités régionaux
de tourisme
● COMITÉ RÉGIONAL DE TOURISME
D’AQUITAINE
Bureaux de la Cité - 23, parvis des Chartrons
33074 BORDEAUX cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)5 56 01 70 00
Fax : +33 (0)5 56 01 70 07
E-Mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-aquitaine.info
● MAISON DE L’AQUITAINE
21, rue Pyramides
75001 PARIS
Tél. : +33 (0)1 55 35 31 42
Fax : +33 (0)1 40 20 07 18
E-mail : [email protected]
www.maison.aquitaine.fr
● COMITÉ RÉGIONAL DE TOURISME
DU LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON
417, rue Samuel Morse - CS 79507
34960 MONTPELLIER cedex 2
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 22 81 00
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 64 47 48
E-mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-languedoc-roussillon.com
● COMITÉ RÉGIONAL DE TOURISME
DE MIDI-PYRÉNÉES
54, boulevard de l’Embouchure - BP 2166
31022 TOULOUSE cedex 2
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 13 55 48
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 47 17 16
E-Mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-midi-pyrenees.com
● MAISON MIDI-PYRÉNÉES
1, rue de Rémusat - BP 832
31080 TOULOUSE cedex 6
E-mail : [email protected]
Voies navigables
de France
● DIRECTION INTERRÉGIONALE DU SUD-OUEST
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DU GARD
3, place des Arènes- BP 122
30011 NÎMES cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)4 66 36 96 30
Fax : +33 (0)4 66 36 13 14
E-mail : [email protected]
www.cdt-gard.fr
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DE LA HAUTE-GARONNE
14, rue Bayard - BP 845
31015 TOULOUSE cedex 6
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 99 44 00
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 99 44 19
E-mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-haute-garonne.com
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DU GERS
3, boulevard Roquelaure - BP 106
32002 AUCH cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)5 62 05 95 95
Fax : +33 (0)5 62 05 02 16
E-mail : [email protected]
www.gers-gascogne.com
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DE LA GIRONDE
21, cours de l’Intendance
33000 BORDEAUX
Tél. : +33 (0)5 56 52 61 40
Fax : +33 (0)5 56 81 09 99
E-mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-gironde.cg33.fr
● AGENCE DE DÉVELOPPEMENT
FLUVIAL DE LA GIRONDE
21, cours de l’Intendance
33000 BORDEAUX
Tél. : +33 (0)5 56 48 67 82
E-mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-gironde.cg33.fr
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DE L’HÉRAULT
Avenue des Moulins - BP 3067
34034 MONTPELLIER cedex 1
Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 67 71 71
Fax : +33 (0)4 67 67 71 77
E-mail : [email protected]
www.cdt-herault.fr
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DU LOT
107, quai Cavaignac - BP 7
46001 CAHORS cedex 9
Tél. : +33 (0)5 65 35 07 09
Fax : +33 (0)5 65 23 92 76
E-mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme-lot.com
2, port Saint-Etienne - BP 7204
31073 TOULOUSE cedex 7
Tél. : +33 (0)5 61 36 24 24
Fax : +33 (0)5 61 54 66 50
E-mail : [email protected]
www.vnf.fr
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DU LOT-ET-GARONNE
BP 158 - 4 Rue André Chénier
47005 AGEN cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)5 53 66 14 14
Fax : +33 (0)5 53 68 25 42
E-mail : [email protected]
www.lot-et-garonne.com
Comités départementaux
du tourisme
● COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DU TARN-ET-GARONNE
Hôtel Bonnecaze
7, boulevard Midi-Pyrénées - BP 534
82005 MONTAUBAN cedex
Tél. : +33 (0)5 63 21 79 09
Fax : +33 (0)5 63 66 80 36
E-mail : [email protected]
www.tourisme82.com
COMITÉ DÉPARTEMENTAL
DU TOURISME DE L’AUDE
11855 CARCASSONNE cedex 9
Tél. : +33 (0)4 68 11 66 00
Fax : +33 (0)4 68 11 66 01
E-mail : [email protected]
www.audetourisme.com
●
27