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There are so many wonderful things to see and do across Europe that it can be hard finding a way to accommodate a real eclectic mix of all the highlights that the continent has to offer. Perhaps one of the very best ways to see a country and get a real feel for it is by travelling on water, for example on one of the tour operated barge trips. In France, especially, these adventures on the waterways are a fantastic way to take in the attractions of both the countryside and the cities. For those looking at barge trips in France, the Canal du Midi is more than 120 miles of stunning scenery and cultural high points. Below are some of the most recommended. Time in Toulouse This is one of the standout destinations in the whole country and thankfully it is perfectly situated for barge trips. In France it’s known to have some of the best food, drink and culture of any city and is well worth a day’s visit. With its position at the end of the Canal du Midi, Toulouse makes a great way to get your journey started, or to finish it in the heart of a pulsating metropolis. Le Somail It’s a small town, but one that rewards visitors with charm and a delightful mix of tourist- friendly and authentically French attractions. Originally built to boost the popularity of tours of the canal, it’s now perhaps most famous for its bookshop. The shop has tens of thousands of titles and makes it rather unusual for a village of this size. Béziers This town is set atop a cliff and looks stunning when you come upon it from the waterway. It makes for one of the best places to take photos along the whole of your journey and is actually the birthplace of the visionary behind the creation of the Canal du Midi itself. If it takes your fancy, there’s plenty to do here, including a magnificent cathedral to visit. Capestang This medieval market town is a real jewel of the canal, famous for its very low bridge that your boat will (just about) pass underneath. If you’re here on the right day you can take an onshore excursion to explore the farmers market with its fresh local food. Carcassonne Last, but by no means least, Carcassonne is one of the finest examples of a UNESCO heritage site in the whole country. It is home to the largest citadel in Europe, with over fifty towers on its impressive structure. There is so much to see and do in the citadel and in the surrounding town, including concerts and amazing food and drink venues. It’s a stop on the waterway that will keep you coming back year after year. All Aboard The Canal du Mid has it all, and provides a wonderful and charming setting for barge trips. In France there are plenty of things to see and do, and being on the waterways is perhaps one of the finest ways to really take it all in. To get the most from barge trips in France it’s a great idea to book with a reputable tour operator. Their knowledge and know-how can really be the key to opening up this remarkable country and revealing the secrets and highlights of the Canal. Author Plate Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, the UK's most respected provider of all-inclusive, luxury barge-trips in France. Part of a team of experienced barging aficionados, Paul is first in line to endorse the perks of a slow-paced barge cruise to anyone looking for a unique holiday experience.
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