“As you drift along the magnificent Canal du Midi, you will step back into the time of Louis XIV- the “Sun King” or “Roi Soleil.”
The Canal du Midi is now classed on the World Heritage List of Conservation: linking the Mediterranean Sea with the Atlantic Ocean.
The Languedoc region, interlaced with the Canal du Midi, unravels a rich history from prehistoric time, through the Roman occupation and then succeeded by the turbulent Middle Ages. The landscape and exceptional architecture captures the atmosphere of time revisited. The Canal du Midi meanders through the vast diversity of scenic landscapes that change dramatically from the rugged, rural Languedoc regions to the sun-drenched, azure blues of the Mediterranean. Within this vast region also lays a land of poetry and of proud people devoted to the soil and of course the wine… a passion they will share with you in private tastings of the local Minervois and Corbières wines.
Whether your passion is for history, arts and crafts, adventure, village atmosphere, wine discovery or shopping… your cruise onboard “Roi Soleil” will be personally tailored to your specific interests. Be prepared for new sights, tastes and aromas that will take you on a voyage of aesthetic discovery.
Cabin
- Three cabins with ensuite shower bath
- All with choice of one queen or two twin beds
- All 15 square meters (160 square feet)
- Decorated with elegant French fabric in the public areas
- Open kitchen
- Elegant salon with fireplace, skylights, and panoramic windows
- 3G wireless computer for guest use
- WiFi with limited availability
Public area
- Contemporary design and comfort
- The stylish salon with its fireplace, bar
- Panoramic views through no less than 20 windows
- Elegant dining area
Deck
- 30 meters (98 feet) long
- Partially covered deck with dining table
- Hot tub
- Second rear deck
- 6 Boulder Breeze hybrid bicycles
- Light aluminum frame, road tires, shock absorber
- Quick gear change. Helmets available.
Route: Beziers to Carcassonne
Sunday, Day 1 – Béziers East – Cassafière to Villeneuve
Transfer to Roi Soleil where the crew welcome you on-board with a cocktails/champagne reception. Navigation along the canal through a rural area and wetlands.
Monday – Day 2, Villeneuve to Fonserannes
Sail through the great locks of Fonserannes
Excursion to historical city of Pézenas (famous for its architecture, many artisans & antiques)
Or, why not embark on excursion to the impressive hill village of Roquebrune by the river Orb? (Possibility to swim)
And / or – visit to the pre-Roman Oppidum of Ensérune, a major archaeological site with spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding valleys
And / or – visit Béziers historical centre and shops
And / or wine tasting in the cellar of top French Sommelier and supplier who also has two Michelin Starred Chefs
Tuesday – Day 3, Fonseranne to Capestang
Sail into the heart of the historicvillage of Capestang
Private visit to the Cistercian Abbey of Fontroide, one of the finest examples inFrance
And private wine tasting at Corbieres Château
And / or visit the Camargue bull and horse ranch with the opportunity to round up the bulls on horseback
Wednesday – Day 4, Capestang to La Croisade or Somail
Morning excursion to the charming City of Narbonne that was the Roman Capital of the early Gaulles – its vibrant food market – the famed art and roman archaeology museums within the Bishop’s Palace and many boutique shops – a highlight of the week
Afternoon sailing to the peaceful country village of Somail with an impressive antique bookstore that is sought after by rare book collectors from far and wide
Sail beneath the smallest canal bridge in France
Thursday – Day 5, Somail to Roubia
Morning visit to the village of Minerve, a beautiful natural hilltop site that has had a dramatic history dating back to the time of the Crusades.
Visit the prized olive oil mill called ‘L’Oulibo’, and explore the historic Languedoc village that surrounds
An afternoon cruise to Roubia from where we have the option to take a short flight over the Cathar Castles in the Pyrenees – the famous fortresses of Vertigo
Friday – Day 6, Roubia to Homps
Visit the fortified city of Carcassonne-Europe’s largest Medieval Fortress – a great place to go back in time to the medieval ages and a good shopping opportunity.
Or, visit the medieval village of Lagrasse and splendor it the array of talented artisans that reside here.
Afternoon sail to Homps, passing many locks on the way.
Saturday – Day 7, Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard then our private transfer will bid you farewell at your desired departure point.
Rates 2021
- Private charter – Full board: from EUR €4,570 per person based on 6 passengers
Departure dates 2021
Availability is subject to change. Please contact us for current availability.
What is included?
- Six nights accommodation
- All gourmet meals prepared by your private chef
- All wines, bar, and refreshment drinks aboard
- Transfers to and from the barge from the designated meeting point
- Daily excursions with your tour guide in private vehicle
- Use of on-board spa pool, bicycles, library and sound system
‘You achieved a sense of warmth, of service, of professionalism and quality that met and surpassed the highest standards! Thank you for making our week on the Roi Soleil one of the most memorable weeks in our lives.’-S. family’
‘As true veterans of barging on the waterways of France, we have no hesitancy in declaring this journey as the finest of them all! Yes, the food, the wines and the beds were excellent, but what we really appreciated is the caring extended to each one of us. You were superb in responding to our every request and we thank you most sincerely while hoping that we will be with each and every one of you in the near future again. That’s a real hope for happy travels in France!’ – B&W McM. party
