Vineyards, Cassoulet and Canal

This charming village in the Narbonne region is built like an amphitheater on a hillside, offering a beautiful panoramic view over the plains of Canet, Raissac, and Saint-Nazaire, nourished by the Aude River. Be sure to visit the wine cellar and attic of the Château de Ventenac-en-Minervois to learn more about Minervois wines and their grape varieties.

Paraza is home to the majestic Château de Paraza, where Paul Riquet once stayed to witness the filling of the Répudre aqueduct , the oldest canal bridge in France, just 1 km from the port.

Charming circular village (circulade) near the Moulin de la Restanque, where you can taste and purchase regional olive oils.

Charming village centered around a 14th-century château, surrounded by vineyards, a lake, and wild garrigue. Discover local wine heritage at the Wine & Vine Museum in nearby Lézignan-Corbières (5 km).

From the Port‑Minervois harbour at Homps, walk 400 m to Lake Jouarres. Ideal for swimming, windsurfing, canoeing-kayaking, paddleboarding, or carp fishing.

A hydraulic marvel to prevent flooding on the Canal du Midi Built in 1693 on Vauban’s orders, the “Épanchoir de l’Argent‑Double” is an eleven-arched stone structure that automatically diverts excess canal water to prevent flooding,nestled in a tranquil, nature-rich setting.

A charming small town crossed by the Canal du Midi, Trèbes is perfect for a relaxing meal at one of its waterside restaurants. Don’t miss the southern Gothic-style Saint-Etienne Church, featuring 320 painted corbels from the 14th century (open Sunday mornings). Along the way, you’ll also see the La Rode bridge, the Orbiel aqueduct, and the monumental three-lock staircase.

The city is best appreciated from the water,especially from the Grand Bassin of Castelnaudary, where the building facades reflect in the water. Moor at the marina in the Petit Bassin to explore the 13th-century Saint-Michel Collegiate Church and the Cugarel Windmill, and of course, taste the famous Cassoulet de Castelnaudary.

The Seuil de Naurouze marks the highest point of the Canal du Midi. Here, waters from the Montagne Noire split: one side flows toward the Atlantic, the other to the Mediterranean,this is the watershed line. Hike the Lauragais hills around Naurouze, discover Cathar heritage villages, walk part of the Arles route to Santiago de Compostela, and admire the breathtaking landscape from the hilltops.