Mirage – Canal du Midi
Carcassonne to Le Somail
Maximum Capacity: 6 Guests
Available May through October of 2025
Not only is the Canal du Midi a scenic waterway, but it also holds an amazing story about French History and the construction of the Canal du Midi. The construction of the Canal du Midi has certainly influenced the flavours of the Languedoc these past 300 years.
Less well known than neighbouring Provence, but equally charming, Languedoc is a renowned winemaking region that produces more than a third of the grapes in France. Wine production was traditionally rooted in producing volume, but saw dramatic changes in quality in the early 1990’s. Winemakers from Bordeaux, Burgundy and even Australia came to the Languedoc seeking more affordable vineyards for experimenting with their trade. To some extent, this movement influenced long-established Languedoc growers and producers to make changes. Many amongst them are now recognised for producing top quality vintages.
But Languedoc is not all AOC wines, open air markets and foie gras. It’s home to some of Europe’s oldest and most breathtaking castles. The Medieval fortified Cité of Carcassonne is a must-see for travellers in the region. The hilltop town of Minerve is beautifully scenic and historically fascinating. Whether you’re inspired by good wine, sunflower fields, charming villages or Medieval fortresses, Languedoc will not disappoint.
Day 1: SUNDAY
CARCASSONNE
The crew members will welcome you on board of barge Mirage. After you have settled in, a Champagne reception will be served on the deck. It’s time to leave the Herminis lock toward Carcassonne.
DAY 2 MONDAY
TREBES
Visit to the Château de ennautier built in 1620. Today the castle is a gateway to the French lifestyle. Completely restored in 2009, protected Historical Monument, it combines the beauty and heritage of the region. Guided tour of the Château, visit of the cellars and discovery tasting with the sommelier, followed by a dinner at the restaurant. Night on board at Trèbes
DAY 3, TUESDAY
PUICHERIC
A guided tour of the Medieval city of Carcassonne and its castle. Since the pre-Roman period, a fortified settlement has existed on the hill where Carcassonne now stands. In its present form it is an outstanding example of a me- dieval fortified town, with its massive defenses encircling the castle and the surrounding buil- dings, its streets and its fine Go- thic cathedral. It belongs to the word heritage list of UNESCO. Dinner at the restaurant in the citadel. Night at the Aiguille lock
DAY 4, WEDNESDAY
LA REDORTE
Visit of the giant chasm of Cabrespine, It’s in top 10 of most beautiful French caves. Optional.1 tour guided: Accro Cave and an underground acrobatic course Ziplines Monkey bridges Nepalese bridges Wall progression (For people with a good physical condition) Optional.2 Guided exploration of the underground river with canoe (For people with a good physical condition)
DAY 5, THURSDAY
ARGENS LOCK
Visit of the village of Minerve. Minerve is a picturesque village from the 13th century that is classed as one of the ‘most beautiful villages of France’. The fortified medieval village, with many of the fortifications still in place, is perched on a rocky peninsula. Enjoy wine tasting after the visit. Weather permitting, a jazzy musical band on the deck during dinner
DAY 6, FRIDAY
LE SOMAIL
Enjoy the farmer market in the beautiful village of Paraza, followed by the guided visit of an olive oil mill tour. Wine tasting of the Domaine du Somail. Dinner on board.
DAY 7, SATURDAY
LE SOMAIL
After breakfast, transfer to your departure point between 9-10am for your onward journey.
| Mirage - 2025 | |
| US Pricing | |
| Regular | |
| Stateroom Per Person | |
| Up to 4 passengers | $ 27,250 |
| Up to 6 passengers | $ 29,350 |
Price includes:
- Nights on board.
- Spa on the deck of the boat.
- All meals and breakfasts on board.
- All inclusive restaurants.
- Wifi
- Bar and refreshments on board.
- Transfers to and from the barge from the train station (additional charge from/to Toulouse or Montpellier).
- Excursions and visits of historical sites, villages, museums, various tasting workshops…
Not included:
- Trip insurance which is strongly recommended.
- Laundry which can be done by a professional on shore
- On shore wines and alcohol
- Personal purchases, telephone and internet access.
- Crew gratuities (5-10% of cruise price recommended) normally presented to the Captain in local currency at the end of the cruise
