What’s life like near the Canal du Midi?
The most pleasant and popular waterway in Europe is hugely popular and more and more house are being built nearby. The fact is that the channel offers a unique opportunity to discover marvellous landscapes and architecture rich in history and traditions.
.
The possibility of renting a boat to travel all along the canal would be a nice way to spend holidays. And for those who get seasick, you can still rent bikes and travel along the Canal du Midi; it would still be a wonderful experience for you or all the family.
.
Part of the UNESCO World heritage sites since 1996, the Canal du Midi illustrates the fantastic engineering methods of the French in the 17th century. Built in 1681, the goal was to link the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea without going all the way around Spain. Its creator, Pierre-Paul Riquet the tax collector in the Languedoc Roussillon region under Louis XIV reign’s, sacrificed everything to make sure it was completed – even using his daughters’ dowries for the cause!
The canal is situated in the South of France, where 149 miles of waterway cross France from east to west, followed by another channel called the Canal de Garonne which links Toulouse to Bordeaux. It is actually a huge system composed of nearly 330 structures (locks, aqueducts, bridges, tunnels, etc.) which requires daily maintenance.
.
One of the biggest advantages of this canal is the unique chance to sail through 3 different environments which will suit everyone’s tastes:
– On the Canal du Midi
– On the Atlantic Ocean
– On the Mediterranean Sea
.
However this privileged lifestyle has its drawbacks – the size of the boat (maximum boat length 30meters, maximum boat beam 5.5meters) restrains access to several ships. But on the other hand, it considerably reduces traffic and means you can sail peacefully without being too annoyed by other ships!
.
The Canal du Midi is definitely a place for people looking for peace and quiet, numerous sites along the waterway could be perfect for those looking for harmony and tranquillity. In fact the Languedoc Roussillon area benefits from numerous tourist attractions thanks to its important cultural and historical heritage. Between the Pic Saint Loup – one of the most beautiful natural areas of the Herault department – and the north of Montpellier, villages such as Saint-Clement de Riviere or Montferrier sur Lez have witnessed a demographic boom in the last twenty years..
.
So if you are looking for a charming holiday home in the south of France, investing in the Languedoc Roussillon might be a good opportunity, and even if you’re looking for something more substantial, Sextant French properties also has stunning chateau, such as this wonderful castle with gites near Carcassonne, on sale for 1,300,000€.
In this region you will find properties for every budget size, including a lovely 3 bedroom house with pool near Narbonne for 293,00€. Do check out our selection of properties in the Languedoc Roussillon region for more information.