The exceptional work of Pierre-Paul Riquet, the Canal du Midi was dug in the 17th century, and helped connect the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts.
It passes through Carcassonne just north of the Lower Town.
The leg between this city and the Mediterranean town of Sète is touted as the most picturesque of all.
Obviously you needn’t go that far; just outside Carcassonne you can amble east along the tow path for a few miles, as the plane trees meet above the water to form a green tunnel.
There are guided boat tours with Carcassonne Cruises, pointing out the historic locks and bridges.
