The Canal du Midi in the Aude
No matter where you are in the Aude you're never very far from the Canal du Midi. You can walk, jog, or cycle on the towpath beside the canal and it's always fun to watch the canal boats going through locks. Don't laugh though, it could be you one day.
Take a picnic, stroll until you find the perfect spot, enjoy your lunch and watch the world go by.
Creme du Languedoc has an article about the origins and history of the Canal du Midi and a comprehensive list of canal boat rental companies in Languedoc .
Provence Beyond has information about the Canal du Midi
Heaven on a Barge - an article in the Sydney Morning Herald - makes me yearn for a barge holiday on the Canal
Barges on the Canal du Midi
If you'd like to cruise the Canal there are lots of options, from luxurious hotel barges, to week long barge cruises either piloted or 'self-drive' to hourly and daily canal boat hires. Something for everyone and every budget.
Comite Regional du Tourism Languedoc Roussillon has a comprehensive list of companies offering boat hire on the Canal du Midi with links to their websites
Canals of France - Tango and Fandago offer barge cruises between Beziers and Carcassonne
Walking Cruise from Bezier to Trebes on the Anjodi - you get to work off the effects of the delicious meals.
The Sufcouf cruises between Villefranche de Lauragais and Castelnaudary
Hire a barge from Minervois Cruisers and see the Canal du Midi at your own pace.
Midi Cruises - Union des Peniches de Croisieres du Midi - offers a list of hotel cruise barges and rental barges