The Canal du Midi:
a monumental site in Occitania
Canal du Midi:
an emblem that crosses the Occitanie region
A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Canal du Midi is a marvel of ingenuity and poetry, conceived in the 17th century by Pierre-Paul Riquet. Originally named the “Canal Royal en Languedoc”, the revolutionaries renamed it the “Canal du Midi” in 1789.
Just a few kilometers from Les Aillos naturist campsite, this ribbon of water lined with plane trees is an invitation to slow travel, on foot, by bike or by boat.
It links Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea, and runs through the heart of Occitanie, between flower-filled locks, picturesque villages and historic engineering structures. The backbone of the Lauragais region, the canal offers a peaceful, shady setting for day or half-day outings.
The most beautiful walks on the Canal du Midi
From our naturist campsite in Occitanie, you can reach several stretches of the canal by car or bike. The port of Castelnaudary, the Seuil de Naurouze (highest point on the canal) and the canal banks nearAvignonet-Lauragais are perfect spots for a getaway.
- On foot or by bike: follow the towpath for several kilometers in a bucolic setting.
- By boat: several bases offer river rentals or cruises to discover the canal in a different way.
It’s also an opportunity to observe the many species of birds and enjoy the absolute peace and quiet of this unspoilt environment.
What to visit in and around the Canal du Midi
The Domaine de Bonrepos-Riquet, birthplace of the canal’s creator, is just a few kilometers away. You can also stop off in Villefranche-de-Lauragais or Revel, two typical Lauragais towns offering markets, local heritage and regional flavours.
The Canal du Midi is not just a technical feat, it’s also a thread that links nature, history and the good life. By staying at Les Aillos campsite, you’re ideally placed to explore this jewel of Occitanie… in total naturist freedom.
