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Press Kit 2016 - Tourist office of the canal du Midi to the Saint Chinian - www.tourismecanaldumidi.fr

Press Kit From the canal du Midi to the Saint Chinian


WELCOME! ........................................................................................ 05

EVERYTHING FOR YOUR ARTICLES ...................................................... 06

THE 10 FIRST REASONS TO COME ......................................................07

THE CANAL DU MIDI ........................................................................ 08

THE LONG REACH ............................................................................. 09

LANDSCAPES ........................................................................................ 12

FAUNA & FLORA .................................................................................. 13

HISTORY AND ARCHITECTURE .............................................................15

MUSEUMS ............................................................................................ 17

A LAND OF GREAT WINES ..................................................................... 19

FLAVOURS FROM HERE ....................................................................... 22

ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE! ............................................................... 24

GROUPS ............................................................................................. 31

EVERY YEARS : MAJOR EVENTS .......................................................... 32

NEXT YEAR ........................................................................................... 33

HOW TO GET HERE ? ........................................................................... 34

THE TOURIST OFFICE IN A FEW WORDS ............................................. 36

APPENDIX AVAILABLE ON DEMAND

SUM

MA

RY

PRESS KIT


PRESS KIT

2016


5.

In the South of France, in the heart of Languedoc Roussillon, lies a land of

contrasts, which is intersected by the Canal du Midi and features a wide variety

of landscapes, as well as huge historical and cultural wealth.

A few dozen kilometers from Béziers and Narbonne and only 20 minutes drive

from the Mediterranean Sea, our destination is ideally situated.

Above all, you mustn’t miss the Canal du Midi on any account, as it is listed as a

UNESCO world heritage site! Walks in the wild, on the towpath along the

Canal du Midi, cultural and sporty activities...there are a vast number of things

to do and a lot of ideas for every day. There is something for everyone, for

adults as well as children. Come also to excite your tastebuds by tasting our

traditional food and drinking the best regional wines while visiting the

numerous cellars and vineyards from the Canal du Midi to the Saint-Chinian.

Welcome!


We are at your disposal to organise with you

your reports and articles for any media.

We will help you in finding all the information

needed.

Organisation, contacts, photographic library,

information, welcome and accompanying

actions on site ...

We offer you a tailor-made service!

A team at your service

We can provide you with royalty-free photos!

The tourist office of the Canal du Midi to

Saint Chinian owns a digital photo

database of the Canal du Midi and its

landscapes, the vineyards, heritage,

highlights of historical and architectural

heritage, fauna and flora etc …

A photographic library high def inition

6.

Have a look at the photographic library in «the Press area on: ww.tourismecanaldumidi.fr

Muriel Milhau,

Director

Sandra Burguière Communication Manager

Manon Thiollier Communication Officer

[email protected]

+33 (0)4 67 37 37 74

... Everything for your articles


The mildness of the climate & a sunny region !

1. 2.

The 10 first reasons to come !

From the canal du Midi to the banks of the Orb river

3.

4. 5. 6.

7. 8. 9.

10.

7.


Vauban used to say: “I would have given my life to have built this work”

while Voltaire talked about it this way: “The most imposing civil work

since those of the Romans ”.

It brought its commercial prosperity to the region where wine, cereals

and wood were produced and carried. As for people, they had to travel

in some strange boats called “barques de poste ”.

We often forget the challenge that had to be faced to build it in the 17th century. The water system, technical building of

the works, hydraulics, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, masonry…Pierre Paul Riquet had to call in the best

engineers in order to solve a lot of problems.

Along the 240 km leading from Toulouse to Sète, the Canal du Midi is on average 2 m deep and 20 to 24 m wide.

2.

Nowadays, transport of goods doesn’t exist anymore on the Canal du Midi - tourism took over, and since it was listed as a

UNESCO world heritage site in 1996, the Canal du Midi has been world-famous.

Today, the Canal is more a symbol of relaxation. Ashore, people can enjoy it along its 240 km of towpath, whether on foot

or by bike. Many entertaining

means of travel are offered on the

water. According to your needs

and means, and/or the time you

have, you can choose to pilot

small electric boats, go on board a

riverboat for half a day or even

for an entire day in order to

discover a part of the Canal du

Midi. This way, you can relax and

enjoy the Canal from another

angle. You can also rent a houseboat that can be piloted without a license for a weekend, a short week or an entire week

from March to October.

As a couple, a family or with friends, it is an unforgettable adventure! In order to enjoy the timeless charms of the Canal

du Midi in total comfort, you can also choose to cruise on board a hotel barge or even stay on a guest riverboat.

2.

The Canal du Midi 8.

THE CANAL DU MIDI, AN EVOLVING UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE ...


9.

LOCATION

Toulouse, Carcassonne, Béziers, and Sète are the most important

cities traversed by the Canal du Midi. Its Grand Bief -”Long

Reach” is its heart. From Argens to Béziers, the canal overlooks

54 kilometers of vineyard landscape without any locks.

It is one of the particularities of this stretch: the canal is

overhanging. Thus, the view of the surrounding landscape is

magnificent. On clear days, you can see the Canigou mountains

in the south-east, as well as the Caroux mountains.

THE LONG REACH, A TECHNICAL FEAT . . .

Pierre-Paul Riquet managed to keep the canal at a height of 31.35

m over 54 km! The Canal du Midi winds along the plane trees, in

the middle of the vineyards of two big AOC regional wines:

Minervois and Saint-Chinian. In the Hérault part of the Grand

Bief - “Long Reach”, the Canal du Midi criss-crosses villages of

great character such as Colombiers or Poilhes and flows around

the higher slopes of Capestang, a charming village that can be

seen from far away thanks to its Saint-Etienne church, which is

like a lighthouse right in the middle of a huge plain.

. . . WITH MANY ENGINEERING WORKS

No matter if you ride a bicycle or walk, you can take the towpath to discover

many civil engineering structures: no locks here, but bridges, aqueducts,

spillways, watering or washing places, without forgetting the Malpas tunnel.

You can also pilot electric boats or even, if you are in a group, rent canoes in order

to explore the canal in a different way.

Games, treasure hunts and playful activities are available at the Tourist office in

the port of Capestang in order to allow children and families to discover the key

facts of art history and techniques while having fun!

The long reach

http://www.tourisme-canal-lirou.fr/fr/le-grand-bief/120-poilhes.html

http://www.tourisme-canal-lirou.fr/fr/le-grand-bief/106-collegiale.html

http://www.tourisme-canal-lirou.fr/fr/le-grand-bief/106-collegiale.html


HELPFUL FACTS

Allowed speed: 8km/h when cruising, 3 km/h in ports, and when approaching bridges and locks and for passing or

overtaking other boats!

All modes of transport are authorized to travel on the Canal du Midi provided that they correspond to the

depth of the canal, and fit within the canal bridges’ height & width.

Thus, you can come across boats, canoes, rowing boats (there are even international races annually from Toulouse to

Béziers), paddle boats, etc. However, small boats cannot go through the locks.

TRAVEL TIPS

A list of “Things to do/things to see along the Canal du Midi” is available for download on our website or at the desk of

our information offices.

DID YOU KNOW ?

A Tracking game for children & adults is available from our information offices or to download on your

smartphone as an app. While visiting Capestang, discover the history of the Canal du Midi! Groups, challenge yourselves!


DID YOU KNOW ?

The Saisse bridge in Capestang is the smallest bridge on the Canal du Midi. Crossing this stones bridge is an

adventure to experience or to contemplate!

1766: The big breach : the canal overflowed during a violent storm in Capestang.

Following this incident, the banks of the canal were strengthened and a spillway was built to prevent the disaster from

happening again. More than 2 500 workers worked on its construction for two months!

HELPFUL FACT

Nothing is easier than renting a boat from a port situated on the Grand Bief - “Long reach “ !

Indeed, this allows you to take the time to master your boat before moving the first lock!

TRAVEL TIPS

Capestang is a very special location from which to start a discovery cruise or rent a boat for a week or a few

hours. Whether for accommodation, restaurants, activities or tours...our travel advisors are at your disposal to plan your stay!


Vineyard and garrigue

at the foothills of Cévennes

The Mediterranean Sea and the harsher climate of the small

Cévennes mountains combine to shape a landscape of

vineyards and scrubland. Our paths allow you to discover rich

natural heritage. Indeed, you have a multitude of hiking and

mountain bike trails to explore the wide diversity of

landscapes. Our trails lead you through the hills along pine

forests or vineyards.

A rich small man-made heritage

The economy, long dominated by agriculture and the cultivation

of vines, has brought forth many distinctive and authentic

works. A rich, small man-made heritage awaits you along the

paths and offers a deeper insight into the history of our

destination: dry stone shelters and walls, wells, mills, chapels,

etc. Estates, farms and châteaux erected in the late nineteenth

century, a time of prosperity for wine, also open their doors for

workshops, tastings or concerts.

4.

LANDSCAPES 12.

Criss-crossed by the Canal du Midi in the south and by the Orb river in the north, our region offers many points of interest

and splendid views. Overlooking vineyards and garrigue, (a type of low-growing vegetation on the Mediterranean coast.)

the panorama will take your breath away with the Canigou snowy mountains in the Pyrenees, the intense blue of the

Mediterranean Sea, the Cathedrals of Narbonne and Béziers, the Mont Saint Clair in Sète or the mild forms of Caroux,

nicknamed "the lying woman”. More surprisingly, you will be captivated by the impressive geology that punctuates your

route: gorges with lush, rocky bars in a driest nature , red earth , etc.


13. FAUNA AND FLORA

Arbouses

An outstanding diversity

Here you will find exceptional flora and very diverse fauna.

Maybe you will be impressed by the green and aromatic scents on the

hillsides, all topped with thyme, rosemary, lavender, broom, rock

roses or juniper. There are many species to discover during your

walks, but these can also be tasted directly with our producers.

You will be also surprised by the variety of insects, amphibians, small

mammals and birds, since we are located on a major migration

corridor.

In the south, the plains These flat lands used to be connected to the Mediterranean Sea. Nowadays, they are criss-crossed by the Canal du Midi.

It can be considered as a wide public garden endowed with its own biodiversity: large trees accompany yellow iris, rushes

and large loosestrife and create a natural setting along the canal.

Further to the north, hillsides and valleys are covered with

vineyards and garrigue where you can find: Kermes oak, almond, fig and wild olive trees.

More than anywhere else, perfumes accompany the walker. In spring, the garrigue is adorned

with thousands of colors: white daffodils, the yellow color of Spanish broom and coronilla, the

pink color of cistus, orchids and thyme, the blue color of lavender, rosemary and aphylante. An

incredible show! The Orb river flows through this landscape. We can spot herons, egrets and

kingfishers, but also an increasing number of black kites. Underwater , there are small, harmless

viper snakes, pike, carp, eels, etc.

Scrubland on a plate ! Scrubland is full of gustatory treasures all year round: edible flowers, salad, asparagus, wild

leeks, blackberries, figs and arbutus! But be careful when seeking them out!


DID YOU KNOW ?

“Garrigue” takes its origin from “garric, the Occitan name for the Kermes oak , a resistant and robust shrub.

The marble of Coumiac in Cessenon-sur-Orb was used for the decoration of buildings such as the White House

in Washington or the Maison de France in Rio de Janeiro!

HELPFUL FACTS

The Hérault department holds 57% of French flora and over 25% of the national stock of some animal species.

NATURAL SITES : A RICH HERITAGE TO BE PRESERVED !

The pond in Assignan, Natura 2000 classified, is home to the marbled newt and the ocellated lizard.

The pond of Capestang, Natura 2000 classified, is one of the largest reed beds in Europe, a breeding ground for pike, but also for purple egrets or Eurasian stone curlew.

The Coumiac nature reserve in Cessenon-sur-Orb displays an exceptional geological heritage and was also a marble quarry that was used from the sixth century.

The eucalyptus forest in Cessenon-sur-Orb is an experimental planting of a dozen species of eucalyptus over 14

hectares that was initiated in 1958

TRAVEL TIPS

Our roads are full of panoramas and outstanding views!

Open your eyes or find a selection of views on our website www.tourismecanaldumidi.fr


15.

From Sainte Marie abbey in Quarante, masterpiece of Roman art, to the Capestang church, a gem of gothic art,

you open the doors of small churches and you will discover an exceptional architectural heritage. In the Puisserguier castle or the Cruzy one, find a trace of history, from Catharism to religious wars.

SAINT-ETIENNE COLLEGIATE CHURCH (CAPESTANG)

A SYMBOL OF A VILLAGE’S PROSPERITY

One of the most magnificent examples of gothic architecture in Languedoc, Saint-Etienne collegiate church in Capestang was built in the 13th century on top of an ancient Roman church by the same team that built

Narbonne Cathedral. Seen up close, the two monuments do indeed bear a strange resemblance to one

another. With its unfinished appearance and its magnificent fretwork choir, this building is certainly worth a visit! Climb to the top of the bell tower, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the village,

Capestang’s lake, the Pyrenees and Caroux mountains, the hill-town of Ensérune, Narbonne, etc. Self-

guided tours Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm/Sunday 2pm – 6pm. Guided tours by appointment only.

History and Architecture RELIGIOUS BUILDINGS THAT MARK OUR HISTORY

SAINTE-EULALIE DE MÉRIDA CHURCH (CRUZY)

FORTIFICATION AND RELIGIOUS WARS Built in the 12th century on top of an early chapel, the church was then expanded and modified from the 13th to the 15th century. It was listed as a historical monument in 1913. The church features

buttresses, crenellated turrets, machicolations and arrow slits. Remarkably, for a region where a great

number of figurative artefacts were destroyed in religious wars, the 12th century stained-glass windows have been preserved. Guided tours by appointment only.

SAINTE MARIE ABBEY (QUARANTE)

MAJOR HOME TO A NUMBER OF PRECIOUS ARTEFACTS

The impressive Sainte-Marie de Quarante abbey church is a major example of

early southern Roman art. Founded in the 10th century, it contains a number

of precious artefacts with key pieces such as a sarcophagus dating from the 3rd century, white marble altars from the Narbonne school, and a 15th century silver

artefact representing the head of Saint John the Baptist, the patron saint of the

village of Quarante (Available to view by appointment only). Self-guided tours every day 9am – 6pm (4pm on Thursdays). Guided tours by appointment only.

FONTCAUDE ABBEY (CAZEDARNES) THE PREMONSTRATENSIANS SETTLE IN THE HEART OF LANGUEDOC

At the heart of a scrubland plateau, the valley of Fontcaude is home to a sacred spring around

which canons settled from the year 1154. Perfectly restored, the abbey is a masterpiece of late

Roman art in Languedoc. The abbey church, cloister, sculpture museum, bell foundry (12th century) and oil mill are available to visit. Concerts of Gregorian chants are hosted at the

abbey, which is a stopover on the Way of St James. Traditional celebrations are held on 25 July.

Closed in January. Self-guided tours Monday – Saturday 9am – 12pm and 2pm – 6pm/Sunday 2pm – 6pm (4pm on Thursdays). Guided tours by appointment.


6.

PUISSERGUIER : A CASTLE AT ITS HEART

The village is typical of the Languedoc ‘castrum’, and is built in a circle around the 12th and 13th century castle, with the interior streets forming a ‘circulade’ (a traditional village built in

concentric circles). The narrow streets are dotted with the ruins of the city walls (12thcentury) and medieval porches. Below is the church of Saint Paul (14th century).

Situated on the Way of St James, Puisserguier has also hosted numerous pilgrims. Running through it

is the GR 78-7 (long-distance footpath) which connects Saint-Gervais-sur-Mare to Narbonne. In 2003, a Celtic necropolis predating the ancient hill-town of Oppidum d’Ensérune was restored. An

exhibition in the castle allows you to view the findings made there and to walk “in the footsteps of the Cathars and the Celts of La Rouquette” . Guided tours/ Groups, by appointment at the tourist office.

16.

SAINT-CHINIAN : MONKS, TEXTILES AND WINE

The village was first founded by the Benedictines, as evidenced by the cloister. While the first vines were planted towards the 8th century, the village flourished from the Middle Ages to the

19th century thanks to the textile industry. Its textiles were exported as far as the Ottoman

Empire and you can still spot some of the buildings when walking through the village. Gradually, wine growing came to dominate the local economy, and resulted in the production of

appellation wines. – Guided tours by appointment only or during peak season. Don’t miss the vintage wine festival on the first Sunday after 14 July and the impressive organ (listed

historical monument) dating from the late 18th century and attributed to Micot.

CESSENON-SUR-ORB: ONE OF THE OLDEST CITIES IN LANGUEDOC

The village, nestled in the hillsides on a curve of the river Orb is one of the oldest cities in Languedoc. Every street corner is a melting pot of Prehistoric, Visigothic, Saracen and Roman eras.

Two circular routes allow you to explore its medieval history, fortifications, church (12th century)

and the 13-metre-high keep. Key landmarks along the way include the town hall, the oil mill, the Fontaine Sucrée water fountain, the pilgrim house, the medieval house, the sarcophagus and

its numerous chapels. Guided tours by appointment only.

STRANGE BUT TRUE:

The hamlet of Lugné is home to a replica of the Statue of Liberty. Built from a resin-based material by the Bartholdi de Colmar museum, the replica

adorned the bow of a luxury cruise ship, Le Maxim’s des mers, which sailed across the Atlantic Ocean. The captain of the ship, Albert Abelanet, who was from this charming hamlet, brought the 2-metre-high statue back to the village and placed it under the cover of the age-old nettle trees.

MONTOULIERS : THE ‘CALADES’ At the heart of this typically Mediterranean village, perched on a hillside and nestled among vines, scrubland and olive trees, are wide cobblestone steps (known as ‘calades’) that lead up the narrow streets to the castle

and church. Further on is the so-called ‘Roman’ fountain, which, according to legend, was dug by one of

Julius Caesar’s legions. Self-guided tours. Guided tours available by appointment only.

STRANGE BUT TRUE: The guided tour gives you a chance to visit the wood cut-out cathedral. This former wine cellar has been restored by a local artist into a studio and living space that creates the illusion of a cathedral (made from pieces of wood).

History and Architecture PICTURESQUE VILLAGES FULL OF AUTHENTIC CHARM


THE CASTLE OF THE ARCHBISHOP: A MAGNIFICENT SYMBOL OF CAPESTANG’S PROSPERITY

At the end of the Middle Ages, this was a beautiful home. Between the 12th and 15th

centuries, its owner, the very wealthy and powerful Archbishop of Narbonne,

undertook extensive work. The most prestigious part of the home is still there, a testimony to its former glory. In the spectacular state room, historiated paintings are

found exclusively on the ‘bugets’, or seals, between the joists. They are remarkable for their impressive state of conservation and the extreme diversity of subjects they

address (scenes of both a religious and profane nature, with beasts both fantastic and

real, and lords and common people, etc.) There is an interpretation centre to provide information about this remarkable illustrated ceiling.

ECO MUSEUM OF THE RESOURCE CENTRE OF MEMORIES (CENTRE DE RESSOURCES DES MÉMOIRES)

Discover life in Puisserguier last century! There’s a recreated classroom

with a handwriting class using purple ink and dip pens on old wooden desks, while the playground has hopscotch and skipping ropes that will take

you straight back to your childhood! Take a tour through rooms from a

bygone era, run errands at the grocery store or the haberdashery, and visit the smith’s workshop and the garage. There’s ‘escopihna’ and belote card

games outside the ‘café glacier’ (ice-cream café). You can also learn about

the history of wine making through an exhibition of tools and materials. Open Monday 3pm – 5pm and Friday 10am – 12pm.

Also open on the 1st Sunday of every month and on event days; otherwise open by appointment only.

Museums 17.

MUSEUM OF CRUZY: IN THE BEGINNING WERE THE DINOSAURS… Located in a region with a long history of settlers, the Museum of Cruzy houses remains that date back to the Upper Cretaceous. Don’t be fooled by its humble appearance – the

Museum of Cruzy is renowned worldwide for its fossil digs (April and July) which are led by Eric Buffetaut, research director at CNRS. Come along and help the palaeontologists! The fossil of a

unique bird, dating from around 70 million years ago, was discovered there. In 2014, these digs

uncovered a 140cm titanosaur femur and a cervical vertebra belonging to a bird that was around 1.70 metres in size and would have hopped around but did not fly during the age of the

dinosaurs. Dinosaur eggs, a coelacanth upper jawbone and fossilised tortoise shells can be found

alongside numerous remains from the Neolithic or Roman ages as well as pottery from the 17th century. You will also find banners (listed historical monument) from the wine-growers’ revolt of 1907.

The museum has opened a post-excavation laboratory in a former cellar which is available to visit in groups or by

appointment. The museum is open every day 2pm – 6pm, except Mondays.


STRANGE BUT TRUE

Brother Clément of Puisserguier grew and gave his name to a tasty new variety of fruit - “the clementine”.

The cannons on the port of the charming village of Poilhes, which lies on the Canal du Midi, are English cannons from before

1789 and were used until the middle of the 19th century.

INDIVIDUAL GUIDED TOURS WITH OR WITHOUT COMMENTARY

Capestang: the collegiate church and ascent of the bell tower - Fridays/ Saturdays/Sundays and public holidays

Saint-Chinian: Introduction to heritage and a number of topics: Monday: the architectural heritage of Saint -Chinian,

Tuesday: Notre Dame de Nazareth, Wednesday: the Chemin des Capitelles (path of dry-stone huts), Thursday: the

cooperative cellar, Friday: the Canal de l’Abbé, Saturday: Saint-Chinian abbey church and cloister, Sunday: the Mill

USEFUL INFORMATION FOR FAMILIES

Activity books and treasure hunts are available at our reception desks. There are 17 villages full of secrets and treasures for

you and your family to discover, enjoy, learn about and understand! Suitable for children from 4 to 12 years.


A LAND OF GREAT WINES 19.

CANAL DU MIDI, LAND OF GREAT WINES

Quintessential wine country which is the home of three AOC (Saint Chinian, Minervois and Languedoc) and two PGI

wines (Pays d’Oc and Ensérune). Connoisseurs will not be disappointed, as the incredible diversity of soils and the

mosaic of grape varieties offer a wide range of rosé, red and white wines. These are undeniably wines to discover!

Inside the châteaux, farms, old mills, cooperatives or private wineries, visit our cellars, go out and meet the winemakers.

They open their doors for wine tastings or concerts, and are proud to share their passion around a glass of wine and a

plate of tapas made with an olive tapenade spread on a slice of toast.

MEET THE WINEMAKERS OF OUR VILLAGES

Every Tuesday and Thursday from June to September, at the port of

Capestang come and meet the winegrowers of in the magnificent setting

of the Canal du Midi.

At 5:30pm at the port of Capestang, enjoy an informative and free walking tour:

“Past and present history of the ”long reach” of the Canal du Midi”.


DID YOU SAY WINETOURISM ?

Naturally; our area is strongly characterized by the vineyards!

Wine is at the root of the Languedoc’s prosperity, and the Canal du Midi

used to play a major role in this prosperity by transporting brandy and

wine. To begin a historic journey in our vineyards, the Museum Dels

Vinhairons in Pierrerue and the Museum of Cruzy are good starting

points. Some châteaux or estates kept their wine vocation (e.g. the

Provenquière, Pain de sucre, Comps or Monplô) and now produce quality

wines that are exported all over the world. Others, such as the Château

Les Carrasses, have developed other activities: offering luxury hotels, restaurants, reception rooms and leisure in an

exceptional setting.

The Château de Sériège is a particular case since it has never been completed. Weather-proof, only the walls and roof

are erected. The young nephew is taking over the use of the land. It welcomes groups of visitors in the basement adjacent to

the castle that used to be empty for a long time. In 2015, a magnificent reception room was opened!

The wine growers’ cooperatives have developed in the beginning of the

20th century. They are now facing significant changes. In Poilhes, the

former wine growers’ cooperative, located a few meters from the Canal

du Midi, has turned into Vinauberge.

This establishment showcases wines from the region and offers catering,

reception rooms and accommodation.

In Saint Chinian, the “Maison des Vins” Wine House offers a selection of about 300 wines and about 30 wines to taste

permanently. The Wine House is definitely worth a visit! This house used to be the home of Charles Trenet’s father, who

was a notary in Saint Chinian. The "crazy singer" spent much time as a child hitting those big stairs !

Also, do not miss the vintage festival in July!

There are hundreds of ways to discover our vineyards: parties, winegrower walks, wine workshops, visits to

museums or exhibition spaces, ranches surrounded by vineyards, mountain biking, hiking, wine tours in vans or 2CVs, and

picnics with wine. These activities are open for individuals and groups as well.

You can also choose to explore the area on horseback. Our ranches in the vineyards and garrigue promise beautiful rides!

Celebrating weddings, events or meetings in our vineyards is also possible!

WINE ACTIVITIES 20.

Vinauberge - Poilhes

Château Les Carrasses - Quarante


DID YOU KNOW ?

At the heart of the oldest vineyards of France, our destination, labeled Vignobles & Découvertes, includes three AOC (Languedoc, Minervois, Saint Chinian) and two IGP wines (Coteaux d'Ensérune and Pays d’OC ) for wines always in progress. Each of these designations has its own local specificities (shale, clay, limestone, stony land, etc.) and variety that provides them with their typical features. The sun, very present in the region, endows our wines with nice fruity notes and a full body.

The cartagène is a local specialty that is made with grapes (80%) and brandy (20%). Delicious as an aperitif or to accompany desserts, but also great with foie gras or blue cheese!

TRAVEL TIPS

The history of vines and wine: the Museum Dels Vinhairons is open by appointment only. It is an invitation to discover a private collection of objects from the seventeenth to the twentieth century in an old stable. It presents the history of winemakers, as well as coopers’, hoop makers’, blacksmiths’ and saddlers’ tools and many documents about viticulture and the life of the local people, in addition to newspapers about viticulture, etc.

The Museum of Cruzy exhibits banners from the wine growers' revolt of 1907.

HELPFUL FACTS

A wine tourism map is available at our information offices and at our local partners’ offices. Meet our wine growers to learn about the vines, wines and their creators: the winemakers!

Programs and tours are available at information offices in Capestang, Cessenon-sur-Orb and Saint Chinian.

Rent a 2CV to explore the vineyards!

FESTIVALS

If the Saint Chinian Vintage Festival is a must, the harvest festival in Cessenon-sur-Orb retains a traditional and family character. Each year, the village celebrates the end of the harvest and plunges into the past! With vintage clothes and the traditional harvest brotherhoods’ buffatière, (a traditional dance) it’s a real occasion!


THE MEDITERRANEAN WAY OF LIFE : A MUST OF OUR DESTINATION

You can taste in our many restaurants lovely, delicious gourmet dishes offering a combination of local flavors : olive oil,

local garlic and garrigue aromas, such as thyme, rosemary, or small lavender flowers.

Lucques olives are very popular in our area. They are often considered the best gourmet

olives: fleshy, creamy, fruity and tasty, they are easily recognised thanks to their elongated

shape!

Taste recipes made with fruit and vegetables picked from the countryside and bursting with

sunshine. Traditional jams prepared with local fruits (apricots, strawberries, peaches, figs or

blackberries but also Seville oranges, lemons and oranges, winter watermelons, etc.)

Over the seasons, walkers will also discover the "picking garrigue"!

Have fun filling your basket with rocket leaves to decorate salads, with wild asparagus (to

eat raw or cooked in an omelette), figs, blackberries or other berries!

Meet our local producers, find your favorite syrups or jelly and bring some home!

The Canal du Midi will also take you through a range of incomparable specialties: cassoulet from the Lauragais plains,

delicious products made with truffle or saffron from the region, and Marseillette rice, without forgetting oysters, seafood

and Mediterranean fish.

FLAVOURS FROM HERE 22.


TWO MICHELIN-STARRED RESTAURANTS

“Le Terminus” restaurant in Cruzy: one Bib & one cork in the Michelin guide

“Terminus! All food lovers should stop at this railway station converted into a small & friendly bistro. It is an essential stop,

especially to taste the lamb and mashed potatoes or the rum baba...” La Table, a gourmet restaurant in Assignan, this year welcomes two brothers to oversee the kitchen!

They are Ruben and Pieter Maesschalck, who succeeded in Michelin-starred restaurants in France and Belgium, notably with

Michel Bras.

Local specialities from aperitifs to desserts

Authentic and tasty Lucques olives, (90% of the French production is made in the area), olive oils made with

regional varieties (olivière, aglandau, verdale, etc.) and seasoned spread made with mashed olives like tapenade. Charcuterie: Fricandeau, grattons (grilled pork fat, perfect for an aperitif!), black sausage and andouillette.

Local dishes: Tripoux from Cazedarnes, chicken with crayfish from the Orb river & truffle specialties !

On the sweet side : The “douceurs d'Occitanie” or the “Palets du Consul” cooked by M. Conca, a confectioner in Puisserguier

The must do

At noon, nothing can be better than sausage or charcuterie bought in the village and smoked over vine shoots….

Taste it at home or in the vineyard!

Stroll along the colorful markets: Fruits and vegetables from our local producers, southern accents

combined with the chirping of cicadas, you must experience our markets in Capestang (Wednesday and Sunday)

Puisserguier (Friday), and Saint Chinian (Thursday and Sunday).

23. FLAVOURS FROM HERE


24.

FOR A FEW HOURS …

ELECTRIC BOATS TO EXPLORE THE GRAND BIEF (“LONG REACH)

Stroll along following the rhythm of these small boats and explore the Grand Bief of the Canal

du Midi: 54 km without locks between Argens-Minervois and Béziers. Transported through our

vineyards, just admire the natural surroundings and enjoy the breathtaking views.

Relaxation and a change of scenery guaranteed!

Rentals for one day, half a day or a few hours directly at the harbor office at the port of

Capestang.

DISCOVERY CRUISES

Come aboard the excursion boat “Cap O Sud”, from Capestang to Poilhes, and enjoy a unique

guided cruise along the Grand Bief to get a better insight into the Canal du Midi’s history.

The best way to relax? Try this unusual shuttle and have a break during your bike trip.

It is possible to board the boat with your bike). Any reason is good for boarding the "Cap O Sud " !

. . . OR FOR A FEW DAYS !

Take your time, cruise and enjoy your holiday in a different way! Waterway tourism on the

Canal du Midi offers great opportunities for encounters and authenticity.

Families, couple or friends: there is always a boat for you! On the ”Grand Bief”, travel

through 54km without locks to better handle your boat before experiencing your first

locks.

A unique experience on the canal du Midi ! A desire for luxury and prestige ?

The Canal du Midi’s hotel barges offer out-of-the-ordinary holidays in an idyllic setting!

Welcome on the quiet flow of the CANAL DU MIDI

Des activités pour tous

Une destination au cœur des éléments : l’eau

ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE

An area at the heart of the elements : water 24.


CANOE ON STILL WATER OR MOVING WATER : AN UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE !

With this outdoor activity, a lot of sensations await you!

Although the Canal du Midi is popular for boating, it is also possible to rent canoes to explore the canal in a different way.

For groups, we recommend this activity during spring and fall.

You prefer the moving waters of the Orb river? Several courses allow you to go down the river between the gorges and

vineyards in very unspoilt scenery…into the wild! With family or friends, for beginners or for the more experienced,

several options (supervised or independently) are available. Internships are possible. Maybe you'll even spot herons,

egrets, kingfishers or black kites. Underwater, there are small, harmless viper snakes, pike, carp, eels, etc.

AND WHAT ABOUT FISHING ? STILL-WATER OR MOVING-WATER ?

It is possible to fish on the Canal du Midi, the Quarante river, the Orb river and the

Vernazobres river. Many fishing spots can be found amid unspoilt nature.

Perch, pike, brown trout, black bass, chub and roach can be fished in 2nd category

water for anyone in possession of a fishing license .

25.


An area at the heart of the elements : water


MICROLIGHTING: HOW ABOUT TAKING THE SKIES?

Enjoy the beauty of the landscape during a first flight in a microlight or a paramotor.

From the Caroux mountains in the north to the Mediterranean beaches in the south,

capture outstanding views of the surrounding nature: the plains traversed by the

Canal du Midi, and the garrigue, hillsides and terraces shaped by vineyards, but also by

rocky ridges or grooves. An unforgettable adventure !

CLIMBING IN THE MIDDLE OF THE GARRIGUE

Notre Dame de Nazareth cliff is part of a large set of narrow cliff faces that have

always made rock climbers interested in the area. Fifteen routes, grades 5c to 7a +,

can be climbed on the path with the climbing technic using fingers.

A guidebook is available in our tourist offices.

RIDING A HORSE FROM THE GARRIGUE TO THE VINEYARDS !

Whether by donkey, pony or horse, you will be delighted by the

landscapes you discover by horse riding. Tread upon thyme and

rosemary, cross paths topped by brooms, ride through the vineyards of

the AOC Saint Chinian, Minervois and Languedoc wines, swim in the

Cesse river, immerse yourself in the incredible nature.

Hiking for a bigger view !

Garrigue and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see are bordered to the east and to the

north-west by the Monts Caroux and Espinouse. On clear days you will enjoy views of the Canal

du Midi, the Mediterranean and Mont Canigou. Enjoy walks through nature and heritage and

escape from the bustle of everyday life! From the easy loop trail to the sportiest ones, there are

18 hiking trails (177 km of marked trail) to immerse you in the wilderness.

The GR78-7, also known as the Way of Saint James links Saint-Gervais-sur-Mare to the GR653

in Capestang: 66 km and 3 days’ walk!


A An area at the heart of the elements : air & earth 26.


A TOP DESTINATION FOR MOTORBIKING ROUTES:

On the way of 140 km of motorcycle roads, enjoy your ride through gorges, valleys,

vineyards and garrigue ; from the Minervois to the Mont Caroux, winding roads imbued

with Mediterranean colors will appeal to riders from all over the world!

UNUSUAL PLACE

For motorcycle enthusiasts, the “History of Terrot Motorcycles” museum is open by

appointment only. The museum displays the reconstruction of a bicycle shop with a TERROT

motorcycle (15 TERROT motorcycles) and its history.

Reconstruction of a bicycle and motor repair shop with different brands (10 different bikes)

Welcome to a place where valleys and the Canal du Midi exist side by side, offering many opportunities for slow tourism. In

this natural environment, lovers of road or mountain biking can enjoy an adrenaline rush in the middle of wide open spaces’.

A MOUNTAIN BIKE SITE

Between mountain and sea, bush and garrigue, bike trails will take you through

the vineyards. Appreciate the incredible surrounding landscape.

With 23 ATV trails from 6 to 42 km over an area of 431 km, you can enjoy

mountain biking all year round. From easy to advanced levels, ask for the

mountain biking map, which is available on request in our tourist offices.

THE TOWPATH: A HAVEN OF TRANQUILLITY

Originally designed for horse hauling, the towpath following the Canal du Midi is, on the

whole, a trail appreciated for its quiet and bucolic environment.

Away from the traffic lanes, the Canal du Midi is definitely a very special place!

On the “Grand Bief” (long reach ), the Canal du Midi overlooks the landscape and enables

visitors to enjoy a beautiful panorama and views of the vineyards.

Please note: the towpath is a dirt track. For groups willing to bike along the Canal

du Midi, it is essential to make a prior request from VNF (French Inland Waterways)

A paradise for two wheels 27.


With around 300 days of sunshine a year, our destination can be visited in any season!

TO REFRESH YOURSELF, NOTHING IS BETTER THAN A REFRESHING BATH !

We are here under the influence of the Mediterranean climate. The wheather is hot and the sun is very present.

Sereval spots welcome you for a swimming break :

The municipal pools of Creissan and Saint-Chinian are very friendly

The beaches of the Orb river in Cessenon sur Orb is a little paradise for swimming and nature lovers.

Further, only 20 minutes by car, enjoy the beaches of the Mediterranean sea .

Many accommodations have also their own swimming pool.

HELPFUL FACT

Avoid going out during the hottest hours. Do not forget sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and water bottle!

28.


A destination at the heart of the elements : the sun


Bucolic stroll

Canoe - Orb river

You will find also …. a Skate Park in Capestang

… Tennis courts in all villages

& pottery worshops during the summer !

Jumps in the pool- Creissan

Horse trekking & training

29. ACTIVITIES FOR EVERYONE

And what about children ?


HELPFUL FACTS

Enjoy hiking the 18 hiking trails and the GR 78-7, also known as the Way of Saint James !

Routes are available from our tourist offices on request and can be downloaded from our website.

TRAVEL TIPS

Closed from your from accommodation, you can rent bikes and electric boats !

Tour operators offer luggage transfer services so you can explore the region by walk or by bike more easily !


SPECIAL GROUPS

TRAVELLING WITH A GROUP ?

Our tourist office incoming service is at your disposal to help you organise your group visits & stays in our 17 villages.

From the banks of the Canal du Midi to the vineyards of Saint Chinian, discover a naturally intense region!

However you travel: via travel agency, coach operator, association (leisure, elderly, etc.) or works councils, we are here to

provide you with customized solutions and offer you the best tailor-made programs in cooperation with our partners.

Through our visits, tours or stays, discover the wealth of our villages and the beauty of the Canal du Midi!

CONTACT

[email protected]

Tél. : +33 (0)4 67 37 37 74

31.


Les Temps Forts 32.

Saint Chinian vintage Festival Saint Chinian - July

Every year … major events

*

32.


33.

2017

Next year ...


34.

BY CAR

BY PLANE AIRPORT

BY TRAIN

SNCF Train station in Béziers (16 km) or Narbonne (17 km).

TGV Direct lines from Lille, Paris, Lyon… but also TER & Corail trains

More information here : http://www.voyages-sncf.com

TER Train station in Nissan Lez Enserune : Line Avignon - Montpellier - Narbonne

Béziers/Cap d’Agde

35 km/34 mn

Carcassonne

71 km/59 mn

Montpellier

91 km/58 mn

Paris Beauvais, Bristol, Edimbourg, Londres

Luton, Manchester, Düsseldorf Weeze, Oslo,

Stockolm Skavsta

Bruxelles, Eindhoven, Londres, East

Midlands, Glasgow Prestwick,

Liverpool, Cork, Dublin, Porto, Alicante

Ajaccio, Bastia, Brest, Lille, Lyon, Nantes, Paris,

Strasbourg et Algérie, Allemagne, Belgique, Italie

Danemark, Maroc, Pays Bas, Royaume Uni,

Perpignan

81 km /1h05

Toulouse

180 km /1h55

Girona

185km / 2h15

Marseille

233 km / 2h20

Barcelona

283 km/ 3h10

Highway A9

Exit 36 – D64 et D11

Montpellier – 90 km

Spain

Girona – 176 km

Barcelona – 275 km

Exit 38 – D6009 & D13

Perpignan – 84 km

Carcassonne – 61 km

Toulouse – 155 km

HOW TO GET HERE ?

http://www.voyages-sncf.com/


BY BUS

4 lines from Monday to Saturday (except during public holiday) Departure from Béziers (Train station or Bus station). Line 202 > Stops in Poilhes, Capestang, Quarante, Cruzy. http://www.herault-transport.fr/fiche_horaire/202.pdf Line 203 > Stops in Cazedarnes - Cessenon http://www.herault-transport.fr/fiche_horaire/203.pdf Line 214 > Stops in Puisserguier , Creissan, Cébazan, Saint Chinian, Villespassans, Assignan, Pierrerue, Prades sur Vernazobre, Babeau Bouldoux. http://www.herault-transport.fr/fiche_horaire/214.pdf Line 232 > Stops in Poilhes, Capestang, La Croisade puis jusqu’à Olonzac. http://www.herault-transport.fr/fiche_horaire/232.pdf Line « special markets » : Every thursdays - Stops in Cazedarnes, Cessenon, Prades sur Vernazobre, Pierrerue, Assignan, Villespassans, Cébazan, Saint Chinian, Babeau Bouldoux.

BY TAXI

Capes’Taxi +33(0)6 03 87 05 88

Taxi Yoann +33(0)6 81 06 11 73

Taxigo Agnès +33(0)6 78 95 88 35

ARRIVING VIA THE CANAL DU MIDI

BY BOAT, CANOE OR PADDLE ...

The Canal du Midi criss-crosses our landscapes. We are here on the Grand Bief “The Long reach”: 54 km without locks.

Upstream, the nearest lock is in Argens Minervois, and downstream, there are those of Fonsérannes in Béziers. During the

wintertime, the canal is closed, the VNF (French Inland Waterways), the public body that manages and maintains the

canal, takes advantage of this period to clean and carry out some major works.

Visit the VNF website : http://www.vnf.fr/vnf/home.vnf?lang=en&action=vnf for more information.

BY BIKE

Along the Canal du Midi on the towpath, which is sometimes not very easy to cycle.

In all cases, cycling is regulated and requires prior approval from the VNF.

BY FEET

On the towpath or via the Way of Saint James !

35. HOW TO GET HERE ?

Taxi Narbonne +33(0)6 08 61 15 38

SARL Estoup : +33(0)4 67 38 00 01

http://www.herault-transport.fr/fiche_horaire/202.pdf




In our air-conditioned and handicap accessible information points you will find : Tourist informations in english Shops with local wines and products Books, postcard related with the canal du Midi, Languedoc wines and with our villages’ heritage. WIFI access An internet point Temporary exhibitions Treasure hunts and learn & play books Space for kids

21.

THE TOURIST OFFICE IN A FEW WORDS

3 INFORMATION OFFICES

CAPESTANG

Capestang’s information office is located in the Maison

Cantonnière, which was built in 1834 along the Grand

Bief “The Long reach” of the Canal du Midi. This building

is the former station for the cantonniers (workers

responsible for the maintenance of the canal and the

port). It used to include 3 residences for guards from

Béziers and Le Somail and the smallest was one for the

cantonniers. In the basement were shops and a stable

topped by a barn for the Barque de Poste (passenger

boat) service. Above the housing, each guard had a loft.

This building now hosts the tourist office of the Canal du

Midi to Saint Chinian and the harbor office of Capestang

and Poilhes.

CONTACT US !

We are always happy to answer all your questions and provide

you with our knowledge of the destination !

Tourist office of the Canal du Midi to Saint-Chinian

Maison Cantonnière - Quai Elie Amouroux 34310 Capestang

+33(0)4 67 37 85 29

[email protected]

www.tourismecanaldumidi.fr

CESSENON S/ORB

This information office is open

from May to September near

the activities relating to the

Orb river.

SAINT-CHINIAN

Saint Chinian’s information office

is located in the same building as

the town hall.

It used to host the first Benedictine

abbey of the region.

Office de tourisme du canal du Midi

Destination vignobles du

Saint-Chinian au Canal du Midi

#canaldumiditourisme

#saintchiniantourisme

36.

Office de tourisme

du canal du Midi

au Saint Chinian

http://www.linguee.fr/anglais-francais/traduction/Benedictine+abbey.html

http://www.linguee.fr/anglais-francais/traduction/Benedictine+abbey.html

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