The Alouette luxury barge travels exclusively on the Canal du Midi in the Languedoc Roussillon region of Southern France. Still recognised as one of the true engineering marvels of the 17th century, this beautiful water way employed over 12, 000 people in its construction and plunged its creator Pierre-Paul Riquet into debt.
The peaceful Canal du Midi traverses over rivers, and through hills and on its journey from Toulouse to the Mediterranean port of Sête uses over ninety one locks to move nearly one hundred and ninety meters of water.
The Canal du Midi is a small hub of cultural activity, dotted with bistros, restaurants and art galleries that have sprung up in the old lock keepers cottages along side the canal, each offering the perfect opportunity to stop and explore this picturesque landscape.
