The banks of the Canal du Midi need no introduction, and walking is the easiest way to explore this unique waterway. A walk along the picture-perfect banks of the Canal du Midi is a bucolic and historic experience. Whether you have just a few hours or several days, this is an unmissable experience.
There are not many people who embark upon the 240 km walk from Toulouse to Thau lagoon in Marseillan. In actual fact, it may be a long journey but it is not a difficult one.
You can expect a complete change of scenery as you cross three or even four French departments if you add on a steep section into the Montagne Noire to discover the water supply system for the Canal du Midi. You'll experience different climates, diverse scenery and varied architecture as you admire the bricks of Toulouse and then the cobbled streets of the medieval town of Carcassonne.
This is one adventure that is worth the effort!
Did you know?
The banks of the Canal du Midi were initially towpaths. When the canal was built, the boats were tugged along by horses on these towpaths.
Much to the delight of walkers and cyclists today, the towpaths were transformed into a greenway route. The majority of the route is now a cycle path!
It is a fairly flat route making it pleasant and accessible to all.
Ecluse du Pech Laurier © JJ Gelbart, AFCC
There are a number of memorable hikes in the surrounding area of the Canal du Midi. From the highlands of the Montagne Noire to the Minervois vineyards or the Santiago de Compostela trails, here are some iconic hikes close to the banks of the Canal du Midi.
The walks along the Canal du Midi differ in type and duration. Depending on what you're looking for and your level of ability, take a look here at the various steps of the journey, and estimated durations for exploring the Canal du Midi on foot.
For information, if you walk at an average speed of 4.5 kilometres per hour, it will take you 54 hours to walk the 240 km of the Canal du Midi from Toulouse to Thau lagon. If you walk 5 hours per day, it will therefore take 11 days. You can adapt this to suit your needs, to allow time to explore the surrounding area, and depending on your ability.
Some visitors prefer to explore the Canal du Midi by bike rather than on foot. The Canal des Deux Mers by bike greenway route is a 750 km long cycle route between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea.
A unique experience in amongst iconic sites and spectacular scenery, whether you're alone or with your family.
The Canal des 2 Mers by bike: 750 km from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean
A site managed by Voies navigables de France in collaboration with members of the “Entente du Canal du Midi” and their tourist operators.
