Monday, Day 2
Poilhes to Argeliers
After a leisurely breakfast of fresh French bread and croissants from the local boulangerie we cruise for an hour or two to Capestang. Here Richard takes you in the air conditioned mini van up to the Oppidum. This is an old Roman settlement dating back to sixth century BC. The scenery is spectacular; you will see the drained lake with 700 year old pattern and also stop in a number of sleepy villages en route.

Back to the barge for lunch and then a leisurely afternoon cruise to Argeliers. Here you can take one of the bikes on board for a ride up to the local winery to sample some excellent local wines before dinner.

Tuesday, Day 3
Argeliers to Ventenac
Following a leisurely breakfast there will be a tour to Minerve. This is the ancient capitol of the Minervois area and there you will see the remains of the 12th century Cathar castle overlooking two deep river gorges. Minerve was where the Cathars defended themselves from Simon de Montfort (a must see).

There will be time for a little wine tasting and shopping prior to returning to Sherborne for lunch.

In the afternoon we cruise to Ventenac via Le Somail, possibly the most picturesque village on the canal. There are some interesting shops to visit and a good opportunity to purchase gifts from the region. 

Wednesday, Day 4
Ventenac to Homps
A morning cruise followed by lunch under the shade of the plane trees and then an afternoon visit to Chateau Aiguilloux to sample some fine wines

Tonight is Cook’s night off so guests are treated to dinner at a local French restaurant courtesy of Sherborne.

Thursday, Day 5
HOMPS TO NARBONNE
First thing we go through the double lock at Homps and then stop for breakfast followed by an excursion with Richard to Narbonne, this exciting town was once the Roman capital of the area. There will be time to visit the Cathedral and cloister and shop at the market.

In the afternoon we cruise to Trebes where dinner is served on board.

Friday, Day 6
NARBONNE TO CARCASSONNE
An early visit to the boulangerie followed by a leisurely breakfast and then a barge cruise into the centre of Carcassonne (around 3 hours through 4 locks).

Here we enjoy lunch and then an afternoon visit to the fortified city of Carcassonne.

We return to Sherborne for dinner early evening and once again enjoy French cuisine with the finest wines of the region.

Saturday, Day 7
CARCASSONNE
Breakfast aboard and then it’s farewell to Sherborne. Richard will return you to your choice of railway station or airport to continue your journey.

In Carcassonne, Sherborne curtails its up river cruise and either turns around to then repeat the experience back to Béziers or goes on through the Summit route to Toulouse.




This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks, cruise will be in reverse.