9 experiences at the 9 locks

Whether you’re with friends, family, your special someone or grandchildren, here are 9 unmissable experiences to try at the iconic Béziers and Occitanie site that is the Canal du Midi and the Fonseranes 9 Locks.

Experience 1/9: Take the family on a treasure hunt

Venture into Alice’s wonderland in the world of Paul Riquet on a unique treasure hunt. Pick up an investigation kit for your little adventurers, explore and uncover the secrets of the magical secrets with your magnifying glass.

Let the good times roll on this fun-filled mystery tour!

Alice and the magical fountain – Treasure hunt at the 9 Locks is available in english.

Experience 2/9: A romantic getaway to remember

Spend quality time with your special someone and follow your heart to the Canal du Midi.

Soak up the cool evening air and peaceful water as you gaze at the lights and see another side to the 9 Locks. The lights, images and illuminations bursting from the locks and Coche d’Eau visitor centre are a night-time treat.

Are you ready for a special evening together?

Experience 3/9: Pedal as far as you can

Want to push yourself with a sporting adventure on the Canal du Midi?

Set yourself a new challenge on a bike ride* or run along the Canal du Midi. Focus on your performance as you soak up the sunshine, the peace and quiet and natural aromas in an amazing setting.

There are 241km for the taking starting from the 9 Locks… how far will you go?

*Regulations apply to cycling on towpaths: vnf.fr

Experience 4/9: Watch boats pass through the locks… it’s a show-stopper

Watch boats pass through the Fonseranes locks… it’s a show-stopper.

Admire the ingenious system and be blown away as the locksmith opens the locks to a flood of water. Listen to the water gush out and bubble up as it fills the basins. Feel the fresh spray as the water bursts into the locks!

This is a Béziers classic that’s full of wonder, excitement and surprise!

Experience 5/9: Sail on the water

This is the perfect excuse to sail on the Canal du Midi as a captain or passenger. Unleash your inner sailor and unwind with family or friends.

Glide beneath the Southern French sunshine and soak up the peace and quiet!

Experience 6/9: Dive in without getting your feet wet

Take a deep dive into the history of the Canal du Midi at the Immersive Cinema.

You won’t know where to look as you soak up this feast for the senses: the show is all around you, next to you and under your feet.

Ready for a trip back in time?

Experience 7/9: Go green among Béziers’ plants

Are you a green-fingered nature lover? Follow your senses and drink in the aromas and colours of the plants along the 9 Locks botanical trail.

Give your energy levels a boost and explore the region’s unique plants on your own or with the family!

Experience 8/9: Tickle your tastebuds under the French sunshine

Does feasting on tasty treats as you soak up the sunshine on the banks of the Canal du Midi sound right up your street?

Enjoy good food, good times and a good atmosphere at a relaxing barge-shaped restaurant. Settle onto the terrace and feast your eyes on unobstructed views of Béziers Cathedral.

Experience 9/9: Hop on board the tourist train to meet Paul Riquet

Want to keep the adventure alive with a trip to Béziers old town?

Get to know Paul Riquet better as you explore his hometown. Settle back on the tourist train, listen to the audioguide and enjoy the ride.

You’ve visited Pierre-Paul Riquet’s Canal du Midi so now it’s time to find out more about the man himself as you uncover his hometown’s history, his statue, Les Allées which are named after him and the street where he lived.