Attractions and Places To See around Montmaur - Top 20

The primary attractions around Montmaur, located in the Aude department, are centered on the historic Canal du Midi. Key sites include the Canal du Midi itself, the Écluse de l'Océan which marks the canal's highest point, and the unique Hers Crossing where the Hers river intersects the canal.

The Écluse de l'Océan is an architecturally notable single-chamber lock. It holds historical importance as it marks the highest point of the Canal du Midi, serving as the watershed between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. It's also a pleasant spot for a break, often featuring a nearby park and bistro.

Yes, the Canal du Midi offers several family-friendly opportunities. The gentle paths along the canal, such as the section from Marbail to Plaine de Bourbone, are suitable for walks and cycling. Observing the boats navigate the locks, like the Écluse de l'Océan, can also be an engaging experience for families.

The area around Montmaur is ideal for various outdoor activities, particularly cycling and mountain biking along the Canal du Midi. You can explore numerous routes for cycling, gravel biking, and MTB trails, many of which follow the scenic canal paths.

The Hers Crossing is a unique engineering marvel where the Hers river crosses over the Canal du Midi. It showcases the intricate design of the canal system and is also the starting point for a magnificent greenway along the Hers valley.

You can visit the Canal du Midi - Water sharing point. This location is where the waters feeding the Canal du Midi, originating from the Bassin de Saint Ferreol, divide to supply the two branches of the canal, one flowing towards the Atlantic and the other towards the Mediterranean.

The trail conditions along the Canal du Midi can vary. While some sections, particularly near Montferrand, have a good asphalt surface, others may feature unpaved surfaces, compacted gravel, earth, or pebbles. After rain, some natural track sections can become challenging for certain bikes.

Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty of the Canal du Midi and its surroundings. The historical engineering feats, such as the locks and water management systems, are also highly regarded. The komoot community has shared over 34 photos and given more than 240 upvotes for the attractions in this area.

Yes, there are numerous cycling routes. For example, you can find routes like the 'Canal du midi – Écluse de l'Océan loop from Labastide-d'Anjou' which is an easy 16 km ride, or the more challenging 'Canal du Midi Pathway – Houseboats on the Canal du Midi loop from Lux' at 165 km. You can explore these and more on the Cycling around Montmaur guide.

Absolutely. The region offers various mountain biking trails. Options range from easy routes like 'The Naurouze Pass – The perfect hideout loop from Montferrand' to moderate ones such as 'Cathar Memorial loop from Souilhanels'. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Montmaur guide.

The best way to experience the Canal du Midi near Montmaur is by cycling or walking along its banks. This allows you to appreciate the historic waterway, its locks, and the surrounding landscapes at your own pace. Many sections are perfect for a leisurely ride or stroll, offering picturesque views and insights into the canal's engineering.

The entire stretch of the Canal du Midi is known for its beautiful landscape. The section from Marbail to Plaine de Bourbone is particularly noted for its natural charm, with paths often sheltered from the sun by trees.