Canal du Midi Lakes, Rivers, Canals & Beaches
A Super-Human Project
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Overview
It took 12,000 workers and over ten years to build the canal connecting the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Pierre-Paul Riquet designed it in 1667 to boost the local economy; it is now considered one of the masterpieces of Louis XIV's reign, and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 241-kilometre canal, lined with hundred-year-old plane trees, is now used by barges, and its banks enjoyed by walkers. The paths have been made into bicycle trails. A trip along the waterway, lasting a few hours to several days is an excellent way to discover the more hidden aspects of Southern France.Tranquility in the Cityby Yahoo | 2004-12-28 01:55:15 | 
This canal, along with its tributary linking it to the Garonne river that stretches from Bordeaux, have been converted by the city into pedestrian paths. Linking to the Japanese Garden near Boulevard Lascrosses and the conference centre, and down towards the student square of Place St Pierre on the Garonne, this is a magical path and park system that one can get lost in wandering the day away - truly a wonderful greenspace winding through the midst of the old city.
