Our recent stop in Béziers left us with a lasting impression, even though our visit was brief and focused mainly on the city’s remarkable locks. Nestled in the heart of the Languedoc region, Béziers is a city steeped in history, its story stretching back over two millennia. Founded by the Romans, it later flourished as a medieval stronghold, and the scars of the Albigensian Crusade still echo through its ancient streets. The city’s cathedral, Saint-Nazaire, perched high above the Orb River, stands as a silent witness to centuries of tumult and triumph, offering panoramic views that remind visitors of Béziers’ strategic importance throughout the ages. The locks themselves, part of the Canal du Midi, are a marvel of 17th-century engineering. This UNESCO-listed waterway, designed by Pierre-Paul Riquet, transformed the region by linking the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, fostering trade and cultural exchange. Watching the boats navigate the locks is a gentle reminder of the ingenuity and ambition that shaped southern France.
Our motorhome, a 23-foot-long companion on our travels, found a convenient spot in the free parking lot along Quai du Port Notre-Dame. It provided easy access to the city center and the canal, making it an ideal base for our short exploration. Beyond the locks, Béziers invites visitors to wander through its vibrant markets, sample local wines from the surrounding vineyards, and soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. The city’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty ensures that even a fleeting visit leaves a mark, and we’re already dreaming of returning to uncover more of its secrets.
