Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes
4.5(15,164)
Historical Landmark
About
Les 9 Écluses de Fonseranes is a remarkable engineering feat featuring a series of nine canal locks that manage a 21-meter descent along the historic Canal du Midi. The site offers scenic walking paths and a visitor center with an interactive cinema that explores the locks' history and their creator.
Ideal for business outings, the venue includes a restaurant with views of the Saint Nazaire Cathedral and facilities like picnic tables and accessible restrooms. Groups can also book boat tours or a small train ride to explore the locks and nearby Béziers, combining culture with relaxation in a distinctive setting.
Best for
- Outdoor team-building & walking meetings
- Client entertaining with canal views
- Casual group dining & networking
Standout features
Engineering Marvel
Largest lock staircase in France
A 315-meter-long series of nine canal locks with a total drop of over 21 meters, built between 1667 and 1680. This lock ladder is an extraordinary feat of 17th-century engineering and remains fully operational today.
Scenic Location
Views of the Orb River and Saint Nazaire Cathedral
The lock site offers picturesque views across the Orb River and towards the historic Saint Nazaire Cathedral, visible from the restaurant terrace and surrounding paths.
Visitor Amenities
Interactive cinema and accessible visitor center
The site includes an immersive cinema detailing the history of the Canal du Midi and its creator, plus a visitor center with a restaurant, gift shop, restrooms, and accessibility services including a shuttle for guests with reduced mobility.
At a glance
Location & hours
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Hours
Sunday12am – 11:59pm
MondayClosed
TuesdayClosed
WednesdayClosed
ThursdayClosed
FridayClosed
SaturdayClosed
Rated 4.5 on Google · 15,164 reviews