Attractions and Places To See around Cuxac-D'Aude - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Cuxac-D'Aude include a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This commune in the Aude department of France is situated near the lower course of the Aude river, a Natura 2000 site, and close to the Narbonnaise en Méditerranée Natural Regional Park. The area is also characterized by significant waterways such as the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine, offering diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore ancient Roman infrastructure, historical canal engineering, and picturesque settlements.
Best attractions and places to see around Cuxac-D'Aude
- The most popular attractions is Malpas Tunnel, a man-made monument that carries the Canal du Midi. This 17th-century engineering feat was Europe's first navigable canal tunnel.
- Another must-see spot is Via Domitia, traces of the first Roman road in Gaul. A section of this ancient road, which connected Italy with Spain, is exposed and accessible.
- Visitors also love The Port of Somail, a settlement on the Canal du Midi. This hamlet is known for its historic charm, including a humpback bridge and an old inn, reflecting its past as a post boat stop.
- Cuxac-D'Aude is known for its historical sites, canal infrastructure, and natural landscapes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient Roman roads to significant waterways.
- The attractions around Cuxac-D'Aude are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 300 upvotes and more than 100 photos shared.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
The Port of Somail
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Junction of the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine
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From here there is already a direct connection from the Canal du Midi to the Mediterranean Sea.
There is a small bar directly at the junction, which unfortunately was closed at the time I came by.
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Malpas Tunnel
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Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Cathedral of Narbonne
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Via Domitia
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The first city founded by the Romans in Gaul, Narbo Martius (Narbonne) played a leading commercial role under the Roman Empire. Its port, built under the domination of Rome, encouraged trade with the Mediterranean world, while the Via Domitia strengthened trade with southern Gaul and Spain. The Via Domitia is a Roman road built from 118 BC to connect Italy to the Iberian Peninsula by crossing Narbonne Gaul. The Via Domitia was created from 118 BC at the instigation of the Roman general Cneus Domitius Ahenobarbus, whose name it would bear. This road was to ensure communications with Rome and allow the founding of garrisons to protect cities that had become Roman. https://www.amisdesmusees-narbonne.org/la-via-domitia
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Very pretty canal, less known than the Canal du Midi, shaded. Do not miss the Gailhousty site, at the downstream outlet of the Canal de Jonction on the Aude river. This canal, put into operation in 1787, allows to make the connection between the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine de Narbonne. The Gailhousty site consists of a lock, a spillway, a bridge and a dry dock. Upstream of the lock, the canal is protected from the floods of the Aude thanks to a system of dikes which surround it up to Sallèles-d'Aude. Downstream of the lock is a space designed to be able to be submerged during heavy floods: the spillway. The bridge is designed to provide rapid access to all points of the site, is of neat architecture, with a low arched vault and four quarter-circle staircases placed at each corner. During floods, it is necessary to be able to react quickly and maneuver the defense systems in time. Placed on the downstream head of the lock, it participates in the system of containing the strongest floods. The monumental spillway, 30 meters long, is located on the left bank of the canal between the Gailhousty lock and the Aude. Its front facade on the canal side is pierced with vertical crenellations that plunge into the water. At the rear, it has 5 arched openings at the foot of which launches an 8km long landing channel called "La Saignée" directed towards the Capestang pond. This building houses no less than 15 oversized valves. It is not intended to evacuate excess water from the Jonction canal but must allow the passage of flood water from the Aude river. Originally, it was planned that this water loaded with fertile silt would be directed into the Capestang pond to fill it and promote crops there.
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It is one of the most emblematic places on the canal: its buildings, its chapel, its inn, its humpback bridge, its stores, bear witness to the activity of the time around the canal. Once the work on the canal was finished, an administration was set up to manage navigation on the canal. Seven divisions were created along the canal. The Somail division covered 45 km. A passenger transport service was also set up, the stop at the Somail inn corresponded to the third day of navigation from Toulouse. The building even had a dungeon...
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A very nice little place with lots of tourists, boats and cyclists. A typical stopover for many.
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The cathedral is closed at lunchtime, it is a very unusual building as the nave was never built!
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I recommend this little port of Somail with an old bookstore which is worth the detour.....
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Very beautiful, peaceful place with the stable restaurant...make a stop there...I love it
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Cuxac-d'Aude?
Cuxac-d'Aude and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the 10th-century Saint-Martin Church, the 17th-century Chapel of the White Penitents, and the ancient well with the dogs. Remnants of the village's old ramparts and the 17th-century Les Glacières also offer a glimpse into the past. Further afield, the city of Narbonne, just 7 km away, boasts the impressive Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Cathedral and traces of the ancient Roman road, Via Domitia.
Are there any natural attractions or parks near Cuxac-d'Aude?
Yes, Cuxac-d'Aude is surrounded by natural beauty. The lower course of the Aude river and the Étang de Capestang are both recognized Natura 2000 sites, highlighting their ecological importance. Just 4 kilometers away, the Narbonnaise en Méditerranée Natural Regional Park offers diverse landscapes for exploration. You can also visit the unique natural abyss, Gouffre de l'Œil Doux, about 15 km from the commune.
What family-friendly activities are available around Cuxac-d'Aude?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The picturesque Port of Somail on the Canal du Midi is a charming spot with a humpback bridge and historic inn. Exploring the canals, such as the Junction of the Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine, offers gentle walks or bike rides. The Malpas Tunnel, Europe's first navigable canal tunnel, is also an interesting historical engineering marvel that can be explored on foot alongside the canal.
Can I find cycling routes near Cuxac-d'Aude's attractions?
Absolutely. The area around Cuxac-d'Aude is excellent for cycling, especially along the canals. You can find various routes, including easy rides like the 'Narbonne Cathedral – Gua Mill loop from Cuxac-d'Aude' or the 'Via Domitia in Narbonne – Narbonne Quay loop from Cuxac-d'Aude'. For more options, explore the dedicated cycling guide for the region: Cycling around Cuxac-D'Aude.
Are there opportunities for running or hiking trails?
Yes, there are several running and hiking trails. You can find moderate running loops starting directly from Cuxac-d'Aude or Sallèles-d'Aude, such as the 'Running loop from Cuxac-d'Aude'. For a more challenging run, consider the 'Ruins of a Mill – Trail in the forest loop from Moussan'. Discover more trails in the Running Trails around Cuxac-D'Aude guide.
What are the significant waterways in the Cuxac-d'Aude area?
The region is defined by its waterways. The Canal du Midi and the Canal de la Robine are prominent features. The Junction Canal connects the Canal du Midi to the Aude River, which then links to the Canal de la Robine, providing a direct connection to the Mediterranean Sea. The Port of Somail is a particularly picturesque hamlet on the Canal du Midi, known for its historic charm.
What are some notable nearby towns or cities to visit from Cuxac-d'Aude?
Narbonne, just 7 km away, is a must-visit city with a rich history, including the Saint-Just Cathedral, Archbishops' Palace, and the Narbo Via Roman museum. Other charming villages nearby include Bages, Peyriac-de-Mer (known for its wooden walkways over salt ponds), and Minerve. The historic Abbey Fontcalvy (3 km) and Abbey Fontfroide (15 km) are also within a short drive.
Are there any beaches close to Cuxac-d'Aude?
Yes, Cuxac-d'Aude is conveniently close to the Mediterranean coast. You can reach vast sandy beaches in Gruissan and Narbonne-Plage, which offer various water sports and seaside dining options, making them perfect for a day trip.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Cuxac-d'Aude?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The engineering marvel of the Malpas Tunnel and the ancient Via Domitia are often highlighted for their historical context. The picturesque setting and historic charm of The Port of Somail on the Canal du Midi are also highly rated, with many finding it inspiring for its artistic atmosphere.
Are there any Roman historical sites in the area?
Yes, the region has significant Roman heritage. The Via Domitia, the first Roman road in Gaul connecting Italy with Spain, has an exposed and accessible section in Narbonne. Narbonne itself, founded in 118 BC, also offers the Narbo Via Roman museum and the archaeological site 'Clos de la Lombarde' for further exploration of its Roman past.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do on gravel bikes near Cuxac-d'Aude?
Gravel biking is a popular activity in the area, especially along the canals and through the varied landscapes. You can find routes like the 'Canal at Sallèles – Via Domitia loop from Sallèles-d'Aude' for an easy ride, or more challenging options such as 'The Port of Somail – Canal du Midi Bridge loop from Coursan'. For a comprehensive list of routes, check out the Gravel biking around Cuxac-D'Aude guide.
Most popular routes around Cuxac-D'Aude
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