Located on the lands of Castelnaudary, the Grand Bassin was the official launching point of the Canal du Midi waterway in the XNUMXth century. Formerly a nerve center, it is today a favorite place for walkers.
An area of 7 hectares and a breathtaking view of Castelnaudary
Located between the port and the 4 St-Roch locks, the Grand Bassin extends over nearly 7 hectares, the size of the city of Carcassonne within its walls.
Contact information
Initially, the canal du midi should not have passed through Castelnaudary. The city, accompanied by the diocese of Toulouse, will finance the change of the route to the tune of 30 pounds and will allow Castelnaudary to become the most important port on the entire canal.
Around the basin there were wood drying shops, rope makers, boatmen, refits for repairing boats, carpenters but also watering troughs. The different trades linked to the boating activity settled there, leading to a significant economic growth for the city.
Located between the four St Roch locks and the old bridge, the Grand Bassin is exposed to all winds. The maneuvers being difficult, a breakwater was built there: theCybele Island. On it a tavern took place until the 1940s.
Today, the Grand Bassin tour remains a favorite place for walks. Between the trees and the water, this is where the most beautiful view of the city is offered to walkers.
Where can I park to access the Grand Bassin?
A territory of gastronomy
Let yourself be seduced by everything that Chaurian gastronomy and Lauragaise has to offer you.
To discover too
Be curious, go back in time around the streets of the old town.
