April 26th

Leaving Colombiers was actually the warmest morning since we started out. It was nice to absorb the sunshine!! To start off we had about 3km of some of the narrowest parts of the canal. We only did 7.5 km, but this included a six lock staircase, Fonserannes Staircase. It is a descent of 21.5 m! It is quite a feat. Pierre Paul Riquet is the mastermind of the whole canal, and obviously this is his masterpiece section!!!! Originally, the staircase locks went down to the river Orb, but last two locks are closed and boats go across a waterbridge/aqueduct – Beziers Canal Bridge. We moored up just past this bridge and went and explored Beziers.

Walked about and UP to Saint-Nazaire Cathedral.  WOW– it's a hike up, and we even took elevators! Once inside saw great stained glass, a grand organ, and a spiral staircase that lead us up to the top outside on a walkway. The views of the city are spectacular from up there! We left the cathedral and just wondered about; grabbed a salmon quiche and a ham & cheese croissant; explored a beautifully made park; and then, headed back to our boat. After we rested a bit, jumped on our bikes and went to watch boats coming down the Fonserannes. It is fascinating to see, even though we did it a few hours before. On our way back to our boat – the excursion boat we witnessed coming down the locks – came across the canal bridge as we were coming across on our bikes. Jeff raced ahead and was able to photo this!!! We had supper on our boat watching the goings-on of the canal bridge. After supper wondered back through more of Beziers, just strolling. Back on boat for sunset at 8:40 PM! The sun sets late here!!! Another blessed day.