"Lou Cap de l'Estang (The head of the pond) strikes the imagination with the name he gave to Capestang. This lovely village is crossed by the Canal du Midi and bordered by a lake which is heaven on earth for for birds, fauna and flora.

Flamingo

Surrounded by plains and wine-growing puechs, olive groves and other cultivated fields, Capestang is located on the "great reservoir" of the Canal du Midi, in other words the "great reach" of 54 kilometers between Argens in the Aude, and the Locks from Fonséranes to Béziers. The large reach is one of Pierre-Paul Riquet's feats. He managed to maintain the same level (31,35 m above sea level) for 54 kilometers. Remarkable!

But far from being just a village crossed by the Canal du Midi, Capestang is also historical town! Architectural gems of great historical value are to be discovered here. The collegiate church of Saint-Etienne, Gothic monument dating from the end of the thirteenth century, is definitely worth a visit with its open choir and its bell tower with a magnificent panoramic view from the top. The Castle of the Archbishops of Narbonne, was their summer residence, and houses a magnificent and impressive painted ceiling dating from the fifteenth century. At the end of the Middle Ages, it was a splendid residence that certain documents do not hesitate to call a palace. The guided tours are ideal if you would like to learn about these historical sites.

Capestang is also the sixth stage of the Santiago de Compostela on the Pyrenean Piedmont route. From Montpellier, 29 stages, in 29 days, will lead you to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, before crossing the Pyrenees over 712,2 km.

But how can we talk about Capestang without talking about its lake? This private area is today classified NATURA 2000 and ZPS (Special protection zone). It was a saltwater lake for many years (earlier than tenth century, salt granary), but Capestang lake is today a freshwater lake. It has been a source of wealth through fishing. Since the fourteenth century, numerous canals and spillways have been dug to lessen the violent floods (1999) from the Aude river. Capestang lake serves as a "basin" for its floods managed by the Syndicat Mixte de la Vallée de l'Aude and its level varies according to the seasons. It is a wetland of great ecological quality, which notably hosts many species of nesting birds.

Capestang is an authentic village with an easy-going way of life, that you will enjoy visiting!