Following in Rick Stein’s Footsteps: The Culinary Gem Auberge de la Croisade

Just five minutes from La Calade sits one of the region’s true culinary treasures: Auberge de la Croisade — a beautiful canal-side restaurant that famously welcomed celebrated British chef and food writer Rick Stein during his travels through the south of France.

Rick Stein Odyssey

Fans of Rick Stein may remember his journeys through southern France in Rick Stein’s French Odyssey, where he explored the food, wine and traditions of the Canal du Midi and the wider Languedoc region. His programmes helped introduce many British visitors to the relaxed beauty and extraordinary food culture of this corner of France.

And it’s easy to understand why.

Auberge de la Croisade
Nestled beside the Canal du Midi amongst plane trees and vineyards, Auberge de la Croisade perfectly captures the slow rhythm of southern France. Long lunches drift into warm afternoons, local wines are poured generously, and the menu celebrates everything this region does best — fresh Mediterranean flavours, local produce, duck, seafood and beautifully prepared seasonal dishes.
Auberge de la Croisade

For guests staying at La Calade, it makes the perfect outing:

  • a scenic drive through vineyards and sleepy villages
  • lunch beside the canal
  • a walk or cycle along the towpath afterwards
  • a glass of Minervois wine as the sun begins to set

The restaurant itself has become something of a destination for food lovers visiting the region, yet it still retains the warm, authentic atmosphere that makes rural France so special.

Auberge de la Croisade
A big part of the charm of Auberge de la Croisade comes from Bruno and Laurent, whose warm welcome and passion for the region have made the restaurant a favourite with both locals and visitors. Their relaxed, friendly approach perfectly captures the spirit of the Canal du Midi — authentic hospitality, excellent regional food and a genuine love of local produce and wines. There is none of the formality sometimes associated with fine French dining. It’s easy to see why Rick Stein chose to stop here during his travels through southern France, and why so many guests return again and again.
découvrir le Languedoc
One of the joys of staying at La Calade is discovering places that feel genuinely local rather than touristy — and Auberge de la Croisade is exactly that. Whether you are a devoted foodie, a Rick Stein fan, or simply looking for a memorable meal during your stay, it’s a wonderful taste of the region.

Whether you are planning a relaxed foodie escape, a cycling trip along the Canal du Midi, or simply want to experience the hidden side of southern France celebrated by Rick Stein, La Calade makes the perfect base.

If you’d like recommendations for our favourite dishes, local wineries nearby, or a full foodie itinerary during your stay, we’re always happy to help.

More from this Category

7 Reasons to visit Carcassonne

7 Reasons to visit Carcassonne

7 Reasons to visit CarcassonneNestled in the picturesque region of Languedoc, Carcassonne is a treasure trove of history, architectural wonders, and cultural delights. In this article, we will explore seven compelling reasons to visit Carcassonne. From its medieval...

read more
Christmas Markets South of France 2025

Christmas Markets South of France 2025

Christmas Markets South of France 2025The south of France is not well-known for it's Christmas markets but almost every town and village will have a Christmas market at some stage from mid-November to New Year, but usually just for a day.  The big towns and cities,...

read more
7 Reasons to visit Carcassonne

7 Reasons to visit Carcassonne

7 Reasons to visit CarcassonneNestled in the picturesque region of Languedoc, Carcassonne is a treasure trove of history, architectural wonders, and cultural delights. In this article, we will explore seven compelling reasons to visit Carcassonne. From its medieval...

read more

Free Guide

If you’d like more information about the wonderful markets of the Languedoc, don’t hesitate to download this free guide

Free Guide

To discover some of our favourite restaurants in the region, you can download this practical guide.