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IN BRIEF
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The municipality of Sallèles-d’Aude, located north of Narbonne, has embarked on an original initiative by transforming an old disused railway into a true vélorail site. This innovative project, born from collaboration with the company Vélorail du Canal du Midi, invites holidaymakers and residents to rediscover the natural landscapes of the Midi from a new perspective, while invigorating the local economy and enhancing industrial heritage. From the rehabilitation of the tracks to the creation of new tourist experiences, the vélorail adventure promises a bright future for the region.
A Reimagined Railway Heritage
Previously used for freight transport, the railway in Sallèles-d’Aude had fallen into disuse for more than ten years. The town hall, keen to preserve this local heritage and avoid the destruction of the tracks, decided to purchase the now redundant infrastructure. Thanks to the vision of Mayor Yves Bastié, the municipality has opened the door to rehabilitation projects, hoping to offer a new purpose to this former industrial line.
The Arrival of Vélorail: A Bold Idea
The project took shape with the arrival of Abel Fiacre, manager of the Vélorail du Canal du Midi company. His idea was simple and effective: to install pedal carts on these forgotten tracks to offer family rides through the Languedoc countryside. Visitors, whether with family or friends, can enjoy 10 kilometers of round trip promenade, accompanied by the song of cicadas and the panorama of pines, vineyards, and small stone bridges lining the canal.
A Unique Tourist Experience
For many, it’s an opportunity to see the Canal du Midi and its surroundings in a completely new way. The conviviality of the activity, the softness of the landscape, and the originality of the mode of transport appeal to both tourists seeking authenticity and locals eager for novelty. The former industrial site of the Castel-Frères company, long left abandoned, is gradually transforming into a gathering space, thereby enhancing the attractiveness of the municipality.
Positive Economic and Social Impacts
The initiative is not limited to a simple tourist ride. The mayor of Sallèles-d’Aude already envisions new perspectives. With attendance exceeding 80 people per trip, the vélorail activity becomes a driver of traffic: each visitor is a potential consumer for local stores, producers, and restaurateurs. The project also plans to involve market gardeners, olive and wine sellers during stops along the route, to showcase and promote the richness of the local produce.
Enhancing an Entire Territory
Beyond the recreational and sporting aspect, the vélorail invites the discovery of the town and its history. Visitors are encouraged to stroll through Sallèles-d’Aude, admiring its alleys and iconic spots after their rail adventure, just as it is possible to explore other characterful destinations, such as the town of Ambert or points of interest around Valence. Thus, the dynamic initiated by the vélorail benefits the entire territory and contributes to the revival of rural municipalities.
An Inspiring Example of Circular Economy
The approach of Sallèles-d’Aude illustrates the ability of local authorities to transform abandoned spaces into new poles of attraction. By giving a second life to a railway, the municipality engages in a logic of sustainable development and circular economy, just like other solidarity initiatives such as the one in Eauze. Such projects, combining the enhancement of heritage, tourist innovation, and local benefits, pave the way for further developments across the French territory.
