Situated just 20 minutes from Narbonne, the hamlet of Le Somail, built on the Canal du Midi, is well worth a visit!
You can't help but be charmed by the architecture and classified historical monuments, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the Canal, or perhaps a pleasant break in one of the restaurants after taking one of the fascinating visits that will reveal the history of this small authentic port.
Located in the heart of the Minervois, Le Somail is a unique place to be discovered. It has managed to retain its charm of yesteryear and continues to inspire a great many artists.
You can admire the buildings that have remained unchanged since the Canal du Midi was built in the 17th century.
At that time, the travellers on the postal boat stopped off here for their "couchée", or evening meal and overnight stay.
Built in 1864, the icehouse was used to store blocks of ice brought down from the "Montagne Noire" in winter. This way, food was kept fresh all through the summer. It is now an integral part of the landscape at Le Somail.
Dive into the history of the Canal du Midi by visiting the Maison Bonnal and its multimedia tour which presents the 3 canals of the Côte du Midi (Jonction, Robine and Midi).
Don't forget to visit Mrs Cradock (or rather her hologram)... She will tell you about her Royal trip along the Canal du Midi back in 1786. Not to be missed!
From the top of the Somail bridge, remarkable for its basket-handle arch, take in the magnificent view of the entire charming hamlet of Le Somail.
Whether in a gabarre boat, a boat without a licence or a small electric boat, sail down the peaceful waters of the Canal du Midi and discover the Château de Ventenac or the canal bridge of La Cesse.
The hamlet of Le Somail is also home to an old bookshop: "Le Trouve-Tout du Livre" (literally, the find-it-all of books). Be sure to visit this former wine cellar, which now proudly showcases the bookshop's 50,000 books.
Sit on the terrace of this pleasant restaurant on the banks of the Canal du Midi and taste the local home-made products before going on an electric boat ride!
You might just be joined by the local geese and even the coypus (semi-aquatic rodents)!
More details
