Maison Paul Riquet

With its roots stretching back to the mid-19th century, Maison Paul Riquet stands proudly in the heart of Le Somail just steps from Le Canal du Midi. This dignified village home whispers stories of the past, with cool tiled floors underfoot, timeworn wooden shutters and traditional furnishings that echo a simpler, slower way of life. Step inside and it’s as though time has paused, inviting you to linger, to listen and to savour the charm of village life near the canal.

The house is generously proportioned across three floors and sleeps up to 8 guests in four double bedrooms. Period charm abounds, from the original staircase to the gentle patina of age that defines each room, while essential modern comforts such as Wi-Fi and en suite bathrooms ensure an effortless stay. A traditional kitchen and dining room opens onto a terrace overlooking the pool below and the vineyards beyond, offering a glorious contrast to the animated scene just beyond the front door.

Meander through the village, where the floating grocery barge, local cafés and stone bridge speak to centuries of river life. Hire a boat for a peaceful drift along the canal or join the passing cyclists and pilgrims tracing the Camino de Santiago. Return home for a cooling swim in your very own swimming pool, a lazy dinner on the terrace and the soft murmur of evening voices from the restaurants across the water.

Le Somail is a jewel in southern France’s Occitanie region, perfectly placed between Narbonne and Carcassonne. Just 20 minutes from Narbonne’s vibrant covered market and just over half an hour from the Mediterranean shores, this is a destination that rewards exploration, yet feels like a world apart.

Whether gathering with friends, exploring history or simply watching the boats glide by from the neighbouring restaurant, a stay at Maison Paul Riquet offers a chance to reconnect with the timeless pleasure of unhurried days in southern France.

Maison Paul Riquet is in the very heart of Le Somail, a picture-perfect and bustling little village/hamlet steeped in charm and history. In a privileged position, the house is located on the central street with neighbouring restaurants and only a few steps from the Canal du Midi.

Le Somail once served as a 17th-century stopover for barges journeying between Toulouse and the Mediterranean. Today, it remains a characterful haven where time seems to slow, with tree-lined towpaths, stone bridges and an atmosphere of southern French authenticity. Guests can enjoy a selection of characterful restaurants (including one opposite the house with tables by the canal), café bars, and even a floating épicerie, delivering fresh bread and croissants each morning. To stock up, a large supermarket is only 2km away on the edge of Saint-Marcel-sur-Aude.

The surrounding region is a treasure trove of sights and experiences. The Canal du Midi invites cycle rides, leisurely walks or boat trips. A little further west lies the charming town of Homps (17km), where the calm waters of Lac de Jouarres offer summer swimming, paddleboarding and lakeside dining. Nearby, the bustling market town of Olonzac (16km) showcases weekly markets brimming with local produce, perfect for a taste of authentic Languedoc life.

No stay in this region would be complete without discovering the ancient hilltop village of Minerve (19km), one of France’s most beautiful villages, dramatically perched above gorges and once a Cathar stronghold. Wine lovers will be spoilt for choice, with countless domaines offering tastings of the region’s rich and varied vintages, from full-bodied reds to crisp rosés, all just a short distance away.

For city lovers, Narbonne (14.5km) beckons just over 20 minutes away with its elegant riverside boulevards, Roman heritage, and the must-visit Les Halles indoor market, brimming with gourmet delights. Venture a little further to Béziers (35km), another canal-side gem with striking architecture and vibrant summer festivals. And for a classic day by the sea, the family-friendly sands of Narbonne Plage await, just 32km from your doorstep.

Whether you're soaking up the history, cycling beside canal or sampling the fruits of the vine, Le Somail offers a truly unforgettable base for exploring the very best of the Languedoc.

House Interiors (via steps from street)

- Entrance hallway
- Living room with TV and Wi-Fi internet
- Kitchen and dining room, well-equipped including oven and hob, fridge freezer and dishwasher. Door to terrace with vineyard views
- Bathroom with WC, shower and sink

First Floor

- Bedroom 1 with double bed and en suite shower room with WC, shower and sink
- Bedroom 2 with double bed and en suite bathroom with WC, bath/shower and sink
- Bedroom 3 with double bed and en suite shower room with WC, shower and sink

Second Floor (sloping ceilings)

- Bedroom 4 with double bed and en suite shower room with WC, shower and sink

Supplementary accommodation is available on request

Outside Grounds (with steps)

- Swimming pool (10x4m)
- Poolside terrace with sun loungers
- Al-fresco dining terrace with vineyard view (with open-tread stairs down to pool)

Facilities

- Fans in each room.

Security deposit
€1,000 charged to client's credit card by Oliver’s Travels as a pre-authorisation at least 2 weeks prior to arrival and refunded two weeks after departure, subject to full inspection.

Arrival time
4.00 p.m.

Departure time
10.00 a.m.

Energy costs included?
Yes.

Linen & towels included?
Yes.

Pets welcome?
On request only and with prior agreement with the owner.

Other Ts and Cs
Weddings, stag/hen parties and any special events are not allowed.

Changeover day
Saturday.

End of stay cleaning
Standard changeover clean and mid-stay cleaning are included in the price. Guests are required to leave the accommodation clean, tidy and in the same condition as on their arrival. Any extra cleaning, laundry, maintenance and/or rubbish disposal required will be charged against the security deposit.

Smoking Allowed?
Not allowed.

Minimum stay
7 nights. All other durations on request.

Heating costs included?
Yes.

Tax
French Visitors Tax payable to Oliver's Travels at the time of balance payment.