About this property
Set beside the Canal du Midi, À Côté de L'O offers a uniquely charming getaway in the historic hamlet of Le Somail. With its blend of traditional furnishings and generous open-plan living-dining area, this spacious home invites you to relax and reconnect in a characterful setting.
Inside, the house unfolds over two levels. Downstairs, a large open-plan living and dining area features air-conditioning and flows seamlessly to the well-equipped kitchen and al-fresco dining terrace beyond. Whether you're preparing a leisurely lunch or chatting over a glass of Languedoc wine, this versatile space is designed for laid-back comfort.
Two ground-floor bedrooms include one with an en-suite bathroom, while a separate family shower room serves the other. Upstairs, beneath the sloping eaves, a further two bedrooms and another full bathroom create ideal flexibility for families or groups of friends, allowing À Côté de L'O to sleep up to 8 guests.
Outside, the dining terrace sets the scene for long summer meals, while the courtyard garden is home to a private 8-metre swimming pool with sun terrace, perfect for lazy afternoons after a morning bike ride or local market visit. It's also great being right next door to a popular restaurant.
Le Somail is one of the Canal du Midi’s most enchanting little villages/hamlets, known for its arched stone bridge, 17th-century charm and canal-side eateries. Everything you need is just a short stroll away: restaurants, cafés, a floating grocery store delivering croissants each morning and scenic walks, boat trips or bike rides along the water’s edge. A larger supermarket is just 1.5 km away, and day trips to Narbonne’s lively market or the medieval citadel of Carcassonne promise memorable outings.
À Côté de L'O is perfectly placed for exploring the Languedoc’s captivating landscapes. Whether you're seeking culture, coast, good wine or simply a relaxed and authentic stay in a bustling village setting, this canal-side holiday home offers it all.
In the centre of the enchanting village/hamlet of Le Somail, À Côté de L'O enjoys an enviable setting with only a road separating the house to the canal, and next door to a popular restaurant. Indeed, this picturesque and lively hamlet, rich in heritage, is anchored by the historic Canal du Midi.
A former 17th-century mooring point for barges travelling between Toulouse and the Mediterranean, Le Somail has retained its timeless allure. Stroll beneath plane trees, cross old stone bridges and savour the relaxed rhythm of village life. Enjoy waterside dining at nearby restaurants, unwind at friendly cafés, or browse the quirky floating grocery boat that delivers fresh baguettes and pastries each morning. For larger provisions, a supermarket is conveniently located just 2km away in Saint-Marcel-sur-Aude.
Beyond the village, the surrounding landscape promises discovery. The Canal du Midi is perfect for bike rides, boat tours or peaceful ambles. Head west to the village of Homps (17km) and take a refreshing summer swim or paddleboard session on Lac de Jouarres, followed by a lakeside lunch. The nearby town of Olonzac (16km) hosts a vibrant weekly market, showcasing the best of local produce and regional flavours.
A short drive away, the spectacular hilltop village of Minerve (19km) offers breathtaking views and a dramatic past as a former Cathar refuge. Oenophiles are well catered for, with numerous local wine estates offering tastings of the Languedoc’s acclaimed wines, all within easy reach.
For a day out in the city, Narbonne (14.5km) is just over 20 minutes away, with its Roman remnants, pretty canalside promenades and the atmospheric Les Halles market, a haven for food lovers. Further afield lies Béziers (35km), famed for its architectural beauty and festive summer spirit. And for a day by the Mediterranean, the golden shores of Narbonne Plage await just 32km away.
Whether you’re exploring medieval villages, pedalling along tranquil canals, or sipping local vintages under the sun, Le Somail offers a magical gateway to the heart of southern France.
Accommodation
House Interiors
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Open-plan living and dining area with air-conditioning. Doors open to dining terrace
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Open-plan kitchen, well-equipped including fridge freezer, oven and hob, microwave and dishwasher
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Separate WC
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Bedroom 1 with double bed and door to poolside terrace
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Bathroom with WC, shower and sink
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Bedroom 2 with double bed and ensuite bathroom with WC, bath/shower, sink
First Floor (sloping ceilings)
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Mezzanine level with lounge area
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Bedroom 3 with two single beds
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Bedroom 4 with double bed
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Bathroom with WC, bath/shower and sink
Outside Grounds
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Swimming pool (8x3.5m) within enclosed courtyard garden
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Poolside terrace with sun loungers
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Side terrace with dining table and barbecue
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Parking