Three kilometres of the Canal du Midi run through the Ginestas area. Along with the buildings in Ginestas and traces of history in Le Somail, the canal offers several perspectives on a stay: architecture, religious tradition and activities on or alongside the water. Those looking for a hotel in Ginestas can plan their trip around their own priorities—such as architectural history, a boat trip or time on a bicycle.
Reading history in buildings
The former Notre-Dame-des-Vals church is a Romanesque building dating from the 11th and 12th centuries. Its Lombard design gives the architecture a distinctive feature; it has been listed as a Monument historique since 1951. The information about its construction period and protected status highlights different aspects of its history.
The chapel in Le Somail was built between 1672 and 1693. It once served boatmen and travellers; Mass is still celebrated there every month. Its history thus links an earlier association with travel to a regular religious practice—a different perspective from the Romanesque architectural history of Notre-Dame-des-Vals.
The old stone bridge in Le Somail was built before 1683. Together with other historic buildings in the hamlet, it has been listed as a Monument historique under a decree dated 11 August 1998. In 1684, the former inn building served as an overnight stop; at the time, Le Somail was an important stop on the journey. Here, the historic connection with travel is reflected in its use as a place to stay overnight.
The Calvary in Ginestas also tells a story of religious tradition: it comprises 14 Stations of the Cross, which were restored in 1995. Overall, the timeline stretches from medieval architecture through the travel history of the 17th century to a restoration in the late 20th century. Visitors particularly interested in cultural heritage sites can use these different themes to guide their stay.
Experience the Canal du Midi in different ways
Le Somail can be visited by boat, bicycle or on foot. La Barque du Somail offers a one-hour boat trip on the Canal du Midi. Chez Pierrette rents out bicycles and Rosalies for trips along the canal. There is also a self-service bicycle workshop with tools for carrying out your own repairs.
The options differ mainly in how you get around: the boat trip has a set duration of one hour, while bicycles and Rosalies are available for outings along the canal. Exploring Le Somail on foot is another option. This means you can incorporate the Canal into your travel plans in a way that suits you—by water, by bicycle or with a walk.
The marinas at Le Somail and La Robine are also useful for boaters: electricity hookups are available at some of the quays, and boats can also take on water. Along with the historic sites, these facilities offer a stay where cultural history and activities on the Canal du Midi can each provide a different focus.
Discover more destinations: Les Ilhes, Comus, Vinassan, Souilhanels, Tourouzelle, Roubia, Saint-Marcel-Sur-Aude, Villegailhenc.
For the broader travel overview: Aude.
