24 February 2012
Port du Roy Marina, Aigues-Mortes, Languedoc Roussillon
Situated in the picturesque marina of the 12th century walled town of Aigues-Mortes on France’s Mediterranean coast, February’s property of the month is a villa located in the Port du Roy Marina.
Although it may be difficult to imagine in the current freezing temperatures and occasional snow flurry, the sun drenched region of Languedoc Roussillon is the perfect holiday destination.
Aigues-Mortes sits on the meeting point of the Canal du Midi, the Rhone-Sete Canal and the Mediterranean Sea. This charming purpose-built villa nestles in a safe, gated facility, just a short walk from the town centre and the wide, sweeping sands and dunes of L’Espiguette Beach.
There are plenty of activities to be found nearby, there are miles and miles of canal paths to explore on foot, on bike or on horseback, or even by boat on the canal itself! With excellent golf courses and of course water sports such as sailing and windsurfing, you’ll never be short of something to do. If your perfect holiday is simply blissful relaxation, the villa itself comes fully equipped with TV, DVD, MP3 player, and stunning views from the south west facing garden, featuring salt water spa pool and BBQ.
Relaxing in Languedoc Rousillon
Take a day to explore the adjacent Carmargue National Park where you’ll find plenty of wildlife including black bulls, pink flamingos and of course the famous and majestic white Carmargue horses.
This destination is perfect for wine lovers, as with any typical Mediterranean climate here the vines grow easily. The region boasts three times the acreage of vineyards than the Bordeaux region, and it is said 1 in 10 bottles of the world’s wine is produced in the area.
The villa is situated a pleasant 10 minute stroll from the nearest “dégustation” and only a 15 minute stagger back. What better end to a day of exploration than a dinner of locally caught fish, accompanied by a locally produced rosé wine with stunning views across the Mediterranean.
Gastronomy in Aigues-Mortes
The magical walled town, just a short walk away, has everything you could wish for, tempting restaurants and inviting shops, with a market on Wednesday and Sunday where you can pick up fresh local produce, such as olive oil, wine and cheeses.
The restaurants serve the freshest local food all with a distinctly Catalan influence, especially grilled meats and fish. “Les Arcades” in the heart of the walled city comes highly recommended, set in a 16th century listed building, the menu is light and inventive using only the region’s finest produce.
“L’Atelier de Nicolas” with 3 course menus ranging from 13,50€ at lunch time to 29,90€, offers traditional cuisine with just a hint of exoticism; all cooked in Nicolas’s studio kitchen, he hopes every bite will delight the senses.
For traditional Carmarguais cuisine “Aux Voyageurs” is the place to eat and for those searching a truly entertaining evening head to “La Carmargue” where every evening diners are treated to the music of “les gitans” whilst they tuck into traditional local cuisine.
Tourist attractions & local events
The larger cities of Montpellier, Nimes and Arles are all within an hour’s drive and definitely worth a visit.
There are a variety of events throughout the year; July sees the contemporary dance festival “Les Nuits de Sel” on the 7th and 8th; in August immerse yourself in the medieval history of the town at “Les Fetes de St Louis”, with a medieval market, historic parades, and firework displays, young and old alike will be dazzled by history brought to life.
Radio France also host regular free, live music concerts throughout the season, and the Hispanic influences on the region are celebrated in “Fest’Aigues-Mortes” through the magic of flamenco and gypsy jazz music.
Port du Roy Marina – the owner’s perspective
The owner, Conrad, said that they chose this villa for its absolute uniqueness, and the fact that it had space for a pool, a necessity when the temperatures soar in summertime.
They heard about this development when they were holidaying in the area, and decided to check it out, they’re happy that they did, and have now made many friends in the local community; speaking French and being prepared to join in the laughter has helped enormously with this. Their friend Richard, a native of Aigues-Mortes, who speaks perfect English, will be there to greet you and on hand to help or offer any tips.
This 2 bedroom villa, sleeping 2- 6 people, is located in a secure, safe gated community and includes a parking space. It is the ideal getaway for couples or families, and offers direct access to the marina from the garden. Rental prices range from £500 to £950 per week.
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