France ranked second in gay global travel index

Drenched in history, romance, unparalleled gastronomic delights and varied landscapes, France is already an established global tourist destination, but the country’s appeal continues to grow, particularly among the LGBT community. Indeed, its popularity was boosted by France’s recent decision to legalise gay marriage.

The Languedoc-Roussillon region, often referred to as the "other Provence", situated in south west France is already well-known as a gay friendly area. The city of Montpelier holds the largest gay Pride festival outside Paris, with numerous hotels, Bars and restaurants catering for the pink pound.

La Villa Rouge, a discothèque just outside the city and the nearby nudist beach L'Espiguette are said to be the main attractions pour les gays francaises year-round.

Ground work has begun on the village, which will comprise a 7-hectare gated community, and construction will start in the next few months. With active living foremost in mind, the range of on-site amenities includes tennis courts, indoor pool, gymnasium and quality entertainment and cultural programmes.

Danny Silver, Managing Partner of Europe's first LGBT active retirement village, The Villages Group - Rainbow comments: “The increasingly open gay scene in France and apparent demand for safe havens with like-minded people for the older LGBT generation is exactly why we have opened reservations on our latest retirement village nestled in the heart of the Languedoc.

“Not only is The Villages Group - Rainbow surrounded by picturesque countryside and the peaceful Canal du Midi, the region's nearby larger cities such as Beziers, Narbonne, Nimes and its capital, Montpellier, offer museums, festivals, restaurants along with an active gay community.”