Montpellier Property Guide

There has been something going on in Montpellier for over a thousand years - trade, for which it was famous even in ancient times. The citizens thrive on it and it makes it one of the most vibrant of southern European cities, and all this only a beach ball throw from the Mediterranean. The city has a complicated one way system, but it does work eventually. There is an historic heart to this modern city based around the cathedral.

There is an airport and both coach and rail links to other parts of France. The station isn't in the most convenient position perhaps, but there are plenty of bus links. For the driver from Britain an option might be to put your car on the train, though this, not a cheap option, requires planning ahead.

There is a museum of all things Landocean in the Hôtel des Trésoriers as well as France's oldest botanic garden near the cathedral. For those with a taste for the macabre there is Musee d' Anatomie, quite near rue de l'Universite - a good place for book shops. L'Antigone is the newest area, a mix of lower cost housing and offices around post-modern open spaces - you will love it or hate it.

The weather is all you would expect from somewhere this far south, though this does include a drop in temperature when the Mistral blows.

There is entertainment, both indoors and out - something for everyone, from quiet corners, comedy, concerts and discos. From May through to July seems to be the comedy season, with festivals that attract hundreds of performers. There is also an international Dance festival each summer, local religious Fetes and both cinema and rock festivals. The local tourist guide lists events by the month, so choose you house hunting visit to coincide with your favourite. There are of course plenty of restaurants in all price ranges offering local produce - olive oil and seafood, wild boar and duck - just reading the menus makes your mouth water.

The Jardin des Plantes includes a restaurant with a fusion menu in wonderful surrounding, only yards from the city bustle, yet a green haven with moderate prices.

Restaurants

Le Petit Jardin, 20, Rue Jean Jacques Rousseau, 34000 Montpellier, Tel no:04 67 60 78 78, 14

Chaumiere, 14 Rue du Pila-St-Gély, 34000, Montpellier, Tel no: 04 67 52 80 59 15 €

Property - lots of modern developments, from tiny apartments to much larger villas. For those who want to be near a city, but prefer somewhere a little quieter the choices may tend towards the more traditional from a magnificent stone built mas to a tiny cottage. What ever your chosen option, do find yourself a good bi-lingual estate agent such as one linked to Sextant Properties. We will be able to show you properties that fit both your budget and your ideas and can arrange accompanied visits. We will be your link to the perfect place for you in the Languedoc, whether in this lively city or in its surrounding countryside.

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