Villeneuve Minervois features narrow, cobblestone streets with stunning hilltop vistas. Carcassonne’s world famous medieval walled city and its numerous castles are the second most visited attraction in France, after the Eiffel Tower.

A picture perfect investment in the south of France, nestled in the Languedoc region, celebrated for its rich history and unique character.

Experts claim that 2007 will see the smart moneyed will be investing in Languedoc-Roussillon this year, where property prices are expected to increase by over 15 per cent.

Indeed all logic points in the right direction, when Languedoc is concerned. The region is loved for its Mediterranean resorts, high mountains and especially its vineyards. In fact, it is considered the world’s biggest wine producer, above and beyond Bordeaux.

Property consultant Ciaran Mannion of overseasproperties.com, highlights that amongst many ruling factors, Languedoc is now carrying a torch for the south of France as a result of its enhanced infrastructure. “Now a major European thoroughfare, Languedoc’s airports are working in collaboration with a number of low cost airlines,” says Ciaran. “The region is served by no less than five airports with investors able to fly into Carcassonne, Toulouse, Perpignan, Nimes and Montpellier. April 2008 will also see a new route from Bristol to Béziers.” With connecting flights from Galway with Aer Arann to Bristol Languedoc’s geographical placement at the crossroads of northern and southern Europe, offers enhanced investment from Italy and Spain. In particular, investment from Barcelona has come down Perpignan’s rail line and by 2009 the TGV (train de grand vitesse – highspeed train) will operate. “When you consider house prices along the Paris to Marseille line jumped by 45 per cent in two-years, you can only image what lifts the high speed TGV train line will bring. This is no exaggeration it is inevitable,” says Ciaran. As demand will increase from Barcelona where property prices are high.

High returns

If you want to get in on a piece of the action this year then its wise to move fast.

Prices in the Languedoc region have gained in recent years, but they do come in a great deal lower than the traditional hotspots of the Rivera. “The cost per sqm along the Rivera is nearly €5,000, but Languedoc has yet to rise to E3,000,” says Ciaran. In particular the surrounding Carcassonne region offers increasing opportunities for Irish investors. Not only are their flights from Dublin, Cork and Shannon to Carcassonne but overseasproperties.com have revealed that three vineyards in the region are in late stages of planning to develop international golf courses. “Golf is in its infancy in the Languedoc region,” says Ciaran. “The pre-eminent arrival of up to three new courses will bring a flow of big spenders and enhanced tourism opportunities.”

Just 20 minutes from Carcassonne, overseasproperties.com has launched an attractive development in the rustic village of Villeneuve Minervois. ‘Carcassonne Golf’ is a hamlet of 27 traditional villas. Each villa includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms and a private pool. Prices range from E255,000 to E285,000. Overseasproperties.com are estimating a weekly rental income of over E400 in low season and E735 during peak season. Due for completion by summer 2009, investors can expect to receive lifts of anything between 15 to 18 per cent within the 18 month period. Enjoy a short stroll over stream to find warm croissants and baguettes in the morning or a typically French meal (foie gras, duck and crème brulée) at the auberge in the evening. An appreciating investment is virtually assured due to the luxury golf and spa resort planned 20 minutes away.

The attraction

‘Carcassonne Golf’ is positioned in the village of Villeneuve Minervois, located just 16 km north-east of Carcassonne, where the world famous medieval walled city and its numerous castles, are the second most visited attraction in France, after the Eiffel Tower.

The village of Villeneuve Minervois itself, features narrow, cobblestone streets with stunning hilltop vistas, has a rich historical heritage and provides all amenities locally. It is an ideal location for those who wish to relax or enjoy outdoor activities: walking, swimming, mountain biking. It is a perfect village celebrated for truffles and wine from the two local vineyards - Chateau Des Chanoines (25 hectares of vines) and Cellier Lauran Caberet. And local farmers are more than happy to provide incredibly fresh produce, from farmhouse cheese to foie gras.

This region is particularly well known for its beauty, its rich history and its great and traditional gastronomy. Indeed it is the perfect investment and the perfect family retreat for years to come.

For further details visit www.overseasproperties.com, free phone 1800 252 004 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Inspection Trips Available contact 1800 252 004

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