Saidia, the sporting capital of Africa?

Probably the largest ever investment by sporting personalities has just taken place at Mediterranean-Saidia in Morocco. New Era Limited, property investment advisors, say that football heroes Rio Ferdinand and John Terry have been quick to spot the savvy investment potential of this award winning destination on Morocco's northern coast.

When complete, Le Jardin de Fleurs will be transformed into 'The St Tropez of Africa'. Comprised of eleven resorts, its 1,100 marina berth will accommodate 65 foot superyachts, putting nearby Puerto Banus in the shade.

So far, dozens of sporting stars have individually invested in the resort. NEO say that this is probably the highest concentration of sports owners in any single resort in the world.

These include many of Rio and Johns' fellow teammates, with more from the entertainment and arts world following in their wake. Rio Ferdinand was so impressed with his newly acquired 5 bed riad style villa in Le Village des Amis, he has since invested in several units at nearby Village de Sport.

Ross Taylor, managing director of New Era says, "In the ten years selling overseas property, I have never been more impressed with any single development. The scope and quality is truly amazing."

Prices range from £300,000 to £500,000 for frontline golf villa at Le Village des Amis. Townhouses and apartments from nearby Le Village de Sport range from £160,000, while villas cost from £260,000 to £450,000.

Le Jardin de Fleurs is part of His Majesty King Mohammed VI's Vision 2010 scheme, built on seven million square metres, alongside 6km of unspoilt coastline.

It includes eleven hotels, three golf courses, and 3,000 luxury accommodation units.

Oujda airport meanwhile is a 35 minute drive away, with daily international connections via Malaga, Madrid and Paris (2.5 hours from London).

Sean Cusack, managing director of Property Logic says "fifteen airlines are planning to commence flights to Oujda from the UK over the next two years, and we expect direct routes by the end of 2008".