The Villages Group is pioneering the concept, which is already popular in the United States and Australia, in three locations in France. The eco friendly chalet style homes are being built in Bordeaux/Perigord, Canal du Midi and Provence.
The aim is to provide homes, services and support for people in the 50 plus age group who want a property that they can enjoy in their third age. They are not retirement homes, there are no medical facilities, but people who are active well into their eighties are likely to find the concept attractive.
The properties are all on one level and eco friendly set in natural environments with site facilities including tennis courts, an indoor pool, gymnasium and entertainment programmes.
With people now living longer, healthier lives most entering their so called third age can expect to live well into their late eighties and the developer believes it is important to provide housing that is specifically designed for them.
‘We believe that Active Living Villages for the over 50's which provide services and amenities that encourage an active, happy and healthy lifestyle focussed around a strong community of like minded individuals is definitely the way forward,’ said Danny Silver, managing director of The Villages Group.
They expect buyers from across Europe to be interested in moving to these projects in France. ‘With more and more people looking to move abroad for their golden years, seeking lower living costs and a better quality of life, France remains a popular destination affording a wonderfully warm climate, relaxed lifestyle and stunning natural beauty,’ explained Silver.
‘Providing a lifestyle that will best reflect the interests of its residents, the 50 plus village communities will allow residents to live their lives to the full in one of the top ten expat countries in the world,’ he added.
The concept for The Villages Group in France has taken four years of research and development to create the first active living resorts in the country.
