In the heart of the Languedoc Roussillon region, among all the South of France events is Montpellier, a dynamic city known for its intellectual life centered around the University, one of the oldest in the country. Though a far cry from the pastoral Provencal villages nearby, Montpellier is worth seeing for its own more cosmopolitan attractions.
The city boasts diverse examples of architecture representing a tour through history: the 12th century Mikvé is one of the oldest Jewish baths in Europe; a 13th century Benedictine monastery became the Faculty of Medicine in 1289, Europe’s oldest medical school. From the 14th century, Saint Pierre Cathedral still stands as the only church to have survived the religious wars. And at the heart of historic Montpellier are over 70 private mansions, examples of classic 17th and 18th century architecture, which are open to visitors. Surrounding Montpellier are grand buildings, lit beautifully at night. One is the famous Place de la Comédie, the focal point of the city, which houses the statue of the Three Graces, the symbolic Greek “goddesses” of the city. Two opera houses, the Opéra Berlioz and the Opéra Comédie, are home to famous orchestras and many year-round performances. Modern design is also a part of Montpellier, displayed in the city’s Antigone district which was designed in 1979 by Catalonian architect Ricardo Bofill.
This district incorporates 20th century stylistic elements reminiscent of Eastern bloc countries- quite a contrast from the ornate and grand buildings in the historic center of Montpellier. Apart from the buildings, the city has its own “island of green,” the oldest botanical garden in France, complete with a research garden and a forest school for botanists.
New York Habitat offers ideal accommodations to enjoy the architectural treasures of this southern French city.
These furnished apartments in Montpellier Region are situated within walking distance of the historical center and the Place de la Comédie. Visitors here will enjoy the many restaurants and shops that line the banks of the Lez River outside the apartment building, as well as an Olympic swimming pool one block away. Connecting Antigone and the beach is a 10 kilometer track perfect for running or biking that takes you to the Mediterranean Sea in a short stroll.
Closer to the historic center are more New York Habitat accommodations to choose from, like this spacious 2-bedroom loft in Montpellier (PR-1133). This two-bedroom offers access to a large garden where you can relax or enjoy an outdoor meal with your friends. And amenities like a flat screen TV with satellite channels, DVD player and Wifi Internet access are here to make your stay easy and comfortable.
Just outside the city, in a residential district, New York Habitat also offers a hosted 2-bedroom vacation apartment in Montpellier (PR-86). This bed and breakfast apartment offers two independent bedrooms and can accommodate four people. Guests have a private bathroom and private entrance, as well as parking space under a covered terrace outside. There is shared access to the living-room, the spacious renovated kitchen and the landscaped outdoor swimming pool and beautiful grounds. Though there is plenty of privacy, the welcoming owner of this residence gives guided excursions to the most interesting sights in the area, if requested.
Whether you’d prefer stay in the historical old town, a modern high-rise or a large residence outside the city, New York Habitat offers accommodations that provide excellent access to all the attractions that Montpellier has to offer.
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