Appart'hôtel Odalys Nakâra ★★★★

There is something so opulent about the beachside resorts of France, and Cap d’Agde is no different. Set along 14km of fine, sandy shores, this resort offers the ideal location for a retreat. The marina boasts a collection of designer yachts, offering a glimpse into an elegant lifestyle, and there are plenty of activities to get stuck into. I was most looking forward to walking between the quays along interconnecting footpaths that showcased incredible views of the region. But you can also hop on a bike and cycle the length of the coast, as well as perfect your swing at the 19-hole golf course and practice your backhand at the International Tennis Club.

Cap d’Agde harbours a rich history too, drawing inspiration from Agde, a famous Greek city which has millennia of fascinating stories, and Mediterranean nuances, with lush pine forests stretching out inland and seaside towns dotted all around. Yes, this opulent resort in France was high on my radar and when I heard that the Odalys Résidence Prestige Nakara was opening in July, I had booked my break in no time at all.

The 4-star hotel is a modern affair. From the outside it resembled a contemporary art gallery with a white-cube appearance that stood out against the deep blue of the sky. Inside, the pool area was a futuristic dream, with stylish shade roofs and a sleek selection of massage facilities and a peaceful pool. The rooms, or residences, are equally as modern, with whitewashed walls adorned with colourful paintings. Fine, pale furniture and top-notch fixtures and fittings gave off a serene vibe that seemed to spread all around the hotel. Peace, quiet, and relaxation were the name of the game, helped along by the luxurious resort itself and the in-house spa, hammam, and sauna. With a fully-equipped kitchen, a dining space, and a lounge area, my room made me feel right at home, and the French windows that opened out onto a private patio beyond provided a bright and airy atmosphere.

When I wasn’t enjoying the calm of my residence, I explored the resort and surrounding region. As well as a selection of adventurous pursuits like horseback riding, quad biking, rock climbing, diving, and fishing, there was a fascinating cultural world to discover. Fortifications and cathedrals span the area and a collection of Greek-inspired museums conserved a deep history. Nearby, traditional fishing towns showcased an old lifestyle, whilst medieval towns, Mediterranean villages, and lively theme parks beckoned. The Résidence sat just minutes from the beach, which meant I could pop down in the afternoon and go for a leisurely walk along the sand, or simply sit and watch the world go by with a cocktail in hand.

I am always blown away by the unique charm of French seaside resorts, but Cap d’Agde seemed to go one step further. As well as a luxury note instilled through the expensive yachts and designer atmosphere, there were plenty of historic sites and stories to discover. The newly opened Odalys Résidence Prestige Nakara was the perfect hideout from which to explore, too, with a relaxing vibe and a serene showcase of modern design.