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This was the second visit for us to the resort of La Grande Motte which is one of the main resorts of the Languedoc region. La Grande Motte is a thriving summer seaside resort that was purpose built in the mid-1960s and boasts some of the best beaches in the region. With public toilets and showers, first aid and lifeguards on duty, they are ideal for families with children of all ages. There are also a few private beaches offering sun beds, parasols and either a bar or a restaurant or both. Water sports on offer include windsurfing, jet-skiing, water-skiing, diving, sea-kayaking and paragliding.

We stayed at the 3* Mercure hotel; the location on the marina is fantastic giving easy access to restaurants and boutiques. The hotel itself was excellent. Our room had a nice balcony overlooking the marina and was large enough for a table and chairs. The bathroom was a good size and there was a separate toilet. It was kept spotlessly clean and fresh towels were delivered daily. We stayed by the pool for a couple of the days and there were plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available.

The resort comes alive at night but is not noisy and there are no rowdy groups. There are plenty of restaurants - one of our favourites is Cosa Nostra as the food and wine is delicious. There are plenty of restaurants, shops, ice cream parlours and carousels along the promenade.

If you want a day away from the beach, Montpellier is only a 15 minutes drive away. This lovely University city has plenty to see, and has many shops and restaurants. A short 20 minutes drive away in the opposite direction is the ancient town of Aigue-Mortes. As you approach you cannot see the town, only a large walled castle, as the town is inside. There are some beautiful architectural sights; you can walk the ramparts or just sit in the busy plaza and have something to eat or drink.

During the weekend we arrived, there was a firework competition taking place. It seemed like everybody turned up and the beaches and promenade were full of families. Each night a firework display was given and at the end of the three nights people had to vote and pick a winner. It was really different and we thoroughly enjoyed all of the displays.

If you want to relax and take things easy and just chill out, this is the place to visit. It was our second but not our last visit to this charming resort.