Paris, France -- (SBWIRE) -- 04/08/2014 -- The gay community are the newest group to fuel the booming retirement housing market, which already offers developments catering to art enthusiasts, musicians, military veterans and university alumni.

It's not just the age of retirees that has changed - these days, a growing number are demanding 'active retirement.'

One previously marginalised group in particular, the LGBT community, has tapped into the “joie de vivre” with the increasing accepting attitudes towards the "gay and grey" available in France with buyers keen to snap up one of the one level, eco-friendly villas at the new The Villages Group - Rainbow development.

The Villages Group - Rainbow, a 7 hectare gated community of affordable one level eco-friendly/energy efficient "village-houses" with concierge services nestled in the heart of South West France, is a private oasis for the Gay & Lesbian (LGBT) Community who want an “Active & Healthy Lifestyle” in a warm, friendly, healthy climate set on the banks of the Canal du Midi; between Vi neyards & Olive groves and near to several typical Languedoc Villages. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The emphasis is on active living and the wide range of activities on offer includes tennis, archery, aerobics, equestrian events, sailing, boating and swimming in the village's outdoor and indoor pools. Social engagements abound, with a focus on arts and crafts, music, dance, wine and theatre. Owners enjoy special membership to the stunning nearby golf course and free bicycle hire. The development even boasts access to four ski resorts, all within a 55 mile radius.

The Villages concept is certainly not a place where the older generation go to live out their remaining days in seclusion or to go back into the closet.

The great weather, French gastronomy and picturesque location provide perfect reasons to spend your latter years at “Le Village-Canal du Midi”

visit http://www.thevillagesgroup.com/rainbow.