Luxury and community in South of France at Cinq & Sept

Nestled in Roujan, a picturesque wine-making village in the sunny South of France, Cinq & Sept began as a dream shared by couple Greg Taylor and Alex Charles, two British entrepreneurs who established the resort over 20 years ago. Inspired by a love for authentic experiences and meaningful connections, they transformed a centuries-old estate into a haven for gay travelers seeking a blend of relaxation, luxury, and camaraderie.

This unique resort merges the warmth of a gay guesthouse with the amenities of a boutique hotel. Guests enjoy luxurious suites, dinners under starry skies, and vibrant pool parties while forming friendships that often last a lifetime—something the owners cherish deeply. "It's what makes Cinq & Sept more than just a place to stay," Charles shares one afternoon during my stay.

Cinq & Sept may feel like France's best-kept secret, but it is surprisingly accessible, with several nearby airports: Béziers (30 minutes), Montpellier (50 minutes), Carcassonne (75 minutes), and Marseille (2.5 hours). Once you arrive, you can enjoy warm summer days, with average temperatures around 84°F (29°C), perfect for lounging by the pool or relaxing in the shaded garden filled with lavender and jasmine. The off-season also has its own appeal for a quieter getaway, with mild winter temperatures averaging 55°F (13°C). This is an ideal time to explore the property's curated retreats, designed to help guests relax, recharge, and reconnect in serene surroundings. Cinq & Sept is also optimally situated, providing easy access to gay-only beaches, exceptional restaurants, and the lively culture of nearby Montpellier, often celebrated as France’s second gay capital after Paris.

Welcome to your South of France Escape

Cinq & Sept strikes a perfect balance between relaxed charm and modern comfort, offering an experience that’s as social as it is serene. From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere felt warm and inviting—unpretentious yet thoughtfully refined. It’s no wonder so many guests make this their annual retreat. The suites are indeed a highlight. My room, the two-bedroom Montpellier Suite, was spacious and beautifully restored, and equipped with everything you’d expect from a modern stay: a fully functional kitchen with a fridge, ice maker, Nespresso machine, air-conditioning that doubles as heating in the winter, an in-room safe and luxurious king-size beds so comfortable I didn’t want to leave.

Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, you’ll find plenty of ways to unwind. The large pool, always-on jacuzzi, and garden lounge with cozy sofas make it easy to relax in peace or socialize with fellow guests. For the more active traveler, there’s a small gym and yoga space, and e-bike rentals can be arranged to explore the surrounding area. Thoughtful touches elevate your stay even further, like borrowable mountain bikes, BBQ gear, picnic hampers, chilled boxes to keep your vino or beer cool on the beach, and beach umbrellas. These niceties, paired with weekly gourmet pizza nights or poolside dinners and cocktail parties create a sense of community that’s hard to find elsewhere. Communication with the hosts during your stay via WhatsApp ensures every need is met, from local tips to reservations and organizing group activities like kayaking trips.

Play and explore: Adventures beyond the resort

Each suite at Cinq & Sept is equipped with a curated Guest Bible, your ultimate travel companion, ensuring you make the most of your time in the South of France. This thoughtfully crafted guide, spanning over 50 pages, includes everything from restaurant recommendations to must-visit beach clubs and local activities, taking the guesswork out of your holiday planning. Honestly, every property should have one! For wine lovers, Domaine Allegria and Vin en Vacances offer unforgettable tastings, while foodies will delight in dining at Delauzun. If adventure is calling, rent a kayak at Canoe Roquebrun for a scenic day of paddling on the Orb river or borrow a bike and picnic set from the resort to explore the area’s scenic trails.

The region’s natural beauty is unmatched, from the dramatic red landscapes of Lake Salagou to the crystal-clear rock pools at Colombiers – ideal for sunning, swimming, and picnicking. Prefer sand? Serignan Beach and Cap d’Agde provide stunning gay and nude-friendly spots, while chic beach clubs like La Plage Bonaventureand La Paillote Bambou offer luxurious loungers, cocktails, and tapas. Also, don’t miss visiting the bustling Saturday market in Pézenas, where you can pick up fresh food to enjoy back at the resort.

Poolside vibes and starry nights: Here's the 411 on what to expect

Staying at a gay resort can bring up plenty of questions, especially if it’s your first time: Is it clean? (Absolutely!). Will there be wild antics all over the property? (Not that I saw during my stay!). Is everyone walking around nude? (It’s optional by the pool area but not de rigueur). At Cinq & Sept, these queries quickly fade into the background as the property effortlessly balances a fun, relaxed atmosphere with the comforts of a meticulously maintained resort. The property also offers an unparalleled experience, where relaxation, community, and a touch of cheeky charm come together seamlessly. Exclusively catering to gay men and women from May through October, the summer vibe here is unmistakably gay, with a majority of returning gay men making up the clientele during this peak season. Outside of these months, the property opens its doors to everyone, but if you're looking for a true gay getaway, summer is where it’s at.

The clothing-optional pool is the centerpiece of the action, so to speak, perfect for those who enjoy swimming or sunbathing au naturel and without the worry of tan lines. Cleanliness and etiquette are also key here—a fact this germaphobe always appreciates—with thoughtful reminders like laying on a towel if you're lounging in the buff. The Guest Bible in each room is both informative and, well, hilariously candid. Alongside practical tips on nearby dining and attractions, it cheekily requests, "Please do not cum in the jacuzzi." Who knew a Bible could be this entertaining? It's definitely worth flicking through at the beginning of your stay. Poolside, you'll find an "honesty bar" stocked with wine, spirits, and mixers. Simply help yourself, jot down your selections, and enjoy; the total will be added to your bill to settle upon departure. During the off-season, the honesty bar is located inside, tucked behind the stairs, offering options for a self-serve happy hour.

Pricing and packages

Dreaming of a South of France getaway? At Cinq & Sept, indulgence meets value with pricing tailored to suit every season. In the height of summer, starting rates for the Roujan Suite are approximately $200 (€187), while the spacious two-bedroom Montpellier Suite begins at around $320 (€297). A daily breakfast basket is included and delivered straight to your suite featuring croissants, pain au chocolat, yogurt, fruit, juice, and jam—a delightful French way to start your day.

For a longer escape, the winter months (January 1 to March 31) bring an incredible opportunity for extended stays. Monthly rates start as low as $53 (€50) per night for stays of three months or more, $64 (€60) per night for two to three months, and $75 (€70) per night for one to two months. Whether you're looking to practice your French, escape the winter chill, or simply work remotely in peace, Cinq & Sept offers a quiet haven with super-fast internet. And I’m told by returning guests spring and autumn are arguably the most beautiful times to visit. Vibrant red poppies and golden vineyards create stunning landscapes, while sunny days let you relax poolside without the summer crowds.

2025 Retreats to remember

• Learn to Massage (April & November): Perfect for hands-on learners, this retreat teaches the ultimate massage techniques to leave anyone feeling #blessed.
• Naked Yoga (April & October): This 4-day retreat combines yoga movement with touch and connection, helping participants deepen their relationship with their bodies and others. The sessions are designed to be body-positive and welcoming to all yoga levels. It kicks off with a group dinner on the first night, with ample time to explore, relax, and bond.
• Tantric Energy (April & October): Unlock the potential of your inner sexual energy and learn how to harness and direct it during this empowering retreat. This retreat offers a blend of yoga, meditation, breathwork, and massages to promote natural relaxation and harmony. Like the Naked Yoga retreat, non-participating partners are also welcome.
• The Giant Leap (May & October): This transformative retreat focuses on personal development, combined with both individual and group therapy sessions—a unique opportunity to step into a new phase of self-awareness.
• Stripped Bare (May & October): This deeply transformative retreat invites guests to explore and celebrate their sexuality in a safe, supportive, and spiritually enriching space. Through guided practices and group connection, participants are encouraged to release insecurities and defenses, paving the way for deeper intimacy and authentic connections.
• Hike & Dip (May & September): Ideal for the active traveler, this dog-friendly retreat allows you to explore breathtaking landscapes—canyons, lakes, mountains, and coastal trails—on guided hikes and walks, capped off with refreshing swims and delightful picnics.
• Christmas House Party (December 23-28): Celebrate the holidays with a 5-day getaway featuring delicious meals, exciting outings, cozy conversations, and festive activities—all culminating in a lively house party on the final night.

The packing list

While the suites are stocked with cruelty-free Rituals toiletries, beach and pool towels, and Nespresso pods for the coffee machines, here are a few essentials worth packing. Keep in mind the nude-friendly atmosphere is very much embraced by many guests—even the resort's website cheekily lists "a swimsuit" among the items you won't need, alongside umbrellas, formal attire, and toiletries like shower gel and shampoo.

Packing for Cinq & Sept means curating a wardrobe that's both stylish and versatile. If baring it all isn't quite your vibe, rest assured—many guests opt for swimwear as well. These Orlebar Brown Riviera swim shorts in classic blue offer a refined look, while these Solmio print swim shorts in California blue bring a vibrant, playful energy. For those looking to make a splash, this swim brief by Carterwear, available in bold hues and even a thong back option, is guaranteed to turn heads. These sleek acetate and metal frameRalph Lauren sunglasses are a timeless accessory for sunny days by the pool or beach. When heading out to explore local markets or charming restaurants, these off-white Ecoalf sneakers, made from recycled materials, are a smart, comfortable, and sustainable choice. For evening dinners or social gatherings, this Jacquemus Jean shirt pairs perfectly with the brand's Spiaggia round bag, a chic raffia basket that's as stylish as it is functional.

Other important information

• Alcohol Consumption: The legal drinking age in France is 18.
• Cannabis Regulations: Cannabis is not legal in France.
• Tipping Etiquette: Tipping isn’t as common in France as in the U.S. However, leaving a small amount for exceptional service—around 5-10%—is always appreciated. For taxis and other services, rounding up is a nice gesture.
• Language: English is widely spoken at Cinq & Sept thanks to the British owners and the resort’s diverse, international clientele, however knowing a few words in French will greatly benefit interactions with locals.
• Tap Water: Roujan’s tap water is clean and safe to drink, so save some cash and skip the bottled water. For extra peace of mind, I always travel with my Larq water bottle—it’s self-cleaning and kills harmful bacteria with its built-in UV-C light.
• Transportation: Renting a car is highly recommended to explore the region’s best attractions, from charming villages to sun-soaked beaches. It also makes airport or train station transfers much easier. For EV drivers, there’s an onsite charger and plenty along the way. The roads can be pretty narrow, so opting for a smaller car is also highly recommended for navigating the medieval village streets.
• Parking: While onsite parking isn’t available, street parking is easily found nearby, so you won’t have to stress about finding a space.
• Pet Policy: Dogs are welcome for an additional €10 per night. If traveling with a dog, and available, select the Garden Suite as it's the most ideal for accommodating both you and your pup.