Must see
Discover the hidden gems around the Gard
1. Pont du Gard
The Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct that was later expanded into a bridge and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the summer, you can go kayaking there. It’s best to rent boats in Collias. Along the banks of the Gardon, you can dock the canoe to have a picnic or sunbathe. An unforgettable day trip for water, beautiful nature, and culture enthusiasts.
2. Jardins Botaniques de la Bambouseraie, Anduze
In these bamboo gardens on the road between Alès and Nîmes, you will momentarily feel transported to the tropics. The silence overwhelms you, and the sounds are completely different from those you are accustomed to in the Gard region. On warm days, the plants provide a refreshing shade.
3. Les Cascades.du Sautadet - la Roque-sur-Cèze - Goudargues
Sunbathing and waterfalls, what a delight when you’re on vacation. Les Cascades du Sautadet is a beautiful place to enjoy them. Bring a picnic along, and you can relax there all day long. There are lovely spots for sunbathing, or you can find a shaded area to dip your toes or swim in the refreshing water. Daredevils who dive from the rocks are also a sight to behold. You can even take the plunge yourself, but please be cautious. It can be slippery, so make sure you’re certain that the spot where you’re jumping is deep enough.
The waterfalls are located at the foot of the beautiful village of La Roque-sur-Cèze. Definitely worth a visit. The village of Goudargues is also a gem. It is called La Venice Gardoise or the Venice of the Gard. Along the canal that runs through the village, there are numerous terraces and restaurants.
4. Les concluses de Lussan
Walking among the impressive rock formations, you feel transported to ancient times. During the summer, the caves provide some refreshing coolness.
5. The Garrigue
Our region is known for la garrigue. It is a habitat characterized by vegetation consisting mainly of grasses, herbs, and low plants. There are hiking trails that lead you from village to village. Especially in spring, it is a delight to see all the plants in bloom. The word ‘garrigue’ comes from the Provençal word ‘garriga.’ In Old French, it was called ‘jarrie,’ which means fallow land. The meaning is sought in the direction of ‘rock’ and ‘hard’.
6. Steamtrain Cevennes
The steam train departs from Anduze and takes you along various places and sights, with Saint-Jean-du-Gard as the final destination. Saint-Jean-du-Gard is a charming village where you can enjoy aperitifs and visit lovely restaurants. The travel time by steam train from Anduze to Saint-Jean-du-Gard is approximately 40 minutes.
7. Uzès
Authentic town with a typical South French market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. During the summer, it can get crowded during these market days, but that’s part of the charm. There are charming terraces, numerous restaurants, beautiful alleyways, and houses. There is a medieval garden, and the castle is still inhabited by the Duke of Uzès. In the alleys behind the castle, you’ll find the artists’ district.
8. Visiting nearby villages
La Bastide-d’Engras, Pougnadoresse, and La Capelle-et-Masmolène showcase the typical atmosphere of a Southern French village. They are located within a stone’s throw of each other and are just a 10-minute drive from Fontarèches. But there is another gem nearby that takes the crown. Les Plus Beaux Villages de France, an independent organization, designates the most beautiful villages in France. Lussan, a village just a 5-minute drive from us, has been bestowed with this honor. Not only is the village stunning and authentic, but it also offers a spectacular view of the surrounding area due to its elevated position.
9. Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie
This artist village is mainly known for its potters. It is a beautiful village with small alleys and houses painted in various warm colors of Provence. You can find pottery studios everywhere.
10. Nîmes
Nîmes has been an important city since Roman times, and you can see and feel it when you visit this beautiful city. The Arena, the Maison Carrée, and the Tour Magne are evidence of its significance. In the Jardin de la Fontaine, you can see the Nemausus Well, the water source that gave rise to the city of Nîmes. The Temple of Diana is a remnant of the Roman bath complex built by the Romans in the 2nd century. The park is also adorned with magnificent statues. Naturally, you end your day in Nîmes by dining in one of the numerous delicious restaurants
11. Avignon
Who doesn’t know the song ‘Sur le Pont d’Avignon’? The bridge is still standing, and you can even do a little dance on it if you’d like. But Avignon is so much more than just the bridge. Le Palais des Papes is the largest Gothic building in France. A picturesque part of Avignon can be found on Rue des Teinturiers. It’s a narrow street where the Sorgue River is channeled before merging with the Rhône. You can see the machinery there that was once used in the textile industry. In Avignon, you can also admire over 4 kilometers of ancient city walls. In the city center and the small alleyways of Avignon, you’ll find, unsurprisingly, numerous beautiful terraces and delightful restaurants.”
12. Baux-de-Provence en Carrières de Lumières
A wonderful day trip is a visit to Baux-de-Provence and the Carrières de Lumières. The castle of Baux-de-Provence and the village itself are a must for anyone who loves Provence. You will be immersed in the typical atmosphere of Southern France. Authenticity at its best.
The Carrières de Lumières are old quarries where impressive artworks are projected onto the walls. It’s a true spectacle of light and sound that you won’t soon forget. It’s best to reserve your tickets in advance.
13. Street markets
When thinking about the South, one cannot overlook the numerous cozy markets that take place there. In our village of Fontarèches, the weekly market on Thursdays is highly recommended. You can buy local delicacies there to prepare a delicious menu in one of our gîtes. The market takes place under the church tower of Fontarèches from 11 am to 12 pm and is concluded with a glass of wine offered by Mayor Patrick Méjean, who is faithfully present every week.
On Wednesdays and Saturdays, there is a market in Uzès. On Wednesdays, it is a small market held at the Place aux Herbes, whereas on Saturdays, you can stroll along the various stalls scattered throughout the streets and squares of the city.
On Fridays, a market takes place in Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie.
In mid-August, one of the largest flea markets in Gard is held. The village of Barjac is transformed into one big ‘marché aux puces,’ where you can still find plenty of great bargains.
14. Monasteries and abbeys
Near Fontarèches, you will find the Monastery of Solan. The monastery nuns sell various delicacies there, such as honey, olive oil, vinegar, jams, appetizers, and, of course, wine. Everything is, naturally, organic. A little further away (about an hour and a half drive through beautiful landscapes), you will arrive at the Abbey of Sénanque in Gordes. Especially in the months of June and July, when the lavender is in full bloom, this is a feast for the eyes and the nose.
15. The coast
The nearest seaside town is Le Grau-du-Roi, about an hour and a half drive from here. You’ll pass through the Camargue with its wild horses and flamingos as you make your way there. You can take a boat trip on the sea. This will undoubtedly be a wonderful day trip to the beach.
1117, Chemin de Berbezine • 30580 Hamilliac-Fontarèches