Located at the confluence of the Cèze and the Rhône, this village with a Provençal feel is renowned for its quality of life. Take advantage of this central point to explore the region's major ancient and medieval treasures, all located a short distance away. It is the unmissable triathlon event, with hundreds of participants from around the world coming every year on July 14th. All the ingredients are here to enjoy these special moments!

To discover

• The Ancient Theatre and the Triumphal Arch of Orange. Classified by UNESCO, these Roman monuments are unmissable. The Ancient Theatre is open all year round for a major historical immersion. (Estimated duration: 1 h 30 to 2 h)

• Fort Saint-André in Villeneuve-lès-Avignon. Discover this royal fortress offering a spectacular panoramic view over the valley and the Rhône. The site is open even in winter. (Estimated duration: 1 h to 1 h 30)

• Avignon and its Historic Centre. Do not miss the emblematic Popes' Palace (Palais des Papes) and the famous Pont d’Avignon (Avignon Bridge). The city centre, perfect for strolling, is about 30 minutes away.

Remoulins is the ideal access point to discover the Pont du Gard, an ancient wonder classified by UNESCO, and enjoy the surrounding nature.

To discover Heritage side: The Pont du Gard

• UNESCO Wonder: The Pont du Gard, a Grand Site d'Occitanie, is an impressive Roman aqueduct, with its 49 arches and 50,000 tonnes of stone—the area is located only 5 minutes by bike from the Pont du Gard! The site offers several discovery options: Museum visit, exhibitions, guided tour of the Bridge, or exploration of the aqueduct remains over 3.5 km.

• Event: The site hosts the Infinity Trail (Backyard Ultra) in January. Runners participate on a 6.7 km loop, but you can also attend as a spectator at the foot of the Pont du Gard!

Nature side: the banks of the Gardon

• Activities: The banks of the Gardon, a haven of coolness, invite you to rest. In summer, you can enjoy swimming, canoeing-kayaking, or hiking.

• Hikes: The environment lends itself to beautiful walks: a 3.5 km path runs along the remains of the aqueduct, and marked hiking loops of varying difficulty are available (information and maps on site).

Aramon, located in Occitania, is a historic village perfect for a getaway combining heritage and outdoor activities.

Heritage side:

• In Aramon: Discover the historic heart with its private mansions (15th–18th centuries), the Place Choisity, and the walk along the old Rhône quays. The Château is accessible during the Saint-Martin Fair (November 11th).

• Nearby: Don't miss the Abbaye de Saint-Roman (in Beaucaire, approx. 10 km), a unique troglodytic monastery in Europe, offering an exceptional panorama over Provence.

Nature and Activities side:

• ViaRhôna and Green Way (Voie Verte): The village is on the ViaRhôna route (towards Avignon or Beaucaire). Take the Green Way to reach the Pont du Gard (18 km), a two-thousand-year-old ancient masterpiece.

• Hiking: Direct access to the GR42 and many local trails.

• River Stop (Relais Fluvial): Opportunity to practice water activities (jet-ski) and land activities (electric scooter).

Choose your atmosphere! These two character destinations offer you authentic and complementary experiences, one centred on craftsmanship, the other on medieval history and gourmet food.

Option 1: Vallabrègues, Craftsmanship by the Water

• Let yourself be charmed by this charming Provençal commune, renowned for its history linked to basketry and its tranquility by the water.

• Heritage and Craftsmanship side: Travel back in time at the Village of Basketmakers (Vanniers). You can meet the local artisan, visit the Basketry Museum and the Atelier de la Croix Couverte (renovation of antique chairs).

• Nature side: Lake Vallabrègues is a peaceful place ideal for relaxation, observation of local fauna and flora. It is perfect for fishing, picnics, and walks along its banks.

Option 2: Comps, Medieval and Gourmet

• This village of character combines the authenticity of white stone with the tranquility of the river. Let yourself be charmed by its calm atmosphere, ideal for a rejuvenating break.

• To discover: Explore the narrow streets and admire the remains of the castle for a quick immersion in an authentic medieval setting. The walk along the Cèze is unmissable for soothing views.

• To taste: Taste Le Pélardon! This AOP dairy specialty, raw milk goat's cheese, is full of character and ideal with olive oil.

Bellegarde, with its Provençal and festive character, is a place of Roman history and an ideal viewpoint over the nature of the Petite Camargue.

Heritage side:

• Roman Remains: The village pays homage to its Roman past with the Pont Aerarius (the town's emblem) and the remains of the 1st-century Roman aqueduct.

• Château de Belle Garde: Only the watchtower remains (nicknamed "La Madone"). It offers a magnificent panorama over the Petite Camargue plain.

Nature side:

• Walks and Cycling: Numerous hiking trails (2.7 to 12 km) and the Le Pattion Saint-Jean cycling route (7 km) allow you to discover the surrounding countryside.

• Lakes and Ponds: The lakes (Sautebraut, Clairettes, Haut Broussan) and the Moulins water body are privileged spots for relaxation, fishing, and water activities.

Le Grau du Roi is a must-see destination combining maritime history and wild nature, at the gateway to the Camargue. To discover Heritage side: The Heart of the Town and Maritime Heritage

• The Canal and the Town Centre: Stroll along the quays to admire the ballet of the boats. Just a 5-minute walk away, the Tourist Office will guide you to the hidden gems.

• Port-Camargue: Away from the centre, discover the largest marina in Europe. Its unique marina architecture can be explored during a bracing walk (1h) among the masts of the sailing boats.

• The Lighthouse House: This site retraces the saga of the lighthouse keepers (1h). You will discover historical objects and a breathtaking view of the harbour entrance.

• The Seaquarium: An immersive journey to observe sharks and sea turtles (2h), a must-do activity for lovers of marine biodiversity.

Nature side: the wild Eden

• Espiguette Beach and Lighthouse: Classified as a Grand Site de France, it is the largest dune system in Europe. Climb the steps of the Espiguette Lighthouse (1h) for a 360° panorama over this sandy desert and the sea as far as the eye can see.

Avèze is a charming village known for its architectural heritage and its proximity to one of Europe's natural wonders.

To discover Heritage side:

• Avèze Village: The village charms with its picturesque streets, its manor houses (18th and 19th centuries) and its important hydraulic heritage.

• The Château de Montcalm, listed as a Historic Monument since 1942 (private property, visible from the outside).

Nature side:

• Cirque de Navacelles: A few kilometres away, discover this incredible geological curiosity. This 300-metre-deep canyon offers an exceptional view from the plateau. It is one of Europe's largest canyons, shaped over 600,000 years. (The return hike to the hamlet is physical and lasts approximately 3 to 5 hours depending on the route).

• The Cirque de Navacelles viewpoints (Belvédères) are freely accessible all year round, allowing visitors to enjoy the spectacular views and the Maison du Grand Site, a welcome and exhibition centre on the history of the site, marking the start of an easy walk of about 30 minutes offering several panoramas.

Saint-Jean-du-Gard, the small historical capital of the Camisard Country, is the ideal starting point for exploring the heritage and nature of the Cévennes.

To discover Heritage side: Memory and Architecture

• Maison Rouge: A former silk spinning mill, this unmissable site now houses the Museum of the Cévennes Valleys (Musée des Vallées Cévenoles), a key place of memory for the region.

• Village: Stroll down the Grand'Rue to discover the local architecture, notably the Clock Tower (Tour Horloge), the Vicar's House (Maison du Vicaire), the Old Bridge (Pont Vieux), and the famous Stevenson Fountain (Fontaine Stevenson).

Nature side: The Gardons Valley

• Hiking: The village offers more than 150 km of trails in preserved natural landscapes, between mountains and wild rivers.

• Famous Routes: Take long-distance hiking trails (GR), such as the Huguenots trail or the famous Stevenson Trail (GR70), which you can hike accompanied by a donkey for an authentic adventure.

• Easy Access: Many loops lasting 1 to 3 hours are accessible to all walkers.

Alès, capital of the Cévennes, is a dynamic city that charms with its rich historical heritage and its direct access to exceptional nature.

To discover Heritage side: The Alès Monuments

• Emblematic Monuments: L'Ermitage: Primarily a free-access location offering a panoramic viewpoint over the city.

• The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral: Generally open for free visit (check opening hours).

• The Tempéras Arenas: Accessible during shows and events.

• Relaxation: The city offers many landscaped shaded parks (Parc de la Tour Vieille, Parc du Colombier, etc.) for nature breaks in the city.

Nature side: the Cévennes National Park

• Nature Immersion: The city is the gateway to the Cévennes National Park, an exceptional site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Valleys, rivers, forests, preserved fauna and flora await you for a complete immersion in nature.

Located in the heart of the Cévennes, Branoux-les-Taillades is ideally placed to explore a rich mining heritage and enjoy water activities in the heart of nature.

To discover Heritage side: Industrial Memory

• La Grand’Combe is a commune located just 5 kilometres from Branoux-les-Taillades. Discover the history of the region's mining activity by visiting the Puits Ricard (Ricard Well/Mine Shaft) and the Maison du Mineur (Miner's House).

• The Château de Portes, a medieval castle classified as a Historic Monument and nicknamed the "Stone Vessel" is open for visits according to a seasonal schedule (checking opening times and any potential works is recommended before visiting).

Nature side: Lake Camboux (Lac des Camboux)

• Lac des Camboux (20 min): This lake, perfect for a refreshing break in the Cévennes forest, offers various water and white-water activities. Try canoeing, pedal boating, or canyoning to discover the gours (water basins), waterfalls, and giant's kettles.

Saint-Ambroix, the former silk capital with a medieval atmosphere, offers a picturesque heritage and immersion in the nature of the Cévennes.

To discover Heritage side - La Tour Guisquet (Guisquet Tower)

• Tour Guisquet: Dominating the town from the top of its rock, this emblematic tower was built in 1850 following a quarrel over property claims, with the winner wanting to proudly display his victory! It was ceded to the commune in 1945 for a symbolic €1. Today the Tour Guisquet, restored and maintained, continues to play the role of a peaceful sentinel.

• This can be discovered during a guided tour of the old town among other treasures, such as the Dugas chapel, the spinning mills, the legend of the Volo Biòu, or the Moulin Bonnet (Bonnet Mill). Information available at the tourist office.

Nature side: The Cévennes and the Cèze Valley

• Outdoor Activities: Surrounded by the Cévennes and the Cèze Valley, Saint-Ambroix is an excellent starting point for hiking, climbing, and the exploration of spectacular caves.

• Cèze Valley: The site is ideal for water recreation: swimming, canoeing-kayaking, and relaxing by the water.

Montclus or Barjac: Choose your atmosphere! These two character destinations offer you authentic and close-by experiences.

Option 1: Montclus, the Authentic

• Let yourself be charmed by this Most Beautiful Village in France (Plus Beau Village de France). Stroll through the narrow streets and admire the remains of the troglodytic monastery and the massive keep of the castle. Also enjoy the banks of the Cèze for a rejuvenating nature break among vineyards and lavender.

Option 2: Barjac, the Refined Town

• Explore this village of character and its rich architectural heritage. The Château de Barjac and the elegant residences of the 17th/18th centuries are worth a detour. The surroundings offer beautiful escapes into the hills and the fragrant garrigue (scrubland).

Not to be missed:

• Choice of Atmosphere: Montclus for its medieval and wild side; Barjac for its refined architecture and its lively, characterful town atmosphere.

• The Cèze: Whatever your option, the river is always close for a peaceful stroll.

Goudargues is a small village with atypical charm, nicknamed the "Venice of the Gard" (Venise Gardoise) thanks to its shaded canals, fountains, and cool squares.

Heritage side: The emblematic large wash-house (lavoir)

• Wash-house and Architecture: The village is famous for its emblematic large wash-house. It also shelters a rich architectural heritage, notably a 19th-century cloister and an abbey church.

• Discover its heritage by strolling through its streets and on its shaded squares.

Nature side: The Cèze

• Outdoor Activities: The generous and hilly nature of the surroundings allows for swimming or canoeing on the Cèze river.

• Exploration: Numerous hiking trails invite visitors for walks or bike rides in the Gard countryside.

Classified among the "Most Beautiful Villages in France" (Plus Beaux Villages de France), La Roque-sur-Cèze is a medieval stone paradise that overlooks natural wonders.

To discover Heritage side:

• Pedestrian Village: Discover the heart of the village in complete tranquility, with its medieval streets and its luxuriant Mediterranean vegetation.

• Monuments: The must-sees are the Pont de Charles Martel (Historic Monument with twelve arches), the parish church (built in 1883), and the remains of the 12th-century Castle at the summit.

• Panorama: Do not miss the chance to climb to the top to admire the superb panorama over the entire village.

Nature side: Les Cascades du Sautadet (Sautadet Waterfalls)

• Sautadet: A few metres from the village, admire the famous Cascades du Sautadet, nicknamed the "devil's jump". The Cèze river carves spectacular cavities and potholes in the limestone rock here. Caution required: Due to the strength of the river and the risks of slipping, it is imperative to strictly follow safety instructions at this site.