The most beautiful villages
Visit the most beautiful villages
in France in the Gard
From your campsite, explore four villages listed as ‘Most Beautiful Villages of France’, true treasures of heritage and charm. Montclus, La Roque-sur-Cèze, Aiguèze and Lussan reveal medieval streets, magnificent landscapes, historic sites and unspoilt nature. An authentic immersion in the heart of the Gard, between heritage, stone and panoramic views.
Discover the most beautiful villages
in the Gard
Created in 1982, the association ‘Les Plus Beaux Villages de France’ (The Most Beautiful Villages of France) now brings together nearly 160 villages throughout the country. During the selection process, members are subject to a thorough inspection of the village’s potential. Various criteria are taken into account, such as the number of inhabitants, listed sites and heritage protection. The reasons behind this selection? To protect and promote the remarkable heritage of these municipalities and combat the depopulation of villages.
The Gard department is honoured to be home to four selected municipalities. Discover the Most Beautiful Villages of France from your campsite in the Gard through this article.
Montclus
located in Occitan Provence
Montclus is a picturesque little village located in Occitan Provence, more precisely in the north of the Gard department. The commune of Montclus is now one of the ‘Most Beautiful Villages in France’. And with good reason, as it enjoys a prime pitch at the exit of the Cèze gorges, offering an unusual landscape surrounded by lavender fields and vineyards. In addition to its privileged location, the village also boasts many historical and architectural treasures. Visitors particularly appreciate the charm of the narrow streets, lined with white stone houses, vaulted ceilings and stunning vegetation.
What to visit in Montclus:
Here are the must-see sights during your walk:
- The village’s unusual architecture and charming little streets
- The 13th-century castle and square keep
- The remains of the Benedictine troglodytic monastery
- The Moulin bridge, a stone bridge spanning the Cèze river
La Roque-sur-Cèze
a small medieval village
La Roque-sur-Cèze is a small medieval village listed among the Most Beautiful Villages in France. It is located in the north of the Gard department, about thirty kilometres west of Orange. One of the unique features of this commune is its surprising geographical location. Perched on a steep hill overlooking the River Cèze at the foot of the village, La Roque-sur-Cèze is worthy of a pretty postcard. After a short climb, it also offers a magnificent view of the surrounding landscape. This picturesque setting gives you a beautiful view of the vast vineyards and the Sautadet waterfalls.
What to see in La Roque-sur-Cèze:
In the village itself, you can find several monuments and buildings dating back to the 12th century, such as the castle, the Romanesque chapel and the Charles Martel bridge.
Downstream from the bridge, you will find one of the region’s must-see attractions: the Sautadet Waterfalls. This exceptional natural site adds considerable interest to the charming village. Although swimming is not permitted at the waterfalls, you will find small beaches along the Cèze just a few minutes’ walk away. The 4-star campsite in the Gard offers direct access to the site, allowing you to explore this superb location at your leisure.
Aiguèze
perched and unusual villages
To stay in the perched and unusual villages, discover Aiguèze, perched on top of a cliff overlooking the Ardèche gorges. This picturesque medieval village is located at the crossroads of three departments: the Gard, the Ardèche and the Drôme. The authentic appearance of this ancient fortress attracts visitors every year. Finally, the commune offers two different landscapes: on one side, the sumptuous Ardèche gorges, and on the other, impressive vineyards.
What to see in Aiguèze:
- The narrow streets and medieval ruins in the village
- The parish church
- The rampart walk, from which you can see the old castle, its keep and its Saracen tower
- The Saint-Roch fountain
Lussan
Most Beautiful Villages of France in 2016
Declared one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France in 2016, Lussan is a must-see commune in the region. It has many attractions for visitors, starting with its rich historical heritage. Lussan also overlooks the Cèze valley thanks to its pitch high up on a limestone plateau. Beyond its ramparts, the village offers an impressive panorama of Mont Bouquet and Mont Ventoux.
What to see in Lussan:
- Les Concluses de Lussan (an incredible natural site, gorges carved entirely by the River Aiguillon)
- Lussan Castle
- La Pierre Plantée
- Fan Castle
- Castrale Chapel
- The Boxwood Garden
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