Towns and villages
Explore the treasures of the Gard region: Characterful towns and picturesque villages around Les Cascades campsite
Your stay at Camping les Cascades is an invitation to a fascinating journey into the heart of an exceptionally rich region. The Gard and its surroundings are full of towns of character and picturesque villages, each with its own history, charm and treasures to discover. Get ready for an authentic immersion in a thousand years of heritage and the gentle Provençal way of life.
The Pearls of the Cèze Valley: Just a Stone’s Throw from the Campsite
Begin your exploration with the gems that line the Cèze River, directly accessible from your holiday destination:
- La Roque-sur-Cèze: Clinging to its rock face, this spectacular village overlooks the famous Sautadet Waterfalls. Its cobbled streets and medieval bridge offer breathtaking views of this unique natural phenomenon, ideal for photography and swimming (in authorised areas).
- Goudargues: Nicknamed the “Little Venice of the Gard,” Goudargues charms visitors with its refreshing canals and shaded terraces. A haven of peace where you can stroll and savour the tranquillity of the Mediterranean.
- Montclus: Classified as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, Montclus is a medieval gem. Its castle ruins and troglodytic priory transport you through the centuries, in a serene and authentic atmosphere.
- Cornillon: Perched on its hilltop, this charming village offers breathtaking views of the scrubland. Its narrow streets and medieval heritage invite visitors to enjoy a peaceful and picturesque exploration.
- Lussan: Also labelled “Most Beautiful Village in France”, Lussan is a medieval fortress with an imposing castle and magnificent views. Its surroundings are home to the mysterious Concluses de Lussan, a wild canyon waiting to be explored.
Historic Towns and Iconic Sites Nearby
Expand your horizons with memorable excursions to world-renowned cities and sites:
- Uzès: The “first Duchy of France” will charm you with its Renaissance elegance. Its Place aux Herbes, colourful market and Duchy are essential stops on a chic and gourmet stroll.
- Nîmes: Immerse yourself in Roman antiquity with its majestic Arena, sublime Maison Carrée and innovative Musée de la Romanité. Nîmes, the “French Rome”, offers an unforgettable journey back in time.
- Avignon: The “City of Popes” awaits you with its impressive Palais des Papes and the legendary Pont d’Avignon. A city vibrant with history and culture.
- The Pont du Gard: This masterpiece of Roman engineering, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a colossal aqueduct and an exceptional natural site where you can also go swimming.
- Barjac: A town of character renowned for its antique fairs, Barjac combines medieval heritage with a lively atmosphere.
- Anduze: Gateway to the Cévennes, Anduze is famous for its Bamboo Garden and its Steam Train, offering a unique immersion in exotic nature and Cévennes landscapes.
- Saint-Jean-du-Gard: In the heart of the Cévennes region, this village is the starting point for the Stevenson Trail and offers a wonderful introduction to mountain culture.
- Villeneuve-lès-Avignon: Opposite Avignon, this former royal city boasts the Philippe le Bel Tower and Fort Saint-André, offering magnificent views and a serene atmosphere.
- Aramon: On the banks of the Rhône, Aramon and its castle invite you to enjoy a peaceful break along the river.
Every village and town around Camping les Cascades promises discoveries, excitement and precious memories. Plan your itinerary and let yourself be charmed by the diversity and authenticity of our beautiful region!
Discover the most beautiful villages
in the Gard region.
Founded 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 communities and combat the depopulation of villages.
What to do and see in Alès?
Alès: In the heart of the Cévennes, between industrial history and nature
Continue your discovery of the Gard with Alès, a city with a strong character, often nicknamed the ‘Capital of the Cévennes’. Formerly a mining and industrial centre, Alès is now a dynamic city that has successfully reinvented itself, offering an interesting mix of history, urban culture and privileged access to the wild nature of the Cévennes.
When you visit Alès, you will discover a town deeply linked to its mining past, as evidenced by the Musée-Mine Témoin (mining museum) and the ‘Tour de l’Horloge’ (clock tower). The lively town centre is perfect for strolling around, with its shopping squares and vibrant market. Don’t miss the Fort Vauban, which dominates the town and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Alès is also a gateway to the majestic Cévennes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is an ideal starting point for hikes, outdoor activities, or exploring authentic Cévennes villages. The city has modern infrastructure, including the Médiathèque Alphonse Daudet and the Pôle Mécanique Alès Cévennes, reflecting its dynamism and desire to look to the future.
Whether you are interested in industrial history, urban culture or the wide open spaces of the Cévennes, Alès offers an interesting stopover and a refreshing contrast to the more picturesque villages of the Cèze valley.
Visits and activities in La Roque-sur-Cèze
La Roque-sur-Cèze: A Marvel Between Sky and Water, a Stone’s Throw from the Campsite
Prepare to be amazed by La Roque-sur-Cèze, a village so strikingly beautiful that it is listed as one of the Gard’s must-see sites. Perched on its rocky outcrop, this medieval village seems to watch over the Cèze, offering a spectacular view where stone and water come together in perfect harmony.
As you stroll through its cobbled and steep streets, you will discover an authentic heritage: stone houses that blend into the landscape, the discreet remains of its castle, and a timeless atmosphere. Every corner is an invitation to contemplation, with breathtaking views of the valley and the surrounding countryside.
But the main attraction of La Roque-sur-Cèze is its famous Sautadet Waterfalls. Just below the village, the Cèze River has carved out unique geological formations, giant’s kettles and rapids, creating a natural spectacle of mesmerising power and beauty. The picturesque medieval bridge that spans the river offers an exceptional view of the waterfalls and leads to designated swimming areas, perfect for cooling off after a day of exploration.
La Roque-sur-Cèze is an unmissable stopover that combines the authenticity of a village of character with the splendour of an exceptional natural site, all just a stone’s throw from your Camping les Cascades campsite.
What to see and do in Aramon?
Aramon: Sweet Life along the Rhône
Discover Aramon, a charming village nestled on the banks of the majestic Rhône River. Historically linked to river transport and trade, Aramon offers a peaceful and authentic atmosphere.
The village is marked by the presence of its imposing Aramon Castle, a former ducal residence that dominates the landscape and bears witness to its rich past. Stroll through its narrow streets, soak up the serene atmosphere and enjoy the beautiful views of the river. Aramon is an ideal stopover for lovers of peace and quiet, history, and those who appreciate the soothing presence of water.
Visits and activities in Anduze
Anduze: Gateway to the Cévennes and the Kingdom of Bamboo
Enter the Cévennes via Anduze, a town full of character that charms visitors with its history and unique landscapes. Known as the ‘Gateway to the Cévennes’, Anduze is a crossroads between mountains and scrubland, where Protestant history blends with exuberant nature.
The town is famous for its magnificent Prafrance Bamboo Garden, an exotic garden unique in Europe that transports you to a lush jungle of giant bamboo. It is an exotic and unforgettable experience for the whole family. In the heart of the village, stroll through the narrow streets of the historic centre, admire the Clock Tower and discover local crafts, including the famous Anduze vases.
For a total immersion, board the Cevennes Steam Train, which connects Anduze to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, offering a picturesque ride through tunnels and viaducts above the Gardon Gorges. Anduze is a charming and varied destination, combining heritage, nature and discovery.
What to see and do in Gaudargues?
Goudargues: The Sweet Life of the ‘Little Venice of the Gard’
Aptly nicknamed the ‘Little Venice of the Gard’, Goudargues invites you to enjoy an enchanting break in the heart of Occitan Provence. This unusual village owes its nickname to the refreshing presence of water, which is omnipresent and soothing. Here, the canal lined with hundred-year-old plane trees is the soul of the village. Its calm waters invite you to stroll, while its banks are home to lively café and restaurant terraces, where you can sit back and enjoy the Mediterranean way of life.
As you stroll through Goudargues, you will discover discreet fountains, an old wash house that bears witness to the past, and a charming abbey church with medieval origins. The village has managed to preserve its authentic character, offering a serene and friendly atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
Goudargues is also an ideal starting point for many activities: swimming in the nearby Cèze river, walking or cycling along the river, or exploring the surrounding garrigue trails. In summer, the village comes alive with colourful markets, local festivities and exhibitions, adding a touch of cheerfulness to its idyllic setting.
Whether you are looking for relaxation by the water, heritage discoveries or immersion in an authentic Provençal atmosphere, Goudargues will charm you with its natural beauty and gentle aquatic melody.
Visits and activities in Barjac
Barjac: City of Character and Capital of Antiquity
Continue your exploration of the treasures of the Gard with Barjac, a charming little town full of character, a true crossroads between Provence, the Cévennes and the Ardèche. Barjac is renowned for its authentic atmosphere and rich heritage.
As you stroll through its medieval streets, you will discover beautiful stone houses, mansions with elegant façades and shaded squares that invite you to relax. The heart of the town beats around its majestic and imposing Renaissance castle, which now houses the Town Hall and is the venue for many cultural events.
Barjac is best known for its international antiques and flea markets, which attract bargain hunters from all over the world twice a year (at Easter and on 15 August). These events transform the town into a huge open-air market, offering a unique and lively atmosphere.
Beyond its built heritage, Barjac is surrounded by unspoilt nature, ideal for walks and discoveries. Its landscapes of scrubland, vineyards and lavender fields make it an ideal stopover for nature lovers and enthusiasts of local produce.
Whether you are a history buff, a treasure hunter or simply looking for an authentic Provençal atmosphere, Barjac will charm you with its timeless appeal and dynamism.
What to see and do in Lussan?
Lussan: Medieval Fortress and Magnificent Panoramas
Continue your discovery of the hidden treasures of the Gard with Lussan, a proud medieval village listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. Perched on its rocky promontory, Lussan overlooks a landscape of wild and unspoilt scrubland, offering exceptional panoramic views of the Cévennes and Mont Ventoux.
As you approach, its fortress-like appearance is striking. As you pass through the gates of the town, you will be transported back through the centuries. Stroll through its cobbled streets, discover its stone houses with authentic façades and let yourself be charmed by its timeless atmosphere. The heart of the village is marked by its imposing castle, perfectly restored, which bears witness to its defensive role throughout history. The Romanesque church and the remains of the ramparts add to the authenticity of this exceptional site.
Lussan is not only a village steeped in history, it is also a haven of peace in the heart of a generous natural environment. The surrounding area is ideal for beautiful walks or bike rides along the fragrant garrigue trails, where you may come across dolmens and menhirs, evidence of an even older human presence.
Visiting Lussan means immersing yourself in an authentic medieval setting, admiring magnificent landscapes and enjoying the soothing calm of the Gard countryside. It is an essential stop for lovers of history, nature and breathtaking panoramas.
Visits and activities in Montclus
Montclus: Medieval Dive and the Gentleness of the Cèze
Ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, Montclus invites you on a journey out of time, where history meets the serenity of nature. When visiting this jewel of the Cèze Valley, you will stroll through cobbled streets that wind between beautifully restored stone houses.
Your exploration will take you to the imposing ruins of its medieval castle and the astonishing troglodytic priory, carved out of the rock, silent witnesses to centuries past. The peaceful atmosphere of Montclus is ideal for a contemplative stroll.
Beyond its built heritage, the village benefits from its proximity to the Cèze River, offering refreshing swimming spots and pebble beaches perfect for relaxation. It is the ideal place to combine cultural discovery and water fun in an authentic and unspoilt setting.
Visit Nîmes
Nîmes: The Splendour of French Rome at Your Fingertips
Immerse yourself in Roman antiquity by visiting Nîmes, a fascinating city nicknamed ‘French Rome’ due to its exceptional and remarkably well-preserved heritage. A short distance from Camping les Cascades, Nîmes is a must-see for lovers of history, culture and architecture.
The jewel of Nîmes is undoubtedly its Arènes, a majestic Roman amphitheatre and one of the best preserved in the world, still vibrant with concerts and historical re-enactments. A few steps away, the sublime Maison Carrée, a Roman temple of rare elegance, bears witness to ancient architectural perfection. Don’t miss the Jardins de la Fontaine, Europe’s first public gardens, home to the mysterious Tour Magne. The Musée de la Romanité, with its bold architecture, offers an interactive immersion into 25 centuries of Nîmes history. Stroll through the lively city centre, soak up the Mediterranean atmosphere and let yourself be charmed by the richness of this ancient and modern city.
Visits and activities in Cornillon
Cornillon: Panoramic views and medieval charm in the heart of the Gard
Perched on a hilltop, Cornillon is a village that offers a real journey back in time and an incomparable visual spectacle. This village of character, labelled ‘Villages of Character of the Gard’, majestically dominates the surrounding landscape, offering breathtaking panoramas of the garrigue, the vineyards and, on a clear day, as far as the Cévennes and Mont Ventoux.
As you venture into its narrow, steep streets, you will discover a remarkably well-preserved medieval heritage. Remains of ramparts, vaulted passageways and old stones tell the story of a fortified village. The heart of Cornillon beats around its castle and church, true sentinels of time. Every corner is an invitation to take photographs and discover charming architectural details.
Cornillon is not only a place of history, it is also a haven of peace. The atmosphere is serene, inviting you to stroll and contemplate. It is the ideal place for a getaway from the hustle and bustle, where the only sound is sometimes the song of the cicadas.
Visits and activities in Saint-Jean-du-Gard
Saint-Jean-du-Gard: The Soul of the Cévennes and the Stevenson Trail
Continue your exploration of the Cévennes by discovering Saint-Jean-du-Gard, an iconic village that marks the ‘Gateway to the Hautes Cévennes’ and the starting or finishing point for many hiking trails. Steeped in the strong identity of the Cévennes, this village offers a unique blend of history, nature and culture.
Saint-Jean-du-Gard is inseparable from the Stevenson Trail (GR70), the famous long-distance hiking trail that follows in the footsteps of writer Robert Louis Stevenson and his donkey Modestine. The village is an essential supply point and stopover for hikers, and its Musée des Vallées Cévenoles (Museum of the Cévennes Valleys) will immerse you in the history and traditions of this charming region.
The village centre, with its narrow streets and lively squares, is perfect for a stroll. Here you will find local shops, cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy Cévennes cuisine. Don’t miss the Pont Vieux bridge over the Gardon river, offering beautiful views of the village and the river.
For a memorable experience, hop aboard the Cevennes Steam Train. Departing from Saint-Jean-du-Gard, it will take you through spectacular scenery to Anduze, passing through impressive tunnels and viaducts. It’s a unique way to discover the splendours of the Cévennes.
Saint-Jean-du-Gard is a must-see destination for nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts and those who wish to immerse themselves in the authenticity of Cévennes culture.
Visits and activities in Villeneuve-lês-Avignon
Villeneuve-lès-Avignon: The Royal City Facing the Popes
Cross the Rhône and discover Villeneuve-lès-Avignon, a town steeped in history which, during the Popes’ stay in Avignon, was the French ‘Royal City’, a centre of counter-power and a holiday resort for cardinals and nobility. Opposite the imposing Palais des Papes, Villeneuve offers a unique perspective on this prosperous period.
The emblem of Villeneuve-lès-Avignon is undoubtedly the Tour Philippe le Bel. Formerly a toll station and watchtower for the Pont d’Avignon, it now offers an exceptional panorama of the Palais des Papes, the Rhône and the rooftops of the town. Climbing to the top is an experience not to be missed, offering a magnificent view.
Fort Saint-André, an imposing 14th-century royal fortress, also dominates the town. Its well-preserved ramparts, castle chapel and the garden of Saint-André Abbey (an exceptional monastic site with magnificent Mediterranean gardens) invite you to explore a place rich in history and beauty.
Stroll through the peaceful lanes of Villeneuve, discover the elegance of its old houses, and visit the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame and its cloister, which houses the splendid 14th-century ‘Ivory Virgin’. The village is also famous for its colourful Provençal market, which brings the square to life on Thursday mornings.
Villeneuve-lès-Avignon offers a calmer and more serene atmosphere than Avignon, while still being rich in its own heritage. It is an ideal stop to complete your discovery of the region, combining history, art and breathtaking views.
Visits and activities in Uzès
Uzès: The Elegance of the First Duchy of France
Let’s finish our tour of the wonders of the Gard with Uzès, the ‘city of art and history’, which was the first duchy of France. Just a few kilometres from the Pont du Gard, this Provençal city will charm you with its elegance, Renaissance architecture and unique atmosphere.
The heart of Uzès beats around the Place aux Herbes, a magnificent square shaded by plane trees and lined with medieval arcades. This is where the famous Provençal market is held (on Wednesdays and Saturdays), a festival of colours and scents where you can discover local flavours and crafts.
Dominating the town, the Duchy of Uzès is an exceptional architectural ensemble. Here you can admire the Bermonde Tower, a remnant of the ancient fortress, the ducal chapel and the elegant Renaissance palace that houses the Duke’s apartments. Don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint-Théodorit and its remarkable Fenestrelle Tower, a unique cylindrical bell tower.
As you stroll through the winding streets of Uzès, you will discover magnificent mansions, discreet fountains and hidden gardens. The town is a veritable open-air museum, where every street corner reveals a new architectural surprise.
Uzès is an invitation to stroll, taste and marvel. Its chic and relaxed atmosphere, exceptional heritage and gentle way of life make it a favourite destination for a memorable day of discovery from Camping les Cascades.
