The Pearls of the Gard: Villages of Character and Hidden Treasures of the Cèze Valley and Surrounding Area
Welcome to the Gard, a land where every village tells a story and every cobbled street invites you to explore. From Camping les Cascades, you are ideally placed to explore a string of charming towns, from medieval wonders to Roman cities, not to mention peaceful havens by the water. Get ready for an unforgettable journey to the heart of authentic and enchanting Provence in the Gard.
The treasures of the Cèze Valley
Directly accessible from your campsite, the villages of the Cèze Valley are not to be missed:
- La Roque-sur-Cèze: Suspended Beauty Perched on its rocky outcrop, La Roque-sur-Cèze is like something out of a postcard. Stroll through its cobbled streets leading to the spectacular Sautadet Waterfalls, where the Cèze has carved out a lunar landscape. The medieval bridge adds a touch of charm to this listed site, offering breathtaking views of the river and rock formations. It is a perfect marriage of heritage and nature.
- Goudargues: The Sweetness of the “Little Venice of the Gard” Nicknamed for its refreshing canals lined with plane trees, Goudargues invites you to relax. Its shaded terraces are perfect for relaxing, while the murmur of the water accompanies your strolls. It is the ideal place for a gourmet break and to soak up the Mediterranean way of life.
- Montclus: An Authentic Stop on the Route of the Most Beautiful Villages Ranked among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Montclus is a medieval gem. Its well-preserved narrow streets lead you to the remains of an imposing castle and its astonishing troglodytic priory, carved into the rock. The peaceful and timeless atmosphere of Montclus makes it an essential stopover for lovers of history and serenity.
- Cornillon: Panoramic Views and Medieval Charm Perched on a hilltop, Cornillon offers breathtaking views of the scrubland and vineyards. This charming village features narrow streets, vaulted passageways and the ruins of its castle, reminders of its fortified past. It is a haven of peace where time seems to have stood still.
- Lussan: Fortress and Magnificent Landscapes Another member of the Most Beautiful Villages of France, Lussan stands proudly on its promontory, offering exceptional views of the surrounding countryside. Its well-preserved castle and ramparts make it a fascinating place to visit. Don’t miss the mysterious Concluses de Lussan, a wild natural canyon to be discovered during the dry season.
Beyond the Cèze: Jewels Within Reach
Broaden your exploration to discover other iconic towns and villages in the Gard and its surroundings:
- Uzès: The First Duchy of France A city of art and history, Uzès charms visitors with its Renaissance elegance. Its magnificent Place aux Herbes and famous market, the Duchy of Uzès with its Bermonde Tower and the unique Fenestrelle Tower of its cathedral make it a refined and gourmet destination.
- Barjac: City of Character and Capital of Antiquity Renowned for its international antiques fairs, Barjac is a small, dynamic town with undeniable charm. Its Renaissance castle and medieval streets tell a rich history, while its lively atmosphere invites you to linger.
- Anduze: The Gateway to the Cévennes Dominated by the Prafrance Bamboo Garden and the departure point for the Cévennes Steam Train, Anduze is a town full of character. Its historic centre and Clock Tower make it a pleasant stopover for discovering the Cévennes way of life and local pottery
- Saint-Jean-du-Gard: The Soul of the Cévennes Authentic and welcoming, Saint-Jean-du-Gard is a major gateway to the Cévennes and a highlight of the Stevenson Trail. Its museum and mountain village atmosphere make it a place of discovery for hikers and enthusiasts of Cévennes culture.
- Aramon: On the Banks of the Rhône A historic village bordering the majestic Rhône, Aramon is dominated by its impressive Château d’Aramon. Its peaceful setting offers a different perspective on the diversity of the Gard, inviting you to take serene walks along the river.
- Villeneuve-lès-Avignon: The Royal City Facing the Popes Just opposite Avignon, Villeneuve-lès-Avignon was the residence of the cardinals and offers a breathtaking view of the Palais des Papes from its Philippe le Bel Tower. Fort Saint-André and Abbaye Saint-André complete an exceptional heritage, in a more serene atmosphere than its larger neighbour.
Major Historic Cities
For a total immersion in the past, don’t miss the major sites:
- Nîmes: French Rome Discover the grandeur of Roman antiquity in Nîmes with its remarkably preserved amphitheatre, its sublime Maison Carrée and its Jardins de la Fontaine. Complete your visit at the Musée de la Romanité, a modern showcase for ancient treasures.
- Avignon: The City of Popes Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Avignon transports you back to the 14th century with its imposing Palais des Papes and legendary Pont d’Avignon. Stroll through its lively streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the City of Popes.
- The Pont du Gard: A Masterpiece of Antiquity An iconic monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Pont du Gard is a colossal Roman aqueduct and an engineering marvel. It is a spectacular site to admire and swim in the clear waters of the Gardon River.
Your stay at Camping les Cascades promises unforgettable adventures and discoveries, at the crossroads of the most beautiful stories and landscapes of the Gard.
La Roque-sur-Cèze: A Suspended Wonder and the Tumult of the Sautadet Waterfalls
Just a few minutes from Camping les Cascades stands an unforgettable gem of the Gard, a village that captures the very essence of Provençal beauty: La Roque-sur-Cèze. Listed as one of the “Picturesque Sites of the Gard Department”, this village is a spectacular sight, firmly anchored on its rocky outcrop and proudly overlooking the turbulent waters of the Cèze.
A Village with Timeless Medieval Charm
As soon as you approach La Roque-sur-Cèze, its medieval appearance is striking. Its pale stone houses, seemingly clinging to the rock, are a perfect example of local architecture. As you venture into its cobbled and steep alleyways, you will be transported back in time. Every turn reveals charming details: vaulted passageways, secret squares and vestiges of its rich past. The ruins of its medieval castle still watch over the village, while the sober and elegant Saint-Michel church invites contemplation. A walk through La Roque-sur-Cèze offers a succession of breathtaking views. From its heights, the eye takes in the green valley of the Cèze and the distant landscapes of garrigue, under the blue sky of Provence.
The Sautadet Waterfalls: A Spectacle of Nature
But what makes La Roque-sur-Cèze truly unique and world-famous are the Sautadet Waterfalls. Located just below the village, on the grounds of Camping Les Cascades, these geological formations are the result of thousands of years of erosion by the Cèze. The river has carved out strange “giant’s kettles”, chasms and rapids, creating a lunar landscape of fascinating power. The roar of the water, the spectacle of the whirlpools and the force of nature are absolutely captivating.
An elegant and sturdy medieval bridge spans the Cèze, offering picturesque access to the waterfalls and unique photo opportunities. It is the ideal place for a day out, where you can admire nature in all its fury while enjoying the calmer and safer swimming areas downstream.
An Unmissable Experience
La Roque-sur-Cèze is an invitation to explore, take photographs and contemplate. Whether you are looking for the authenticity of a medieval village, the raw power of an exceptional natural site, or simply a refreshing spot for a picnic by the water, this village has everything to charm you. It is a must-see during your stay, a place where the beauty of nature and the charm of the old world come together to create a memorable experience, just a stone’s throw from your Camping les Cascades campsite.
Uzès: The charm of a historic town
Uzès, the first duchy of France, is a charming village located about 40 minutes by car from La Roque-sur-Cèze. Here you will find cobbled streets, a magnificent herb market, a lively market and remarkable architecture. The Duchy of Uzès, a 12th-century castle, is one of the town’s main attractions, as is the magnificent Pont du Gard, located nearby. This village is also renowned for its gastronomy and local artisans.
Uzès combines historical heritage, culture and the Provençal way of life. It is a place where you can lose yourself in the narrow streets, discover beautiful shops and taste local products.
Lussan: A hilltop village with breathtaking views
Lussan is one of the most beautiful villages in the Gard, perched on a hill with magnificent views of the Rhône valley and the Cévennes. This medieval village is a veritable labyrinth of narrow streets, stone houses and ancient ruins, all in a calm and unspoilt atmosphere. Lussan is also known for its castle, watchtower and ramparts. It is an ideal place for a stroll through history, with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
The spectacular view from Lussan, as well as its well-preserved medieval architecture, makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both history and scenery.
Vallabrègues: An authentic village on the banks of the Rhône
Vallabrègues, a small, quiet village on the banks of the Rhône, is one of the most picturesque in the region. This charming village is known for its authentic character, stone houses and typical narrow streets. It is particularly popular with nature lovers, as it is located in the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park. If you like quiet places, Vallabrègues is the perfect spot for a stroll along the banks of the Rhône, between canals and orchards.
This village offers a calm and authentic atmosphere, ideal for a relaxing break away from the hustle and bustle of the big cities.
Aiguèze: A village on the side of a cliff
Aiguèze, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, is a medieval village perched on a hill overlooking the Ardèche river. This village offers breathtaking views of the Ardèche valley and gorges, and its cobbled streets lined with stone houses make every corner a unique place to explore. Aiguèze is also an excellent starting point for exploring the Ardèche gorges, an ideal region for nature lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
Aiguèze combines spectacular scenery with a fascinating history and outdoor activities for adventurers.
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert: A historic village listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is one of the most emblematic villages in the Gard, listed among the most beautiful in France and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This medieval village, located in the Hérault valley, charms visitors with its narrow streets, stone houses and historic buildings such as the Abbey of Gellone, an important pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages. In addition to its religious and historical heritage, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is surrounded by exceptional natural landscapes, ideal for hiking.
This village, with its intact medieval atmosphere and exceptional natural environment, is a real gem waiting to be discovered.
Castillon-du-Gard: A village with a medieval soul
Castillon-du-Gard is another charming village in the Gard region that is well worth a visit. Located just a few kilometres from the famous Pont du Gard, this village is the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Here you can explore its Romanesque church, picturesque little squares and narrow streets lined with stone houses. The authentic atmosphere of Castillon-du-Gard, far from the tourist crowds, makes it an ideal place for a peaceful getaway.
The charm of this village and its proximity to the Pont du Gard make it an excellent stopover during your stay in the Gard.
Conclusion: Set off to discover the villages of the Gard!
The Gard is full of picturesque and fascinating villages, all of which are worth a visit. Whether you are passionate about history, nature, gastronomy or simply looking for peace and quiet, these villages will offer you an immersion in the authenticity and beauty of the region. During your stay in La Roque-sur-Cèze, take the opportunity to discover these hidden treasures, each with its own history and unique character. These getaways will allow you to create unforgettable memories and fully appreciate the richness of the Gard region.
So what are you waiting for? Book your stay now and set off to discover these enchanting villages!
