Gard Travel Guide

This is the ultimate guide for Gard in Occitanie, France. Discover the best things to do, eat, and stay for an unforgettable trip, including tips on transportation and safety.


Introduction to Gard

Nestled in the Occitanie region of France, Gard is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of French heritage and natural beauty. From the rich cultural attractions to the picturesque scenery, Gard has a lot to offer. The region boasts of ancient Roman ruins, charming hilltop villages, and outdoor adventures that will leave you mesmerized. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit, food to eat, and tips for an unforgettable trip to Gard.

List of Places to Visit in Gard

Gard has a plethora of attractions that cater to all types of travelers. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Gard:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Pont du Gard - An ancient Roman aqueduct classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  2. Nîmes Arena - A grand Roman amphitheater that dates back to the 1st century AD and is still used for concerts today.
  3. Maison Carrée - A beautifully preserved Roman temple that was built in the early 1st century AD and is considered one of the best-preserved temples in the world.
  4. Uzès - A charming medieval town with narrow streets and a spectacular town square.

Natural Attractions of Gard: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Cévennes National Park - A stunning national park with vast stretches of untouched nature and wildlife.
  2. Camargue - A natural reserve with wild horses, flamingos, and stunning beaches.
  3. Gorges du Gardon - A picturesque river canyon perfect for canoeing and kayaking.
  4. Cirque de Navacelles - A UNESCO-listed circular valley formed by the Vis river.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gard

Gard is a paradise for hikers and bikers. With its vast natural beauty and fantastic trails, it’s no wonder it attracts adventure seekers all year round. Here are the top trails to explore in Gard:

  1. Chemin de Stevenson - A picturesque hiking trail traversing through the Cévennes mountains.
  2. Les Gorges du Gardon - A serene hiking trail that takes you through the amazing Gardon Gorges.
  3. Grand Randonnée 60 - A challenging hiking trail that starts from Pont Saint-Esprit and leads to the charming village of Saint-Jean-du-Gard.

Best Things to Do in Gard: Activities and Tours

Gard offers a vast array of activities and tours to cater to diverse interests. Here is a list of the best things to do in Gard:

  1. Kayaking in the Gardon Gorges
  2. Wine-tasting tours in Uzès
  3. Bullfighting festivals in Nîmes
  4. Cycling tours in the Cévennes mountains

Week-Long Itinerary for Gard

Here is a seven-day itinerary for exploring Gard:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Pont du Gard and the town of Uzès
2 Explore the historic city of Nîmes
3 Walk/hike in the Cévennes National Park
4 Discover the Camargue region and go horse riding
5 Go canoeing/kayaking in the Gardon Gorges
6 Visit the picturesque village of Saint-Jean-du-Gard
7 Relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes of Gard

Food and Drink Scene of Gard

Gard is a treasure trove of mouth-watering cuisines and excellent wines. From delicious Cassoulet to exquisite wine tastings, Gard has something for everyone.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Brandade de Nîmes - A local fish stew of salt cod, potatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
  2. Pissaladière - A savory focaccia-like dish made with caramelized onions and anchovies.
  3. Pélardon - A delectable goat cheese that pairs well with wine.

Local Beverages

  1. Costières de Nîmes - A red wine with rich flavors of black fruits and spices.
  2. Rosé des Cévennes - A crisp and refreshing rosé with fruity flavors.
  3. Muscat de Lunel - A sweet, golden wine with an intense aroma of orange blossom.

Where to Stay in Gard: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gard offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Gard:

  1. Les Alizes - A cozy guesthouse located in Uzès.
  2. Hotel Imperator - A luxurious hotel near the Nîmes Arena.
  3. Auberge de la Fontaine - A charming hostel in Saint-Jean-du-Gard.

What to Buy in Gard: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gard is renowned for its excellent local products that make for great gifts. Here are some souvenirs to bring back home with you:

  1. Olive oil - Gard boasts of some of the best olive oil in the world.
  2. Pottery - The region is known for its exquisite pottery.
  3. Wine - Costières de Nîmes, a local red wine, is a must-try.

Local Culture and Customs of Gard

Gard has a rich and vibrant culture that reflects its Roman and medieval history. Visitors should be respectful of local customs, including dress codes for religious sites and festivals. French is the language spoken in Gard, so it’s always polite to learn a few basic phrases before arrival.

Best Time to Visit Gard

The best time to visit Gard is during the spring and early autumn when the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are few. However, the region’s hot summers present a fantastic opportunity to explore the outdoors, while winter offers a unique experience at the local Christmas markets.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gard

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and dress codes.
  2. Take part in festivals and events to experience the culture of the region.
  3. Try local food, wine, and other products.

Don’t:

  1. Be disrespectful towards cultural and religious sites or festivals.
  2. Litter or damage the natural beauty of the region.
  3. Travel alone late at night in secluded areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gard

Gard is generally a safe and secure place to visit, but petty crime can occur in tourist areas. Visitors should take necessary precautions like avoiding secluded areas and keeping an eye on personal belongings.

Health in Gard

Gard has excellent medical facilities and a high standard of healthcare. Visitors are advised to take travel insurance and carry any essential medication with them.

Getting to Gard: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gard is well-connected to France’s major cities, making it easily accessible by train, bus, and car.

Airports Near Gard

The nearest airports to Gard are Nîmes-Alès-Camargue-Cévennes Airport and Montpellier-Méditerranée Airport, with regular flights from major French and European cities.

Bus Stations Near Gard

The main bus station in Gard is Nîmes Bus Station, which connects the region to other parts of France.

Other Options

Gard is well-connected by the TGV train, with Nîmes Train Station providing access to the French high-speed train network.

How to Get Around Gard

Gard has an excellent public transport infrastructure, including buses and trains, which makes getting around the region easy. Visitors can also hire cars, bikes, or explore the area on foot.

Where to Go Next from Gard: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gard’s central location makes it a great base for exploring neighboring regions and attractions. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions:

  1. Avignon - A stunning city with a rich history and famous Papal Palace.
  2. Ardèche Canyon - A picturesque river canyon with hiking and canoeing opportunities.
  3. Aigues-Mortes - A fortified medieval town located close to the Camargue region.

Conclusion

Gard is a perfect destination for visitors seeking to explore French history, indulge in local cuisine, and discover the region’s beauty. With its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and excellent local products, Gard offers a unique travel experience that visitors will treasure. Follow our guide to make your visit to Gard an unforgettable one.



    Aigues-Mortes
    Remoulins
    Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres