Provence Occitane is bursting at the seams withfree activities for nature lovers,craft enthusiasts andhistory buffs alike. Olivier and the kids and I have tried out several of these activities, and we can tell you that every outing is a breath of fresh air. Follow us as we explore our corner of paradise in the Gard , where it’s easy to find leisure activities that are accessible to everyone.
The landscapes of Provence Occitane are incredibly varied. From garrigues to rivers, vineyards and forests, we take the time to slow down and soak up these unspoilt natural spaces. The signposted footpaths provide the perfect backdrop for relaxation, and the Gard ‘s temperate climate means you can enjoy walks all year round.
Whether you’re a keen hiker or simply looking for a break in the fresh air, the walks in Provence Occitane guarantee moments of pure rejuvenation. We love walking through these changing landscapes, far from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
What’s fascinating about Provence Occitane is the wealth of heritage on offer around every corner. We always enjoy exploring Romanesque chapels, medieval castles and the ruins of Roman oppidums scattered everywhere. Sometimes we even venture as far as Caesar’s Camp, where the uninterrupted view over the Rhône valley is literally breathtaking.
Another favourite? The Chartreuse de Valbonne, nestling in the middle of the forest. With its hundred-year-old cedars and glazed roofs glistening in the sunlight, it’s a place where you could spend hours contemplating the surrounding nature.
There are four villages in Provence Occitane that have been classified as among the Most Beautiful Villages in France, and believe us, they are well worth a visit! Each village has its own unique charm and well-hidden secrets.
We like to start with La Roque-sur-Cèze, perched on a rocky outcrop, before heading for the Charles Martel bridge over the Cèze and the Cascades du Sautadet. Then it’s on to Montclus, a small medieval village nestling in the heart of the meandering Cèze. There are many hiking trails here, offering magnificent views.
Next, we head for Aiguèze, with its incredible views over the Ardèche gorges, and for the more adventurous, the trail to the Rocher de Castelviel is a must. Finally, we come to Lussan, with its 360° panoramic views of Mont Ventoux, the Cévennes and the Monts d’Ardèche.
If you’re travelling with your family in the Gard, I highly recommend following the trail ofInspector Rando with your little ones. With a booklet in hand, our children love to embark on this enigma hunt, adapted to every age. Observing, spotting hidden details and solving puzzles: this fun activity is always a pleasure for them (and a treat for us too, to see them having so much fun).
These Randoland sheets are available free of charge from theTourist Office, and you can trust me, it’s well worth the effort to have a good time with the family while discovering the hidden treasures of the region.
If there’s one activity that awakens all the senses, it’s strolling through the localmarkets. The bountiful stalls are bursting with sun-drenched produce, and just the smell of the fruit, vegetables and goat’s cheese is pure delight.
Our weakness: we taste the local specialities as we wander between the stalls. It’s like a festival of flavours! Succumbing to a piece of goat’s cheese with a drizzle of olive oil… It’s a simple pleasure, but so satisfying!
One of the great things about Provence Occitane is taking advantage of its many waterways. There’s something for everyone here, whether you’re looking for a kayak trip, a refreshing swim or simply a good time ricocheting off the pebble beaches.
We often spend magical moments on the banks of the Cèze, a river in the Gard region that can be both peaceful and spectacular, like the Cascades du Sautadet. The children have fun building wooden windmills in the water, while the teenagers have a blast capturing sensational photos. These simple moments, in contact with the water, are real moments of happiness.
Provence Occitane seduces us every day with all its free and accessible activities. Whether it’s a walk in the heart of nature, a cultural exploration or a simple moment of relaxation, there are plenty of ways to make the most of the Gard, without spending a penny. It’s a real coup for us, and we urge you to come and discover it all for yourself!
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