On 20 September, the programme Échappées Belles paid tribute to the villages of the Gard region on France 5. The team made a stopover in Provence Occitane to highlight the villages of Montclus and La Roque-sur-Cèze, as well as natural gems such as the Valbonne national forest and the Sautadet waterfalls. The programme also featured key events organised by the Tourist Office, such as the Rallye des Plus Beaux Villages de France.
The Provence Occitane Tourist Office and Gard Tourisme worked together to provide the Échappées Belles team with filming locations that would be ideal for promoting the region, its heritage and its craftspeople.
Occupied since the Chalcolithic period (around 3500 BC), the site saw the construction of its castle and the first houses of today’s village in the 13th century. Perched on the banks of the Cèze, Montclus once guarded the strategic road linking Bagnols-sur-Cèze to Barjac. Later, in the XIXᵉ century, silk and vine cultivation made it prosper. Even today, Montclus embodies all the spirit of Occitan Provence: authenticity, history and nature.
To relive Jérôme Pitorin’s journey in the programme, park in the car park below and take a leisurely stroll up the village along the banks of the Cèze. And if you want to discover Montclus in a different way, be surprised by the “Histoires à croire et à ne pas croire” trail, accessible by QR codes scattered around the narrow streets.
Accompanied by Olivier, owner of the Maison Papillons in Montclus, the Échappées Belles teams continue their tour of Provence Occitane… by bike!
(See the cycling itineraries below).
The first stage of this escapade takes them to the heart of the Valbonne forest and to the ancient monastery of the Chartreuse de Valbonne, two must-sees in the region.
If you’re coming by car, you can park directly in the Chartreuse car park. From there, set off to discover this 13thᵉ century monument (open to visitors in season), famous for its Burgundian-style glazed tiles. Next, let yourself be guided along the path that winds through the vast state-owned forest.
A haven of peace, the Valbonne forest is home to exceptional biodiversity. Its rare species in the south of France – such as beech – create an almost mysterious atmosphere. Between heritage and nature, it’s the ideal place to recharge your batteries and appreciate the natural character of Provence Occitane.
As you stroll through the cobbled streets, climb up to the panoramic terrace beneath the chapel: the view of the Cèze winding its way through the hills is superb. On the way back, follow in the footsteps of the Échappées Belles team and take a gourmet break at the Divins Délices shop, where you’ll find artisanal ice creams and local produce (April to September).
A little further down the road, just a few minutes’ walk away, is one of the region’s most spectacular natural sites: the Sautadet waterfalls.
A place of legends – General Hannibal’s daughter is said to have died there with her elephant – the Sautadet is as fascinating as it is impressive. But be warned: as the programme reminds us, swimming there is forbidden because of the dangerous currents.
Use your smartphone to explore Montclus, La Roque-sur-Cèze, Aiguèze and Lussan in a fun quiz. It’s an original way to discover these exceptional villages, learn anecdotes about their heritage and share a moment of conviviality with family and friends… with the chance of winning a prize!
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