Top 5 of the most beautiful villages in the Gard

Nestled in the heart of the Gard region, between rivers and sun-drenched stone villages, the Slow Village La Roque-sur-Cèze invites you to step back and savor the moment. Time stretches out to the rhythm of strolls, colorful markets and conversations in a shady square. An ideal starting point for discovering the department's treasures, it immerses you in an authentic art of living, where unspoilt nature and comfort are perfectly combined.

Ready to discover the 5 most beautiful villages in the Gard with Slow village?

Slow experiences

• Get up early to stroll through the empty streets and catch the golden morning light.
• Picnic on the banks of the Cèze, with a view of the waterfalls.
• Sit on a shady terrace for a coffee, watching the local life.
• Go for a walk or bike ride to the surrounding vineyards.

Practical tips

• Distance from Slow Village: on site, accessible on foot from your accommodation (7-minute walk)
• Best period: spring and early autumn to avoid the crowds and take advantage of mild weather.
• Local tip: in summer, take a morning dip in the Cèze to enjoy the peace and quiet before visitors arrive.

A little cultural tip: for many years, La Roque-sur-Cèze was a strategic point of passage between Languedoc and Vivarais. Its stones, weathered by centuries of history, tell the story of merchants, winegrowers and travelers.

Montclus: serenity on the banks of the Cèze

Nestled in a meander of the Cèze river, Montclus is a haven of peace ranked among the most beautiful villages in the Gard. With its cobbled streets, medieval houses and keep overlooking the valley, the village invites you to slow down and enjoy the silence, disturbed only by birdsong and the murmur of the water.

Slow experiences

• Take a stroll through the narrow streets of blond stone, decorated with flowers in summer.
• Enjoy a picnic on the banks of the Cèze, in the shade of the willows.
• Watch the sunset from the old stone bridge.
• Canoe to admire the village from the river.

Practical tips

• Distance from Slow Village: 15 kilometers.
• Best period: June or September to enjoy the river without the summer crowds.
• Local tip: at the end of the day, the sun's golden reflections on the Cèze transform Montclus into a veritable tableau vivant.

The little cultural bonus: mentioned as far back as the Middle Ages, Montclus owes its name to its strategic "mountain included" position in the valley. Its historic buildings, including an ancient monastery, are a reminder of the spiritual and defensive importance of the site over the centuries.

Slow experiences

• Walk along the ramparts to admire the plunging view over the gorge.
• Get lost in the flower-filled alleys and photograph the architectural details.
• Enjoy a glass of local wine on a shady terrace.
• Take a dip in a wild creek in the Ardèche.

Practical tips

• Distance from Slow Village: 18 kilometers.
• Best time of year: late spring to enjoy nature in full bloom, or early September for renewed calm.
• Local tip: in the evening, the sunset from the ramparts offers a magical view of the gorge.

Little cultural bonus: Aiguèze was a stronghold in the Middle Ages, defending access to the gorges. The remains of its keep and surrounding walls still bear witness to this strategic past, now enhanced by a carefully restored heritage.

Lussan: panoramic view of the garrigue

Perched at an altitude of 300 metres, Lussan dominates the garrigue and offers one of the finest views in the department. Ranked as one of the most beautiful villages in the Gard, its mineral charm, ramparts and narrow streets create an almost suspended calm. Nature and heritage intermingle to guarantee a truly slow-living experience.

Slow experiences

• Stroll along the ramparts for panoramic views of the Cévennes and Mont Ventoux.
• Visit the workshops of potters and ceramists.
• Enjoy an artisanal ice cream on the village square, in the shade of the plane trees.
• Take a hike to Les Conques, a geological curiosity just a few kilometers away.

Practical tips

• Distance from Slow Village: 21 kilometers.
• Best period: April to June, when the fields are in bloom and the climate is mild.
• Local tip: in the evening, the low-angled light sublimates the golden stones of the village, ideal for photos.

The little cultural bonus: Lussan, an ancient fortified town, has survived the centuries by preserving its medieval layout. Its fortifications bear witness to its strategic role during the Wars of Religion in Languedoc.

Uzès: Provencal elegance and art of living

Between the Cévennes and Provence, Uzès proudly ranks among the most beautiful villages in the Gard thanks to its exceptional heritage and refined atmosphere. A town of art and history, Uzès seduces visitors with its shady squares, arcaded streets and mythical Saturday market, a veritable explosion of color and flavor.

Slow experiences

• Stroll along Place aux Herbes and enjoy a coffee while watching the bustling market.
• Discover the Duchy of Uzès, a treasure trove of history.
• Discover small artisan boutiques and art galleries.
• Stroll through the medieval gardens for a green interlude.

Practical tips

• Distance from Slow Village: 30 kilometers.
• Best period: spring and early autumn to take advantage of the market without excessive crowds.
• Local tip: arrive early on Saturday morning to experience the authentic atmosphere of the market before the tourist buses arrive.

Cultural highlights: Uzès was the first duchy of France and has a unique architectural heritage, blending medieval and Renaissance influences. Its Saint-Théodorit cathedral and Fenestrelle Tower are unmissable symbols of the town.