Camping Gard

The department of Gard, located in the region of Occitanie, is a fantastic destination for a family or friend vacation. The department offers a diverse range of activities and unique landscapes that are worth exploring. To make the most of your holiday in Gard, it's important to be aware of the must-see activities and sites to visit!

Finding a campsite in the department of Gard is easy, you can quickly get in touch with hosts on HomeCamper, they will be more than happy to share their accommodation offers in the department as well as their good deals in the region.

When it comes to things to see and do in the department of Gard, there is plenty to choose from. The Camargue, with its marshy landscapes, pink flamingos, and local festivals, is a must-see. The bull is the emblem of the Camargue and everything revolves around it. The Camargue is dotted with manads, where bullfighting games and local festivals take place all year round, whether they are Camargue races, abrivados, or its famous guardians accompany the bulls in their races, notably at Grau du Roi (fishing village and seaside resort), Aigues Mortes - medieval villages surrounded by ramparts - or St Gilles. The beaches of the Gard also have a national reputation, notably that of Grau du Roi (including the beach of Espiguette) or those of Port Camargue, the largest marina in all of Europe!

The Gard is also a region of dry landscapes and olive groves, known as the garrigue, which contrasts completely with the Camargue. Nîmes, known for its famous Feria, attracts a lot of visitors every year who come to celebrate. The arenas of Nîmes, as well as its square house (which is in fact a Roman temple) or the Magne tower (Gallo-Roman monument) are the city's most important points of interest. A must-try local delicacy is Brandade, a Nîmes cod speciality. Other recommended places to visit include Sommières and its Roman bridge or Calvisson and its 3 mills. The Gard also includes mountains and many valleys, such as the Cévennes and its Mont Aigoual (highest point in the department). Hiking trails and outdoor activities are on the agenda. The Méjean Causse (limestone plateau), its sheep, and its preserved natural heritage, or even Mount Lozère where transhumance always takes place will surprise you!

Alès, a city at the gates of the Cévennes, is also worth seeing! One of the most popular attractions in Alès is the Mine Museum, which offers visitors a glimpse into the daily life of mining in the past. The museum is located in the former coal mines of Alès and is a unique opportunity to discover the history and culture of the region. Visitors can take a tour of the mines and learn about the lives of the miners and the history of the coal industry in the area.

Another popular attraction in Alès is the Cévennes National Park, which is located just a short drive from the city. The park is known for its rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, cycling, and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the many villages and hamlets that are located within the park, and discover the unique culture and traditions of the Cévennes.

For those interested in history and culture, Alès also offers several museums and historical sites. The Musée du Cinéma, for example, tells the story of the history of cinema in the region and offers visitors a chance to see the equipment and costumes used in the early days of the film industry. The Musée des Beaux-Arts, located in the city center, is also worth visiting, it features a rich collection of paintings and sculptures from the 19th and 20th centuries.

For those looking for a more leisurely activity, Alès is home to several parks and gardens that are perfect for a stroll. The Jardin des Plantes, for example, is a charming botanical garden that offers visitors a chance to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. The Parc de la République, located in the city center, is also a popular spot for locals and visitors alike and is perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.

When it comes to the best time to visit the department of Gard, it's best to plan your trip between the months of May and September to make the most of the outdoor activities available. Avoid the months of December to February as these are the coolest months of the year and there are not as many activities as in the summer. Whether you own a caravan, a motorhome, or a van, get ready for a roadtrip filled with unique camping and sightseeing experiences in the beautiful department of Gard!

While the Gard department is home to many well-known destinations that we have described above, there are also several underrated towns and places that are worth visiting.

One such town is Uzès, located in the north of the department. Known as the "first duchy of France", Uzès is a charming medieval town that is known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque streets. Visitors can explore the town's impressive castle, admire the architecture of the many historical buildings, and stroll through the charming squares and narrow streets. Uzès is also known for its vibrant local markets, where visitors can sample traditional local products and crafts.

Another underrated destination is the town of Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, located in the south of the department. The town is known for its pottery tradition and visitors can see potters at work in the many studios and workshops located throughout the town. The town also has a charming historic center, with many beautiful houses and squares, as well as a beautiful church and a pottery museum.

For nature lovers, the Gard department is home to many beautiful and little-known natural parks and reserves. The Parc Naturel Régional des Cévennes, for example, is a vast natural park that offers visitors the opportunity to explore a wide range of landscapes, from rugged mountains to rolling hills. Visitors can hike the many trails that crisscross the park, and enjoy the unique flora and fauna of the area.

Finally, the town of Anduze, located in the heart of the Gard department, is also worth visiting. Known for its rich heritage and historical monuments, visitors can explore the town's many charming streets, admire the architecture of the many historical buildings, and visit the famous bamboo plantation. Anduze also offers excellent local cuisine and is known for its traditional 'brandade' dish, made of salt cod, cream and garlic, that is a must-try.

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