The Pont du Gard has stood majestically over the River Gard in South WestFrance for over 2,000 years. It is thought to have been built around 20 BC, with the principal purpose of bringing water to the flourishing Roman population in Nimes, from a spring 50 km away.
The bridge itself is 275 meters long and 49 meters high, and consists of three tiers of arches. It served the dual purpose of carrying water as well as a roadway.
It is situated in an area of truly outstanding natural beauty, and visitors are attracted not only by the extraordinary bridge but also by the cool waters of the river during the summer months. Sitting up on the banks of the river with a baguette, some cheese and a bottle of wine must surely be one of the great pleasures of life.
When we visited in May 2002, the weather was somewhat on the cool side for the time of year. We had flown into Montpellier (by Ryanair) and were staying in a charming auberge, l’Enclos des Lauriers Roses (village called Cabričres, about 7 km away. The great thing about this hotel’s website is that you get to see each individual room. They are all quite different and you can pick the one you like best.
We only ate at the hotel once, but the food was excellent and reasonably priced.
The immediate area surrounding the bridge had changed considerably since our last visit ten years ago. Then, you could drive not only right up to it but across it. Since then concerns about the damage cause by vehicles and the growing number of tourists mean that cars park at a visitors’ centre about half a kilometre away. There is no charge for access to the bridge, but there is a permanent exhibition in the basement of the visitors’ centre, which costs around Ł7 to get into. I couldn’t believe that hardly anyone was in this absolutely outstanding exhibition. I could have spent all day there. The French love their technology and there are loads of interactive displays, as well as details descriptions of the construction of the entire 50km. length of the aqueduct.
The exhibition illustrates how much of the aqueduct was actually subterranean. One of the most astounding facts about the bridge is that there was only 17m fall from the headwaters to Nimes: that meant the incline was 34cm per 1km.
Strictly speaking, the Pont du Gard is not in Provence, as it is just the wrong side (West) of the mighty Rhone. But you’ll find the area has many of the charms of its more illustrious neighbour. The shops are full of Provencal prints; the smell of lavender and rosemary are ubiquitous; the landscape is often equally dramatic.
This beautiful area of France is also easily accessible from Nimes airport (also with Ryanair) and there are many other attractions in the area, including:
Uzes: Delightful medieval town. The film Cyrano de Bergerac with Gerard Depardieu was filmed here. Saturday market to die for.
Les Baux de Provence This village is officially classified and labelled as "one of the most beautiful villages in France". Its cultural heritage is exceptionally rich, with 22 architectural treasures classified as "Historic Monuments" (including the church, chateau, town-hall, hospital, chapels, houses, doorways... without counting items of furniture and a collection of paintings). Les Baux has been painstakingly restored and is now one of the most popular attractions in the region..
The Camargue: The 750 sq km. Camargue at the mouth of the Rhone is famous white horses and the black bulls with their lyre-shaped horns can still be seen grazing. It is also renowned for its bird and insect life.
Nimes: Rich in history, with a famous Roman amphitheatre, this city was used for the filming of the excellent film, Ronin.
St Quentin la Poterie: Many potters have made this delightful village their home. Their studios are open year-round, but in July they have the most wonderful pottery festival.
Post Script: Susan has pointed out that the area was crowded when she was there in June. In contrast, our visit was on a cool day in May. I suspect it could get a bit overpowering in high season, but the surrounding countryside is sure to offer a quiet hideaway if you are prepared to walk a little distance.
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Like you too,used to drive over it.Started visiting the area 17 years ago,even swimming in the Gard river beneath it.Each time,I visit I still feel the same magic and I had heard that you now have to park far away,although still worth the walk (hot in summer!).Great op
amberlight 24.06.2002 14:32
I want to travel to France, but unfortunately I havn't holiday ...
Donnie_Brasco 24.06.2002 13:53
Sounds lovely..I must check it out one day. Cheers! :-)
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Jun 24th, 2002
very helpful by (100%):
