Holiday rentals Gard

Three iconic sites to discover in the Gard

The Gard is home to some of the most eloquent testaments to Mediterranean history. Three major sites embody this exceptional heritage: a masterpiece of Roman engineering, an amphitheatre that still buzzes with life, and a fortified town with intact ramparts. Each tells the story of an era and invites you to explore centuries of civilisation.

1. Pont du Gard

This colossal aqueduct is striking first and foremost for its sheer scale. Built in the 1st century AD, it spans the Gardon valley across three tiers of arches, reaching a height of 49 metres and stretching 275 metres in length. Its engineering is fascinating: each stone was set without mortar, fitted with a precision that has stood the test of twenty centuries. The aqueduct once carried water to Nîmes through kilometres of underground pipes. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this monument remains a symbol of the Romans’ technical mastery and offers spectacular photographic views from its surroundings.

2. Nîmes Amphitheatre

This 1st-century AD amphitheatre is one of the best-preserved examples of Roman antiquity. With a capacity of 24,000 spectators, its tiers of pale stone gleam in the southern French sunlight. Built for gladiatorial combats and circus games, it has stood the test of time whilst retaining its structure almost intact. Today, the Arena is not merely a static museum: bullfights, concerts and live performances regularly enliven the Provençal night here. Climbing its steps offers a tangible insight into life in the ancient arena.

3. The medieval town of Aigues-Mortes

Saint Louis had this fortress built in the 13th century on the flat, wild lands of the Camargue. Its ramparts, with a perimeter of around 1,634 metres, stand intact, forming a perfect rectangle from which the view takes in the salt marshes and the surrounding countryside. Stepping through the massive gates is like stepping back into the Middle Ages: narrow alleyways, massive square towers, the solemn silence of the grey stones. This port city once served as a departure point for the Crusades before becoming a symbol of royal power in the Mediterranean.

These three sites embody the different facets of the Gard: Roman engineering prowess, the spectacular life of antiquity, and medieval might. A stay in the region allows you to trace, from one place to the next, the continuous thread of twenty centuries of history.

The ideal season to book a holiday rental in the Gard

Each season transforms the Gard and offers holidaymakers a different experience. The best time to visit depends on what you fancy: hiking in the mountains, relaxing by the water or exploring historic villages.

In spring, the Gard comes to life with mild, pleasant temperatures. Nature revives after winter: the vineyards turn green again, and lavender begins to colour the garrigue. It’s the ideal time to explore the hiking trails without the sweltering heat of summer, or to visit archaeological sites such as the Pont du Gard. Holiday rentals offer a peaceful haven, far from the summer crowds.

Summer attracts travellers in search of intense sunshine and swimming. Temperatures rise significantly, and the days are long and bright. Rivers such as the Ardèche and the Gard become favourite destinations for water sports. The villages come alive, and restaurant terraces welcome diners al fresco. Holiday rentals provide a welcome respite after active days.

Autumn paints the Gard in warm, golden hues. The grape harvest brings the vineyards to life, whilst temperatures gradually drop. It is a bountiful season for sampling local produce and enjoying easier walks. Tourist attractions remain accessible without the summer crowds. A holiday let is therefore the perfect base from which to explore Provençal markets and châteaux.

Winter is mild in Languedoc-Roussillon. Although temperatures drop, frosts are rare across most of the department. It is a peaceful season, ideal for exploring at your own leisure. Holiday rentals allow you to enjoy cosy comfort whilst discovering the treasures of the medieval heritage.

Renting a holiday home in the Gard offers the flexibility to tailor your stay to your preferences and the changing seasons. Each season reveals distinct facets of this rich region.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in the Gard

The Gard offers a wide range of experiences for travellers seeking nature and adventure. With crystal-clear waters, protected landscapes and historic trails, the department has something special in store for every visitor. Here are three unmissable activities to discover during your stay.

1. Canoeing and kayaking in the Gorges du Gardon

Paddling through the Gorges du Gardon means gliding between white limestone cliffs that tower over a river of crystal-clear water. The route winds its way through unspoilt countryside, where steep cliffs alternate with small white sandy beaches. Along the way, paddlers will discover natural caves, spectacular rock formations and a diverse range of wildlife. The Gardon remains a river accessible to paddlers of all abilities, making it ideal for an outing with family or friends. In summer, the water remains cool but pleasant, and the landscape offers welcome shade from the gorge walls.

Address: Les Gorges du Gardon, 30210 Collias.

2. Watching flamingos and visiting the salt marshes of the Gard section of the Camargue

The salt marshes of the Gard section of the Camargue are a fascinating world where the salt-laden landscape creates pale pink and turquoise blue hues depending on the light of day. It is easy to spot flamingos – the iconic birds of these wetlands – from the designated footpaths. As well as flamingos, this site is home to several species of migratory and resident birds, as well as remarkable halophilic flora. A visit offers an insight into traditional salt production and its impact on the local ecosystem. Photographers will find exceptional subjects here, particularly in the late afternoon when the light bathes the landscape in golden hues.

Address: Salins du Midi, 30220 Aigues-Mortes.

3. Hike along the Via Tolosana (GR653) starting from Saint-Gilles

The Via Tolosana is one of the four historic routes leading to Santiago de Compostela. The section through the Gard region is accessible to moderate hikers, offering stages of 15 to 20 kilometres through an authentic Mediterranean landscape. Walkers pass through vineyards, fragrant garrigue and small stone villages where hospitality remains generous. Saint-Gilles, an ideal starting point, is home to one of the finest Romanesque façades in Europe. Walking along this thousand-year-old route means connecting with centuries of pilgrimages and human encounters.

Address: 30800 Saint-Gilles.

Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in the Gard

When choosing a holiday rental in the Gard, the amenities on offer are just as important as the location. Travellers look for accommodation designed with their everyday comfort in mind, especially in a region where summers are hot and the seasons are distinct. Good facilities transform a simple place to stay into a true haven of relaxation, where everyone can find what they need to make the most of their holiday.

• Air conditioning or effective ventilation: essential in the Gard, where summer temperatures can be high. It ensures a peaceful night’s sleep and keeps you cool during the hottest days.
• Fully equipped kitchen: families and groups enjoy preparing their own meals, particularly so they can make the most of local market produce or sample regional specialities at their leisure.
• Outdoor space (terrace, balcony or garden): travellers look forward to spending time outdoors, whether having breakfast outside or dining whilst watching the sunset.
• Wi-Fi and internet connection: even on holiday, staying connected remains a legitimate expectation for checking emails or sharing holiday photos.
• Washing machine: particularly sought-after for stays of one or two weeks, it offers great flexibility to travellers with children or pets.
• Car park or parking: in the Gard, easy access to a car remains a significant convenience for exploring the surrounding area and visiting places of interest.
• Efficient heating: Winters in the Gard can be chilly, particularly at higher altitudes. Reliable heating provides peace of mind for off-season stays.
• Television and audio system: ideal for relaxing family evenings after a day of exploring or hiking.
• Children’s facilities (cot, high chair, toys): for families with young children, these items offer real added value.
• Bed linen and towels provided: a bonus in terms of comfort and convenience, saving travellers the hassle of packing.

Finding a holiday rental that meets your expectations in terms of facilities also means taking into account the number of guests and the length of your stay. A couple won’t have the same needs as a large family or a group of friends, and a weekend doesn’t require the same facilities as a full month.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in the Gard?

Prices for holiday rentals in the Gard vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 40 and 70 euros per night. A family-sized property with three to four rooms tends to cost between 70 and 120 euros per night. Larger houses or high-end accommodation, particularly those with facilities such as a private swimming pool or a terrace with panoramic views, can cost between 150 and 250 euros per night.

Several factors influence these prices. Proximity to notable sites or major tourist routes plays a role: accommodation near the Pont-du-Gard or in the picturesque villages of the valley is generally more expensive than a rental in a less frequented area. The length of your stay also makes a difference. Discounted rates for weekly or monthly stays are common: a week’s stay often works out cheaper per night than a three-day break. Rates also fall during the low season, from October to March, whilst July and August see the highest prices.

To fine-tune your budget, compare several listings by checking the detailed descriptions and reviews from other travellers. Booking a few weeks in advance often allows you to benefit from better rates. Also, read carefully what’s included: some rentals are advertised at a lower price because service charges or end-of-stay cleaning aren’t included.