Mas Du Gard is located in a quaint village in the Gard department of southern France, where local amenities and restaurants can be reached on foot in just a few minutes. This region is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, historical landmarks, and Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience a mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sunny weather, not to mention culinary delights!
In the local village square, look out for Patricia selling fresh fruit and vegetables every Monday and Wednesday morning. On Saturdays, her stall is joined by several others selling meat, fish, cheese, wine, Italian and Vietnamese produce, flowers, and more. The larger market town Uzès, has a City of Art and History designation, boasting well-preserved historic buildings and boutique shops. The town centre, Place-aux-Herbes, is dotted with plane trees, inviting pavement cafes and eateries, including a Michelin-starred restaurant under the arches. The twice-weekly market is a must-see, offering regional and seasonal products such as honey, olive oil, and of course, wine. Be sure to admire the architecture of the Fenestrelle Tower and climb to the top for stunning views over the local surroundings.
There are many picturesque villages and towns to discover nearby, including Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie, famous for its pottery and artisan shops, and the hilltop villages of Castillon-du-Gard and Lussan. Mas Du Gard is well located for guests seeking outdoorsy adventures with several hiking, cycling and horse riding trails nearby, as well as swimming and watersports opportunities in the Gardon river, complimented by the beautiful countryside scenery. The area is also esteemed for its vineyards and wineries, offering guests the chance to sample some of the best wines in the region.
Nîmes, one of the great Roman cities, is a wonderful day out - marvel at the remarkably preserved Roman landmarks, including the iconic Arena of Nîmes, and Maison Carrée. Similarly, Avignon, home to the Palais des Papes, is teeming with rich medieval history and exceptional cuisine.
The Region
The beautiful market town of Uzès is somewhat of a secret gem in southern France. Staying close to Uzès allows you to embrace the region’s traditional ambience, rich heritage, artistic vibe and wonderful cuisine, not to mention the idyllic surroundings of medieval villages, forests, olive groves and Côte du Rhône vineyards.
There’s no better place to start off than Place aux Herbes in the heart of Uzès with its café and restaurant terraces, shady plane trees and historic ambience – it is said to be one of the most beautiful squares in southern France. It is also home to a fantastic market on a Wednesday and Saturday morning when traders take over Uzès’ iconic main square to showcase a wealth of delightful products. This is the perfect opportunity to buy specialities of the region – look out for pélardon goats cheese from the mountains, Cévennes honey, sweet onions, local olive oil, cod brandade de Nîmes, Camargue rice as well as so many seasonal fruit and vegetables. The market on Place aux Herbes dates back to the 13th century.
Uzès is also so loved for its historic lanes, elegant architecture, art galleries, inviting shops and excellent restaurants. Admire Cathédrale Saint-Théodorit d'Uzès and its unique round bell tower, visit the impressive Duché d’Uzès, then climb to the top of the medieval garden’s Tour du Roi for panoramic vistas. For a change of scene, just outside the town is La vallée de l'Eure for walking and hiking in glorious nature.
Of course, another great highlight of this region is the Pont du Gard, a grand symbol of Roman engineering and now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Take a guided tour of this magnificent monument, follow the walking trail by the river, canoe beneath the aqueduct and enjoy atmospheric light shows on summer evenings.
Spend time pottering around picturesque French villages such as perched La Roque-sur-Cèze surrounded by vineyards, authentic Saint-Victor-la-Coste with its fortified château ruins and tiny Pouzilhac with its old ochre houses and cobblestone streets. Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie is just north of Uzès, the ceramics capital of France and home to enchanting lanes, pottery studios, galleries and La Musée de la Poterie Méditerranéenne.
Meanwhile, discover the many wineries and vineyards close to Uzès, part of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine growing region. From family-run estates and organic vineyards to large cooperatives, learn all about the great wines of the Pays d’Uzès and Côtes du Rhône.
