A week around Cardet: 7 day trips between the Cévennes and the sea

Cardet sits right in the middle of everything the Gard has to offer. Here is how we would spend a week, with one outing per day. You will still have plenty of time for the pool.

Day 1: Anduze and the Bambouseraie

Fifteen minutes away. Stroll through the old streets of Anduze, look at the famous glazed garden pots, and then visit the Bambouseraie, a vast bamboo garden just outside town. Go in the morning, when it is still cool.

Day 2: the steam train and the Gardon

Take the Train à Vapeur des Cévennes from Anduze to Saint-Jean-du-Gard and back, through the Gardon valley. In the afternoon, cool off with a swim in the river. Always check the local swimming advice and water levels.

Day 3: Nîmes

The Roman arena, the Maison Carrée and the Jardins de la Fontaine are all within walking distance in the old centre. Park outside the centre and walk in.

Day 4: Uzès

A golden-stoned ducal town, lovely for a lunch and a walk. Its Saturday morning market on the Place aux Herbes is one of the most beautiful in the South: since you arrive on a Saturday, it is a great way to start a second week.

Day 5: the Pont du Gard

The Roman aqueduct is impressive at any time, but most pleasant early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Bring swimming gear: you can swim in the Gardon below the bridge.

Day 6: the sea and the Camargue

In about an hour you reach Le Grau-du-Roi and the beaches of l'Espiguette. Combine it with the walled town of Aigues-Mortes and look out for flamingos in the salt marshes.

Day 7: Mont Aigoual

Drive up to the roof of the Cévennes, at 1,567 metres. The road is winding and beautiful, and at the top it is often 10 degrees cooler than in Cardet. Bring a jumper.

And the rest of the time?

Swim, read, fire up the plancha, and take a bike ride along the voie verte from the garden gate. See all outings and driving times or check when the house is free.