From the Pont du Gard, this bike circuit lead you in a ride on small roads and small ways, to discover charming villages of Gard like Vers-Pont-du-Gard, Castillon-du-Gard, Collias and Saint-Maximin.
Do it on your own rhythm, with some small ribs but which are accessible to all, with many discoveries and swimming opportunities in the Gardon.
Departing from la Sousta, you will cross the Pont du Gard, vous commencez par traverser le Pont du Gard, and enjoy this gems of antiquity, classified as World Heritage by Unesco.
The first part of the ride joins Collias following the stream of the Gardon. At km 3, you pass by the Saint-Pierre Chapel dating from the 12th century and continue by the GR6 along the Gardon until Collias. You can enjoy it to take a break on the shingle beaches at the foot of the bridge.
After crossing the village, here you are on the 2nd part of the ride, which joins Saint-Maximin by municipal roads in the middle of vineyards and fields (watch out for crossing the D981 at km 15). Backed by a hill, the village overlooking the Alzon valley is built around its castle. You can make a detour in the shaded alleys and visit its church where you will discover the organs (classified).
The third part of the walk goes to the peaceful village of Vers-Pont-du-Gard. You then follow the GR 63 passing at km 17.5 over the Aqueduct Bridge of Bornègre (note: 400 m of more chaotic path may require getting off the bike). After this bridge, you leave the GR for 2 km to reach it after Argilliers, and you continue to the center of Vers-Pont-du-Gard.
The village deserves a stop. It has important stone quarries which have been exploited for a long time,which were used by the Romans for the construction of the aqueduct which went from the fountain of Eure to Uzès until Nîmes, and to built the Pont du Gard. It has kept all its small shops and its craftsmen. Walking through the alleys, you will discover the Clock Tower, a vestige of the medieval walls, the Church and the three remarkable water points (wash, fountains) ...
The route now begins its last part by going up to the hilltop village of Castillon-du-Gard by the D192 (the arrival in the village climbs well but for a short time). This 13th century medieval village has small cobbled streets and gargoyles, an old guard tower and a Romanesque chapel, but also small shops, restaurants and a very beautiful point of view…
The last 5 kilometers allow you to descend to Pont du Gard and return quietly to the campsite.
Site par White Chapel - ID-Alizés
