Duché d’Uzès, Tavel, Lirac, Clairette de Bellegarde, Costières de Nîmes… Names that evoke the gastronomy and iconic produce of the Gard region, from truffles to olive oil and wine!

On the right bank of the Rhône, the Gard vineyards of the Rhône Valley, with their 11 AOPs and 3 IGPs, are an expression of terroirs that are influenced by the river’s geology and climates, round pebbles and the mistral. Here, grape varieties such as Bourboulenc, Roussane, Marsane, Viognier, Grenache Blanc, Grenache Noir, Syrah, Mourvèdre, and Cinsaut produce wines of character.

While these vineyards contain diverse landscapes ideal for hiking, canoeing, cycling, and river tourism, the land has also been enriched by the men and women who have passed this way in years gone by. Unmissable sights include the Pont du Gard, a masterpiece in Roman architecture and engineering, the strollable town of Uzès, and also Beaucaire and Nîmes, cities of art and history with a rich and colourful historical and gastronomic heritage. The Abbey of Saint-Gilles, included on the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its ties to the Santiago de Compostela pilgrim route, is also worth an extended visit.

But for a complete immersion there’s nothing like a unique experience to discover local know-how and titillate the taste buds.

Reason is why Château Mourgues du Grès and its connected winemaker's trail are a must. Visitors can stroll between vine, garigue and orchards as they watch videos that detail estate life through the seasons and learn about its diverse environment. There’s also a chance to enjoy a tasting of organic wines among the vines and savour a winemaker's picnic featuring local seasonal produce.

History buffs can travel back in time in the ancient Sernhac tunnels that run from the Pont du Gard aqueduct. They’ll be joined by the owners of Domaine de Poulvarel, who will open their modern cellar, built from Pont du Gard stone, and ensuring the optimal temperature to age and store the wines. For the full experience and a perfect refuge, head to the heart of the village and Les Aires Passagères – awarded the European Eco-Label – for self-catering gîtes and bed and breakfast.