Uzès is a charming town steeped in a rich historical heritage just waiting to be explored. Those with a curious spirit will find delight in this Provençal city, brimming with museums, monuments, and extraordinary sites.
Located in the centre of the town, its architecture reflects the different periods it has passed through. Built on an ancient Roman camp in 1632, the castle has suffered many misadventures: ransacked, transformed into a college and its furniture sold. It was finally acquired in the middle of the 20th century by the Marquise de Crussol, who began renovating this historic site, work that has since been taken over by her grandson, the Duke of Uzès. It is possible to visit the cellars, the keep and the flats. From the Bermonde Tower, built in the 12th century, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the city of Uzès!
The Cathedral of Saint Theodorit in Uzès is one of the city's most iconic monuments and a masterpiece of its cultural and historical heritage. Originally built in the 6th century, its history has been marred by plenty of destructions and reconstructions, particularly during the religious wars of the medieval era. Its classical architecture, infused with Italian inspirations, captivates visitors. The façade and interior are rather simple, reflecting the classic style attributed to one of the major reconstructions in the 17th century. Inside, you can admire its Tuscan columns and the iconic round tower, the Tour Fenestrelle. This architectural gem, emblematic of the cathedral, is reminiscent of Tuscan campaniles.
Discover the history of the city through the collections of the Georges Borias Museum. Nestled in the Old Bishop's Palace, this museum displays paintings, ceramics, archaeological finds and furniture, all of which bear witness to Uzès' past. It bears the name of a teacher and artist who ran the museum for 40 years on a voluntary basis.
The South of France is brimming with majestic natural landscapes waiting to be explored. Around Uzès, you can visit the lavender fields that stretch as far as the eye can see, and soak in the scents of this southern flower. As picturesque as postcard views, these panoramas epitomise the beauty of this charming French region. Go on a day trip and take a leisurely walk or a peaceful family hike through the lush hills, plains dotted with garrigue, and the rugged mountains of the South of France. These stunning landscapes have inspired some of the greatest artists, including Paul Cézanne, known for his famous painting of the mountain Sainte-Victoire. Just a stone’s throw from Uzès, ask your Villanovo concierge to arrange a wine tasting in the local vineyards—an experience full of unforgettable flavours!
The Eure Valley has long been the source of drinking water for the people of Nîmes. Indeed, the water was transported to city thanks to the famous Roman aqueduct: the Pont du Gard. Classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, it is one of the French historical monuments not to be missed near Uzès. For a sporty day trip, You can get to this site by bike, 15 kilometres separate the town of Uzès from the Pont du Gard. For example, Sun-E-Bike offers electric bikes for hire. There is a charge for access to the site, but it offers many activities, a film, exhibitions, a museum and paths to discover the site on foot or by bike. In summer, it is possible to swim by the Gardon river, and there is also a supervised beach for children.
Strolling through the cobbled streets of the town will give you the impression of travelling back to medieval times. In the heart of the historic centre stands the Place aux herbes, adorned with a fountain. It is on this same square that one of the largest markets in the region is held every Wednesday and Saturday. Stroll through the gardens of this medieval village, wander around the charming squares or the lively Place aux Herbes. With its warm and peaceful atmosphere, this Provençal town is filled with beautiful art galleries, quaint clothing boutiques, and delightful restaurants.
Whether at the markets on Place aux Herbes or in charming local restaurants, a visit to Uzès is not complete without indulging in the region's renowned gastronomy. The area is celebrated for its delicious local produce. On the menu: olive oil, honey, wine, and truffles. These wonderful local products can be found on the village market stalls or cooked into delightful dishes, infused with the famous herbs of Provence, at the village's many restaurants.
Both less than an hour's drive from Uzès, the Grottes de la Cocalière and de Trabuc are natural landmarks not to be missed. Located near the Cévennes, the Grotte de la Cocalière is only a small part of a vast underground network. Carved into the limestone, it is one of the most beautiful caves in France. The Grotte de Trabuc is known for its mythical room of 100,000 soldiers, a mysterious formation of small peaks lined up on the ground. A total immersion in the Mialet Valley where you will discover a lake, waterfalls and other sculptures of nature.
The Bamboo Grove in Anduze is one of the most beautiful gardens in France. The project was started by Eugène Mazel, a spice merchant with a passion for botany. He began his first plantations in 1856, from various parts of the world, China, Japan, the Himalayas and North America. Open to the public since 1953, it is an exotic park to discover during a family walk. During your walk, you will cross different landscapes, a Japanese pavilion, a Laotian village, a bamboo and redwood forest. Be careful not to get lost in the labyrinth! The park is home to different varieties of bamboo, but also 1000 other unique trees and flowers such as Japanese maples and camellias. It is one of the most visited places in the region and one of the largest bamboo groves in Europe, so be sure to visit the Bamboo Grove in the Cevennes.
Uzès is the perfect starting point for a day trip to explore the nearby Provençal villages and towns. Just a ten-minute drive away lies the charming village of Saint Quentin La Potterie, renowned for its artisan pottery and ceramics workshops. A little further, you can visit the picturesque villages of Gordes and St Remy. Ranked among the most beautiful villages in Provence, and the world in Gordes' case, their quaint cobbled streets are lined with restaurants, artisanal shops, and charming café terraces. A 45-minute drive from Uzès will take you to the theatre city of Avignon, where you shouldn’t miss its famous festival. Each summer, Avignon hosts one of the largest theatre festivals in the world, drawing artists and spectators from all over. Alternatively, hop on a bus to Nîmes and explore its renowned ancient ruins, including the Roman amphitheatre, the Arènes, one of the best-preserved in the world.
Provence is the ultimate region for sun-filled holidays. With its Mediterranean climate, temperatures in winter are mild, and summers are hot and dry—the best time for a stay in Provence in a Villanovo villa with a private pool! Nestled between the mountains of the Massif Central and the French Riviera, Provence is shielded from rain and benefits from the mistral wind, which sweeps away clouds. This is why the sun almost always shines in the south of France!
Villanovo has thoughtfully selected a range of luxury villas in Provence to suit your every need. Choose from rentals with a private swimming pool or a heated one, tennis court, personal chef, and house staff.
Our exclusive collection includes luxury villas in Uzès, Avignon, Gordes, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and beyond, giving luxury travellers the ideal home base for their holidays.
Our attentive concierges take care of all the details so you can concentrate on your holiday. This personalised service adapts each trip to your needs, whether you want to book a tour of the Provençal countryside, a car rental, or a private chef. Last but not least? Villanovo offers you a beautiful travel diary for each stay in one of our villas. You'll find all our recommendations for restaurants, shops and other experiences to discover in Provence.