Discover Saint Jean du Gard, in the Cévennes

Discover Saint Jean du Gard

Saint Jean du Gard is located in the Cévennes, near Anduze and Alès. As you walk through the heights of this Cevennes village, you’ll see the first traces of human settlement (dolmens, ancient dwellings, etc.). Over the centuries, the village grew, thanks in particular to the leather, wool and silk industries. Today, Saint Jean du Gard still preserves vestiges of its past through a rich historical and cultural heritage.

Strolling through the village streets, discover the Pont Vieux, built in 1733 to cross the Gardon river. A little further on, the Tour de l’horloge is an ancient bell tower, the only vestige of a 12th-century church. Behind the tower stands the Vicar’s House, one of the oldest houses in the village. Admire the beautiful old doors on the houses and the château, former residence of the Lords of Saint Jean. Stevenson ‘s fountain is another must-see in the village. It commemorates the arrival of the Scottish author in the town.

Family activities in Saint Jean du Gard

In Saint Jean Du Gard, discover the Musée des Vallées Cévenoles (or “Maison Rouge”), housed in the oldest silk spinning mill in France. Thousands of objects relating to life in the Cévennes, both past and present, give visitors a better understanding of the region’s past and present.

Another idea for a family outing: the Cévennes Steam Train. Embark on a timeless journey aboard a steam locomotive. This “old lady” runs 13 km from Saint-Jean du Gard to Anduze . This bucolic ride offers beautiful views of the Cévennes countryside.

The steam train from Anduze to Saint Jean du Gard

The Cévennes steam train is one of the region’s most emblematic tourist attractions. This historic train crosses the Gardons valley between Anduze and Saint-Jean-du-Gard, offering passengers magnificent views of the surrounding natural landscapes. The 13 km journey takes around an hour and a half, and allows visitors to discover the region in a unique and picturesque way. The Cévennes steam train is an authentic and memorable experience for all ages, transporting passengers back to a bygone era of railway history.

Walks and hikes in St Jean du Gard

Saint Jean du Gard is also an ideal starting point for hiking, allowing you to take full advantage of the natural surroundings. Numerous signposted footpaths allow you to take a short or long stroll, as you wish. Saint Jean du Gard was one of the last stops on writer Robert Louis Stevenson ‘s route in 1878. He linked the Haute-Loire to the Cévennes with his donkey. Today, you can follow in his footsteps on the GR70. You can even hike with a donkey, to the delight of children! (6 km from St Jean du Gard, donkey rental by the day or half-day at Mialet).

Finally, by car or motorcycle, drive along the Corniche des Cévennes, a legendary Cevennes road. This itinerary on the D9 linking Saint Jean du Gard to Florac is a succession of breathtaking landscapes and panoramas.

Saint-Jean-du-Gard is also known for its lively weekly market, where you can find fresh local produce and handicrafts. For outdoor enthusiasts, there’s plenty of hiking and biking nearby, as well as water sports on the Gardon river.

Saint-Jean-du-Gard is also famous for its annual chestnut festival in October, where you can sample local chestnut dishes and learn about the region’s culture.