Goudargues

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Goudargues, little "Venice of the Gard"

In the heart of the Cèze Valley, Goudargues is an oasis of freshness, tranquility and calm. The canal shaded by centuries-old plane trees is the heart of the village, it is a very pleasant place to stroll, relax and stop at one of the many coffee terraces, for lunch or dinner in one of the many restaurants that border it. The charm of the place has earned Goudargues the nickname "Little Venice of the Gard" with a little emphasis.

The water of the canal is supplied by a Vaucluse resurgence at a constant flow rate and temperature all year round. In Roman times, and an oppidum dominated the valley above the current village where an important villa was established. It has disappeared, but its name "Gordanicus" has passed through time and it is probably the origin of the village's name.

The church of Goudargues is surprising large, it was part of an important abbey built in the 12th century. It known many vicissitudes of history : bandits in the 14th century , the wars of Religion in the 16th century, the revolt of Camisard in the 18th century, and the Revolution. It was restored in the 19th century. It remains also the beautiful chapter house where the monks gathered to eat, it hosts annually exhibitions of local painters and sculptors.

August 15 Goudargues held a " Aperitif Canal " with feet in the water. Village youths organize a party very happy and very wet in every sense of the word. The festive and friendly event annually attracts more and more people n the area as also tourists join the party.

Ceze river offers places very nice swimming, recreational activities associated with the river and the surrounding mountains are ideal for hiking on foot or by bike. But the proximity of the river can also be a risk: although rare , the last flood was in 2002 , it caused widespread damage in the village.

Goudargues in photos : slideshow

Practical information and accommodation

Selection of guest rooms around the Cèze Valley on the portal of the guest rooms of Provence

Official website of Goudargues : goudargues.fr

Sights and activities in Goudargues:

• Street Festival "Les Goûts d'Arts Gais" in july
• The votive celebration of August 15th - l'Apéro Canal
• The abbey church
• 12th century cloister
• Swimming and canoeing in the Cèze river
• Cycling and walking tours

Coming to Goudargues

GPS coordinates N 44°12’59’’ - E 4°28’00’’

Location : altitude 70 metres, 1000 inhabitants, 5 miles from La Roque sur Cèze, 10 miles from Bagnols sur Cèze, 10 miles from Lussan, 13 miles from Pont-Saint-Esprit, 11 miles from Barjac, 18 miles from Ardèche gorges (Vallon Pont-d'Arc)