Occitanie, South of France (le Midi), France

Uzès Beaches

Overview

While Uzès is a celebrated historic town, it is not located directly on the coast. Instead, it offers a unique holiday experience with two distinct swimming options. The region is famous for its beautiful river beaches along the Gardon, providing a refreshing escape in a natural setting. For those seeking a classic seaside day out, the expansive sandy beaches of the Mediterranean are just an hour's drive away, making Uzès an ideal base for exploring both countryside and coast.

The local river swimming is a highlight, with Plage de Collias serving as a popular hub for kayaking and family fun. For a trip to the sea, the options are diverse. You can experience the wild, untamed beauty of the Camargue at the vast Plage de l'Espiguette. Alternatively, enjoy the lively atmosphere at Plage du Grand Travers near La Grande-Motte or the traditional charm of the fishing village at Plage Rive Gauche.

One of the most memorable experiences is swimming in the Gardon river with the magnificent Roman aqueduct as your backdrop at the Pont du Gard. The river and sea beaches near Uzès offer a more rustic and natural alternative to the bustling Côte d'Azur. For a complete look at all the top spots, from quiet river coves to expansive seaside shores, be sure to explore our full guide to the best beaches in the region.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Uzès a good base for a beach holiday?

Uzès is a historic inland town, not a coastal resort, making it a fantastic base for a cultural holiday with swimming options. It is renowned for its beautiful river swimming spots along the Gardon river. For a traditional seaside experience, the Mediterranean beaches are about an hour to an hour-and-a-half drive away, perfect for a day trip.

How far is Uzès from the nearest sea beach?

The closest Mediterranean beaches, such as those at Le Grau-du-Roi and La Grande-Motte, are approximately 60-70 kilometers (about 37-43 miles) from Uzès. The drive typically takes about an hour to an hour and fifteen minutes.

Can you swim in the river at the Pont du Gard?

Yes, swimming in the Gardon river with a view of the magnificent Pont du Gard is a very popular and memorable activity. There are pebble beaches on both sides of the river, and the water is generally calm and refreshing in the summer, making it ideal for families.

What are the river beaches near Uzès like?

The river beaches, primarily along the Gardon, are typically made of pebbles and rocks, not sand. They are set in beautiful, natural landscapes, often with clear, cool water perfect for escaping the summer heat. Popular spots include Collias and the area around the Pont du Gard.

Are there any hotels with direct river access near Uzès?

While Uzès itself is a town, some guesthouses and hotels in nearby villages like Collias are situated very close to the Gardon river, offering guests easy walking access to the water. However, accommodations with private, direct river frontage are not common.

See the full list of accommodation options here.

Do I need water shoes for the river beaches?

Bringing water shoes is highly recommended. The riverbeds and beaches consist mostly of pebbles and stones, and wearing water shoes makes walking into the water and along the banks much more comfortable and safer.

Is Uzès a good destination for a family holiday with swimming?

Absolutely. Uzès is an excellent choice for families. It combines the charm of a historic town with the fun of outdoor activities. The river beaches, especially at Collias and Pont du Gard, often have shallow areas suitable for children, and kayaking on the Gardon is a fantastic family adventure.

Which is better for swimming: Collias or Pont du Gard?

It depends on your preference. Pont du Gard offers the iconic, breathtaking view and has wide beach areas, but requires an entrance fee for the site's parking and facilities. Collias is a charming village known as a hub for canoe trips; its riverside access is more direct and free, offering a more intimate, village-based experience.

When is the best time of year for swimming near Uzès?

The ideal time for swimming in the rivers and the nearby Mediterranean is from June to September. During these months, the water temperatures are pleasantly warm. For fewer crowds while still enjoying good weather, June and September are often considered the best months.

Are there any quieter swimming spots besides the main river beaches?

Yes, for a different experience, you can explore the Cèze river, north of Uzès. It offers several beautiful and often quieter swimming spots. The Cascades du Sautadet waterfalls are visually stunning, though swimming is only permitted downstream in safer, calmer areas due to strong currents in the falls themselves.

Do I need a car to get to the beaches from Uzès?

Yes, a car is essential. Both the river swimming spots and the Mediterranean coast are spread out, and public transportation to these natural areas is very limited or non-existent. A car provides the necessary flexibility to explore the region's beaches effectively.

How do the beaches near Uzès compare to the Côte d'Azur?

The swimming options near Uzès offer a more natural and rustic experience compared to the glamorous Côte d'Azur. The river beaches provide a unique countryside setting. The closest Mediterranean beaches in the Camargue are vast, sandy, and generally more wild and less developed than the often pebbly and bustling beaches of the French Riviera.