When it hits 35°C in the Gard (which happens often between June and September), everyone has the same idea: the Gardon. This river that flows past Collias and under the Pont du Gard is the number one swimming spot in the region. No pool needed when you have this. Here are the best places to swim, from the most accessible to the most wild.
Collias beach: the family spot This is the easiest to reach. Walking down from the village towards the river, you arrive at a large pebble beach lined with plane trees. The water is shallow at the edges, perfect for children. Further towards the centre, the river deepens for swimmers. In summer, some areas are supervised by lifeguards.
There's plenty of flat rock to lay your towel on, and the tree shade is welcome during the hottest hours. This is also where the canoe operators are based (Kayak Vert, Canoë Collias). You can swim in the morning and canoe in the afternoon. Access: free, 5 minutes' walk from the village centre. Parking in the village (free or paid depending on the season).
The coves downstream from Collias Following the river on foot eastward (towards the Pont du Gard), you'll find several small coves accessible by trails. The water is often deeper and calmer than at the main beach. These spots are less crowded, especially on weekdays. The path follows the bank for a few hundred metres before reaching the first coves.
Note: access can be slippery, so proper footwear is recommended. The charm of these coves is the setting: limestone cliffs, wild vegetation, and the sound of the water as your only company. Pont du Gard beach (left bank) At the foot of the Pont du Gard, the beach on the left bank is a classic. You swim with a view of the Roman aqueduct, which is quite special.
The beach is accessible from the site car park (€9 per day). The water is a bit wider and deeper than at Collias. Swimming is supervised in July-August. It's the ideal spot if you want to combine a cultural visit with a swim. The Gardon between Collias and Pont du Gard (by canoe) The canoe descent from Collias to Pont du Gard (8 km, 2 hours) includes several possible swimming stops.
You pull the canoe onto a pebble bank, dive in, and carry on. It's probably the best way to enjoy the Gardon: the water, the sun, the silence of the gorges, and the Pont du Gard appearing around the last bend. Expect €18 to €28 per person depending on the operator. Season: April to October. Practical tips When to go: June to September for the warmest temperatures.
The Gardon water is pleasant from mid-June. In May and October, it's possible but cool (around 16-18°C). What to bring: water shoes (essential on pebbles), sunscreen, hat, water bottle. No changing rooms or showers at the natural beaches. Safety: the Gardon is a calm river in summer, but the level can rise quickly after storms (the famous "épisodes cévenols").
Never swim if the water is murky or the level is rising. In summer, most spots are very safe. With children: Collias beach is the best choice (shallow, supervised in summer, easy access). Canoeing is possible from age 6 with an adult. Where to stay to enjoy the Gardon At Les Chambres d'Élise, you're 5 minutes' walk from the Gardon.
Béatrice welcomes you in her village house in the heart of Collias, with two B&B rooms and a self-contained holiday home. In the morning, breakfast with local produce. In the afternoon, the river. In the evening, a dinner prepared by Béatrice with market produce (on reservation). Book directly on our website for the best rate.