A calm city in southern France's Gard department, known for its silk industry history and the annual 6-day cycling race. Close to the Cévennes mountains.
Alès sits at the foot of the Cévennes mountains in southern France, 40 kilometers from Nîmes. Walk through authentic mining tunnels at Mine Témoin, browse among 40 vendors at the Halles de l'Abbaye market, or watch performances at the active Cratère theater. The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral rises from medieval foundations in the city center, while Fort Vauban's 350-meter ramparts stretch across six bastions. Each May, the Feria festival brings bull running and music to the streets.
Getting to Alès
Trains run every two hours between Alès and Nîmes, with some continuing to Clermont-Ferrand. Drive the A7 motorway from Bollène or take the A9 through Nîmes-Ouest. Buses connect Alès to nearby towns, with departures to Avignon via Uzès four times daily.
Museums and Cultural Sites
At Mine Témoin, descend into underground tunnels to see mining equipment from 1945-1968. The Pierre André Benoît Museum exhibits modern art collections from the 20th century, including works by artists who collaborated with the museum's founder. The Musée du Colombier, housed in an 18th-century mansion, displays archaeological artifacts spanning from the Paleolithic era to modern times.
Around Town
The Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral's 18th-century structure stands on foundations dating to Carolingian times. Fort Vauban (1687-1688) stretches across 350 meters with six bastions. Shop at Halles de l'Abbaye market (Monday-Saturday, 7am-1pm) where about forty vendors sell fresh produce, local cheeses, and regional specialties.
Parks and Nature
The Parc Botanique de la Tour Vieille showcases native plant species in themed garden sections. Walk up to the 11th-12th century Hermitage chapel at 290 meters elevation for views across Alès and the surrounding area. From June through September, swim and join water activities at Alès Plage along the Gardon River.
Festivals and Events
The Feria d'Alès in May fills streets with white horse parades, regional wine tastings, and traditional bull running. Watch classical music and contemporary dance performances year-round at the Cratère theater. The Fous Chantants festival brings 1,000 singers together in late July for daily shows and a grand finale concert.
Day Trips
Walk through 34 hectares of exotic gardens and bamboo groves at the Bambouseraie en Cévennes, 10 kilometers away in Générargues. The medieval Château de Portes rises near Mont Lozère, while the Bois de Païolive's oak forest contains distinctive limestone formations along its walking paths.
