Uzès rises above the Vallée de l’Eure in the Gard, between the Cévennes and Provence. Its pale stone streets and distinctive towers are attractive, but the landscape below the historic centre is just as important. Here, the Eure spring supplied water to Roman Nîmes.
During our visit, we combined Uzès with the Vallée de l’Eure à Uzès walk on AllTrails. The route moves between two very different sides of the town: quiet riverside paths and Mediterranean woodland below, followed by views of the old rooftops and towers as it climbs back towards Uzès.
For campervan travellers, this combination works well. A practical motorhome area lies close to the centre, and there is enough here to fill a day without moving the camper again.
Exploring the historic centre of Uzès
Place aux Herbes forms the heart of the town. Plane trees shade the square, arcades line its edges and cafés occupy the spaces between old stone buildings. Uzès holds its main markets here on Wednesday and Saturday from 8:00 till 13:00. Market day adds colour and energy, but it also brings more traffic and makes parking considerably busier. Visit early if you enjoy the atmosphere, or choose another day if you prefer to wander through quieter streets.
The Duchy of Uzès, or Le Duché, reflects the town’s connection with the dukes of Uzès. In 1565, Antoine de Crussol became Duke of Uzès, traditionally regarded as the first duke in the French peerage. Nearby, Saint-Théodorit Cathedral is recognisable by the round Romanesque Tour Fenestrelle. Its unusual shape has earned comparisons with the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
Uzès can feel busy during summer, especially around Place aux Herbes, but the streets become calmer away from the central square. A morning in the centre followed by the valley walk gives the day a pleasant balance.
Walking through the Vallée de l’Eure
The Vallée de l’Eure lies directly below the town. This AllTrails route is a moderate loop of roughly six kilometres, although the distance can vary slightly depending on the chosen paths and where you begin recording. Allow around two hours for the walk, and longer if you stop for lunch, photographs or a slower wander through the centre.
We followed this route during our visit. It descends towards the Alzon, passes through the green valley and climbs onto higher, drier ground before returning to town. Near the water, large trees provide shade. Higher up, the vegetation changes to stony Mediterranean garrigue, with more open views back towards Uzès.
The route is not technically difficult, but it should not be confused with a completely flat park walk. There are uneven and rocky stretches, as well as a noticeable climb out of the valley. The official local route information also warns of a steeper section on the return to town. Shoes with reasonable grip are useful, particularly after rain, when stones and earth can become slippery.
Several paths cross in the valley and hills. Download the AllTrails map with Alltrails plus before setting off to avoid accidentally following a shorter local walk or a longer countryside route.
In summer, start in the morning if possible. Much of the lower valley is shaded, but the exposed sections become hot later in the day. The rocky climbs make the complete circuit unsuitable for pushchairs and difficult for visitors with limited mobility. A gentler alternative is to explore only the lower park.
Camper parking at the Stade du Refuge
The motorhome area at the Stade du Refuge on Park4night is a large shared parking area near the rugby stadium. The historic centre is within walking distance. Park4night currently lists 30 motorhome places and permits stays of up to 48 consecutive hours.
Parking itself is free. The listing includes black- and grey-water disposal, drinking-water filling, waste bins and public toilets. Water is listed at €2 for ten minutes, while the toilets are normally available between 06:00 and 22:00. Park4night currently warns that the service facilities are temporarily closed, so check the latest comments and arrive prepared to be self-sufficient.
This is an urban parking place rather than a campsite, so chairs, awnings and other camping behaviour are not allowed. The shared car park can be busy, and recent visitors mention occasional early activity, coaches and stadium events. Do not expect a secluded night.
On Sunday morning, a flea and antiques market uses the area and the listing says the motorhome zone is inaccessible. Wednesday and Saturday town markets also increase traffic, so arriving later in the day may be easier.
Its location is the main advantage. You can walk into Uzès and continue into the Vallée de l’Eure without negotiating the narrowest streets in a large vehicle. Follow the signs displayed on arrival, as local rules can change.
Continue towards Pont du Gard
For most visitors, the Pont du Gard is the natural next stop. Visiting it after walking beside the source completes the story of the Roman aqueduct. Cyclists can also follow the voie verte from the Uzès area towards Pont du Gard, although the full trip is much longer than a casual ride and several road sections require care.
More places to visit in the Gard
Travellers continuing west through the Gard can add the Cirque de Navacelles to the route. This enormous abandoned river meander is very different from the cultivated landscape around Uzès. The Belvédères de Blandas provide the easiest access for a camper, while longer trails descend towards the Gorges de la Vis and the hamlet of Navacelles.
Treat it as an onward road-trip stop rather than a short excursion from Uzès. It fits particularly well for travellers heading towards the Cévennes, Larzac or Millau.
Is Uzès worth visiting with a campervan?
Uzès suits travellers who like combining a small historic town with an accessible walk. Within minutes, its stone streets give way to water, trees and paths beneath the town.
The Stade du Refuge parking is convenient rather than scenic, and busy periods or closed services can reduce its appeal. Yet its walkable location and 48-hour limit make it a useful base. One night is enough for the centre and the walk; a second gives time for the market or a longer outing.
For us, following the Vallée de l’Eure route was the best way to understand Uzès as more than a beautiful old town. The walk connects its Roman beginnings, surrounding landscape and recognisable skyline in one manageable loop and gives camper travellers a good reason to leave the vehicle parked for the day.
