[Les plus beaux villages de France] Aiguèze in Gard

Occitanie is the region with the greatest number of “Most beautiful villages in France” and Journal Toulousain invites you to discover them; today, head for Aiguèze, in the Gard.

Aiguèze is a medieval town with many charms. This Gard village, which is located in the heart of Côtes du Rhône vineyardEast perched on a cliff and overlooks the Ardèche gorges. Aiguèze still bears the remains of its fortress and its fortifications. Of course, the town has preserved and still reveals its heritage, inherited from the Middle Ages.

A lovely medieval heritage

There is in particular its 8th century fortified castle^e century. Perched on a powerful blade of Urgonian limestone, it consists of three towers : the Saracen tower of the 11th^e century, which is connected to a round tower from the 13th^e century and the rectangular keep of the 12th^e century. Aiguèze Castle also consists of powerful cliffside fortifications and a natural troglodyte walkway. The latter passes in front of the old castle, which has become private, the Saracen tower and the keep. Above all, it offers a wide and magnificent panorama of the Ardèche valley and Mont Ventoux.

Another unmissable place in Aiguèze, classified among the “Most beautiful villages in France”, the tennis court. Located in the center of the village, this square, typical of the south, is shaded by its plane trees. Here, you can notably have a drink, lunch or play bowls. It is quite simply the heart of the village. Not far from this place is the parish church of Aiguèze. Built in the 11th century, it is of Romanesque origin and is distinguished by its Renaissance portal and its bell tower restored in Gothic style. Inside, it features neo-gothic frescoes.

A magnificent natural setting

This Gard village is located in a privileged natural setting. Its strong sunshine allows its vines to flourish. “Côtes du Rhône” wines in AOC and “Côtes du Rhône Village” appellation are today the pride of the inhabitants of Aiguèze. Wines that you can taste while dining on site. You can notably stop at Bouchon, which offers homemade cuisine and 100% fresh products, or opt for a pizza and a sweet crepe at Belvédère.

With the Ardèche gorges at its feet, the village also has a nice spot for canoeing or paddle boarding. A nautical and equipment rental center is located a few kilometers from the village.