Monday (Paradou)…

 





 
Our primary destination for the day was the Pont du Gard rising impressively above the river Gardon. This is one of those iconic Roman sites you simply must see. 

Constructed around 50 A.D., the bridge was a major component of the aqueduct that ran from a spring in Uzés to the city of Nîmes. Three tiers of stone arches held aloft an enclosed channel of vital water. 

The bridge is in remarkable shape. No imagining at THIS ruin. We climbed a steep rocky path to the top of the bridge and a glimpse into the water channel. Continuing, we could follow the aqueduct as it approached the bridge…winding around the hillsides and over much-smaller arches…always dropping its elevation slowly but steadily from the source. 

A high school band played medleys of show tunes mid-bridge, providing a soundtrack for our hike. Who can resist the Rocky theme? 

Crossing to the left bank, we visited the small museum. It included a lot information on Roman hydrologic engineering and its uses. One fact that stood out was the aqueduct system that fed Rome provided on average a 1000 liters of water a day whereas modern Europeans only consume 300-400 liters a day. A model illustrated various architectural constructs along the entire 50 kilometer route of the aqueduct. 

Leaving the Pont, we headed up-stream (or up-aqueduct?) to Uzés. We didn’t find the source of the aqueduct, but instead we found a charming old city center. Perfect for a late afternoon stroll, some shopping, and a cappuccino and beer on a neighborhood square. 

Ignoring the rain clouds, we made one final stop for the day: Arles, with its own Roman amphitheater. A light rain created beautiful reflections on weathered streets in the city center. The amphitheater was well lit and striking…just sitting there among ordinary modern buildings. Signs advertised an upcoming bullfight. Before heading back to the car, we stopped in a charming eatery (Tonton Sam) for juicy local-inspired burgers (Le Gus). After three nights of decadent French meals, a good, humble burger hit the spot. 

Tired from a nice long day of walking, we headed back to rest up and enjoy our last night at the B Design. Tomorrow, we trade the tranquil countryside for the energetic streets of Paris.