Collias on the Gardon: River Landscapes, Hiking Trails and Cultural Heritage

Collias lies on the left bank of the Gardon. River landscapes, hiking routes, canoe trips and protected cultural sites offer different ways to spend your time here. Activities vary considerably in character and duration.

The Gardon, Gorges and Hiking Trails

Collias provides access to the Gorges du Gardon, recognised by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve. The municipality is one of the 26 municipalities within the reserve and is also part of the classified site of the Gorges du Gardon. This site follows the river and includes five municipalities. From the bridge over the Gardon, you can see gravel banks and steep slopes.

One specific option on foot is the L’Ermitage de Collias circular hike: it is of moderate difficulty, 6.5 kilometres long and takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. The route follows the riverside vegetation of L’Ermitage along the Gardon. If trail conditions change, check the difficulty rating and distance before setting out. There is also a bathing area on the Gardon with pebble beaches; the swimming area is unsupervised. Check conditions before your visit.

Canoeing and Other Activities

Several canoe routes start in Collias and pass beneath the arches of the Pont du Gard. Kayak Vert Pont du Gard offers canoeing and kayaking trips along the Gardon from Collias to the Pont du Gard. Routes range from 8 to 30 kilometres and take one or two days, depending on the season. Water conditions may affect availability; check your planned route in advance.

Another activity is the Collias via ferrata. Its course includes ladders, a suspension bridge, two zip lines and a 40-metre abseil section. The via ferrata is accessible to beginners, and technical equipment is provided. Confirm participation requirements and equipment arrangements before booking; check the course configuration before taking part.

Cultural Sites and Local History

The Chapelle Notre-Dame de Laval was built in the 12th century on the ruins of a Gallo-Roman temple. A spring rises on the grounds, and a grotto near the chapel was once inhabited by hermits. The entire site is classified.

The Grotte des Colonnes is also in Collias, in the L’Ermitage and les Costettes area. It has been classified as a historic monument by decree since 24 August 1931. The Middle Palaeolithic, Upper Palaeolithic and ancient times are associated with the grotto. The Eglise Saint-Vincent de Collias was built on the site of an earlier Romanesque chapel; construction was completed in December 1867. Collias therefore offers different historical time periods, from the dating of the grotto to the construction history of the church.

Maison du Castor

The Maison du Castor is a fun, interactive educational and discovery centre for visitors. It is dedicated to the beaver and the Gardon, and explores the biodiversity, history and cultural heritage of the Gorges du Gardon. The Maison includes an educational area, a relaxation area and an open-air theatre. Exhibits feature a giant beaver, models, a diorama, a slide and digital tablets; exhibitions may be updated.

Planning Your Stay in Collias

Consider what timeframe suits your travel plans and whether you would also like to set aside time for the river landscape or cultural sites.

Discover more destinations: Cros, Brouzet-Lès-Alès, Carsan, Bernis, Gailhan, Meyrannes, Saze, Brignon.

For the broader travel overview: Gard.