Gardon swimming area at Pont du Gard

The Gardon swimming area at the Pont du Gard lies beside the Roman aqueduct bridge at 400 Route du Pont du Gard in Vers-Pont-du-Gard, in the Gard department of Occitanie, about 27 km west of Avignon. The river bank is a mix of pebbles and flat rock, and the water is typically clear and green, flowing slowly beneath the three tiers of the UNESCO-listed Roman bridge, which makes the setting among the most photogenic swimming spots in southern France. The bathing area is a stretch of open river rather than a cove, and there is no surf; the current is mild in summer, though the water level changes with the season and rain. A marked bathing area is described on the left bank in summer, and visitors should confirm on site which zones are open and whether any supervision applies. The atmosphere is family-oriented and sightseeing-led, since most visitors combine a swim with a visit to the monument and its walking trails. Amenities nearby include cafés and picnic areas; sun loungers are not a feature, and restroom facilities are typically available within the visitor site but should be confirmed. Access is by car in about 35 minutes from Avignon, and the site charges a parking fee. In summer an Edgard bus line from Avignon to the Pont du Gard is listed, although the timetable should be verified before travelling. From the car park a short, mostly flat walk leads to the river, with some uneven stone surfaces near the water. The best period for swimming is June to September, when temperatures are high and the river is at its most inviting. Mornings and early evenings are quieter than the middle of the day, when tour groups arrive. Water shoes are advisable on the rocky bed, and shade is limited in the open areas, so sun protection is useful. The area combines naturally with a stop in nearby Collias or a canoe descent along the Gardon.