Pont Du Gard - Not to be missed

 

We've always been in awe of Roman history, which is evident throughout Europe. Some remnants stand as reminders of once-great structures, while others are no more than rubble. Yet, in certain places, there are examples so well-preserved that they demand contemplation. As we marvel at them, our minds ponder the question: How did they achieve such preservation? It's also never lost on us that in many cases, we're discussing history dating back to BC or, in this case, the 1st century.

We planned to visit Pont Du Gard on our journey to Spain this year, parking overnight at the Camping Car Park at Remoulins. This bustling aire is often full, as it's a popular spot for van travellers visiting the bridge. After booking the aire and monitoring its availability through the CCP App, we noted that it consistently fills up after 4 pm. Arriving at the aire, we embarked on a 1.5-mile walk to the site.

Although not fully intact, as some columns on the left of this picture were removed, enough remains to appreciate its design. The structure, built in the 1st century to supply water to Nimes, where a Roman colony thrived, remains impressively solid. It's still possible to walk on the first tier, allowing visitors to experience its ancient grandeur

As well as the presence of visitors, it’s clear that locals also visit the site and relax on the riverside and watch the sun rise and fall with the bridge as a backdrop.

The next morning we sneaked another look at the bridge on the route of our dawn run. Poppy comes along, of course, stopping her would be a challenge but it was a lovely route with an uphill challenge.

It was a short visit but a memorable one, but Spain beckons

We hope you enjoyed the images we took. If you appreciate our photography, please explore our portfolio via the links above. Thank you for reading. Helen and Martin