Friday 31 May 2024
A Stroll Through Time and Beauty
Euzet-les-Bains, a charming village near Uzès and at the foothills of the majestic Cévennes - a UNESCO Natural Reserve and a haven of biodiversity - invites you to step into a world where history and nature intertwine seamlessly.
Perched on an ancient reef formed during the Cretaceous Period, this authentic village offers a unique glimpse into the distant past.
As you wander its scenic tracks, you’ll uncover captivating stories and breathtaking vistas that define this unique corner of France.
Orienteering - the Heart of the Village
The heart of the village is centered around the steeple of Eglise St Martin. While the exact date of its inception remains unknown, this place of worship has endured through the ages. Destroyed during the Huguenot revolt in 1703, it was rebuilt on its original site in the 19th century and continues to serve as a hub for occasional religious ceremonies and community gatherings.
Eglise St Martin, Euzet-les-Bains
Adjacent to the church lies a quaint mini water park, adorned with a meandering stream, water wells, and the melodic chorus of resident frogs. Once private gardens, each with their own well, this serene public area was conceived by Mayor Chevrolat between 2001-2011.
The Chateau that bears over the village is a private residence with a soothing bamboo park.
The Chateau at Euzet-les-Bains
The Protestant Temple
The Protestant Temple at Euzet-les-Bains
Dating back to 1839, the Euzet temple stands as a testament to the village's rich religious history. Initiated by Mayor Jean Pierre Troupel, the construction aimed to provide an alternative place of worship for the villagers, alleviating tensions arising from taxation by the Catholic Church. Today, the temple stands as one of the most imposing in the region, a symbol of religious tolerance and community resilience.
Communal Bread Oven “Four Banal”
In 2024, during a survey of buildings located next to the chapel, a long-forgotten piece of Euzet’s history resurfaced. Concealed behind a wall, the communal bread oven - thought to have been destroyed in the 1950s - was rediscovered on rue Bourrelier. Concealed between four walls and made inaccessible, the domed brickwork bread oven where villagers once gathered to bake their daily bread has been unearthed.
The communal ovens take us back to the feudal period when the lord collected a fee, often in kind, but was also responsible for maintaining the oven. This right of ownership was abolished during the French Revolution. It was then that the oven became communal and continued to be used until the 1914-1918 war with the arrival of bakeries and means of transport.
The site is currently closed until it is restored and adapted for a new generation.
On Top Of The World: A Panoramic Paradise
Embark on an uphill trek to the spot I call On Top Of The World!
This stunning vantage point offers a dramatic panorama of the Cévennes mountain range and the valley between..
It’s the perfect spot to pause, breathe in the fresh air, and let the serene beauty of Euzet wash over you.
Lets go!:
Turn off main track here V ///, and scramble over the rocky route to a glorious viewpoint (pinpointed at 2. >)
2. On Top Of The World here/// !
///quits.hydrant.grader
///hairball.burger.roped
Towards the Cevennes Mountains
La Muraillasse (Oppidum)
La Muraillasse, the highest point in Euzet-les-Bains at 319 m, offers a remarkable view of the Vallongue valley. Some authors date its origins back to the Iron Age, attributing its construction to the Roman Empire. The existence of this camp is attested to by the presence of numerous stone trails at the top of the hill, as well as the remains of small walls scattered across the slope. Its historical significance adds depth to the landscape.
Mur d'Ammonites: A Geological Wonder
Explore the easily accessible geological wall of ammonites, where ancient fossils tell tales of the distant past.
This natural wall, studded with fossils, offers clear evidence of life below water going back to the Cretaceous Period. For a deeper understanding, join one of the occasional geological hikes arranged by Dr. Geoffray Musial, a local expert and Geologist PhD, whose insightful tours provide a rich context to the geological wonders of Euzet.
The Viaducts and Old Railway Track: A Journey Through Time
The abandoned railway at Euzet-les-Bains
Follow the path of the abandoned railway, now reclaimed by nature, providing a peaceful and flat route through the countryside. The old "Tarascon-le-Martinet" railway line, operational from 1883 onwards, once served the Euzet-les-Bains station. Closed to traffic in the 1940s, it now offers a glimpse into the region's transportation history.
Grotte des Camisards: A Hidden Sanctuary
Discover the Grotte des Camisards, a cave steeped in history, which served as a refuge during the turbulent times of the Camisard Wars. Today, it offers a cool, quiet retreat and a glimpse into the resilience and courage of those who sought shelter here.
Botanical TraiL
Restored in spring 2013 as part of an applied biology workshop, the Botanical Trail offers insights into the region's flora. Forty explanatory panels, set up at the foot of different identified species, enable visitors to learn more about the local flora.
ROMAN SILOS: Echoes of Antiquity
Explore the seven amphora-shaped cavities, dating from the time of Roman occupation, which were used to house grain and foodstuffs. These silos, preserved through the centuries, are a testament to the region's agricultural heritage.
Ruins of the Thermal Spa: A Forgotten Era
On the opposite side of the main road, stand the ruins of a once significant thermal establishment and spa. Founded in the late 17th century, this spa thrived under the direction of Dr. Louis Perrier in 1875, renowned for its curative waters.
Today, the spring remains active and will soon serve as the source for a state-of-the-art equine balneotherapy centre, blending the region’s heritage, equine culture, and natural resources with modern innovation.
Really precise What3Words addresses.
Tap each link to see exactly where each destination is:
Mur d'Ammonites [to be verified]
The Viaducts and Old Railway Track
Roman Silos [To to plotted]
More:
What3Words: Your Guide to Precise Locations
What is what3words?
What3words has divided the world into 3-meter squares and given each square a unique combination of three words. It’s the easiest way to find and share exact locations.
Download the app here.
Can I type a what3words address into Google Maps?
On a smartphone, simply enter the what3words address into the free what3words app, then tap ‘Navigate’ and select ‘Google Maps’ to open the location in Google Maps.
Does the what3words app work without signal?
Without phone signal, the app functions the same as when you have no data connection: you can view the location of any what3words address you enter. You can also navigate to it using compass mode. To share a what3words address over the phone or in a text message, you need phone signal. To load maps, or share in other apps or social media, you need a data connection.
For more information about the local geology and to potentially join a guided hike, you can connect with Dr. Geoffray Musial on [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoffray-musial/).
Accommodation at La Flânerie: Rustic-Chic Retreat at the Foothills of the Cévennes
La Flânerie, a serene haven thoughtfully curated for couples seeking respite and exploration.
La Flânerie offers a very distinctive vacation experience. With its ideal location, it serves as the perfect base for exploring the diverse natural beauty of the region including the fashionable market town of Uzès.
Enjoy the comfort of an ancient vaulted limestone apartment that exudes charm and history.
The limestone undercroft provides a naturally cool environment during the hot summer months.
PERFECT FOR COUPLES
A RETREAT FOR CREATIVE SOLOS
STYLISH BOLT-HOLE
GAStRONOME DESTINATION
SUITABLE FOR ALL AGES
3* Meublé Tourisme
Instant Booking via AirBnB
Stay updated to the latest events and discoveries in Uzès, Euzet, Vézénobres, and beyond by following our journal at La Flânerie. We offer curated insights and insider tips to elevate your travels.
More dates added as they are released.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Gaby Martin AKA La Flâneuse
Gaby Martin is the dedicated host at La Flânerie and curator of La Flânerie website, bringing extensive expertise in design, culinary arts, and heritage to her readers.
When she’s not crafting insightful local event round-ups or exploring the best of southern France, you can find her experimenting with new recipes, seeking out French folk art, foraging in the Cévennes, or working as a content and design director in London.
Her deep love for French lifestyle and unwavering commitment to excellence make her the ideal guide for uncovering hidden gems and creating unforgettable experiences.