Alès,
Alès is a charming town located in the southern part of France, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. The town is surrounded by picturesque countryside with lush greenery and vineyards. Alès is also famous for its annual music festivals and cultural events that attract visitors from around the world.
With a laid-back atmosphere and friendly locals, Alès offers a tranquil and authentic French experience.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Bonjour (Hello)" - Hello
- "S'il vous plaît (Please)" - Please
- "Merci (Thank you)" - Thank you
- "Excusez-moi (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
- "Oui (Yes)" - Yes
- "Non (No)" - No
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Als
morning:Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Jardins de la Fontaine to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stunning views. Consider having a delightful French breakfast at Café Leffe to kickstart your day.
afternoon:Take a leisurely stroll through the Old Town, visiting the charming Musée du Colombier and exploring the historical architecture. Indulge in a scrumptious lunch at La Petite Fabrique to experience local flavors.
evening:In the evening, head to Place des Martyrs de la Résistance for a vibrant atmosphere and great dining options, followed by a lively night out at Bar Le Moge.
Cultural Delights in Als
morning:Discover the rich culture of Alès by visiting the Musée Bibliothèque Pierre-André Benoit, housing an intriguing collection of art and history. Try out the delicious pastries at Pâtisserie Favrot for a delightful morning treat.
afternoon:Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Château de Portes, a medieval castle offering stunning views and historical insights. Enjoy a satisfying lunch at Restaurant Château de Portes.
evening:For a perfect end to the day, head to Quartier de l'Abbaye for a cozy evening at Le Petit Bistrot, known for its great atmosphere and authentic French cuisine.
Nature Experience in Als
morning:Immerse yourself in nature with a refreshing hike in the stunning Cevennes National Park, taking in the breathtaking landscapes and tranquility. Consider stopping by Boulangerie La Prunoise for a quick bite.
afternoon:Embark on a scenic drive to La Bambouseraie en Cévennes, a bamboo forest and botanical garden offering a unique and serene experience. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Le Bamboula.
evening:In the evening, head to Quai Boissier de Sauvages for a relaxing atmosphere and picturesque river views, followed by a chill evening at Le Barricòt.
Market Day and Local Cuisine in Als
morning:Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Marché d'Alès, a bustling market offering an array of fresh produce, local crafts, and lively ambiance. Treat yourself to a tasty snack at Les Gourmandises d'Annabelle.
afternoon:Explore the local gastronomy with a visit to Domaine d'Estévenas, a charming winery offering wine tastings and a glimpse into the winemaking process. Savor a delicious lunch at Le Comptoir de l'Estévenas.
evening:For a delightful end to the day, head to Place de l'Hôtel de Ville for a warm and inviting atmosphere at Le Mab El Rouma, known for its delectable Mediterranean cuisine and great cocktails.
Alès Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Brandade de Morue
This creamy cod and potato dish is a local specialty. It's traditionally made by blending salt cod with olive oil and milk, then serving it with bread or as a gratin. Enjoy authentic Brandade de Morue at La Guinguette, a charming restaurant located near the river Gardon.
Must-Try!
Pied Paquets
Pied Paquets is a traditional Provençal dish consisting of lamb offal (such as tripe and sweetbreads) cooked with white wine, tomatoes, and herbs. It's a hearty and flavorful dish often found at La Pergola, a renowned local restaurant known for its authentic Provençal cuisine.
Picholine Olives
The Picholine olive is a small, slightly bitter olive variety that's a staple in Alès and the surrounding region. Sample and purchase these delightful olives at the Alès Food Market held every Saturday morning on Place St Jean.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Alès Food Market (Marché d'Alès)
The Alès Food Market is a vibrant and colorful gathering of local producers, artisans, and food vendors. It's the perfect place to explore a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, meats, and other local products. Don't miss the opportunity to savor freshly prepared socca, a savory chickpea pancake, from one of the street food stalls.
Gardon Riverside Street Food
Along the banks of the Gardon River, you'll find a delightful array of street food vendors offering regional specialties such as fougasse (a type of flatbread), pissaladière (onion tart), and regional charcuterie. It's a fantastic spot to grab a quick bite while enjoying the picturesque riverside setting.
Pet sitters in Alès
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!