Le Vigan is a town in the southern part of the Parc National de Cevennes, in the Gard department of Languedoc-Roussillon (in the Massif central). Set in a pleasant location at the base of the Aigual Massif, Le Vigan is surrounded by hills, many terraced, and is a typical town of the region.
The town originally developed around the benedictine Priory of Saint-Peter, established here in the early middle ages, and over the following centuries grew to become an important regional fortified town.
Explore Le Vigan
Although Le Vigan has grown substantially over the centuries when compared with the original medieval village it is still quite a small town but now has all important commerces. Your visit will focus around the historic village and the ancient bridge across the river.
The stone bridge across the river Arre dates from the 12th century and is one of the most scenic places in the old town. The bridge has two arches and the main central arch forms almost a complete semi-circle above the river below which is especially pretty when the water is still enough to reflect the bridge. From on the bridge itself there are pretty views along the river valley.
Exploring the narrow streets in the historic centre of Le Vigan you will discover many medieval houses and cafes and a bustling atmosphere, and several buildings of particular interest, including several grand 17th century houses. The statue in front of the town hall in Le Vigan is Louis d'Assas, an aristocrat in the town in the 18th century.
In Place Bonald you can see the Church of Saint-Pierre (17th century but substantially restructured in the 20th century), while another religious monument of note in Vigan is the protestant temple in the Rue du Palais.
After exploring the old town take the time to stroll through the shady Parc de Chataigners, or enjoy a picnic here. Another noteworthy monument, to the south of the town centre, is the Château d'Assas. This imposing 18th century building is now used for local government offices.
There is also a newer area to the town that has all shops and facilities and also the museum in Le Vigan, the Musee Cevenol d'Art et de Traditions Populaires. Situated in an old silk weaving mill, the museum provides lots of useful information about the history of the region, with a focus on the activities that have traditionally been practiced here.
The weekly market in Le Vigan is held on Saturday mornings.
Attractions nearby
If you are staying at Le Vigan there are several little villages and hamlets worth exploring nearby, including Bez and Esparon (a tiny place in a great position with great views) and Montdardier.
There are also numerous scenic highlights nearby including the Cirque de Navacelles, the Gorges de la Dourbie, the Cirque de Vissec and the Chaos de Nimes-le-Vieux among others, while Mont Aigoual is to the north of Le Vigan. See also the Cevennes National Park guide.
The village of La Couvertoirade to the south-west of here is also a recommended excursion from Le Vigan.
Explore elsewhere in the Massif Central. You can find more travel ideas in the Gard guide and the Languedoc-Roussillon guide.
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Hotels in Le Vigan
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Map of Le Vigan and places nearby
Visit near Le Vigan with France This Way reviews
Saint-Martin-de-Londres
There are various historic buildings of interest in Saint-Martinde-Londres village including a 12th century roman style church
Saint-Martin-de-Londres guide
La Couvertoirade
La Couvertoirade, listed among the 'most beautiful villages in France', is one of the most complete fortified medieval villages in France
La Couvertoirade guide
Meyrueis
The small rivers that meet in the centre of the town and the lively atmosphere in summer make Meyrueis a popular detour with those exploring the scenic highlights in Lozere
Meyrueis guide
Sauve
There are numerous places of interest to discover as you explore the narrow ancient streets in the heart of Sauve
Sauve guide
Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert
Even as you approach Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert along the Gorges de l'Herault you can see it is rather special - and you certainly aren't disappointed when you arrive!
Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert guide
Anduze
The historic heart of Anduze, with its small squares and medieval houses, is very pleasant to explore
Anduze guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Gard
Address: Vigan, Languedoc-Roussillon, 30120, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 43.993, longitude 3.6061
Plan your visit to Le Vigan, Gard
Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby
- Jardin des Sambucs: remarkable garden (7 km)
- Cirque de Navacelles: grand site of france (14 km)
- Mont Aigoual: site of natural beauty (14 km)
- Grotte des Demoiselles: site of natural beauty (15 km)
- Cirque de Vissec: site of natural beauty (16 km)
- Abîme de Bramabiau: site of natural beauty (18 km)
- Chaos de Nimes-le-Vieux: site of natural beauty (25 km)
- La Couvertoirade: most beautiful village (25 km)
- Le Caylar: village d'etape (27 km)
- Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert / Gorges de l'Herault: grand site of france (29 km)
- St Guilhem le Desert ancienne abbaye (monuments on French pilgrim routes): heritage site (29 km)
- Saint-Guilhem-le-Desert: most beautiful village (29 km)
The French version of this page is at Le Vigan (Francais)