Gard, Southern France

We're venturing into the picturesque region of Gard, nestled in the heart of Southern France, whose capital city is the historical city of Nîmes. While B's family was there for an extensive two-week vacation, professional commitments tethered me to a mere weekend of this idyllic getaway. Nevertheless, this short respite proved to be a soothing balm for the soul, a much-needed break from the frenetic pace of Paris during the chaotic back-to-school rush.

Arrival and Accommodation

Our sanctuary during this brief sojourn was an inviting Airbnb in Saint Mamert du Gard, a charming village located a stone's throw away from Nîmes. The journey commenced with a 3-hour high-speed train ride from the iconic Paris Gare de Lyon to Nîmes Pont le Gard. However, an unexpected twist awaited – the train station was situated a considerable 18 kilometers from where the family was staying. Without access to a vehicle, my predicament seemed daunting. Fortunately, my ever-supportive in-laws and B came to the rescue, ensuring I didn't languish by the wayside.

Nature and Exploration

Our inaugural day unfolded with a brisk hike along a nearby trail, an opportunity to reconnect with nature and disconnect from the urban grind. A mere hour immersed in the countryside's serenity culminated in witnessing a faint sunset at around 8 PM, famished and physically challenged.

A Taste of Asia and Pool-Side Bliss, Taking it Slow

Saturday, a languid day, beckoned us to a charming Asian restaurant, conveniently just 20 minutes away by car. As we were heading back to the AirBnB, raindrops began to fall, yet my resolve remained unwavering. I decided to embrace the elements, taking a dip in the pool despite the mercury dipping to a crisp 21°C. The day dissolved into leisurely rounds of billiards and a sumptuous barbecue feast beneath a sky adorned with shifting clouds.

La Bambouserie: Bamboo Oasis and Spur-of-the-Moment Adventures

Sunday unfolded with a visit to La Bambouserie, in the sleepy yet charming town of Anduze, an unforeseen jewel that stirred deep nostalgia. The resplendent bamboo groves and exotic flora transported me back to the tropical landscapes of Brazil and the Philippines, evoking an uncanny sense of belonging.

A serendipitous wrong turn led us to the banks of an idyllic stream, where we opted for an impromptu picnic. Such spontaneous moments often leave indelible imprints on one's travel memories.

La Grotte de Trabuc: Unveiling Nature’s Underground Wonders

Our final adventure took us to La Grotte de Trabuc. Despite the chill in the air and the exertion of climbing, the experience was nothing short of mesmerizing. The pièce de résistance was undoubtedly the cascading waterfalls and the crystalline waters, which transported me back to my spelunking escapades in Sagada, Philippines, back in 2014. Although this adventure was less adrenaline-fueled, it exuded a profound sense of tranquility.

Souvenirs

Before bidding adieu to this enchanting corner of France, I couldn't resist procuring a bamboo comb and a bamboo backscratcher – a hint of the Philippines that found a close second home here. Naturally, postcards were dutifully selected for sending. The desire to acquire a plant as a memento was constrained by the limitations of my apartment space.

Regrettably, my short visit prevented me from exploring Nîmes - its famed Roman arenas and inviting gardens, providing an enticing reason to plan a return journey.

A weekend in Gard filled my senses with mosquito bites, the rustling of bamboo groves, and the invigorating spray of cascading waterfalls. This escape offered a precious opportunity to disconnect, rejuvenate, and savor the serendipitous moments that travel often bestows. One last summer hurrah before autumn begins.

For those contemplating a visit, Gard beckons with its tranquility, its hidden treasures, and the allure of the unexpected.

The world always brims with stories waiting to be uncovered, even within a brief weekend. Until our next adventure.

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