Provence Occitane
isn't just a place to visit..
It's a way of life.
A colourful market, lunch beneath the plane trees, an open-air summer concert, a wine tasting with friends...
Just a few minutes from Uma Nua, Provence Occitane offers endless opportunities to slow down and savour the present moment.
Moments You'll Remember
Ideally located at the crossroads of the Rhône Valley, Provence, and Occitanie, Uma Nua House is the perfect base from which to explore one of southern France's most remarkable regions.
Within just a short drive, you'll discover hilltop villages where time seems to stand still, markets filled with the scent of thyme and sun-ripened Gariguette strawberries that tempt you to linger over lunch, terraces where afternoons effortlessly drift into evening, crystal-clear rivers inviting an impromptu swim, welcoming wine estates, and unforgettable sunsets from the Castelas.
his remarkable diversity lets you shape each day to suit your mood—whether you're seeking discovery, nature, gastronomy or the Provençal art of living...
We'll be happy to help you plan your stay. The hardest part is often choosing.
PATRIMOINE ANTIQUE ET SITE UNESCO
In the Footsteps
of the Romans
35 KM / 40 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE ★ A MUST-SEE
Nîmes
Nîmes is an open-air museum.
Rome is not only in Italy—it lives here too, in these honey-coloured stones that have endured the centuries with remarkable grace.
• The Arena of Nîmes – one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, still hosting concerts and traditional events beneath the summer sky.
• The Maison Carrée – an Augustan Corinthian temple of extraordinary perfection, regarded as the finest preserved Roman temple in the world and the oldest of its kind still standing.
• The Museum of Romanity – more than 5,000 archaeological treasures brought to life through striking contemporary design, augmented reality, immersive projections, and a panoramic rooftop terrace overlooking the city.
40 KM / 20 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Vaison-la-Romaine
At the foot of Mont Ventoux, Vaison-la-Romaine brings together two thousand years of history in one remarkable setting: Roman ruins, a medieval bridge, and a hilltop old town overlooking the valley. Some places reward curiosity—this is one of them.
Plan to spend most of the day exploring its ancient sites and beautifully preserved medieval streets.
15 KM / 22 MINUTES FROM UMA NUA ★ A MUST-SEE
Pont du Gard
Some monuments command respect. The Pont du Gard is one of them.
Towering above the Gardon River for nearly two thousand years, this colossal Roman aqueduct—49 metres high and 275 metres long—remains one of the most extraordinary feats of engineering ever created by human hands. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is not merely a place to visit, but a monument to stand before in quiet admiration.
During the warmer months, the crystal-clear waters of the Gardon invite you to swim beneath its arches. Don't forget your swimsuit.
16 KM / 20 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Orange
Just a short drive away, the historic city of Orange is home to two remarkable Roman monuments, both recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Built during the reign of Emperor Augustus in the 1st century AD, the Ancient Theatre is the best-preserved Roman theatre in the Western world. Its extraordinary acoustics are so exceptional that it still hosts world-renowned opera performances today.
At the entrance to the city, the magnificent Roman Triumphal Arch stands as another masterpiece of Roman architecture. And from Saint-Eutrope Hill, breathtaking views stretch across the rooftops of Orange, Mont Ventoux, and the Rhône Valley.
19 KM / 25 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Uzès
Uzès has a quiet way of enchanting everyone who visits.
Built from warm honey-coloured limestone, this medieval ducal town feels as though it has stepped straight out of a Provençal dream. Cool narrow streets, shaded squares, elegant townhouses with beautifully carved façades—everything here reflects a timeless art of living, effortless and refined.
On Wednesday and Saturday mornings, the town comes alive with one of Provence's finest markets. Stroll among stalls overflowing with local treasures: Uzège asparagus, sun-ripened Gariguette strawberries, mature Pélardon goat's cheese, freshly pressed olive oil, wild garrigue honey, and artisan cheeses.
• The Duchy of Uzès – the town's iconic medieval castle and the historic heart of Uzès.
• Place aux Herbes – linger beneath its arcades with a coffee, or enjoy an artisan ice cream from La Fabrique Givrée.
• Our favourite hidden gem? The Medieval Garden. Tucked away within a 12th-century site, it feels suspended in time and rewards visitors with breathtaking 360-degree views across the rooftops of Uzès from the King's Tower. (Open weekday afternoons only.)
25 KM / 30 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
La Roque-sur-Cèze
Perched high above the Cèze River on its rocky outcrop, La Roque-sur-Cèze is officially listed among France's Most Beautiful Villages—and for good reason.
The village is explored on foot, climbing its winding cobbled streets past centuries-old stone houses to the chapel and the château, where magnificent views unfold across the valley below.
Just a short walk away, the Sautadet Cascades are among the region's most spectacular natural wonders. Here, the river has carved deep potholes and sculpted the limestone into dramatic formations before rushing through them in a mesmerising display of power. It is a breathtaking sight, best admired from the viewing areas along the riverbank. (Swimming is strictly discouraged due to the strong currents.)
Our favourite tip? Set off directly from the village for one of the beautiful walking trails that wind through the surrounding countryside.
12 KM / 20 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Vers Pont du Gard &
Castillon du Gard
Nestled between Uzès and the Pont du Gard, the hilltop villages of Vers-Pont-du-Gard and Castillon-du-Gard are perfect places to slow down.
Wander their cobbled lanes, admire centuries-old stone houses, and pause for a coffee—by the fountain in Vers, or beneath the shade of the mulberry trees in Castillon's village square. Together, these two villages embody the quiet authenticity that draws so many people to Provence—far from the crowds, far from the noise.
Our favourite time to visit? Late afternoon, on your way back from Uzès. Or simply take your time wandering the streets, settle down for a drink, and enjoy the welcome coolness as the day begins to fade.
20 KM / 22 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Avignon
Avignon has a way of leaving a lasting impression.
The former seat of the papacy, it still bears the grandeur of the 14th century, when the Popes chose the city as the centre of the Western Church. Rising above its medieval streets, the Palais des Papes is both a mighty fortress and a papal residence—one of the most remarkable monuments of medieval Europe. At its feet, the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, better known as the Pont d'Avignon, stretches gracefully across the Rhône with its four surviving arches.
Every July, the city becomes one vast open-air stage, welcoming one of the world's greatest performing arts festivals.
L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
37 KM / 1 HOUR FROM THE HOUSE
Often called the "Venice of Provence", L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue is a charming town of canals, waterwheels, and leafy quays. A paradise for lovers of antiques, vintage furniture, and beautiful objects, it has become one of Europe's leading destinations for antique dealers and collectors.
If you can, visit during the week to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere—weekends tend to be lively... and wonderfully chaotic.
At the gateway to the Cévennes, Lussan has watched over its garrigue for centuries. Listed among France's Most Beautiful Villages, it is the starting point for an unforgettable walk to the Concluses—wild, secluded gorges carved by the Aiguillon River into the limestone, reached after a scenic 1½-hour circular trail through an unspoilt landscape.
WALKS - NATURE - ADVENTURE
Great Outdoors
Beautiful walking trails through the garrigue begin right from the doorstep of Uma Nua House.
Holm oaks, wild thyme, rosemary. Views of Mont Ventoux.
Complete silence.
The Mediterranean at its very best, on foot.
We'll be happy to recommend our favourite routes, whether you're looking for a gentle one-hour walk or a more challenging three-hour hike.
0 KM / 0 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Walking Trails from Uma Nua House
One of the great pleasures of staying in Saint-Victor-la-Coste is simply lacing up your walking shoes in the morning and setting off into the garrigue—without ever needing to get in the car. Two of our favourite walks begin right from the house:
The Castelas Ridge Walk – 1½ hours · Easy
A perfect introduction to the surrounding landscape, with beautiful views over the vineyards and the Rhône Valley.
The Saint-Laurent-des-Arbres Loop via the Notre-Dame-de-Mayran Chapel – 4½ hours
A rewarding half-day hike through fragrant garrigue, vineyards, and remarkable heritage sites, ideal for experienced walkers.
Many other trails lead to the nearby villages of Connaux, Saint-Paul-les-Fonts, and Pouzilhac, winding through the scented garrigue, where wild thyme and rosemary perfume the air.
17 KM / 25 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
A Kayak Journey on the Gardon
This is Provence at its most adventurous.
From the village of Collias, set off by canoe or kayak along the Gardon River and drift through the spectacular Gardon Gorges, one of the region's most beautiful river landscapes. Towering limestone cliffs rise above crystal-clear waters, secluded river beaches invite you to pause, and around one final bend, the Pont du Gard suddenly appears in all its timeless grandeur.
A truly unforgettable day on the water.
24 KM / 30 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Lussan & Concluses
At the gateway to the Cévennes, Lussan has watched over its rolling garrigue for centuries. Listed among France's Most Beautiful Villages, it is the starting point for an unforgettable walk to the Concluses—wild, hidden gorges carved by the Aiguillon River, reached after a scenic 1½-hour loop through an unspoilt landscape.
VILLENEUVE LES AVIGNON - 20 KM / 30 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
The Magnificent Gardens of Saint-André Abbey
It is the moving story of two friends who, at the beginning of the 20th century, set out to save this remarkable abbey and create an extraordinary Mediterranean garden.
Today, it is a true haven of peace—a place we particularly love for its quiet beauty, inviting contemplation, reflection, and moments of stillness.
40 KM / 1 HOUR FROM THE HOUSE
Mont Ventoux
Standing alone above the Provençal landscape like a white sentinel, Mont Ventoux rises to 1,910 metres and can be seen from almost everywhere in the region.
For cyclists, it is a legendary challenge. For hikers, a magnificent ascent rewarded by one of the most spectacular panoramas in southern France. On a clear day, the view stretches from the Alps to the Mediterranean and, beyond, to the Pyrenees.
5 KM / 8 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Hiking to Camp de César
Laudun-L'ardoise
Just a few minutes from Uma Nua House, this ancient Roman hilltop settlement offers an easy 1½-hour circular walk with beautiful views over the vineyards, the Rhône Valley, and the Alpilles. A wonderful way to begin—or end—the day.
FOOD, MARKETS & WINE
Flavours of Provence
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1 À 5 KM - 10 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
The Wines of Laudun-l'Ardoise
The vineyards surrounding Uma Nua House produce some of the most distinctive wines of the southern Côtes du Rhône. Deep, generous reds and vibrant whites are born from a terroir of rounded river stones and limestone soils. Two of our favourite places to discover them are:
• Maison Sinnae — 22 Avenue du Général-de-Gaulle, Laudun-l'Ardoise
• Domaine Pelaquié — 7 Rue du Vernet, Saint-Victor-la-Coste
THINGS WE LOVE
Where We Love to Eat
We will be delighted to share a few of our favourite restaurants—places we return to for their authenticity, their welcoming atmosphere, and their deep connection to the local terroir.
A CULINARY EXPERIENCE
A private chef at Uma Nua House
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We can arrange a variety of dining options if you would like to enjoy your meals at Uma Nua House:
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• A home-cooked dinner shared at our table, featuring a simple seasonal menu with a starter, main course, local cheeses, and dessert, prepared with fresh local ingredients.
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• A meal box for lunch, dinner, or a picnic, if you're looking for something simple and convenient.
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• A chef's dinner, prepared by one of our talented local chefs for a truly memorable dining experience.
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• A wine tasting experience, showcasing the wines and flavours of the region.
SIMPLY UNMISSABLE
Provençal Markets
Uzès: Wednesday and Saturday mornings — widely regarded as the region's finest market, with loyal local producers and artisans.
Orange: Thursday morning — more than 300 stalls fill the winding streets of the historic town centre.
Nîmes: Daily market at Les Halles, plus vibrant street markets and fairs during the Férias.
THEATRE PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVALS MUSEUMS
Arts & culture
20 KM - 22 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
Avignon Festival
Every July, the City of the Popes is transformed as it comes alive with the rhythm of its two theatre festivals: the Festival d'Avignon (In) and the Off Festival. For more than 80 years, together they have formed Europe's largest celebration of the performing arts.
Uma Nua House is ideally located, far from the festival's bustle and crowds. After a day of performances, return to the peace and quiet of the house, enjoy the natural coolness of its thick stone walls, or unwind with a swim in the pool.
35 KM - 40 MINUTES FROM THE HOUSE
The Museum of Romanity – Nîmes
If you're fascinated by the ancient world, you're in for a treat. This is a museum that makes archaeology truly come alive.
Housed in a striking contemporary building overlooking the Arena of Nîmes, it brings 25 centuries of Roman history to life through more than 5,000 artefacts and immersive digital experiences.
43 KM - 1 HOUR FROM THE HOUSE
Arles
Arles is a city of light.
It was this extraordinary light that Vincent van Gogh pursued with relentless passion through its streets—and the very same light that draws photographers from around the world every summer. Once a Roman capital, Arles is home to an exceptional concentration of artistic and architectural treasures, remarkable for a city of its size.
• The Vincent van Gogh Foundation — outstanding permanent collections and temporary exhibitions dedicated to modern and contemporary art.
• LUMA Arles – Parc des Ateliers — one of Europe's most ambitious contemporary art centres, set within a former industrial site transformed by architect Frank Gehry.
And, of course, every July, Arles hosts the internationally renowned Rencontres d'Arles, one of the world's leading photography festivals.