An approximately one-hour walking route in Montfrin runs along the banks of the Gardon and then through the historic lanes of the town centre. Other highlights include buildings from the Templar and Renaissance periods, a weekly market on Tuesdays and wines from Château de Montfrin. If you are looking for accommodation in Montfrin, you can choose the town for its river, architectural history or regional produce.
Walking route, river and nature
The Au fil du Gardon (Petit Parcours) walking route is 2.3 kilometres long, rated easy and estimated to take about an hour. It starts and ends at Parking du Barri. Along the riverbank, it passes below Château de Montfrin; it then leads through the historic lanes of the town centre. Yellow markings and signposts indicate the route. The approximate one-hour duration gives you a manageable block of time for planning your day. Check route information and parking availability locally before setting off.
Recreational activities mentioned for the Gardon in Montfrin include swimming, walks, picnics, canoeing and fishing. River conditions and possible restrictions may vary; follow local guidance before entering the water. The GR42 long-distance hiking trail begins near the bridge in Montfrin. Local route conditions can change, so check for updates before setting off. Pencil-shaped cuts in tree trunks along the banks of the Gardon are considered a sign that many beavers live in the river. Wildlife sightings are seasonal and not guaranteed.
Architectural history in Montfrin
The Renaissance façade of the Maison Renaissance dite hôtel de Calvières dates from the 16th century. The entire building has been protected as a historic monument under a decree dated 18 September 2003. The Chapelle des Pénitents noirs was restored and has housed the Montfrin municipal library since 1998. The church of Notre-Dame de Malpas brings together different periods of construction: the Templars built it in 1180, and its bell tower dates from 1372. The church also houses a painting by Xavier Sigalon. The Black Penitents held their first service in the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Pitié in 1611.
Montfrin’s historic town walls were 1,100 metres long, nine metres high and one metre wide; the fortifications included four gates and projecting watchtowers. The history of the Commanderie Saint-Jean de Montfrin can also be traced through time: the Templars built it in 1169. It was a Templar commandery until 1312, after which it became a hospital of Saint John. Protection of the former Templar commandery covers the courtyards and the ground of the former cemetery, but not the community hall built on it. This protection was established by a decree dated 1 August 2003.
The privately owned Château de Montfrin is protected as a historic monument and was built around an ancient Roman tower and the Templars’ keep. Check visitor information before planning a visit. The La Baume estate is home to a troglodytic apié with 75 niches. Apiés are bee walls.
Weekly market and wine
The weekly market takes place every Tuesday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Cours Jean-Jaurès. Regional producers offer a wide range of local products there. Market times and what is on offer may change; check the date before visiting. Château de Montfrin produces wines in three colours under five AOC designations. The grape varieties include Syrah, Grenache and Viognier. The range may change; check the current selection if a particular grape variety or designation is important to you.
Discover more destinations: Saint-Côme-Et-Maruéjols, Saint-Victor-De-Malcap, Malons-et-Elze, Montignargues, La Bastide-D'engras, Blauzac, Sauveterre, Lasalle.
For the broader travel guide: Gard.
