As a destination, Saint-Martin-De-Valgalgues brings together hiking trails, religious architectural history, and various traces of its industrial past. There are also driving experiences at Pôle Mécanique Alès and an annual stargazing evening in August. When planning, it is worth considering whether you would rather spend your time on the trails, exploring historic buildings, or enjoying motorsports. The specific features can help you distinguish between these interests.
Hiking trails between a long-distance route and a loop
The Chemin de RĂ©gordane (GR700) connects Le Puy-en-Velay with Saint-Gilles-du-Gard and passes through Saint-Martin-De-Valgalgues via the hamlet of Druhles and what is now Rue du 19 mars 1962. Historically, the Chemin de RĂ©gordane served as a pilgrimage route to the tomb of Saint-Gilles. The same route therefore offers two perspectives: it is a hiking trail and also part of a former pilgrimage route.
The loop at Bois de Saint Alban is about 4 km long. It starts and ends on Route de Saint-Ambroix at the edge of town; the trail passes through woodland, follows its edge, and crosses a small wooded ridge. Access information may change, so check the trail description before setting out. The hike to Mas Dieu has a different focus: several shady sections make it suitable for walking even in summer, and there are several viewpoints along the way. The comparison is therefore between the approximate loop length on one hand, and shade and views on the other.
Industrial history on site
Pôle Mécanique Alès was established in 1999 on the site of a former industrial coal-mining area (Puits de Fontanes and Destival). The venue offers driving experiences in three disciplines: cars, motorcycles, and karting. Two periods thus meet here: the former coal-mining industry and today's driving experiences. Visitors interested in the site's history can reflect on this transformation; those mainly interested in motorsports will find the activities divided into three vehicle disciplines.
The Usine de Chaux de St Martin de Valgalgues, in the hamlet of Hameau du Soulier, tells another story of industry: the lime works date from the 19th century. The Société des Chaux Hydraulique et Ciment du Soulier had five kilns built in 1882. They were constructed side by side against the rock at the foot of a limestone quarry. The construction date, number, and layout give the site a distinctive profile: unlike the former coal-mining site, its defining feature is the row of lime kilns against the rock.
The church and the starry sky
The Eglise de St Martin de Valgalgues also adds to the picture of the area's architectural history. The Romanesque church was built in the 11th century and renovated in the 12th century. These two dates mark its construction and later renovation, showing that its history spans more than one building phase.
The starry sky offers another focus for the evening: a great many stars can be seen at night from Saint-Martin-De-Valgalgues. Every August, the “Nuit des étoiles” takes place, offering a chance to observe the night sky. If you are planning your trip around it, check the dates for the relevant year. This way, you can weigh up hiking, architectural history, industry, and stargazing as different reasons for your stay.
Discover more destinations: Mons, Argilliers, Saint-Victor-La-Coste, Molières-Cavaillac, Codolet, Poulx, Navacelles, Cassagnoles.
For the broader travel overview: Gard.
