Water & coast · Collias — Gorges du Gardon — Pont du Gard — downstream pickup
Paddle beneath the Pont du Gard
Paddle the calm Gardon downstream from Collias until the three tiers of the Roman Pont du Gard rise across the river directly ahead.
The river begins between limestone banks and quiet patches of garrigue, giving the monument time to remain out of sight. Around the final bends, the aqueduct appears incrementally until all three arcades span the water. Passing beneath its central opening from a small boat makes Roman surveying, stonework and sheer confidence feel almost improbable.
Book an established Collias outfitter that provides a buoyancy aid, watertight container, briefing and return shuttle. Participants must meet the operator's swimming and age rules. Wear secured water shoes, carry drinking water and sun protection, and confirm river level, current and weather on the day; low summer water or storms can change or cancel departures.