The town centre and the Garrigue slopes reveal different aspects of La Calmette’s heritage: a medieval village layout with traces of a fortification, and vaulted dry-stone structures that once served as shelters for shepherds and winegrowers. There are also activities involving Manades and karting. When planning your visit, you can choose between architectural history, the landscape and organised activities.
Town Centre and Architectural History
The medieval town centre includes a remarkable Circulade, with its traditionally dense village layout. Its appeal lies not only in individual buildings; the shape of the town centre as it developed over time is also part of La Calmette’s cultural identity. The Protestant temple adds a much later feature: the octagonal building dates from 1846, has a rare central layout and is listed as a historic monument.
The Porte de la Tour-du-Pin is the last significant surviving remnant of La Calmette’s medieval fortification. Its structure is intact; it stands on a small square and is highlighted by lighting. Together with the Circulade and the temple, it offers a way to explore the town’s history through architectural forms from different periods.
Capitelles and Hiking
Several vaulted dry-stone huts, known as Capitelles, stand on the Garrigue slopes around La Calmette. They once served as shelters for shepherds and winegrowers. Their construction and former function make them a distinct part of the local heritage, alongside the public buildings and the village centre’s dense layout.
A restored Capitelle on the Plateau de la Table des Chasseurs can be seen from the GR700 hiking trail. Southwest of the village, a restored Capitelle can be reached via the GR700, the Voie RĂ©gordane. A 9 km municipal hiking trail was also created as part of the completed renovation of the Moulin Fabre de Joybert. The trail information provides hikers with different reference points; check current trail conditions locally.
Manades and Events
In July 2024, the Manade du Gardon moved its operations to the historic Manade of La Calmette, the Domaine du Devois. Events are held throughout the year, including Camargue bull races, shows and Toro-piscine. Private tastings of local products are available for a fee. If a particular event is important to your travel plans, check its specific dates.
At Manade Lou SimbeĂĽ, the programme includes Ferrade days, when the Gardians are introduced and livestock is sorted. Tractor-drawn trailer rides are also offered. These activities differ from the events at Manade du Gardon, so the type of event and the experience you are looking for may help guide your choice.
Karting with Different Vehicles
La Calmette Karting offers introductory karting sessions in a natural setting for friends, families and colleagues aged four and over. Visitors can also rent pedal karts. Two-seater karts are available to rent for people with disabilities or young children. The offering therefore covers different ways to enjoy karting: an introductory session, pedal karting and rides in a two-seater kart. Which option is suitable for your visit depends on the activity you want and the vehicles available.
Discover more destinations: Valleraugue, Tharaux, Saint-Roman-De-Codières, Sauve, Saint-Jean-Du-Gard, Ners, Cavillargues, Soustelle.
For the broader travel overview: Gard.
