Delightful Nimes
The delightful city of NÎmes in France
Hotel Jardin Secret in Nîmes, France
Nîmes, have you heard of the city of Nîmes? Located in the Occitanie region in the South of France, it’s not the hot city on the French glam city trail map; it has a much more subdued but very elegant style, though. The first time I set foot in Nîmes, I hardly knew anything about the city; the idea of living in the South of France in my early twenties was exciting enough wherever the city was. I didn’t arrive on a hot summer day; instead, in the height of winter, the city was beaten by a heavy and bitterly cold wind, the unruly Mistral. When I returned more than twenty years later, the city had changed beyond recognition. Most of the city centre had been transformed into a pedestrian area, the walls of the elegant buildings along the train station darkened by pollution had been pressure washed and were standing proud and imposing, in all their splendour in a pristine sandstone colour. The main square had been rethought and redesigned to emphasise the Roman heritage of the city. I was taken aback; the city looked beautiful, and the work done enhanced the city’s beauty, incredible Roman heritage, and elegant buildings.
How and when do you visit the city?
Late Spring and early Autumn are the best times to visit the city, as it can be really hot during the summer and bitter cold in Winter. This will also allow you to visit the beautiful “Jardins de la Fontaine”. You can combine your visit with other cities nearby like Uzès and Arles. Landmarks to visit
Les Jardins de la Fontaine
La Maison Carrée
Musée de la Romanité – archaeological museum
Les Arènes
The market Le Marché Couvert with an incredible display of fresh food, meat, fruits and veg a paradise for foodies.
Le Pont du Gard (about 22km from Nîmes)
Uzès (about 23km from Nîmes)
Arles (about 33km from Nîmes)
Where to stay?
On a budget – I would recommend the Novotel Hotel close to the train station, it’s ideally located to walk to the city centre. Be warned this is a chain hotel, the room are very functional but lack personality and the corridor looks like you step back into the 70s. You will get great value for your money though. Looking for an exceptional place to stay? Look no further than Jardin Secrets This place feels magical as soon as you step through the heavy walls small entrance. It’s very unique and will make you feel millions miles away from your daily routine. The decor is amazing with lots of attention to details, small lights, antiques, baroque paintings, the whole place feels like a secret garden.
Where to eat
Looking for an exceptional dining experience? Le Skab, located near the Arena, offers exceptional eating because everything is fresh and made to order. The menu is small, and the wine list features amazing local wines.
On a budget with Vegetarian & Gluten Free Option
Try the Crêperie Le Frenchy‘s freestyle menu option. The galettes are delicious, and the service is very friendly.
Meat & gluten-free
It is a great place for meat eaters, and the meat is of excellent quality. Don’t take your vegetarian friends there; this is a delightful place for meat eaters with excellent service.
To make the most of your visit to Nîmes, try to stay at least two days, take time to wander around in the evening, eat out, combine your visit with other beautiful local landmarks like Arles and Uzès, and don’t forget to visit the producers market. It’s just too amazing to miss. Enjoy this wonderful city!
Have you been to Nîmes and have other recommendations to add? Do so in the comments.
