Description: Le Train à Vapeur des Cévennes is a lovely 13km train ride along the Gardons valley to St Jean-du-Gard. You get some fantastic views of the river valley and the Cévennes scenery.

Location: The main terminus is in Anduze, 12km S West of Alès via the D910. Head for the town centre and take the D907 for St Jean-du-Gard. The station is on the right on the far side of the village centre.

General Info: Trains run from 1st April-1st Nov. For train times and prices, see the official website here or contact any tourist information centre. There is a free car park adjacent to the station in Anduze.

Our recommendations: Check the times of the steam services – the atmosphere is much better. Try to get an early train as there is an interesting stop at La Bambouseraie de Prafrance en route where you wander amongst the fascinating bamboos. You could also plan to spend some time in St Jean-du-Gard, a pleasant village further up stream – you may like to consider taking a picnic with you.

For the children: Try to get in one of the partially open carriages – much more fun as you get better views and have the fun of the steam blowing through your hair! Be aware though, the train gets busy so you need to be there early to get the best carriages!

Here’s more information to make the most of your visit to the Provence: