Take an unforgettable journey through the Cévennes on board the steam train!
Let yourself be carried away by the magic of the Cévennes on board the famous steam train, which offers you a unique experience through this magnificent natural park. Departing from Anduze, this historic train takes you back in time and immerses you in the atmosphere of bygone days, while offering a panoramic journey through the heart of the Cévennes countryside. In authentic carriages with open windows, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the wild, unspoilt landscapes of the Cévennes.
The 13km route takes you from Anduze to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, passing through spectacular mountain and forest scenery, under bridges and through tunnels that add a touch of adventure and mystery to the journey. Every kilometre is an opportunity to marvel at the unspoilt beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll take a trip back in time, to the peaceful rhythm of a steam locomotive, which echoes the history of the old railways.
The locomotive engineers and drivers, true enthusiasts and guardians of railway history, will be delighted to tell you the fascinating story of this legendary train and explain how it works. This is your chance to learn more about steam propulsion techniques and how this carefully restored locomotive continues to operate today to the delight of passengers. As well as the train ride, you will have the opportunity to visit the on-site exhibitions that tell the story of this exceptional railway heritage and the importance of steam trains in the development of the region.
A journey through history and natural beauty
At every stop, you can discover iconic sites and breathtaking vistas. One of the highlights of this adventure is a stopover in Générargues, a charming Cévennes village where you can visit the Bambouseraie des Cévennes, a veritable haven of peace. This unique botanical garden is a must-see in the region, with its giant bamboos and lush vegetation. Let yourself be transported into an exotic world, where nature flourishes in all its splendour. It's an enchanted interlude that will allow you to recharge your batteries and discover an unexpected aspect of the Cévennes.
This magical place is home to an impressive variety of plants and bamboos from all over the world, as well as offering the perfect place to relax and enjoy the tranquillity of the site and the pure Cévennes air.
A stop in Saint-Jean-du-Gard: a picturesque village to discover
When you arrive in Saint-Jean-du-Gard, one of the most beautiful villages in the Cévennes, you'll be greeted by picturesque streets lined with old houses, small shops selling local crafts and a warm atmosphere. The village is a treasure trove of beauty and history, perfect for strolling around and exploring on foot.
If you want to extend your stopover, take a moment to relax at La Guinguette, a warm and friendly restaurant, ideally situated for enjoying a drink or a meal while taking in the magnificent views of the surrounding area. It's the perfect place to sample local cuisine and discover the specialities of the Gard in a typical, welcoming setting. La Guinguette is a great place to stop after your train journey for a chat over a good meal.
An experience from May to October
The Steam Train is a not-to-be-missed activity during your stay in the Cévennes. Every year, the train runs from April to October, allowing visitors to enjoy this extraordinary experience during the summer months. This journey, which is both an immersion in history and an adventure in the heart of nature, offers a unique perspective on the diversity and richness of the Cévennes landscapes.
De stoomtrein: een reis voor het hele gezin, met vrienden of alleen
Of je nu een liefhebber bent van historische treinen, een natuurliefhebber of gewoon op zoek naar een originele en onvergetelijke ervaring, deze stoomtreinrit is de perfecte activiteit voor het hele gezin. Kinderen zullen gefascineerd zijn door het karakteristieke geluid van de locomotief en het landschap dat zich voor hun ogen ontvouwt, terwijl volwassenen de rust en charme van de reis zullen waarderen.
De stoomtrein is ook een ideale manier om het Nationaal Park van de Cevennen te ontdekken, een waar heiligdom van biodiversiteit, met spectaculaire landschappen, eiken- en dennenbossen, diepe valleien, kloven en kristalheldere rivieren. Dit park, door UNESCO geclassificeerd als biosfeerreservaat, herbergt een uitzonderlijke flora en fauna die je onderweg kunt observeren.
Tickets: It is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during the summer months, to guarantee your place on board this iconic train.
Timetable: The train generally runs in the late morning and afternoon, with regular departures from Anduze. Consult the precise timetable to plan your day.
Accessibility: The train is suitable for families and people with reduced mobility, making it an activity accessible to all.
Duration: The journey takes around 45 minutes from Anduze to Saint-Jean-du-Gard, with a stopover of around 1 hour to enjoy the Bamboo Grove or stroll around the village.