Gorges du Gardon, Limestone canyon in Occitanie, France.
The Gorges du Gardon is a deep canyon carved by the river through limestone plateaus, with vertical rock faces rising on both sides of the water. The landscape varies between narrow passages where the cliffs press close and wider sections where the river spreads and flows over rocky obstacles.
People have lived in caves within the gorges since prehistoric times, as shown by archaeological finds scattered throughout the site. The area later became home to villages that developed along the river, adapting to the landscape over many centuries.
Medieval villages situated along the gorges maintain traditional practices of sustainable resource management while preserving local architectural heritage.
Several hiking trails cross the gorges at different levels, ranging from easy walks along the riverbank to more demanding routes on higher ground. Parking areas and a visitor center in a nearby village provide maps and guidance for exploring different sections of the site.
During summer months, sections of the Gardon River disappear underground, flowing through hidden channels carved into the limestone over thousands of years. This natural cycle reveals the extensive cave systems that connect beneath the visible landscape.
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