Day 5 - Nimes

Day 5 started with an early breakfast before we travelled back in time to the Roman era. We began a guided tour of the ancient city of Nimes at the Amphitheatre, with our informative guide, Sophie, who filled us with interesting facts. Did you know that the ‘arena’ is just the sand in the middle of the amphitheatre (which was only there for soaking up the blood)? Our nerves were tested by trying the view from the cheap seats which were definitely a long way up!

Sophie then took us to the Town Hall and explained the story behind the town emblem of a crocodile and a palm. Then we carried on to the Maison Carrée, the best preserved temple in the Roman world and a UNESCO Heritage Site.

We followed Sophie’s instructions to the Jardins des Fontaines where the more adventurous of us climbed to the top of the tower marking the boundary of the Roman city. By then it was time for a bite to eat and some souvenir shopping before we all went bowling and Roger showed us that it was a skill never forgotten!

Back at the hotel, we had a final chance to swim in the hotel pool before dinner with musical entertainment and even dancing.