Formerly known as Alais, the town of Ales in the south of France is partly surrounded by the Gardon river in the Languedoc-Roussillon region. Ales lies about 40 km northwest of Nimes, at the foot of the Cevennes, in the middle of a productive mining district that is very close to the Cevennes National Park.

Of a historical note, French chemist and microbiologist Louis Pasteur conducted his studies of silkworms at Ales, and the town was also the birthplace of the famed chemist Jean-Baptiste Dumas. Furthermore, the history of Ales is largely interconnected with the events surrounding the Protestant Reformation and industrialization.

Ales is also home to a variety of amazing accommodations, so be sure to do your homework before you book a room! From converted castles, to five star accommodations right in the center of town, to a variety of modestly priced but clean hotels located both in Arles proper and in the nearby countryside, there is sure to be something for every budget and taste. If you do decide to stay in one of the beautiful hotels outside of town, be sure to rent a car so you can be completely mobile for the duration of your stay.