When I first visited the Pont du Gard in 2001 it was free to access for all. I think you could even climb up to the top tier and walk across (which was a popular suicide spot, unsurprisingly).
A few years later the state decided to protect the site and to make some money off it by building a fence around the perimeter, building huge parking lots, a museum and a nice shaded area with a gift shop, restaurant and public toilets. This came at a price, but cyclists and walkers could get in free for a while, till they couldn’t anymore. Then I think we could get in, but not ride between the two entrances – probably a kilometer in length. That’s when I stopped riding over the bridge that was built in the 18th century right next to the aqueduct.
Fast forward to yesterday, when I was doing some looking around, and I found out that it looked like we could ride over the thing for free again. On either side of the PDG there is a cycling path (around 30km long) and I suppose there was pressure to allow cyclists to not have to pay (or go around on the road) to connect the two sides. I’m guessing here, but it’s nice that they’ve done it and I’m going to re-add the PDG to my repertoire of training rides…until they change their minds again.
The Vicious Cycle 
It’s a fabulous site
Gerry, I have always wondered why this wasn’t possible. Now I know it’s because we only made our first visit there in 2014. I appreciate the history lesson. Thanks.
That sounds about right, Eric. I never even attempted for years because I just figured the rule was still in place.
Ginette and I walked up to the top of the Pont to get a closer look at the structure. We missed the actual aquaduct tour at the time. We then spent time looking at the wonderful sights below from that Pathway. Pretty Cool!
I’ve never done that tour either, but should someday.