The Camargue, a vast territory full of promise, straddles the Gard and Bouches-du-Rhône departments. On horseback, in fact! The region is famous for its magnificent white horses, making for memorable rides. The manades, these Camargue bull and horse farms, will introduce you to this world apart, with passion and authenticity. From historic towns to nature reserves, discover the deepest Camargue, the one that invites you to get away from it all. Come on board with Petit Futé and discover the 15 things to do in the Camargue!
1. Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Camargue authenticity
Oscillating between land and sea, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers a day rich in discoveries. Not to be missed, the beautiful Romanesque church tells you a little of the town's history. Known as a place of gypsy pilgrimage, the town is adorned with 1001 colors and a lively local folklore. A short guided tour will give you a better understanding of this must-see coastal town in the Bouches-du-Rhône region. Still thirsty to learn? The Musée des Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer reveals 5,000 years of Camargue history!
Unusual : you can climb up to the roof of the church to admire the view of the surrounding area. But be sure to bring good shoes, as the roof is a little slippery!
2. Discover the treasures of the Camargue Regional Nature Park
The Camargue Regional Nature Park is one of the 23 must-sees in the Gard region, without moderation! Everything you can imagine about the Camargue can be found on these 85,000 hectares:
- salt marshes,
- salt marshes, saltwort moors
- pink flamingos,
- white Camargue horses,
- herds of bulls.
Vast plains, ponds and marshes delight the many animal species that have found refuge in this pretty corner of nature. The walk is a guided tour, accompanied by an agent from the Reserve. With the utmost respect for the environment, you'll enjoy strolling along the 4.5 km of footpaths, stopping at the three observatories along the way.
3. The Pont de Gau ornithological park, a little corner of paradise
In the heart of the Parc naturel régional de Camargue, a small jewel case of preserved nature awaits you: the ornithological park of Pont de Gau. Evolving between marshes, robines and sansouïres, you become one with nature. Numerous species of birds roam freely in this area dedicated to wild nature. Like a discreet guest, you melt into the world of pink flamingos and other species, whose presence doesn't seem to bother you in the slightest. Magical, exotic, sensational: not to be missed! Even children will appreciate this original walk, during which they'll get up close and personal with birds they don't often get to see.
Located not far from the town of Arles, this little corner of paradise can be visited on the same day, if you don't spend too much time in town. Small bird identification guides are handed out at the entrance, so you can easily identify the species you're about to discover. Good news: the park is open all year round! Allow around 1 h 30 to enjoy this lovely visit.
4. Arles, the Camargue's Roman heritage
Arles is a great place to live, so great that it's one of the ideal places to retire in the sun. Imposing in all their majesty, the Roman arena is the city's stronghold. But they're not the only Roman remains you can visit. The ancient theater also reveals its marvels, and occasionally features musical entertainment. More unusual are the cryptoportiques , which take you beneath the city to discover Arles' underground passages and their history. Finally, the Roman baths and Alyscamps round off your discovery tour. Passes are available at the amphitheatre, allowing you to visit all or part of these remains at very affordable prices.
5. Domaine de la Palissade, the wild Camargue
With its commitment to environmental awareness, the Domaine de la Palissade offers fascinating tours. Managed since 2014 by the Parc naturel régional de Camargue, the site has set itself the goal of educating the public about the region's environmental issues. Socio-economic players passionately immerse you in local traditions, revealing their secrets. The greatest of all: the magic of a preserved, protected natural environment, rich in remarkable wild flora and fauna.
6. Horseback riding on the beach
It's impossible to pass through the Camargue without noticing its superb white horses. Typical of the region, they can be found at bullfighting festivals, but not only there. While some graze in the wild, others offer unusual rides on the beach or in the heart of the marshes. Quiet by nature, these majestic animals give you a different, more confident view of the Camargue..
Visiting the region for a romantic weekend? A sunset horseback ride along the beach is a great idea!
Departing from Aigues-Mortes or Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, service providers such as Manade Listel, Les Arnelles or La Laupio offer dream rides or even 2-day excursions.
7. Piémanson beach, wild by nature
Here's a beach you could discover on horseback! Piémanson beach is one of the most famous in the Camargue, along with Espiguette. Accessible via Salin de Giraud, this vast 6 km-long wilderness invites you to take a change of scenery. For 1 km, the beach, its dunes and rare plants welcome walkers and bathers in general. The remaining 5 km are reserved for naturists, eager to take full advantage of this 100% natural site in the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park. Don't expect to find homes, restaurants or hotels here. Piémanson beach is all about calm and serenity!
8. Avignon, city of art and history
"On le pont d'Avignon, on y danse, on y danse!Of course, the famous bridge (actually named Pont Saint-Bénézet) is one of the must-sees of this magnificent city in the south of France. But the City of the Popes has much more to offer, starting with its famous Palais des Papes. Your little excursion will take you to the ramparts ofAvignon and its beautiful Basilique Saint-Pierre. As you stroll along, you'll find many museums eager to tell you all about the city's history:
- the Petit Palais Museum,
- musée Calvet,
- musée Angladon.
Visiting in summer? Immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere of the famous Avignon Festival- you won't regret it! And check out our dedicated article "What to do in Avignon? Les 13 incontournables".
9. Relax on the beaches of Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône
Visiting the Camargue also means enjoying its beaches. To find a little peace and quiet, head for one of Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône 's 3 beaches:
- plage Napoléon,
- plage de Carteau,
- plage Olga.
For the record, each beach is named after a deceased captain or his beached ship. While the fine sand and the sea invariably attract visitors, you'll also find good spots for kitesurfing and other water sports.
10. Réserve naturelle des Marais du Vigueirat, preserved nature
Back to Arles to discover the Réserve naturelle des Marais du Vigueirat, another protected site where you can discover the local flora and fauna. Free educational trails give you a better understanding of this protected area, which you can visit with an environmentally-friendly approach. The ethno-botanical trail is one of the most popular parts of this natural site, but the horse-drawn carriage ride remains a must for children and parents alike. Combining pleasure and culture? What a great idea for an outing when you're looking for something to do in the Camargue!
11. Aigues-Mortes, the medieval city of pink salt marshes
TheAigues-Mortes salt marshes, with their beautiful pinkish hue, are one of France's top animal-watching spots, in an enchanting setting. From the top of the ramparts, you can admire the pink flamingos moving freely in these unusually colored salt flats. As you stroll through the fortified town, you'll have the opportunity to visit the Tour de Constance, before stopping for a drink in the pretty Place Saint-Louis. Rich in history, the medieval city of Aigues-Mortes takes you on an incredible journey back in time.
Good to know at the end of August, the town holds its annual medieval festival. The town's history takes on a whole new meaning, taking visitors back to the time of the knights for two magical days.
In short, if you have to visit only one town in the Camargue, this is the one we recommend first! Situated between history, tradition and modernity, it offers a perfect landscape of the Camargue of yesterday and today.
12. The most beautiful Camargue lighthouses to discover
The Camargue is a vast region, with many areas bordering the sea. Where there's a sea, there's a lighthouse! Other lighthouses are located near ponds and marshes, which are also numerous in the Camargue. One of the most unusual is the Faraman lighthouse in Arles. With its interspersed black and white tiers, it offers an astonishing backdrop, surrounded by the surrounding ponds and marshes.
The lighthouse at La Gacholle is also the finishing point of a beautiful Camargue hike. Powered by a solar generator, it fits perfectly into this unspoilt area of southern France. Finally, if you're tempted by the beaches of Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, you'll have the opportunity to admire the Beauduc lighthouse during your getaway.
13. Admire the pink flamingos at Etang du Fangassier
Pink flamingos can be found just about everywhere in the Camargue, brightening up all your family outings. But it's here that you'll see the most, on a guided tour. This part of the Parc naturel régional de Camargue is home to France's only pink flamingo breeding site. With the utmost respect for living creatures, you can follow your guide's instructions to discover these well-known animals, about which we generally know very little.
Visits are by reservation only, through theArles or Salin-de-Giraudtourist offices.
14. Discover the salt marshes of Salin-de-Giraud
In this pretty spot, you can admire the famous Faraman lighthouse, as well as the Beauduc lighthouse! Your walk takes you to discover the salt marshes, the origin of the town's creation at the end of the XIXᵉ century. Two salt-processing companies were then established in Salin-de-Giraud, necessitating the creation of suitable infrastructure and housing. Today, it's still possible to visit the salt works on foot or by bike, between two sunbaths on Piémanson beach.
With its rich history, this pretty little town represents a beautiful part of the Camargue's heritage: salt marshes, beaches, marshes - everything you'd want to admire during a stay in the area!
15. Les Baux-de-Provence, a place rich in history
Combining the charm of the Camargue with that of Provence, Les Baux-de-Provence is a must-see during your stay. Its landscapes are so majestic that they have often been depicted in paintings, immortalizing their magnificence. Quite simply, there are so many historical treasures to be found here, it's almost as if you're walking through an open-air museum. No fewer than 22 elements of Les Baux are listed as Monuments Historiques, including the château, church, chapels, period doors and more. A stroll through this exceptional village is pure enchantment, offering a sublime panorama of the surrounding countryside along the way.
Good to know if you're visiting the town with children, the tourist office offers a treasure hunt. Children will enjoy discovering this historic treasure, without feeling like they're going through another grueling "grown-up" visit.
What to do in the Camargue as a family?
We strongly recommend booking a horseback ride on a Camargue beach. This outing promises exceptional memories, pure moments of happiness shared with the whole family. To better understand these animals, you can also visit a manade. In addition to horses, you'll have the chance to get up close and personal with Camargue black bulls. More on this in a moment..
The Camargue Regional Nature Park also has some surprises in store for you. To make sure the kids have a great time, grab your bike and let's go! The ramparts of Aigues-Mortes are another great idea for a family outing. As children are often fascinated by stories of knights, they'll enjoy a real day of open-air games! The ideal time to visit is at the end of August, during the Fêtes de la Saint-Louis.
Of course, the beach at Piémanson is another popular playground for children and parents alike. During your stay in the Camargue, don't hesitate to visit a birdwatching area. The whole family will be amazed by the number (and beauty) of pink flamingos! Finally, board the Tiki 3, a paddle-steamer that takes you on a 1.5-hour mini-cruise on the Petit Rhône!
How to visit the Camargue in 3 days?
Three days are enough for a first visit to the Camargue. They may well leave you wanting to see more, but you'll already be able to admire a good part of it.
Day 1: Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and horseback riding
It's impossible to miss Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer! Take time to stroll through the town center, discovering the church, the narrow streets and the gardians' houses. The latter are highly original, offering a glimpse of one of the symbols of the Camargue. Once you've discovered the pretty heart of the town, head to the beach for a pleasant picnic. Your day in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is also an opportunity to book a horseback ride. Several service providers offer this type of outing, such as Mas Cacharel.
Day 2: Aigues-Mortes and visit to a manade
Plan to spend a good morning visiting Aigues-Mortes, including a meal on site. The medieval city is extensive, offering curious visitors its treasures of the past. The best part? Viewing the pink salt marshes from the top of the ramparts! If you feel like it, you can also visit the salt marshes on foot, by bike or on the little train (it's advisable to book your tickets online).
In the afternoon, make the most of your time in the area to visit a manade. You'll learn all you can about Camargue racing, horses and bulls. If you have the opportunity to attend a race in a nearby village that weekend, you'll have won everything! One of the most interesting manades to visit is that of Mas de la Comtesse, in Aigues-Mortes.
Day 3: Pont de Gau bird sanctuary
You've seen horses, bulls, a medieval town and the world of the gardians. What are you missing to complete your discovery of the Camargue? Its emblematic birds, of course! Head to the Pont de Gau ornithological reserve to discover pink flamingos and other local species. Between marshes and ponds, you'll discover a rich fauna, a preserved nature that's only waiting to be preserved.
At the end of this tour, don't hesitate to visit Arles, one of the Camargue's most emblematic towns. The Arlésienne, a symbol of the region often depicted on regional jewelry, is proof of this! Prefer to avoid the city? Then head for Salin-de-Giraud to round off your 3 days in the Camargue!
How do you visit a manade in the Camargue?
Bulls and horses are emblematic of the region, so you'll have no trouble finding a manade. While the visit can be made on foot, many service providers offer the opportunity to discover the herd... in a horse-drawn carriage. This unusual tour is sure to please the kids! This original means of transport allows you to get up close to the herd without risk, while benefiting from the explanations of the herdsmen.
You may also be lucky enough to witness the ferrade, the technique used to mark bulls. After a demonstration of bull sorting, the gardians allow you to watch games between themselves and the bulls or cows. A pure delight! Don't forget to book your visit. At the height of summer, this type of outing is particularly popular.
Far from the overrated beaches of some parts of southern France, the Camargue has an authentic charm all of its own. Here, nature takes pride of place in all its forms... Typical local animals will amaze you wherever you set foot, evolving in the heart of protected landscapes. Come and experience authenticity in its purest form, as a couple or as a family, during a stay in this beautiful corner of France. You just might find a little taste of homecoming!
