The Camargue and Arles
Arles, Saintes Maries de la Mer, Aigues Mortes
You will start your day entering the access « door » of this region: Arles and its Roman arenas, the St Trophime’s church and the Antique Theatre. You can enjoy a lunch nearby the Arenas and its old quarter. You will then discover the Etang de Vaccarès, before joining the Saintes Marie de la Mer’s village and its bull guardian traditions. This village of guardians is also a unique residence for the famous Pink Flamingo wild birds!! Deluxe Drivers will then take you to Aigues Mortes, fortified village, where you will follow the footsteps of Saint Louis.Download the itinerary: The Camargue and Arles
Arles
City of festivals, art, and culture, Arles has never stopped attracting artists. Van Gogh stayed here with his friend Gauguin. Picasso, a lover of bull fights, was inspired by them to do two paintings and 57 drawings. The Roman monuments are registered with UNESCO. The houses and private mansions of the 16th century, St. Trophime’s cloister, the Hotel de Ville, and the shaded terraces of the Place des Lices are all well worth a tour.
Saintes Maries de la Mer
Saintes Maries de la Mer is situated on the Mediterranean coast in the Heart of Camargue's Nature Park. Surrounded by immense plains filled with ponds and wild lands the city has many activities to offer all within the framework of a protected environment. It is especially famous for its oldest tradition which consists of being the meeting place for the gypsy people. Their rich folklore and music attract many visitors all throughout the year.
Aigues Mortes
In 1240, Saint Louis decided to build a city close to his kingdom in order to have a direct access to the Mediterranean Sea. That ought to be here in Aigues-Mortes, in an area of marshes, sand and water. Seven centuries later, the fortification still dominates the Camargue as one of the most well preserved medieval French building.
Recommendations
Gastronomic restaurants
L’hostellerie du Pont Gau
Just near by the Ornithological Park, enjoy local dishes like Bull in a typical Camargue atmosphere, under a nice veranda…
Best Quality/Price ratio restaurant
Enjoy a meal on a barge
Enjoy the Camargue and the Nature Park by boat, observing birds and wild animal through the swamps.
Suggestion for your day
An authentic “Manade”
There are many ranches (called manades) where both bulls and horses are bred. These ranches welcome visitors. It is an excellent way to get to know the famous Camargue cowboys and their livestock. La “Manade Jacques Bon” is one of these famous places that will introduce you to this way of living.
