The Camargue: this name sounds in our imagination as being synonymous with nature, biodiversity, breathtaking landscapes… and it’s totally true! If you dream of an initiatory journey in the heart of a wild territory, the Camargue is a place not to be missed. In addition, it has unmissable places when visiting the south of France. Towns with traditional tones and typical monuments of the Provençal region await you.
Summary
- A huge nature reserve
- Iconic places
- Things not to miss at the water’s edge
A huge nature reserve
This is the emblematic place of the Camargue, the one you can’t imagine missing. The Camargue National Nature Reserve was defined as such in 1975. It is the home of almost 300 species of birds, but also that of other organisms. The latter evolve naturally in this wetland conducive to the development of great biodiversity. Its opening to the public aims to raise awareness of current environmental issues and challenges. To sum up, the attraction of the region is essentially based on its great ecological wealth.
The Fangassier pond within the Camargue reserve remains the only French breeding site for pink flamingos. During the favorable period, guided tours allow you to observe the colony of these elegant princes of the marshes. The area is also enriched with a biosphere reserve, that of the marshes of Vigueirat. Hikers will be delighted by the presence of many trails venturing among the local flora and fauna. However, horseback riding enthusiasts will not be disappointed either, since it is possible to take unique horseback rides! At the Mas du Pont de Rousty, the Camargue Museumwaiting for you to discover the Camargue way of life of yesteryear. Several artistic routes or along the rice fields will extend your experience of regional culture.
Iconic places
Do you want to replenish your soap stock? The Camargue is full of shops with traditional manufacturing processes. To find out more, go to the Marseille soap museum, in Salon-de-Provence. If you are passionate about the arts, you cannot go to the Camargue without going through the Vincent Van Gogh Foundation. This lover of Provence pays homage to it through his work which you can discover thanks to the many exhibitions of the foundation.
The city of Arles is home to impressive and illustrious arenas. Of Roman inspiration, they were created around 80 AD. J.-C. The look is worth the detour! While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by Montmajour Abbey. The elements of its construction bear witness to several eras: an 11th century chapel blends with other buildings dating from the 18th century! After the visit, do not forget to admire the breathtaking panorama offered by this place. In general, the Camargue has a grandiose historical heritage. The abbey church of Saint-Gilles bears witness to this, as it is an important place of pilgrimage. As a result, it has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 1998.
Things not to miss at the water’s edge
Aigues-Morte is a town surrounded by ponds and ramparts distinguished by its particular colored saline. Its water is indeed pink because of the proliferation of an algae with the same shades. It is possible to visit it by small train or by mountain bike for the more athletic! Not far from there is the Espiguette Lighthouse, on the shores of the Mediterranean. Listed as a historical monument, it bears witness to the beauty of the Provençal coastline. Finally, the village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Meroffers you a moment of relaxation around its local specialties. Its churches and bell towers testifying to Romanesque architecture demonstrate its cultural richness. The Church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a place of worship, but also a fortress. Pirates and bandits stormed the city in the 9th and 12th centuries!
Did the natural, historical and artistic culture of the Camargue make you want to take a trip there?
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