Visiting the South of France? Don’t forget to visit the Camargue! There are many ways to visit this natural region.
Bordered by the Rhône, the Camargue is one of the most beautiful places in France. Its fauna, flora and history make it a very special place. There’s no shortage of places to discover, which is why tourists love coming here every summer. Are you also tempted by the Camargue? If so, this comprehensive guide to the Camargue is sure to convince you. Follow the guide!
The Camargue in a nutshell
Photo credit: Pierre Bougnol
Straddling the departments of Gard and Bouches-du-Rhône, the Camargue is a natural region. It’s known for its marshlands. There are many marshes, canals, rice paddies and ponds. These natural features are a big part of the region’s popularity. Indeed, one of the main reasons people come to visit the Camargue is its unique flora. A flora that is also home to an extraordinary and rich fauna. These include the famous Camargue bulls and horses.
Because yes, the Camargue is also a culture strongly linked to bullfighting. Here, the bull is king, and almost every town has its own arena. However, bullfighting is not practiced in the Camargue. Instead, it’s the Camargue race that’s king. Last but not least, the region’s historical heritage is another of its assets. The area has been occupied since ancient times. But its first heyday came in the Middle Ages, with the construction ofAigues-Mortes. Since then, the region has become one of France’s most important tourist destinations.
1. The road trip
Photo credit: Pierre Bougnol
One of the best ways to visit the Camargue is on a road-trip. This option has two major advantages:
- You choose your route and your visits. This allows you to adapt to natural hazards or the length of your stay. What’s more, you’re no longer dependent on public transport, which isn’t always optimized around here;
- The choice of vehicle is yours. You can visit the Camargue by car or motorhome. The second option takes care of the accommodation issue. Stay directly in the town of your choice and change at your convenience. This saves you a lot of time.
When it comes to renting a car or motorhome, there are numerous dealerships to choose from. However, many online platforms, such as Rentalcars and Yescapa, allow you to book in advance. So, once you’re there, you can be sure of getting the vehicle you want.
2. Horseback riding
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Olivier Tabary
Horseback riding is the most popular way to visit the Camargue. Whether trotting or galloping, discover the Camargue coastline on the back of the Camargue’s best friend: the horse. You can choose to ride on the sand, near the marshes or in a manade. What’s more, the activity is suitable for young and old alike. So the whole family can enjoy this special moment.
3. Bike routes
Photo credit: Shutterstock – sbellott
In the 2000s, local authorities continued to develop the creation of trails and paths reserved for cyclists. So you can visit the Camargue by bike and discover its different scenery. Numerous rental points are available in the most popular tourist towns, such as Aigues-Mortes, Le Grau du Roi and Les Saintes Marie de la Mer.
It’s also the most eco-tourist-friendly way to visit the Camargue, a protected natural area. And don’t forget your binoculars. Whether you’re on a trail or along the ViaRhôna, you’ll have the opportunity to observe a variety of bird species.
4. Boat cruises
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Gilles Paire
When you visit the Camargue, you’re bound to be close to the Mediterranean Sea. The Canal du Rhône à Sète also criss-crosses the region. So it’s no surprise that cruises are available to visitors. If you head for the sea, you’ll see the coast from an original perspective. On the other hand, if you prefer to cruise on the canal, you’ll see rice fields and/or ponds.
Last but not least, you can also rent a boat without a license and set off on your own or with your family. You can choose the route and duration.
5. 4×4 safaris
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Gilles Paire
The Camargue is synonymous with flora and fauna. So what better way to discover all the life that lives here than on a safari. Aboard a 4×4, you’ll be driven to some of the best observation spots. In the late afternoon, you may even be able to watch the sun set in the most suitable spot.
Safaris are generally available in English, French and Spanish.
6. Flying over the Petite Camargue
Photo credit: Shutterstock – Francois BOIZOT
Flying over the Camargue by plane or helicopter is a magical experience. It’s without doubt the most spectacular way to visit the Camargue. Once in the air, you’ll enjoy a magnificent panorama of the towns and expanses of the Camargue.
Overflights depart from two different airfields:
- From Candillargues: you can see Aigues-Mortes and its salt marshes, as well as the surrounding countryside;
- From Salon-Eyguières: first look out over Arles, its manades and the Alpilles, before heading for Aigues-Mortes and the Salins.
Prices range from €61 to €180 per person.
7. Quad biking
Photo credit: Facebook – Camargue Loisirs
The Camargue is made up of plains. This makes it the perfect terrain for quad biking. But it’s not all about speed! Motorized touring allows you to discover ponds, marshes, canals and manades. Accompanied by a specialized instructor, you’ll be taught how to drive, so as not to end up in the roubine!
8. Mini-bus excursion
Photo credit: Shutterstock – LianeM
This is the perfect solution if you’re short on time. The mini-bus tour allows you to condense your visits. In fact, these guided tours focus solely on the must-see places. In fact, some are limited to the Parc Naturel Régional and Les Saintes Marie de la Mer.
Allow 5 hours and a minimum of €70 for an excursion. It’s a practical tour, but not for everyone’s wallet.