The Countryside around Arles

The Camargue is a unique land, a wilderness where birds (Etang de Vaccarès), bulls and horses cohabit (feast days and riding, ranchers and ranches). Rice is also cultivated here (AOC). It is an important stop-off point in Europe for migrating birds (December wintering) and there are many parks and reserves. In this imposing space there are a host of museums and initiation centres to welcome visitors, adults and children alike. Bull festivities punctuate the seasons. The Camargue National Reserve of the Etang de Vaccarès proposes exhibitions and discovery trails at la Capelière . The Camargue Natural Regional Park,as well as its mission to protect the environment, possesses an information and exhibition centre at Ginès. The Musée Camarguais can be visited at the Mas du Pont de Rousty: history and discovery trail on a traditional farm. See also the château d’Avignon (grand 19th century property of an enlightened bourgeois). The Domaine de la Palissade, the property of the coastal and lakeside conservancy, puts on guided tours of the flora and fauna for groups or individuals. See also exhibitions on the natural environment. The Pont-de-Gau bird sanctuary is a health centre for birds: see also on-site exhibitions and wildlife trails. The Association la Sigoulette offers educational activities – discovery and understanding of the area. This ‘house of nature’ accommodates children, teenagers and adults full board. To the east of the Rhône the Marais du Vigueirat, is placed under the watchful eye of the coastal and lakeside conservancy: observation of the environment (sansouire salt steppe) and theme circuits for children. The Saintes-Maries de la mer along with Salin de Giraud, lies at the gates to the Camargue. This is the Camargue of long beaches, boat trips or kayaking on the Petit Rhône and the canals. Don’t miss the 12th century fortified church and the gypsy pilgrimage in May. There is access to the sea wall to the east of Salin de Giraud, Visit the salt marshes and dunes at the salt works. Not far from there, Port-St-Louis-du- Rhône has a fortified tower and long deserted sandy beaches. Boat trips out to sea.