Camargue Regional Natural Reserve
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Camargue - by XtianDuGard from Pixabay
Description
The Camargue Regional Natural Reserve extends over the greater part of the Rhône river delta, in Provence. It is the largest bird wintering habitat in the country with about 120,000 specimens (the second largest is the Bay of Arcachon) of which the most famous are the pink flamingos. The Camargue forms a rough triangle of 1,500km2 with Arles in the north, Le Grau-du-Roi on the western side and Fos-sur-Mer in the east. The reserve covers the central part of the area. Besides birds, the Camargue is known for its horses, rice cultivation and traditional costumes.
Access & Transport
Arles is the gateway to the Camargue and is easily accessible by train or car from Avignon, Nimes, Montpellier and Marseille - all in less than 1h. Saintes Maries de la Mer can be reached from Arles by bus in 45mins with the A50 line, likewise for Salin de Giraud Camargue with the A10 service.
Instructions & Recommendations
We recommend visitors to study the map a little beforehand to check which part does interest them noting that it is not possible to drive from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer to the eastern side where the village of Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône is located. In the summer, make sure to bring water and sun protection with you (hat/cap and sunblock) and binoculars should come in handy year-round.
Environmental & Social
Green activity with some venues that also educate visitors about the local ecosystems. Some economic benefit from tourism for the community
Conclusion
The Camargue is one of South Eastern France's most unusual and interesting outdoor environment with some fascinating wildlife and landscapes. If you are a little tired of visiting pretty towns and jaw dropping Roman ruins, this will provide an excellent opportunity to discover another aspect of the region which adults and families can enjoy.
Key positive
Excellent bird watching
Unique natural environment and traditions
Key negative
You'll be lucky to see everything the guides depict
Quite busy in the summer and during local school holidays
Suitability
Suitable for all ages. Most areas (but not all) can be accessed by visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:5h
Sunrise / early morningOk
MorningOk
Lunch timeOk
AfternoonOk
Sunset / eveningOk
Night – bef. midnightNo
Night – aft. midnightNo