Between Aigues-Mortes, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Arles and Port-Camargue, the Camargue is a composite territory: lagoons, salt marshes, manades and wild beaches. Understanding its seasons, its regulations and its traditions is the key to a sustainable and respectful discovery.
We avoid commonplaces to give you contemporary and verified benchmarks — access to protected areas, good ornithological observation practices, visits to herds and Slow Life circuits to savor the authenticity of the Camargue.
Observe the pink flamingos while respecting the park
Pink flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus) are one of the most visible symbols of the Camargue, particularly around the Vaccarès lagoon and the salt marshes. Their nesting takes place mainly in spring and summer: April to August are sensitive months, when certain areas are closed to visitors to protect the colonies.
To observe without disturbing, use the observatories and marked trails, use a telescope and keep a respectable distance: the Regional Natural Park reminds you of the importance of not entering breeding areas. Find out about temporary closures before each outing via the park's official website (Parc naturel régional de Camargue).
Manades and herdian traditions: responsible immersion
The herd is a rural and family organization: a herd of Camargue cattle and horses supervised by horse herdsmen. The visit to a herd must be prepared: many farms welcome by reservation for an educational and respectful discovery of the herd.
The herdsmen perpetuate know-how – traditional shoeing, sorting of young bulls, equestrian training – transmitting a local culture linked to Camargue racing (no-kill system). During your meetings, respect the safety instructions and do not intervene in breeding practices without the agreement of the herdman.
The history of salt and Aigues-Mortes
Aigues-Mortes, a medieval bastide founded by Saint Louis, is also at the heart of a long salt history: the salt works have fueled the local economy from the Middle Ages to the present day. The Tower of Constance and the city walls are historical landmarks that tell of the strategic importance of the city for the salt trade.
The salt marshes have evolved: some areas are now managed for biodiversity, others for commercial production. Guided tours explain the evaporation processes, the pink hues of the basins and the current issues linked to water and coastal management. To plan a visit, consult the Aigues-Mortes Tourist Office (Aigues-Mortes Tourist Office).
Slow Life: wild beaches, Port-Camargue and quiet itineraries
The Camargue offers Slow Life experiences: sunrise on Beauduc beach, bike rides around Vaccarès, or a break on the quays of Port‑Camargue — the largest marina in Europe, located in Grau‑du‑Roi. Prefer less busy seasons (late spring, early autumn) for a more authentic atmosphere.
Pay attention to local rules: wild bivouac is regulated or even prohibited in many protected areas, and occasional trail closures may be decided for nesting or fire prevention. Before embarking on a route, check municipal bylaws and Park information.
Responsible practices and local advice
A few simple rules improve everyone's experience and preserve the territory: stay on marked trails, keep dogs on a leash in protected areas, avoid drone flights without authorization and do not pick vegetation. Local guides and manadiers are your best allies for relevant and respectful visits.
If you want to enrich your stay with events, note that the Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer pilgrimages (around May 24-25) and the Arles ferias (Easter and Pentecost depending on the calendar) remain strong cultural moments. Find out each year about the exact dates and specific rules for ceremonies and gatherings.
Thanks for reading, and don't forget, Enjoy Life Moments!