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Arles & the Camargue - Roman Heritage, Wild Landscapes, Pink Flamingos & the Spirit of the Camargue
Journey from the remarkable Roman city of Arles to the untamed landscapes of the Camargue, where history, nature, and centuries-old traditions come together in one of France's most extraordinary regions.
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Arles, following in the footsteps of the Romans and Vincent van Gogh, before venturing into the vast wetlands of the Camargue. Discover the coastal town of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, renowned for its rich Gypsy traditions and Mediterranean charm, and experience the spectacular Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau, home to hundreds of elegant pink flamingos and an extraordinary diversity of birdlife.
A beautifully curated private experience combining Roman history, breathtaking natural landscapes, unique wildlife, and the enduring traditions of Provence's most distinctive region.
Tour summary
Experience two of southern France's most remarkable landscapes on a private journey that combines the rich history of Arles with the untamed natural beauty of the Camargue, one of Europe's most extraordinary wetlands. Your day begins in Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage city where more than two thousand years of history meet the artistic legacy of Vincent van Gogh. Founded by Julius Caesar in 46 BC and later transformed into one of the Roman Empire's most important cities under Augustus, Arles is home to some of the finest Roman monuments in France.
As you explore its charming streets and impressive Roman remains, discover how Van Gogh found endless inspiration here, creating almost 200 paintings and drawings during his stay in 1888. His artistic vision, together with the city's remarkable Roman heritage, continues to shape the unique character of Arles today.
Leaving the city behind, follow the River Rhône south into the vast landscapes of the Camargue Regional Natural Park, where the river meets the Mediterranean Sea. Covering almost 200,000 hectares, this extraordinary wilderness of lagoons, salt marshes, reed beds, and freshwater lakes is one of Europe's most important wildlife reserves.
Visit the renowned Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau, where easy walking trails bring you remarkably close to the Camargue's abundant birdlife. Observe elegant pink flamingos in their natural habitat alongside herons, egrets, and many other migratory species that thrive in this unique ecosystem.
As you continue through the region, you'll encounter the iconic symbols of the Camargue—its famous white horses, black bulls, and endless open landscapes that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Your journey concludes in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the historic seaside capital of the Camargue. This charming fishing town is renowned for its centuries-old Gypsy pilgrimage and vibrant cultural traditions. Visit the fortified church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer and climb to its rooftop terrace for breathtaking panoramic views across the Mediterranean, the wetlands, and the wild landscapes that define this remarkable region.
Combining Roman history, exceptional wildlife, spectacular scenery, and enduring local traditions, this carefully curated private tour offers an unforgettable insight into one of Provence's most fascinating and diverse destinations.
Tour itinerary
We will arrive to collect you from your hotel, chambre d'hôte, villa or apartment.
We leave by car driving to the town of Arles, then a leisurely walking tour of the old town to visit the Roman Amphiteatre, Théâtre Antiques d'Arles, Hôtel de Ville & Place du Forum. Visiting the old town shopping streets, bars & cafés down to the River Rhône. We propose a lunch break in Arles before driving to the Camargue.
From Arles we head towards Saintes Maries de la Mer, stopping off at the Camargue bird sanctuary - Ornithological Park of Pont de Gau which hosts an exceptional collection of wild bird species including Pink Flamingoes that live and breed in the Camargue. Finally a visit to the Camarguaise town of Saintes Maries de la Mer the capital of the Camargue, explore tiny streets and the beach of this small seaside town. From here return to your hotel or villa.
Tour schedule
The total duration of the tour is 8 hours, there is a scheduled break for lunch, price not included.
What's included
Pick-up from your hotel or villa in Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Arles, St Rémy de Provence, Lourmarin & Gordes.
Travel & admissions to all the sites proposed with dedicated guide/driver & return to your hotel address. Air-conditioned SUV vehicle with phone chargers & bottled water throughout the day. Refreshments, snacks & lunch not included.
Language: English or French
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