The Camargue France
Camargue is a river delta located near the town of Arles in France.
The northern part of Camargue is mainly agricultural land for rice, cereals and grapevines. All the natural resources are located from centre region to the southern part of the delta.
Camargue location
Situated at the coastline from Provence to Languedoc-Roussillon, between the two branches of River Rhône and Mediterranean Sea, the triangular Camargue is inscribed as one of the top 100 wonders of the world. It is the largest river delta in Western Europe covering an area of over 1,466 km2. At least one third of the delta is filled with water or marshes which offers exceptional biological diversity. You can find plenty of dunes, pastures and brine lagoons in this area.
The most famous and largest inland salt water lagoon (or étang) is the Étang de Vaccarès which provides a great habitat for wild birds. This area has been preserved as regional park because of its natural beauty and historic interest. The Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue was officially established in 1970 which covers 820 km² of nature reserve. There is also a roadside museum in the park explaining the ecosystem, background and history of this region.
Flora & Fauna of Rhône Delta
Famous for its flora and fauna, the Camargue is home to over 400 species of birds, unique horses, bulls, sheep, beavers, wild boars, tree frogs, water snakes, insects and mosquitos. The brine ponds at the delta offer excellent habitats for pink flamingos.
The special breed of Camargue bulls is small in size compare to the average, and they are raised for food and for “running of the bulls” event. Youngsters will chase and pick up cockades attached to the horns of the running bulls to show their bravery. This activity was started since the sixteen century.
Similar to the bulls, the grey or white Camargue horses are also tiny compare to their relatives. The riders of Camargue horses usually wear black hats and carry tridents, and they play an important role to safeguard Camargue traditions.
Tourism in Camargue France
The delta is visited by more than a million tourists every year. Most visitors are interested in seeing the unique natural beauty, and the flora and fauna of Camargue. This includes the pink flamingos, horses, bulls and birds. Ideal time for bird watching is from April to June during the mating session. You’ll be able to observe the most number of birds and flamingos.
During the summer, Camargue produces over 15,000 tons of salt a day including some table salt. Visitors will have a chance to witness the amazing salt making process.
For people who love outdoor activities, wildlife and history, they will enjoy their stay at Camargue by walking, cycling and riding on the Camargue horses. Those who want a little bit of adventure, there are three large discovery trails for hikers.
- The salt path
- The rice path (together with a visit to Musée du Riz-rice museum and Capelière reserve)
- The lake & flamingo path (the Sea Dike & Fangassier lagoon)
| Hotel Camargue | France Hotels | Tours de France |
| Top 100 Wonders of the World | Hotel Search Engines |
| Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer resort |
