Arles & Camargue Natural Park (including Aigues Mortes)

Exploring the South of France: Arles & Camargue Natural Park (including Aigues Mortes)

This full-day tour offers a fascinating mix of history, art, and natural beauty. For $176 per person, you’ll spend around 9.5 hours exploring the Roman monuments of Arles, watching flamingos at the Camargue Bird Reserve, wandering the medieval walls of Aigues Mortes, and relaxing on the beaches of Saintes Maries de la Sea. Guided by a friendly English-speaking guide, this small-group experience (limited to 8 people) promises an intimate, in-depth look at some of Provence’s most captivating sights.

What we especially like about this tour are the rich contrasts it offers — from the ancient Roman ruins and Vincent van Gogh’s favorite scenes in Arles to the untamed wetlands of the Camargue and the medieval charm of Aigues Mortes. The blend of cultural history and wild nature makes it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded experience in a single day.

A potential consideration is the long day’s itinerary. While the pace is balanced, with plenty of free time, some might find it a bit packed, especially if you prefer more leisure at individual stops. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full schedule and keen on seeing a variety of sights.

If you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast eager to see iconic birds and wild horses, this tour will fit you perfectly. It’s also a great choice if you want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and experience the authentic rural and coastal landscapes of Provence.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Roman ruins, Van Gogh sites, salt lakes, and bird reserves in one day.
• Authentic experiences: Petting wild horses and seeing black bulls in their natural habitat.
• Historical insights: Walk on medieval remparts and visit the 11th-century church at Saintes Maries.
• Flexible schedule: Generous free time, especially in Aigues Mortes and Saintes Maries.
• Expert guiding: Live English-speaking guide providing context and stories.
• Limited group size: Small-group setting enhances personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting in Arles: Art and Roman Wonders

Our day begins with a guided walk through Arles, a city bursting with Roman monuments that have earned UNESCO World Heritage status. With guides sharing stories about the city’s ancient past, we visit sites like the theatre, amphitheater, and the Saint-Trophime Church. The beauty here is how many of these structures still stand, giving you a genuine sense of what life was like in Roman times.

We love the way the tour connects these historic sites to Van Gogh’s paintings. Since he spent 14 months in Arles, many scenes he painted are recognizable today. It’s exciting to see the places that inspired his work, making art and history feel tangible.

The guide’s commentary adds depth, especially when describing how the Romans built these landmarks to last. The walk takes about an hour and a half, offering plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and snap photos of the vivid street scenes.

The Wild Side: Camargue Regional Park

Next, we head into the Camargue, a vast and unspoiled landscape famous for its black bulls, white horses, and pink flamingos. Here, we visit the Camargue Bird Reserve Park, home to over 300 species of birds. Watching flamingos wade through the salt lakes is a highlight, and the opportunity to pet the horses and see the bulls in their natural environment makes this part of the tour feel especially authentic.

We loved the way the guide explained the ecology and farming traditions of the region, giving us an appreciation of how humans and nature coexist here. The landscape’s stark beauty—wide marshes, salt lakes, and sky—creates a sense of openness that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Be prepared for some outdoor walking — sturdy shoes are recommended — but the experience of observing the birds and wildlife in their untouched habitat is well worth it.

Aigues Mortes: Medieval Fortifications and Salt Lakes

About midday, we arrive at Aigues Mortes, a fortified town dating back to the 13th century. Walking along the medieval ramparts, you get stunning views of the colorful salt lakes below — a landscape that’s both striking and calming. Entry to the Constance Tower (included) offers a chance to climb and get a panoramic view of the surrounding salt flats and the town’s ramparts.

Historically, Aigues Mortes was a royal port, used by King Louis IX for crusades. Walking through the narrow, stone-paved streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time. The town’s well-preserved walls and towers evoke a sense of medieval resilience, making it a favorite among history fans.

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Saintes Maries de la Sea: Seaside and Spiritual Heritage

After a hearty lunch break — a chance to explore and enjoy local specialties — the tour continues to Saintes Maries de la Sea, a seaside resort with an 11th-century church that’s central to local religious traditions. The story of shipwrecked followers of Christ, including the Virgin Mary’s sisters and Saint Sarah, adds a layer of spiritual intrigue.

We recommend a quick stroll on the beach, where you can enjoy views of the Mediterranean and feel the salt air. The church, with its crypt, offers a glimpse into regional religious history and the importance of the site for local communities.

Final Stop: Bird Reserve Park

The day wraps up with an hour at the bird reserve park, where over 300 species of birds can be observed. Cattle egrets, blue herons, storks, and flamingos are easily spotted. Entry is included, so you don’t need to worry about extra costs. Sitting quietly by the lakes, you’ll see these creatures in their natural habitat, which adds a peaceful end to the busy day.

On the way back to Avignon, the route takes us through Tarascon, with its imposing castle, offering glimpses of the region’s medieval architecture and scenic countryside.

Value and Practicalities

This tour offers excellent value for $176, considering all the included sights, the entry fees, and the guided commentary. The small group size makes the experience more personal and allows for questions and spontaneous stops that larger tours might not facilitate.

Timing-wise, the 9.5 hours provide a comfortable pace, with enough free time at key spots to explore at your leisure. The transportation is mostly by comfortable minibus, making the long drives less tiring.

The walking in Arles and Aigues Mortes is moderate but manageable, and the outdoor nature activities in Camargue require sturdy shoes. The tour is conducted in English, and cancellations are flexible — cancellable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Love This Tour?

It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of history, art, nature, and seaside experiences. If you’re interested in van Gogh’s inspiration, Roman ruins, or birdwatching, this tour hits all those points. Families that enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural stories will find plenty to love, though those with mobility issues should note the walking involved.

The Sum Up

This Arles & Camargue tour encapsulates the essence of Provence — a region where ancient ruins meet vibrant wetlands and rugged coastlines. It’s a great way to experience the diversity of southern France in just a day, with plenty of opportunities for authentic encounters and memorable sights.

For those eager to see UNESCO Roman sites, wild birdlife, or medieval fortresses, this tour offers a well-rounded itinerary. The inclusion of free time at key locations lets you explore at your own pace, adding to its value.

While it’s a full day, the experience feels rewarding without being rushed. It suits travelers who appreciate a mix of history, nature, and local legends, offering a taste of Provence that’s both educational and inspiring.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 9.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

What’s included in the price?
The tour covers the guided walk in Arles, entry to walk on the remparts and visit the Constance Tower in Aigues Mortes, free time at Saintes Maries de la Sea, and entry to the Bird Reserve Park.

Is there much walking involved?
Yes, especially at Arles, Aigues Mortes, and the bird reserve. The walk in Arles is about 1.5 hours, and other stops involve some outdoor walking on uneven surfaces.

Can I see Van Gogh’s paintings in Arles?
While the tour visits locations that Van Gogh painted, it does not include a dedicated art museum but offers context about his time there.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
It’s mainly suitable for those comfortable with outdoor walking and a full schedule; families with older children who enjoy nature and history will likely enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and a camera. A hat or sunglasses may be helpful in the open landscapes.

Are meals included?
No, there is a long lunch break, so you can choose a local restaurant or bring snacks.

What about the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, providing a more personal experience and the chance to ask questions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to walking terrain and historic sites.

This tour offers a memorable taste of Provence’s most iconic sights, blending the ancient with the wild, and the artistic with the natural. Whether you’re passionate about history, birdwatching, or just looking for scenic beauty, it’s a day well spent in the South of France.

You can check availability for your dates here: