Holiday rentals in Camargue

Three iconic places to discover in the Camargue

The Camargue captivates with its landscapes of sand and salt, its endless horizons and its wildlife that pulses to the rhythm of the seasons. The following three unmissable sites embody the soul of this unique region: its unspoilt nature, its spiritual history and the living memory of the people who call it home.

1. Camargue Regional Nature Park

Established in 1970, the park covers some 93,000 hectares between the two branches of the Rhône and is one of Europe’s richest wetlands. As you wander along its quiet paths and roads, you’ll come across flamingos with their striking plumage, white Camargue horses galloping freely through the marshes, and the region’s characteristic black bulls. Patient observers will also spot hundreds of species of migratory birds, depending on the time of year. It is a haven of tranquillity where nature reigns supreme, far from the hustle and bustle.

2. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

This coastal village, known as the historic capital of the Camargue, attracts thousands of Gypsy pilgrims every year in May and October to venerate Saint Sara. Its 12th-century fortified church, built of sturdy Romanesque stone, overlooks the white houses and narrow streets of the town centre. Descending beneath the building leads to the crypt where the relics are kept, an atmosphere steeped in history and contemplation. The fishing harbour brings daily life to life, whilst the wide beach and the Mediterranean Sea invite you to relax.

3. Camargue Museum

Housed in a former 19th-century sheepfold at the Mas du Pont de Rousty, this museum reveals the secrets of the Camargue from every angle. Inside, the collections trace the daily lives of the herdsmen, the evolution of traditions and the region’s natural riches. Outside, a 3.5-kilometre trail takes you on a walk through the heart of the marshes and the region’s characteristic landscapes. This visit combines learning with an outdoor experience, perfect for understanding how people and nature have coexisted here for centuries.

Between the park’s wild spectacle, the spiritual tranquillity of the village and the insights offered by the museum, these three stops capture the essence of a memorable stay in the Camargue.

The ideal season to book a holiday rental in the Camargue

Each season transforms the face of the Camargue. The landscapes, the light and the atmosphere change with the passing months, offering every visitor a different experience depending on the time of year they choose.

Spring. Between March and May, the Camargue comes to life under an often glorious sky. Temperatures are mild, the days are getting longer and nature bursts into colour. Flamingos return in great numbers, black bulls graze in meadows flooded with clear water, and white horses roam freely. It is the ideal season for walking or cycling, when the heat has not yet become oppressive. A holiday rental allows you to make the most of these days without being tied to a schedule, strolling at your own pace through the wet and wild landscapes.

Summer. From June to September, the Camargue becomes hot and sunny. Temperatures rise, and the sky remains blue week after week. The saltwater lagoons glisten, and the Mediterranean light sets the landscapes ablaze. This is the time for water sports on the lagoon and long evenings on the terrace. Holiday accommodation then offers an air-conditioned refuge during the hottest hours.

Autumn. From September through to November, temperatures moderate and the atmosphere becomes milder. The landscapes gradually change colour. It is also migration season: thousands of birds pass through the region. The days remain fine, whilst the nights grow cooler. A holiday in a holiday let allows you to experience these changes at your own pace, without any pressure.

Winter. From December to February, the Camargue becomes calm and contemplative. Temperatures remain mild, rarely freezing. The delta empties of its summer crowds, and the low-angled winter light reveals the delicate beauty of the landscapes. Photography and nature enthusiasts will find an authentic and peaceful region at this time.

A holiday rental in the Camargue suits every kind of holiday, whatever the season. The key is to choose the time of year that best suits your desires: untamed, vibrant nature, or meditative solitude.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in the Camargue

The Camargue captivates visitors with its marshland landscapes, endless horizons and exceptional wildlife. From your holiday rental, you can enjoy the authentic, nature-centred experiences that are the hallmark of this unique region. Here are three unmissable activities that embody the very essence of the Camargue.

1. Watch the flamingos at the Pont de Gau Bird Park

The Pont de Gau Bird Park is a must-visit for lovers of birds and the wilderness. Across more than 60 hectares of unspoilt marshland, you’ll wander along paths and past observation points where flamingos suddenly appear – those candy-pink silhouettes for which the Camargue is famous. As well as flamingos, you’ll spot herons, egrets, stilts and around a hundred other species. Children can discover birdwatching whilst having fun, whilst photographers capture magical moments at sunrise or sunset.

Address: Pont de Gau Bird Park, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

2. Horse riding through the Camargue marshes on a Camargue horse

Horse riding is the best way to explore the marshes, just as the ‘gardians’ have done for centuries. The Camargue horse, robust and calm, knows every path and every watercourse. You’ll ride through landscapes where the sky takes up more space than the land, where the water reflects the clouds and where nature reigns unhindered. These rides offer a total immersion in the daily life of the authentic Camargue, far from roads and crowds.

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3. Boat trip on the Petit Rhône and the Camargue lagoons

Cruising along the Petit Rhône and the Camargue lagoons offers a completely new perspective on the Camargue marshes. From the boat, you glide silently through the heart of the wetlands, getting close to the birds without startling them, and discovering the fragile balance of a remarkable ecosystem. The banks roll by, lined with reed beds, rushes and reeds. Local guides share their knowledge of the flora, fauna and history of this delta, which is unique in France.

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Our travellers’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in the Camargue

When staying in the Camargue, the comfort of your accommodation makes all the difference. Between sunny days and evenings spent discovering local traditions, having the right facilities allows you to enjoy the region to the full without any hassle. Travellers are primarily looking for well-equipped spaces, suited to the Mediterranean climate and the nature of the holiday they have in mind.

• Air conditioning or effective ventilation: essential in the Camargue during the summer, it ensures restful nights despite the summer heat.
• Terrace or outdoor area: to enjoy the region’s iconic sunsets and al fresco dining.
• Fully equipped kitchen: holidaymakers enjoy preparing their own meals and savouring local produce, particularly rice and seafood.
• Wi-Fi and internet connection: staying connected without sacrificing relaxation is becoming an expected standard.
• Private car park or parking space: exploring the Camargue by car is common, and having secure parking offers peace of mind.
• Washing machine: useful for longer stays or families with children.
• Lounge area and television: for quiet evenings or in case of bad weather.
• Storage and walk-in wardrobes: having a dedicated space for your holiday belongings makes everyday life more comfortable.
• Beach or leisure equipment: some accommodation options provide parasols, board games or leisure equipment.

Choosing a holiday rental suited to the number of people, the length of your stay and your budget allows you to enjoy an authentic holiday without compromising on your comfort.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in the Camargue?

Prices for holiday rentals in the Camargue vary depending on the size and standard of the accommodation. For a small studio or a one-bedroom flat, you can generally expect to pay between 400 and 700 euros a week. A family-sized three- or four-room property tends to cost between 700 and 1,400 euros per week. Larger properties or those with high-end facilities can exceed 1,500 euros, or even reach 2,500 euros or more, depending on the amenities.

Several factors influence these prices. Proximity to the coast or a tourist resort pushes prices up significantly. The time of year plays a major role: July and August, during the high season, are considerably more expensive than other months. Rates often include discounts for weekly or fortnightly stays, and some owners offer reductions for stays during the low season. The age of the property, the facilities included (swimming pool, enclosed grounds, direct access to the marshes) and the exact location also affect the cost.

When planning your stay, look at several listings to compare offers within your preferred comfort level. Booking in advance, especially during the summer season, often gives you access to better terms. Read other travellers’ reviews carefully: they describe the welcome, the actual condition of the property and the value for money – all factors that will help you make a more informed decision, going far beyond the price alone.