Holiday rentals in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Three iconic places to discover in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

In Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, three sites embody the identity of this unique Mediterranean village. Combining millennia-old spirituality, unspoilt nature and the seaside, these destinations form the beating heart of the Camargue and provide the backdrop for every holiday in a holiday rental.

1. The Church of the Saintes-Maries

Overlooking the village since the 12th century, this fortified church remains one of the most fascinating on the Provençal coast. Its thick walls and battlements tell the story of the Mediterranean coastline’s turbulent history. Inside, the crypt houses the reliquary of Saints Marie-Jacobé and Marie-Salomé, two central figures in Christian tradition. It is here that Gypsy pilgrims gather every year to honour Sara-la-Noire, a spiritual presence that imbues the place with intense emotional significance. Climbing up to the terraces offers a panoramic view of the village, the marshes and the Mediterranean.

2. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer Beach

The beach stretches for around 30 kilometres of fine sand facing the Mediterranean. It is a place where swimming goes hand in hand with water sports, where walkers stroll in the shade of the tamarisk trees and where sunsets paint the sky in shades of ochre and pink. The turquoise water invites you to take a refreshing dip during the long summer days, whilst the coastal paths promise contemplative walks. The beach is the recreational heart of the holiday for families and couples alike seeking relaxation.

3. Camargue Regional Nature Park

This vast park stretches out around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the form of a dense network of marshes, lagoons and wetlands. Designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it is home to an exceptionally rich variety of wildlife: flamingos live there in spectacular colonies, whilst Camargue horses and ‘gardian’ bulls roam the flooded lands. Exploring this area on foot, by bike or on horseback offers an experience of unspoilt nature, where flora and fauna reveal the secrets of this fragile ecosystem.

These three sites embody the essence of a stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: a balance between spiritual contemplation, seaside pleasures and communion with exceptional natural surroundings.

The ideal time of year to book a holiday let in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Every season transforms the character of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and offers a different reason to come and stay by the Mediterranean. When to visit depends on what you fancy: lazing in the sun, peaceful walks, or simply a break away from the hustle and bustle.

Spring gently awakens the Camargue. Temperatures rise gradually, the days grow longer, and nature bursts into colour. It’s the perfect time to explore the trails on foot or by bike without suffering from excessive heat. Holidaymakers enjoy this time of year when the sea becomes inviting for a swim, whilst the beaches retain their unspoilt charm, far from the summer crowds. Holiday rentals are still available and rates are more affordable than in summer.

Summer epitomises the typical seaside atmosphere of the Mediterranean coast. The sun shines for long stretches, the water reaches its warmest, and the fine sandy beaches of Saintes-Maries welcome whole families. The surrounding villages buzz with life, and the restaurants are brimming with lively terraces. Renting a holiday home in summer offers the freedom to enjoy this hustle and bustle or to retreat to a quiet accommodation to escape the hottest part of the day. This is the peak season, with all the prices that come with it.

Autumn brings a special sense of serenity. Temperatures remain mild, the Mediterranean waters are still pleasant for swimming, and the most hurried tourists have left. The sky takes on shades of orange and gold at sunset. It is a popular time of year for travellers seeking peace and nature, ideal for walks in the Camargue or contemplative moments on a terrace.

Winter transforms Saintes-Maries into a peaceful Mediterranean retreat. Temperatures remain mild compared to the rest of France, although a northerly wind may blow. The beaches empty, the landscapes become more tranquil, and the atmosphere takes on a more intimate feel. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore the local heritage without the tourist crowds, and to experience the authenticity of Provençal traditions.

A holiday rental suits every time of year: it offers the flexibility to come whenever you like, without the constraints of a fixed schedule. Whether you’re seeking the warmth of summer or the tranquillity of winter, you can truly discover Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer by staying right in the heart of the town.

3 activities you simply must try during your holiday in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

In Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the Camargue region offers a range of experiences where unspoilt nature and coastal relaxation come together. Set amongst wetlands and the Mediterranean coastline, holidaymakers will find activities that rarely fail to captivate: they fascinate, surprise and embody the very soul of the Rhône delta.

1. Horse riding in the Camargue

Saddling up a Camargue horse means embracing the rhythm of the gardians and the herds grazing in the marshes. Riders make their way through landscapes of sansouïre and reed beds, where the horizon stretches endlessly. This ride takes you deep into the unspoilt Camargue, far from the tourist coast, into the heart of protected natural areas. The horses, renowned for their calm temperament, are also suitable for beginners.

Address: Route d’Arles, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

2. Watching flamingos at the Pont-de-Gau Bird Park

The park is a sanctuary for both migratory and resident birds. The flamingos, emblematic of the Camargue, colour the lagoons with shades of pale pink and coral. Nature enthusiasts and photographers wander along the signposted paths through the wetlands, binoculars in hand, to spot flamingos, herons, spoonbills and black storks. It’s a total immersion in the Camargue ecosystem.

Address: Route d’Arles (D570), 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

3. Swimming and water sports on the beach

The beach at Saintes-Maries stretches out generously, with golden sand and shallow waters perfect for swimming. For the more active, the seafront offers kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, dinghy sailing and sand yachting. In summer, the water warms up, whilst the sea breeze cools things down in the afternoons. The sunset over the Mediterranean remains a special moment, accessible to all.

Address: Seafront, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

Our guests’ favourite amenities when booking a holiday rental in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

In Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where the sun shines abundantly and the proximity of the sea shapes every day, the comfort of the accommodation proves just as important as its location. Travellers who choose a holiday rental in this Camargue town are, above all, looking for facilities that allow them to make the most of their stay, whilst enjoying moments of relaxation both indoors and outdoors. Each facility has a role to play in transforming a simple accommodation into a proper holiday base.

• Air conditioning: essential in the Camargue’s intense Mediterranean climate, it ensures peaceful nights and cool interiors during hot spells.
• Direct access to the beach or immediate proximity: a major advantage for families and swimming enthusiasts who want to reach the water in just a few steps.
• Outdoor space (terrace, balcony, garden): the ideal spot for al fresco dining, aperitifs at sunset and family evenings.
• Fully equipped kitchen: allowing you to prepare your own meals, sample local specialities or simply organise meals at your own pace.
• Private or reserved parking: invaluable in a seaside resort where public parking spaces are scarce during the high season.
• Wi-Fi and internet connection: to stay in touch or access tourist information without leaving the accommodation.
• Washing machine: handy for longer stays, especially with children or after days at the beach.
• Reversible air conditioning or heating: for the off-season, when temperatures drop in the evening.
• Children’s equipment (cot, high chair, toys): make your family holiday easier without overloading your luggage.

Choosing a holiday rental that suits your needs, the number of people travelling with you and your budget ensures that every day of your stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer becomes a truly relaxing experience. Basic amenities transform your accommodation into a home away from home.

What is the average price of a holiday rental in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?

Prices for holiday rentals in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer 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 €60 and €120 per night. A more spacious house or flat, suitable for a family, tends to cost between €120 and €250 per night. Large properties or luxury accommodation command rates of €250 to €450 per night, or even higher depending on the facilities.

These price ranges depend heavily on the location. Accommodation near the Church of Saintes-Maries or right on the seafront commands higher prices than accommodation further from the centre. The length of stay also affects the cost: many owners offer sliding-scale rates for stays of a week or more, which brings down the daily rate. Rates quoted for a weekend are generally higher than those on a weekly basis.

Seasonality plays a key role. Summer, particularly July and August, remains the most expensive time of year. Spring and autumn offer more affordable prices, whilst winter offers the best deals. To find the deal that suits your budget and dates, check several listings, read reviews from previous guests and book well in advance during peak tourist seasons.