Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, situated in the heart of the Camargue, attracts thousands of visitors every year who come to discover this unique region, where nature, traditions and the Mediterranean Sea come together. With its vast sandy beaches, marshes teeming with pink flamingos, free-roaming horses and rich historical heritage, this charming village offers an exceptional setting for a getaway in Provence.
Whether you enjoy walking, are a birdwatcher, love horse riding or are simply looking to relax by the sea, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers a wide range of activities to suit all tastes. It is also an ideal base from which to explore the unspoilt landscapes of the Camargue and discover the traditions for which this region is renowned.
In this article, discover the highlights of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, from the most beautiful natural areas to historic monuments, and get some tips on how to organise your holiday and make the most of this special destination in the south of France.
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, an iconic village in the Camargue
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, situated in the southern part of the Bouches-du-Rhône department, enjoys a privileged location in the heart of the Rhône delta, where the famous river splits into two branches before flowing into the Mediterranean Sea. Over the centuries, this exceptional geographical setting has shaped the characteristic landscapes of the Camargue: a vast area of over 150,000 hectares, comprising marshes, ponds, reed beds, sansouïres, rice fields and unspoilt beaches. Surrounded by unspoilt nature, the village is one of the main gateways to the Camargue Regional Nature Park, home to one of Europe’s most remarkable examples of biodiversity.
With over 35 kilometres of coastline, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is also a renowned seaside resort. The long, fine-sand beaches, such as the East Beach or Amphora Beach, are a magnet for families keen to go swimming, whilst the vast, unspoilt beaches to the east and west of the village attract lovers of walking, water sports and the great outdoors. Far removed from the heavily urbanised seaside resorts of the Côte d’Azur, the village has managed to retain an authentic atmosphere where nature remains ever-present.
The history of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is just as remarkable as its surroundings. According to a Christian tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé, accompanied by Sara, are said to have arrived on this coast in the 1st century after fleeing Palestine. This legend has profoundly shaped the village’s identity and explains its current name. Every year in May, thousands of pilgrims from all over Europe gather for the famous pilgrimages to the Saintes Maries and to Sara la Noire, the patron saint of the Gypsies. These celebrations, which bring together religious traditions and the culture of the Camargue, are among the most distinctive events in the south of France.
The fortified church of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which dominates the heart of the village, bears witness to this rich past. Built between the 9th and 12th centuries, the church once served a dual purpose: as a place of worship and as a refuge for the inhabitants during invasions from the sea. Today, from the roof, visitors can enjoy an exceptional panoramic view over the village’s white rooftops, the lakes of the Camargue and the Mediterranean Sea.
But Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is more than just its religious heritage; it also embodies the soul of the Camargue and its centuries-old traditions. In Les Saintes, the guardians still ride on horseback through the marshes to herd the bulls bred in the manades. The Camargue horse races, the abrivados, the ferrades and the votive festivals set the rhythm of local life throughout the year and preserve a craft passed down from generation to generation. The famous white Camargue horses, the black bulls and the pink flamingos have become an integral part of the region’s identity and contribute to its renown far beyond France’s borders.
Today, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is an unmissable destination for anyone wishing to discover the Camargue in all its diversity. With its historical heritage, vibrant traditions, unspoilt nature and sandy beaches, the village offers a rare balance between authenticity and a lively tourist atmosphere. It is ideal for a day trip to explore the natural and cultural treasures of one of Provence’s most beautiful unspoilt areas.
Deep-rooted history and traditions
Although Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is now a popular tourist destination, the village remains, above all, a place where traditions are very much alive. For centuries, local life has been closely linked to the Camargue and its agricultural activities, particularly bull and horse breeding. On the vast estates, known as ‘manades’, a centuries-old way of life is still upheld, with the ‘gardians’ – true Camargue horsemen – driving the herds through the marshes and meadows.
This identity is reflected in the numerous events that bring the village to life throughout the year. Visitors can watch Camargue bullfights, a traditional sport in which the players attempt to remove the objects attached between the bulls’ horns without killing the animal. The ‘abrivados’ and ‘bandidos’, during which the ‘gardians’ escort the bulls on horseback through the village streets, also offer a spectacle that is particularly popular during local festivals.
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is also an important place of pilgrimage. Every year, on 24 and 25 May, the village welcomes tens of thousands of worshippers who come to take part in the pilgrimage to Les Saintes-Maries. The relics of Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé are carried in a procession to the sea, where they are symbolically welcomed on the beach. A few days earlier, the pilgrimage of Sara la Noire brings together the Romani community from across Europe. These celebrations, which blend spirituality, folk traditions and music, lend the village a unique atmosphere and bear witness to the importance of its cultural heritage.
This historical richness can also be discovered in the narrow streets of the old town. The whitewashed façades, the lively little squares, the shops selling local artisanal products and the restaurants serving Camargue specialities invite you to explore. It is an opportunity to sample local specialities, such as ‘gardianne de taureau’, Camargue rice grown in the surrounding rice fields, or freshly caught seafood from the Mediterranean.
Alongside the monuments and traditions, it is above all the residents who preserve the identity of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Blending Provençal culture with influences from the Camargue, the village has managed to retain its authenticity, which is precisely what gives it its charm today. This combination of heritage, craftsmanship and a warm, welcoming atmosphere plays a major part in making Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer one of the most attractive destinations in Provence.
What to do in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers a wide variety of activities that appeal to nature lovers, heritage enthusiasts and families on holiday alike. With cultural explorations, outdoor walks, water sports and Camargue traditions on offer, everyone can tailor their visit to suit their own pace.
A visit to the church of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
No visit to the village is complete without a visit to its iconic monument: the fortified church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer. Built between the 9th and 12th centuries, this church towers high above the historic centre and is one of the most remarkable religious buildings in Provence. Inside, visitors can explore the crypt dedicated to Sara la Noire, as well as the relics of the Saintes Maries. From the roof terrace, you can also enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of the village, the Camargue lagoons and the Mediterranean Sea. If you’re not afraid of heights, this is highly recommended !
Wandering through the alleyways of the historic centre
The heart of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a delight to explore on foot. The narrow alleyways, lined with whitewashed houses, are full of little shops, art galleries, craft shops and restaurants serving local specialities. In the shaded little squares, the Mediterranean atmosphere invites you to take your time, enjoy an ice cream or sit on a terrace and watch village life go by.
Enjoying the beaches and water sports
With a coastline stretching for several kilometres, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is an ideal destination for beach lovers, swimming and relaxation. On the sandy beaches near the town centre you can easily enjoy the sea, whilst the more unspoilt stretches offer a beautiful setting for long walks by the sea.
The wind conditions are also ideal for a wide range of water sports, such as kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding, windsurfing or sea kayaking. Various schools offer introductory courses suitable for both beginners and more experienced participants.
Discover the traditions of the Camargue
A stay in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is also an opportunity to discover a deeply rooted culture. Numerous manades open their doors to the public to showcase their activities, such as bull and horse breeding and the daily work of the gardians.
Depending on the time of year you’re visiting, you can also attend a ‘course camarguaise’, a horse show, a ‘ferrade’ or an ‘abrivado’. These events will introduce you to the centuries-old traditions of the Camargue.
Exploring the countryside on foot or by bike
The Camargue’s relatively flat terrain is ideal for walks and cycle rides. From the village, various routes lead to the beaches, the dykes, the marshes or the birdwatching posts.
Kilometre after kilometre, the landscape is constantly changing: rice fields, ponds, reed beds, salt pans and meadows follow one another, offering countless opportunities to observe nature in a particularly unspoilt setting. Photography enthusiasts will particularly enjoy the ever-changing light for which the Camargue is so famous.
Sample the local specialities
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is also a destination for food lovers. The restaurants showcase the Camargue’s local produce: gardianne de taureau, tellines, fish from the Mediterranean, oysters and mussels from the region, not to mention the famous Camargue rice, grown in the Rhône delta.
Pair these local specialities with a wine from Les Sables or one from the surrounding vineyards, and you can make the most of your visit to Les Saintes.
The most beautiful beaches in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
With over 35 kilometres of coastline, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is one of Camargue’s leading seaside resorts. The beaches on the Mediterranean offer a variety of facilities: some are easily accessible from the village centre and boast numerous amenities, whilst more remote beaches charm visitors with their unspoilt, natural character. Whether you’re travelling with young children or with friends looking for unspoilt natural surroundings, you’re sure to find a beach in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer that suits your needs.
Clos du Rhône Beach
Clos du Rhône Beach is situated to the west of the village, near the mouth of the Petit Rhône, and is popular for its family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is sheltered by several dykes that form small coves and generally offers calm waters, ideal for swimming with young children. It is easily accessible by car and there are car parks nearby. However, there are no lifeguards on duty; it is therefore advisable to remain vigilant, especially with very young children.
The West Beach
The West Beach stretches from the village along the coast towards the Petit Rhône. It is more spacious and less crowded than the beaches in the centre and is particularly popular for long walks by the sea. Thanks to the natural surroundings, with a mix of dunes and coastal vegetation, you can enjoy a peaceful setting here whilst still being close to the shops and amenities.
Les Arènes Beach
At the foot of the famous arena in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer lies Les Arènes Beach, the village’s most centrally located beach. It is easily accessible and ideal for a quick dip between visiting two attractions. The beach is lifeguard-supervised during the summer season and is accessible to people with reduced mobility, and also particularly suitable for families. Thanks to its prime location, the restaurants, cafés and shops in the historic centre are within easy reach.
The eastern beach
As you walk eastwards from the town centre, the landscape gradually changes. The eastern beach stretches for several kilometres towards Beauduc, between the Mediterranean Sea and the lakes of the Camargue. Although the section closest to the village is kitted out and patrolled in summer, you only need to walk a little further to find a much wilder atmosphere. This beach is very popular for long walks, kitesurfing, windsurfing or simply to enjoy the peace and quiet with a view of the sea. It’s also an excellent starting point for exploring the unspoilt landscapes of the Camargue National Nature Reserve.
Beauduc Beach
For lovers of nature and vast landscapes, Beauduc Beach is an unmissable destination. It lies a few kilometres from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and does require a bit of effort to reach: access is via a long path, best explored on foot or by bike. Campers are prohibited here to protect this particularly vulnerable nature reserve. Once there, visitors will discover a vast sandy beach fringed by dunes, where a sense of freedom prevails that is rare on the Mediterranean coast. Beauduc is very popular with kitesurfers, anglers and photographers, and is one of the most unspoilt spots in the whole of the Camargue.
An unspoilt coastline that we must preserve
The beaches of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer constitute an exceptional natural heritage site. The dunes, ponds and adjacent marshlands are home to an exceptionally rich variety of flora and fauna. To protect these fragile ecosystems, it is essential to comply with the regulations in force, to stay on the designated paths where required and not to leave any litter behind.
With family-friendly beaches, vast stretches of unspoilt coastline and the characteristic landscapes of the Camargue, the coast of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offers an exceptional setting in which to enjoy the Mediterranean Sea whilst discovering one of France’s most remarkable natural areas.
Discover exceptional natural beauty amidst the sea, marshes and flamingos
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is one of the best bases from which to explore the remarkable landscapes of the Camargue. Here, nature reigns supreme. Between the waters of the Rhône, the ponds, the marshes, the ‘sansouïres’, the dunes and the Mediterranean Sea, a succession of natural habitats is home to an exceptionally rich biodiversity. This mosaic of landscapes, shaped by water, wind and traditional human activities, offers a different spectacle in every season.
The Camargue Regional Nature Park
The village lies at the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park, a protected area renowned for its unique natural heritage. The park covers a large part of the Rhône delta and has been committed to maintaining the balance between human activities and natural environments for over fifty years.
Along the roads and paths, visitors can discover a wide variety of landscapes: vast reed beds, lagoons, wet meadows, rice fields, salt pans and ‘sansouïres’ – salt flats where only a few plants grow, adapted to extreme conditions. This diversity makes the Camargue one of Europe’s most important wetlands.
Spotting flamingos and the wildlife of the Camargue
The area around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a true paradise for nature lovers. The marshlands are home to an exceptional diversity of wildlife, where flamingos, herons, egrets, avocets, wild ducks and numerous other species of migratory birds live side by side.
At sunrise or sunset, the colours of the ponds offer a spectacle that is particularly popular with photographers. A network of designated paths allows you to observe this wildlife without disturbing the natural environment.
An exceptionally rich variety of flora and fauna
The pink flamingos are just one part of the Camargue’s wildlife. More than 400 species of birds have been recorded in the Rhône delta, making the region an internationally renowned destination for birdwatching. Grey herons, little egrets, falcinelle ibises, spoonbills, harriers and kingfishers find ideal conditions here to breed or stop over during their migration.
Mammals are also well represented, including the famous Camargue horses, the bulls reared in the manades, coypus, foxes and numerous species of bats. The flora has adapted to an environment that is sometimes very salty and, depending on the season, offers a surprising palette of colours featuring glasswort, sandwort, tamarisk and reeds.
The Pont de Gau Bird Park
Just a few kilometres from the centre of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the Pont de Gau Bird Park is an unmissable stop for nature lovers. This vast nature reserve, built around former marshes, offers the chance to observe birds in their natural habitat thanks to kilometres of footpaths, wooden walkways and viewing points.
The area is best known for its pink flamingos, which can often be seen just a few metres away. But it is also home to numerous other species all year round, making for a fascinating visit for families, photographers and birdwatchers alike.
The Camargue is worth exploring all year round
Contrary to popular belief, the Camargue is not just worth visiting in summer. Each season reveals a different side to this exceptional region. In spring, the migratory birds return and the temperatures are ideal for walking. Summer is perfect for beach activities and long Mediterranean evenings. Autumn bathes the marshes in a kaleidoscope of colours, whilst in winter you can observe the wildlife in a particularly peaceful atmosphere.
On foot, by bike, on horseback or on a guided tour: take the time to explore the unspoilt natural surroundings and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer during your holiday. Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in the Camargue offers stunning landscapes for nature lovers; the charming little town with its terraces and restaurants, and of course the beautiful sandy beaches, provide everything you need for a successful day out with the whole family.
Explore the area around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
A stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer also means you can discover the many treasures of the Camargue. Within just a few kilometres, the landscape changes constantly: marshes, ponds, rice fields, sansouïres, dunes and unspoilt beaches follow one another, offering a wide variety of sights. The area around the village is full of remarkable nature reserves and places steeped in history that are certainly worth a visit.
Following the sea dyke
The sea dyke is one of the Camargue’s most iconic routes. This route is around twelve kilometres long and runs along the coast between Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and the La Gacholle lighthouse, through unspoilt landscapes of dunes, lagoons and marshes. The route is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists and offers an exceptional immersion in the heart of the Camargue’s natural environment, with plenty of opportunities to spot pink flamingos, herons and many other bird species. Endless sandy beaches stretching along the Mediterranean line the entire route; the further you walk, the quieter it gets! Probably one of the last places on the Mediterranean where you can still find a deserted beach, even in high season… The Camargue lagoons lie on the other side of the dyke, making this walk one of the most beautiful in the region.Make sure you wear sturdy shoes, take water and sun protection, as the route is entirely in the sun and there are very few shaded spots! Do also bring a picnic, as you won’t find any beach huts selling refreshments along these natural beaches – here, you’re completely surrounded by nature.
Horse-riding through the Camargue
The horse is an integral part of the Camargue’s identity. If there is one activity that symbolises the region, it is undoubtedly a horse-ride through the Camargue. The Camargue horse, recognisable by its white coat and robust build, has accompanied the gardians in their work on the manades for centuries. Today, numerous riding centres in the Les Saintes-Maries area offer rides for all levels, from beginners to advanced riders.
Accompanied by a guide, you’ll ride through the marshes, pine forests, sansouïres and sometimes even the coastal beaches. During these rides, you can observe the local wildlife up close and explore areas that are inaccessible by car. At sunrise or sunset, the landscapes take on stunning colours, making for an unforgettable experience.
Discover Arles, a city of art and history
Around forty kilometres from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Arles is a day trip you simply mustn’t miss. Founded in Roman times, the city boasts an exceptional heritage site listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The amphitheatre, the ancient theatre, the Baths of Constantine and the cryptoporticoes bear witness to its rich past.
Arles is also known as a source of inspiration for Vincent van Gogh, who painted more than 300 works there in just over a year. As they stroll through the narrow streets of the historic centre, visitors discover a vibrant city where ancient monuments, mansions, museums, art galleries and café terraces stand side by side.
The Vaccarès Marshes, the unspoilt heart of the Camargue
The Vaccarès Marshes, a true natural gem, are the largest wetland area in the Camargue. Situated between the two branches of the Rhône, they cover more than 6,500 hectares and form the heart of the Camargue National Nature Reserve.
It plays a vital ecological role: it is home to an exceptional array of wildlife and serves as a stopover for numerous species of migratory birds. Pink flamingos, herons, egrets, wild ducks, birds of prey and even terns find refuge there all year round. The roads running alongside the lake offer several remarkable vantage points where you can often spot birds without even getting out of the car.
La Capelière: an immersion in the Camargue’s natural world
To gain a better understanding of the Camargue’s ecosystems, a visit to La Capelière is a must. This visitor centre for the Camargue National Nature Reserve, situated in the municipality of Arles on the shores of Lake Vaccarès, is one of the best places to get to know the area.
The visitor centre features exhibitions on the fauna, flora and management of this exceptional nature reserve. Outside, a network of well-maintained paths and observation points allows you to explore the marshes up close, without disturbing the animals. The visit is suitable for the whole family and provides an excellent introduction before you set off to explore the Camargue further.
A wide range of day trips from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
The area around the village offers plenty of opportunities to explore. Cycling enthusiasts can follow the narrow lanes that wind through the rice fields and marshes, whilst photography enthusiasts can enjoy the exceptional light for which the Camargue is so famous. During visits to the manades, you’ll gain a better insight into the work of the herdsmen and discover local traditions around horses and bulls.
Thanks to its central location, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is an excellent base from which to explore the whole of the Camargue. Amidst historical heritage, vast nature reserves and vibrant traditions, every excursion reveals a new facet of this unique region, where people and nature have coexisted for centuries.
Our personal tips for visiting Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your stay.
Pop into the tourist information centre
Even if you’ve planned your stay in advance, a visit to the tourist information centre in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is always a great idea. It’s just a stone’s throw from the beach and the historic centre, and offers free maps of the village, walking maps, ideas for day trips, the events calendar and useful tips on what’s on at the moment. The tourist office is open all year round, with extended opening hours during the summer season.
Tailor your activities to the season
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is well worth a visit all year round, but each season offers a different experience. In summer, temperatures can soar and regularly exceed 30 °C. We recommend that, during the hottest hours of the day, you make the most of the cool Mediterranean Sea by heading to the beaches or enjoying water sports. Walks, cycle rides or visits to nature reserves, on the other hand, are much more pleasant early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is beautiful and the temperatures are more comfortable.
In spring and autumn, the milder climate is ideal for exploring the Camargue, birdwatching, walking or discovering the manades. In winter, the atmosphere is much quieter and you can fully enjoy the unspoilt landscapes, far away from the summer crowds. Whatever time of year you visit, don’t forget to bring water, a hat, sun cream and sturdy shoes if you plan to explore the Camargue’s walking trails.
Enjoy the many restaurants and cafés
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer boasts numerous restaurants, brasseries and cafés, scattered throughout the town centre, around the harbour and near the beaches. You’ll find everything from traditional Camargue dishes to Mediterranean specialities, fish and seafood, as well as eateries offering a more family-friendly menu.
Our tip is to leave the busiest streets behind and venture into the narrow alleyways of the historic centre. There, you’ll often discover quieter spots where it’s lovely to have lunch or a cup of coffee in the shade of the village’s characteristic white façades.
Bear in mind the wind… even in the middle of summer
In the Camargue, the mistral is part of the landscape. Even on a sunny day, it can be quite windy on the beaches, which means it can feel surprisingly chilly by the end of the day. Conversely, as soon as the wind drops, it can quickly become very warm. So make sure you pack light clothing, but also bring a windproof garment if you plan to stay by the sea or go out in the evening.
Take the time to take it easy
Our final tip is undoubtedly the most important: don’t try to see everything in a single day. Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is just as worth exploring for its landscapes as for its atmosphere. Take the time to stroll through the narrow streets, stop for a while on a terrace, admire the sunset over the Mediterranean or watch the pink flamingos by a pond. Often, you only discover the authenticity of the Camargue when you get away from the busiest spots.
Stay near Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer to explore the Camargue
Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is an ideal destination for a day trip or a stop-off during a stay in Provence. Thanks to its prime location in the heart of the Camargue, you can discover unique landscapes, authentic traditions and an exceptional natural heritage here. But the region has much more to offer: Mont Ventoux, the Luberon, the Alpilles, the villages of the Vaucluse and the lavender fields are all within a few dozen kilometres.
Our holiday home, situated 95 kilometres from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, is an excellent base from which to explore the whole of Provence and the Camargue. After a day spent amongst beaches, marshes and traditional villages, you’ll love returning to a peaceful, comfortable and fully equipped holiday home.
Our holiday home has been specially designed for families and offers all the comforts you need for a wonderful holiday. The living areas are laid out so that everyone can enjoy their stay to the full, whilst the facilities ensure you can relax with your children without a care in the world. The large garden, the swimming pool and the exceptionally peaceful surroundings also make it an ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring.
You can explore Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer on a day trip whilst enjoying a comfortable country home in the heart of Provence. From our holiday home, you can set off on day trips to a wide variety of attractions; amongst the unspoilt landscapes of the Camargue, the Provençal markets, the hilltop villages such as Gordes and the numerous outdoor activities, you can put together a holiday programme rich in discoveries, whilst returning each evening to the peace and comfort of your holiday home with a private swimming pool.
Useful information
Tourist office Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: https://www.saintesmaries.com/
5 Av. Van Gogh, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
+33490978255
Website of the Camargue National Nature Reserve: https://www.snpn.com/reservedecamargue
Website Nature Park Camargue: https://www.parc-camargue.fr
Pont de Gau Bird Park: https://www.parcornithologique.com
Map :