Embark on an enriching journey through the stunning Camargue region and the historic Salins d’Aigues-Mortes. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the medieval city of Aigues Mortes, featuring its impressive fortifications and the Carbonnière Tower. Discover the fascinating salt production process at the saltworks and enjoy the charm of Saintes Marie de la Mer, with its captivating architecture and coastal views. Experience this remarkable destination in a small group for a personalized experience. What awaits you in this captivating region might just surprise you.
Quick Points
- Explore the Camargue region and the medieval city of Aigues-Mortes, including the Carbonnière Tower and traditional saltworks, on an 8-hour guided tour.
- Visit the charming seaside town of Saintes Marie de la Mer to learn about its heritage, Romani culture, and Provençal influences.
- Enjoy a personalized experience with a small group size of up to 8 travelers, transported via air-conditioned vehicle.
- Witness the natural beauty of the region, including salt marshes, wetlands, and wildlife like flamingos and Camargue horses.
- Engage in a communal dining experience with a suggested picnic of local produce, cheeses, and seasonal fruits.
Tour Overview
The tour offers an 8-hour visit to the Camargue region and the Salins d’Aigues-Mortes.
Travelers will discover the medieval city of Aigues Mortes, the Carbonnière Tower, and the Aigues Mortes saltworks.
The tour includes the seaside town of Saintes Marie de la Mer.
Group size is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers per tour, ensuring a personalized experience.
The itinerary provides opportunities to take in the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this unique area in southern France.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Montpellier.
Transportation and Meeting Details
An air-conditioned vehicle is provided for transportation throughout the tour.
The meeting point is at Place de France, 34000 Montpellier, France, near the tram stop in front of the cinema.
The tour starts at 9:00 am and ends back at the same meeting point.
Infant seats are available, and service animals are allowed.
The tour location is conveniently situated near public transportation, making it easily accessible for participants.
Inclusions and Amenities
Guided tours are provided throughout the day, allowing visitors to fully experience the Camargue and Salins d’Aigues-Mortes. The tour also includes personal insurance, making it a hassle-free experience. For families, infant seats are available, and service animals are welcomed. The tour location is conveniently situated near public transportation, ensuring easy access.
| Inclusions | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Guided tour | Air-conditioned vehicle |
| Personal insurance | Infant seats available |
| Service animals allowed | Near public transportation |
Exploring Saintes Marie De La Mer
Typically, the tour begins with a visit to the charming town of Saintes Marie de la Mer, situated at the heart of the Camargue region.
Visitors explore the medieval architecture, including the iconic Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer Church, a historic place of pilgrimage. The tour guides share the town’s rich heritage and connection to Romani culture.
Travelers have the opportunity to wander through the narrow streets, browse local shops, and admire the Mediterranean coastal views.
This stop provides a glimpse into the unique blend of Provençal and Camargue influences that make Saintes Marie de la Mer a distinctive and captivating destination within the tour itinerary.
Discovering Aigues Mortes
Departing Saintes Marie de la Mer, the tour winds its way to the medieval walled city of Aigues-Mortes, a historic gem situated in the heart of the Camargue region.
Participants will explore the city’s imposing fortifications, which were built in the 13th century by King Louis IX. The highlight is the Carbonnière Tower, offering panoramic views of the surrounding saltmarshes and lagoons.
Next, the group visits the Aigues Mortes saltworks, where they’ll learn about the long-standing salt production process.
Throughout the day, the knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, enhancing the group’s understanding of the Camargue’s rich history and natural wonders.
Carbonnière Tower Viewpoint
After exploring the medieval city of Aigues-Mortes, the tour heads to the Carbonnière Tower, a strategic vantage point that offers panoramic views of the Camargue’s stunning landscape.
From the tower, visitors can:
- Gaze out over the vast salt marshes and wetlands that characterize this unique region.
- Spot flocks of flamingos, herds of white Camargue horses, and other wildlife that call the Camargue home.
- Appreciate the region’s rich history, as the tower was once an important defensive structure during the Middle Ages.
The Carbonnière Tower viewpoint provides a captivating glimpse into the natural and cultural heritage of the Camargue, making it a highlight of the tour.
Aigues Mortes Saltworks
Next, the tour visits the Aigues Mortes saltworks, a captivating site that has played a vital role in the region’s history and economy. These salt pans have been in operation for centuries, and visitors can witness the traditional methods of salt extraction. The process involves channeling seawater into shallow ponds, where it evaporates, leaving behind the valuable mineral.
| Salt Production | Annual Yield |
|---|---|
| Traditional | 20,000 tons |
| Mechanized | 80,000 tons |
The striking landscape, with its vast expanses of white salt crystals and the distinctive pink hue of the water, is a mesmerizing sight. Visitors can explore the saltworks, learn about the history and cultural significance of salt in the region.
Food and Dining
Participants are encouraged to bring a picnic for a shared meal in Scamander. The tour provides an opportunity for travelers to enjoy a communal dining experience in the scenic Camargue region.
The suggested picnic fare includes:
- Fresh local produce, such as cheeses, olives, and seasonal fruits and vegetables.
- Artisanal breads and crackers to complement the regional delicacies.
- Refreshing beverages, such as water, juice, or a chilled rosé wine, to quench the thirst during the day’s activities.
This shared meal allows participants to enjoy the local culture and appreciate the natural beauty of the Camargue while enjoying a delightful culinary experience.
The Final Verdict
This captivating 8-hour tour showcases the stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the Camargue region. Visitors can explore the medieval town of Aigues-Mortes, marvel at the impressive saltworks, and soak in the charming coastal views of Saintes Marie de la Mer, all while enjoying a personalized small-group experience. It’s an enriching journey that provides a comprehensive glimpse into the unique history and traditions of this remarkable part of southern France.
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