To the west of the Petit Rhône, in the Gard department, the Petite Camargue is a nature reserve that was classed as a “Grand site de France” this year. In other words, although the name might be “petite”, its landscapes and natural resources are anything but small.
The Petite Camargue is a dream-like landscape of horses, bulls, paddy fields, salt marshes and meadows, a land of reeds and vineyards, of traditions and legends. The starting-point for your trip aboard your Locaboat Pénichette® is Lattes, which is very close to the historic seaside town of Le Grau du Roi. Your first discovery will be the wonderful fortress-town of Aigues-Mortes, a jewel that’s still protected by its famous medieval fortifications.
You will then pass Gallician, a village famous for its cellars and Costières de Nîmes wines, but also for traditional reed cutting. In Saint-Gilles, one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the 12th century, you can admire the façade of the abbey church, which is dedicated to the town’s patron saint. Then, in Beaucaire, very close to Avignon, you can’t miss the still noble outlines of a glorious castle rising above you.
On your way back, you will pass very close to Arles: where you can go and admire the work of some of the great names in the art of photography, or just stroll through the charming back streets around the arena.
And you might like to know that throughout this delightful trip, filled with history, gourmet food and cultural attractions, there will be plenty of chances to enjoy a swim too.
