This route offers an immersion into the wildlife of the Camargue: wake up alongside wild horses or enjoy dinner at sunset surrounded by pink flamingos. Along the Mediterranean, it’s a chance to taste oysters and seafood, and discover sun-drenched Provençal cuisine. A unique feature of this route is that it has no locks.
The Camargue is one of the largest nature reserves in Europe. Home to exceptional wildlife and flora, its wild landscapes, pink flamingos, and iconic Camargue horses offer an unforgettable spectacle.
This medieval town at the gateway to the Camargue has many surprises in store. You can explore its ramparts, the Constance Tower, and its medieval center, enjoy the sea, and observe the salt marshes. A unique atmosphere awaits you.
Sailing in the Camargue is an adventure through a land of contrasts. After cruising on freshwater, discover the wild coastlines and fine sandy beaches. The sea will offer you a whole new perspective.
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The Camargue region of France is unusual in that you can combine the pleasures of life on the inland waterways with the pleasures of being by the sea. No previous boating experience or a licence is needed to hire a canal boat and sail on the Canal du Rhone à Sète where you’ll discover the vast lake of Etang de Thau, marshes and the amazing 85,000 hectares of amazing nature reserve that is home to some of the richest flora, fauna and birdlife in Europe.
The Camargue region has many icons of history close to the waterways with remarkable cities and fortified castles dotted along your route. Lovers of history and heritage will be wowed by reminders of the past, such as the wonderful city of Aigues Mortes. Food and drink is also extremely good in this region. Take time to try the delicious southern cuisine – favourites are the famous oysters from Bouzigues or the wines of Costières de Nîmes and Muscat de Frontignan. If you like the sun and swimming then, for a change from sunbathing on the deck of your canal boat, why not head to the beach! Our cruising routes put you in the perfect location close to Mediterranean beaches – many close enough to visit by bike or on foot.
A bit of history… The Rhône to Sète Canal is the logical continuation of the work of Pierre Paul Riquet, creator of the Canal du Midi in the 17th century. Construction spanned several centuries to bring water to what was first called “the Canal of the Ponds.” In 1811, it finally connected to the Rhône at Beaucaire, opening the doors to the European canal network and creating a waterway link between the Atlantic and the Mediterranean. And today… Boating tourism in the Camargue is one of the easiest destinations for those who have never cruised before. With no locks, it’s accessible even to beginners. Close to the beaches, it’s ideal for families. With sunshine almost all year round, it delights sun-seekers. As the largest nature reserve in Europe, it’s a paradise for bird lovers (pink flamingos, European bee-eaters). For those curious about culture, it will surprise you with its traditional festivals, votive celebrations, and local events featuring Camargue bulls and horses.