The south of France, known for lavender fields, vineyards and a sunny coastline, has hidden gems waiting to be discovered. One such experience is a tranquil boat journey through the heart of the Camargue.
In the heart of this region, one thing that travellers can indulge in is an unforgettable boating journey. Offered by ‘Le Boat’, known to be an expert provider of boating holidays for over 50 years, this experience paints a serene picture of nature. The boat trip starts from the quaint town of St. Gilles and sails to the beautiful city of Aigues-Mortes. This stretch of around 30 km on the Canal Du Rhône à Sète has no obstacles, making it a smooth ride even for beginners.
St. Gilles is a village located about an hour away from the Marseille airport. The charming village is famous for its significant Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Riddled with the history of the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, St. Gilles hosts a traditionally extravagant Camargue wedding on Saturdays.
The day after is perfect for embarking on the boat journey. Even though the region has a strong wind, it’s still a great day to sail from St. Gilles to Aigues Mortes. The landscape is flat with marshlands on both sides of the canal, allowing for a peaceful journey. The occasional sightings of wild white horses on the banks make the panoramic blue sky even more enchanting.
Aigues Mortes is only a short trip away, boasting an intact medieval city wall, narrow cobbled streets and picturesque squares lined with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants. Walking along the 1.6 km ramparts offer stunning views over the salt marshes and out to the sea, with a notable point of interest being the Tour De Constance. The local salt pans are operational for centuries and still serve as a source of revenue. The pink-hued salt pans offer a unique sight, especially during sunset with the backdrop of the town’s walls.
Around the marshlands, ranches breed bulls and horses, preserving the deep-rooted culture of Camargue. A few kilometres west in Le Grau-du-Roi, guided horseback tours offer a chance to cross the marshes and ride along a wide, sandy beach. The notable lighthouse, Phare De L’Espiguette, built in 1869, watches over the coast.
Next on the itinerary is the small hamlet of Galician. Surrounded by vineyards, the area produces an excellent appellation – Costières de Nîmes. Delivering robust reds and refreshing rosés, it is the local drink of choice for many. Biking through the Étang De Scamandre nature reserve, visitors get a chance to walk through the swamp on raised wooden paths and spot herons, flamingos and other wildlife.
The returning journey back to St. Gilles might be challenged by storm clouds gathering overhead, but it doesn’t dampen the satisfying end to the boat trip. The trip undoubtedly offers an immersive experience into the natural and cultural beauty of the south of France. With so much to explore and enjoy – rich history, wildlife, culture and picturesque landscapes – this boat journey through the heart of Camargue is a must-do experience for every traveller seeking a genuinely beautiful and unique French experience.
