Salin De Giraud Office De Tourisme D Arles 10 Exclu Mm

In the Footsteps of Saint Mary Magdalene

from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer to Salin-de-Giraud

Stage 1

Hikers wishing to roam the paths of the Camargue will be delighted by the 222 km route, which follows the route of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine. This first stage takes place in the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park, between ponds and other wetlands.

Stage profile

Length: 30.4 km
Ascent: 45 m – Descent: 45 m
Walking time: 7h30
Level of difficulty: not very difficult

Along the way: landscape and relief

You’ll be walking over relatively easy terrain, along pleasant, green paths. You’ll set off from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and walk alongside ponds, marshes and lagoons. You’ll pass the Etang de Batayolles before taking a path that creates a demarcation between the Etangs du Fangassier and Galabert. There’s plenty of opportunity to observe the flora and fauna of the Camargue at its very best. You’ll stop off at Salin-de-Giraud, a village near Arles renowned for its salt. If you’d like to shorten this stage, you can take an alternative route that will allow you to rest in one of the farmhouses located to the north-east of the Etang du Fangassier.

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Must-see sights: keep your eyes peeled

Before leaving Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, visit the church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer. This fortified Romanesque building dates from the 10th century, and the relics of Marie Jacobé, Marie Salomé and Marie Sara rest in the crypt. Many pilgrims stop off here. After your immersion in the history of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, take the opportunity to visit the Salin de Giraud. Salt is harvested and stored all year round, forming astonishing mounds. By bike, you’ll have a fascinating experience in the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park. The colorful landscapes form a unique patchwork, and the wildlife is rich. Keep an eye out for pink flamingos nesting in the area.

Where to sleep?

In Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, choose Hôtel Le Maset for a simple yet comfortable overnight stay. The view over the Etang des Petites Launes is sublime. For a more intimate break, opt for the Chambres d’hôtes du Cocardier in the heart of the village. Near the ponds, Hôtel Le Mas de la Grenouillère offers spacious rooms in a relaxing atmosphere. Hôtel Camille welcomes you to the heart of the Camargue, with all activities nearby. The Hôtel Marquès is typical of the area: white with green shutters, its ivy-covered facade leaves no one indifferent. Stay with Nicole and Jean-Marie, the owners of Hôtel Le Galoubet, or opt for the Auberge de la Fadaise, 200m from the Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau in the heart of ponds and marshes. Intimacy and comfort await you at Régie de Frigoulès: a veritable oasis of greenery, where you’ll feel right at home.