Explore the natural parks between Arles and Aix-en-Provence

When we think of Provence we think of the sun and its fields of lavender and aromatic herbs, but also the Mediterranean and its golden beaches. Provence and its landscapes have also inspired many famous painters. The region has many natural sites, each different from the other, which are worth a visit. Three regional parks are located between the cities of Arles and Aix-en-Provence, here is what you should not miss during your stay.
 
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The Camargue Regional Nature Park

This gigantic regional park of the Camargue is home to world-famous landscapes. From salt marshes, to beaches, to culture, this place has a lot of different sceneries. The park covers more than 100,000 hectares and extends over 3 communes, Arles, Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. In order to discover the surrounding area, the park offers a total of 14 routes to be explored on foot, by bicycle or by car. 
 

• The farming areas

 
In the Camargue you will find several sites with salt marshes, the best known being the Salines de Saint-Girod and the Salines d'Aigues Mortes. These large areas attract many birds, including the pink flamingo, which finds its food there. You have probably seen pictures of these pink lakes, whose colour is linked to algae. The water in these lagoons can appear more or less pink depending on the time of day and the amount of sunlight.
 
The many waterholes in the park are also suitable for growing rice. To learn more about rice cultivation and the different varieties of rice, you can visit the Maison du Riz.
 

• Fauna and flora

 
Escape into the fresh air in this large natural area and discover free-ranging animals such as bulls and white horses. Bordered by the sea and the sand, crossed by the Rhône and occupied in large part by the Vaccarès pond, the park attracts a large number of fauna and flora. Most of the plants in the park are fond of this salty environment, such as the saladelle or the salicorne. Thanks to its marshes, lagoons and ponds, it is an ideal place for birds. There are more than 250 species of birds, including storks, herons and, of course, pink flamingos, one of the emblems of these waters. You can observe them up close in their natural state, at the Pont de Gau Ornithological Park for example. Safaris are also organised to discover the bulls and white horses.

• The activities

There are an infinite number of activities to do in the park. As well as visiting the salt marshes, rice fields or discovering the flora and fauna, you can enjoy the beaches and swim. Stroll through this peaceful haven in any way you like, on horseback, on foot, by car or by bike.

The Luberon Regional Nature Park

The Luberon is known for its lavender fields, but it has much more to offer. You can explore this mountainous massif thanks to various paths allowing you to admire the wonders of nature. Discover a mosaic of landscapes, in contact with nature and a wide variety of over 200 animals. You will be close to the fauna and flora, with just under 2,000 plant species, a hundred bird species and more than 2,000 butterfly species. It is the ideal place for an afternoon of relaxation, strolling through the pine trees and enjoying a picnic with local specialities. Its natural sites offer breathtaking views of the green dunes. One of the must-see visits is to discover the Provençal colorado and its ochre stones, for this take the fairy path which will lead you there in 2 hours of walking. Hiking, climbing or water sports, you are bound to find an activity to your taste.
 
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The Alpilles Regional Nature Park

This park is smaller and is located near Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. Also, don't hesitate to visit the small village of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for a weekend. The park is the ideal place for nature lovers and hikers. It is home to a large variety of fauna and flora, and you can admire a hundred or so rare or protected species, including Bonelli's Eagle and the Egyptian Vulture. Surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, you will be transported directly into the typical Provence, 70% of the territory is covered by olive growing. It is also home to historical monuments and archaeological sites such as Glanum and the Oppidum des Caisses de Jean Jean. If you want to organise a hike, why not take the Val de l'Enfer trail in Baux-en-Provence, a medieval village, which will take you straight to beautiful landscapes of rock and greenery. During your walk you will not know where to put your eyes, you will fall under the charm of its hills and its landscapes worthy of a painting.
 
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>>> Discover villas in Provence