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Saintes Maries de la Mer

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About Saintes Maries de la Mer

In lush marshland inhabited by untamed white horses and knock-kneed flamingos, on the southern edge of the Camargue, lies Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Almost completely surrounded by water, this fascinating Provençal fishing town boasts beautiful beaches, undulating dunes and access to the rich natural habitat of the Camargue National Park. It’s also a cultural destination, perfect for keen history buffs. Accommodation options range from simple B&Bs to chic boutique hotels, ideal for couples, families or groups of friends, with the best places to stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer promising superb views over the surrounding wetlands.

Stroll along narrow sunlit streets lined with whitewashed houses, stock up on olives and bold summer dresses at the market, or watch locals playing boules on tranquil Place de Gitan. Tuck into ‘gardiane’ — a local speciality of bull stew — at the cafés and restaurants of Avenue Federic Mistral after admiring the fortified Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer Church, an imposing Roma pilgrimage site dedicated to Saint Sarah and the Three Marys. You’ll also find beautiful beaches for sunbathing, plus opportunities to go fishing, swimming, kayaking and sailing in the area. Horse rides through the Camargue National Park are fabulous for guests of all ages. Expert-led nature tours, on the other hand, offer insights into the intriguing ecosystems of the marshlands, and will be a big hit with birdwatchers and keen botanists.

Book your stay well in advance for a room at one of the best places to stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer during July and August — this is bullfighting season!

The Best Places to Stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

For Couples

  • Les Arnelles is a gorgeous guesthouse in the heart of the Camargue National Park. Interiors are rustic and understated, with exposed beams, whitewashed walls and French doors revealing private terraces. An elegant and intimate escape for couples, complete with a swimming pool, horse riding excursions and bicycle hire. Don't miss the craft cocktails!
  • Mas de la Fouque is a restful haven with a soothing spa and swimming pool on the edge of the nature reserve. Pick this place for a tranquil holiday, where you can savour organic dishes on the terrace and cosy up around the fireplace on cooler evenings. White-on-white rooms have crisp linens and enchanting views. A couples' favourite.

For Active Families or Groups

  • L'Estelle en Camargue is an brilliant hotel for active visitors of all ages, complete with an inviting swimming pool, tennis court, pétanque pitch, table tennis and a variety of excursions. Bright rooms and suites have inter-connecting options or mezzanine levels for families or groups. Eat at the café or restaurant after busy days out.
  • Mangio Fango has rooms and suites with additional beds for children; the Apartment Suite boasts two bedrooms. Expect a swimming pool, excellent restaurant and events spaces for group celebrations. Speak to the team about horse rides or ATV bike tours through the surrounding marshland. Wonderful.

FOR A HOLIDAY VILLA

  • If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

  • Fly to Nîmes Airport or to Montpellier Airport, and travel by bus or taxi to Saintes-Maries from there. Alternatively, journey by train from Paris to Nïmes.
  • Provence is wonderful for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
  • With an average of 300 days of sunshine a year, Provence is blessed with a near-Mediterranean climate. Expect hot summers — with temperatures of 26-30°C — and mild winters. Summer visitors can marvel at the famous Provençal lavender, whilst springtime travellers will find mild, sunny weather suitable for active explorations and quieter hotels.

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Best Hotels in Saintes Maries de la Mer

  • Les Arnelles Saintes Maries de la Mer 15 rooms from CA$243

    Back to Nature  -  Perfect for nature lovers, set in fragrant gardens, in the heart of the stunning Camargue National Park
    Boutique  -  A chic small hotel with fresh contemporary interiors inspired by traditional design
    Active Holiday  -  Whether you want to horse ride, hike or cycle - there is plenty to do locally
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the beautiful Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, less than a mile away
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking

    Magnificent guesthouse located in the heart of the Camargue National Park. The rooms carry a rustic elegance and open out onto wooden decking looking out over the park. Perfect for a romantic break exploring the abundant beauty of the Camargue. See More

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  • Mangio Fango Saintes Maries de la Mer 21 rooms from CA$244

    Total relaxation  -  Relaxation is on the cards, with luxurious suites overlooking the marshes, an excellent regional restaurant, and pampering spa
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the nearby Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and its famous gypsy pilgrimage site Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer Church
    Back to Nature  -  An idyllic rural escape in the Camargue, a region brimming with nature and wildlife
    Riding  -  Go horse riding through the marshes on one of the regions iconic horses
    Air conditioningRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Great Small Hotels

    A chic modern hotel set in the heavenly Camargue National Park. The sleek rooms are spacious and luxurious with views out over the gardens and surrounding marshes. Go out riding through the marshes on the region's famous horses and in the evening enjoy fresh seafood. A peaceful oasis. See More

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  • Mas de la Fouque Saintes Maries de la Mer 26 rooms from CA$376

    Country Escape  -  A charming farmhouse offering a very comfortable stay (think hearty cuisine and even a spa) on the edge of the national park
    Foodies  -  La Table de Marius, headed by the award-winning chef Mathieu Carayon, serves gourmet dishes using local organic ingredients
    Active Holiday  -  Whether you enjoy hiking, cycling or horse riding — there is plenty to keep active with in the area
    Hideaway  -  With its secluded setting and access to nature, this is the perfect choice for a rural hideaway
    Air conditioningTennisSpaRestaurantSwimming PoolPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Fodors, Tablet

    This unique hotel on the edge of the Camargue Nature reserve offers guests a quiet hideaway with spa and pool. Bedrooms are calm white spaces with serene views out onto the water. The restaurant serves organic dishes on the terrace and near the fireplace on cold evenings. An intimate sanctuary. See More

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  • L'Estelle en Camargue Saintes Maries de la Mer (Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer) 20 rooms from CA$402

    Active Holiday  -  Horse riding, cycling, tennis, hiking, fishing and so much more can be arranged — you can bring the dog too!
    Foodies  -  With equal emphasis on the restaurant as on the hotel — this is an ideal foodie's getaway
    Sights nearby  -  Two miles away is the Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer Church, a site of Gypsy pilgrimage
    Great walks  -  Take beautiful seaside walks in the Camargue
    Air conditioningTennisRestaurantSwimming PoolGardenPet friendlyViewsParking

    A fabulous five-star hotel, nestled amongst the tranquil marshes of the Camargue. With simple, elegant accomodation, the hotel lets the beauty of its surrounding play centre stage. Absorb the stunning scenery whilst reclining by the pool or relaxing in the hot tub. A Provençal oasis. See More

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