Les Saintes Maries de la Mer

Discover Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a unique village in the heart of the Camargue

Saintes Maries de la Mer is a must-see destination for your stay in Provence. This authentic village, located in the heart of the Camargue, offers you an unforgettable experience of local traditions and wild landscapes. You will discover a town rich in history where gypsy pilgrimages, votive festivals and Camargue bull races all come together.

The fine sandy beaches bordering the Mediterranean, the ponds populated by pink flamingos and the wide open spaces where white horses and black bulls gallop will transport you to a world apart. Whether you come for the festivities, the nature or simply to relax, Saintes Maries de la Mer guarantees you a memorable stay between land and water.

A village in the heart of the Camargue

Saintes Maries de la Mer is located on the shores of the Mediterranean, in the heart of the Camargue Natural Park. Surrounded by vast plains of magnificent and unspoiled ponds, the town offers you numerous activities against the backdrop of a protected environment that has remained authentic. Don't miss the view of the flora and fauna of the Camargue from the Etang des Launes, or take a stroll along Port Gardian, the fishing port and marina of Saintes Maries.

Gypsy traditions and herds

The Saintes Maries are famous for the tradition that they have managed to preserve, as a land of welcome for gypsies and a place of pilgrimage. All this folklore, rich in color, music and spirituality, attracts many visitors throughout the year. Numerous manades (bull and horse farms) can welcome you, and in some cases offer you accommodation. You will then be able to get a closer look at the famous gardians (Camargue horsemen) and their farms.

Pilgrimage sites to visit

The fortified church of Saintes Maries de la Mer is the spiritual heart of the village. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it houses the relics of Saints Mary Jacobé and Mary Salome, who, according to legend, landed at this spot after the crucifixion of Christ.

In the church crypt, you will discover the sanctuary dedicated to Saint Sara, patron saint of gypsies. This small black statue, dressed in numerous robes donated by the faithful, attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The atmosphere is particularly moving during the pilgrimages.

The church roof terrace offers a panoramic view of the sea, the ponds and the Camargue. To get there, take the narrow staircase that will lead you to this exceptional observation point.

The Notre-Dame de la Mer chapel, located a few steps from the center, is another important place of meditation. More intimate, it hosts ceremonies throughout the year.

Not far from the village, the site of Notre-Dame d'Amour is a small country sanctuary where the locals come to meditate. Its tamarisk-lined access road immerses you in the wild atmosphere of the Camargue.

The procession to the sea, the highlight of the pilgrimage, sees the statues of the saints carried down to the water to commemorate their arrival in France. This intense moment brings together believers and the curious in an atmosphere of popular fervor.

Ideas for activities in Saintes Maries de la Mer

For water sports enthusiasts, there is a renowned sailing school in Saintes Maries de la Mer:

Alternatively, escape on a superb horseback ride with Claudio Gallo, the great guide of Promenades de Rièges.

Finally, check out the program for the arena of Saintes Maries. Equestrian and bullfighting shows are regularly organized.

When do the cultural events take place?

The festivals in Saintes Maries de la Mer punctuate the year with a calendar rich in emotions. The great gypsy pilgrimage takes place at the end of May, a unique event where thousands of people come to honor Saint Sara.

In July, the village comes alive with the votive festival of Saint Marie Jacobé, which features Camargue races and equestrian shows. This summer period is ideal for discovering the festive soul of the town.

The end of October marks another highlight with the autumn pilgrimage, less well known but just as authentic. The arenas regularly host bullfighting events that bring the Camargue culture to life.

The Festival des Suds, also in July, will introduce you to music from all over the world in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Summer evenings are punctuated by colorful night markets where local artisans and producers gather.

To make sure you don't miss anything, check out the tourist office website, which details the full calendar of events. Each month brings its share of cultural discoveries and each date is an opportunity to delve into local traditions.

Local culinary specialties

The gastronomy of Saintes Maries de la Mer is a delicious blend of land and sea flavors. The village restaurants offer fish caught fresh that same day, a treat for lovers of seafood.

The telline, a small tasty shellfish collected from the beaches, is simply enjoyed with garlic and parsley. It is a specialty that you will not find anywhere else with this freshness.

In the tapas bars and brasseries of the center, try the gardiane de taureau, an emblematic dish made with Camargue bull meat simmered in a red wine sauce. It is traditionally served with locally grown Camargue rice.

The local cuisine also gives pride of place to seafood: mussels, oysters and sea urchins can be enjoyed on a terrace overlooking the Mediterranean. For a complete meal, try bouillabaisse, the fish soup that is the pride of the Provençal coast.

Don't leave Les Saintes without trying anchoïade, an anchovy-based spread that is spread on toast. The restaurants in the port offer this typical appetizer that showcases local fish and seafood.

For those with a sweet tooth, the fougasse d'Aigues-Mortes, flavored with orange blossom, will bring your meal to a sweet conclusion. Each establishment has its own recipe, handed down from generation to generation.