Adventure in Provence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur!

Camargue

Why Visit?

Embark on a thrilling adventure in the Camargue, a raw and beautiful region in the South of France, where the Rhône River meets the Mediterranean Sea. Known for its wild landscapes, flamingos, and white horses, Camargue offers an unforgettable experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Day 1: Arrival in Arles

Start your journey in the historic city of Arles, easily accessible by train from major French cities like Marseille and Lyon. Rent a bike upon arrival and explore the ancient Roman ruins and the vibrant streets that inspired Van Gogh. Stay overnight in a charming local inn.

Day 2: Horseback Riding and Bird Watching

Head to the heart of Camargue to experience its famous white horses. Join a guided horseback tour (book with "Camargue à Cheval" for authentic experiences) that takes you through marshes and sand dunes. You’ll likely spot some of the 400 species of birds that make the park their home, including the stunning pink flamingos. Tours typically start from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, accessible via bus or car rental from Arles.

Day 3: Kayaking and Flamingo Watching

Get ready to paddle through the Petit Rhône. Rent a kayak from "Kayak Vert Camargue" in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Glide through serene waters, past reed marshes and salt flats. The area is a paradise for photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow over the landscape.

Day 4: Cycling through Salt Flats

Rent a bike and follow the scenic routes around Salin de Giraud. You’ll find paths that run alongside pink salt lakes, another habitat of the flamingos. The contrast of blue skies, pink waters, and white salt is breathtaking.

Departure

Return to Arles, drop off your rental bike, and catch your train. As you leave, carry the wild, untamed spirit of Camargue with you, along with memories of its unique landscapes and wildlife.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Place du Forum

Why Visit?

Adventure Awaits at Place du Forum, Arles

Morning Exploration

Start your day early by heading to the historical heart of Arles, the Place du Forum. Easily accessible by foot from the center of the old town, this ancient Roman square is a must-visit. Arrive at sunrise to capture the golden hues illuminating the remnants of the once-grand Roman Forum.

Engage with History

Take a moment to soak in the atmosphere where Van Gogh once found his inspiration for the Café Terrace at Night painting. You can almost picture the artist setting up his easel here in 1888, under the starlit sky. Visit the café that now bears his name to enjoy a coffee in this iconic setting.

Cultural Immersion

Next, venture to the nearby Arles Amphitheatre. A quick five-minute walk will lead you to one of the best-preserved Roman arenas in the world. For those craving a thrill, check their schedule for bullfighting events or historical reenactments, including gladiator fights, offering a palpable taste of Roman entertainments.

Photographic Ventures and Local Cuisine

As the afternoon sun climbs, embark on a photo expedition around the twisting backstreets of Arles. Capture the vibrant Provencal architecture and discover hidden corners that many tourists miss. For lunch, indulge in a local dish like "Gardianne de Taureau," a bull stew, at a traditional restaurant. Ask for "Le Gibolin" and enjoy the meal on a terrace overlooking the ancient stones of the Forum.

Sunset and Stars

Cap off your adventure at Place du Forum by returning at dusk. The area, lit by the soft lights of the surrounding bars and bistros, offers a magical view. Reflect on your day over a glass of "Pastis," a local anise-flavored spirit, as the Provençal stars emerge overhead, just as they did for Van Gogh over a century ago.

Practical Tip

Place du Forum is pedestrian-friendly; pack comfortable shoes for the cobbled streets. Public transport and parking are available at the edge of the historical center.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Church of St. Trophime (Eglise St-Trophime)

Why Visit?

Embark on a riveting journey to the heart of Arles, France, where the stunning Church of St. Trophime (Église St-Trophime) awaits. This magnificent church is not just a testament to religious art but also a beacon for adventure seekers eager to explore its historic and architectural wonders.

Starting Point: Arles City Center

Begin your adventure in the bustling city center of Arles. Easily accessible by train from major French cities like Marseille (50 minutes) and Paris (4 hours), Arles charms visitors with its vibrant streets and Roman heritage. From the Arles train station, a leisurely 15-minute walk will lead you to the Place de la République, a picturesque square dominated by the Church of St. Trophime.

Exploring Church of St. Trophime

Step into the Church of St. Trophime, an architectural gem dating back to the 12th century. The church is renowned for its stunning Romanesque façade and intricate portal sculptures depicting the Last Judgment—a feast for the eyes and a real treat for history buffs. Adventure lovers will revel in the challenge of deciphering the old biblical stories carved in stone.

Climb the Cloister

Your visit doesn’t stop at the church. Adjacent to it lies the cloister, part of the former medieval monastery. Pay a small fee and gain access to this serene retreat. Climb the narrow, spiraling staircase to the upper galleries, where you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the city and a closer look at the cloister"s detailed carvings and columns.

Adventure Beyond

Post-visit, keep your spirits high and legs ready, as Arles offers numerous other treasures within walking distance. Check out the ancient Arles Amphitheatre, or perhaps, follow the Van Gogh trail to see the inspirations behind his famed paintings.

Practical Tips

- Best visiting hours for St. Trophime are morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

- Wear comfortable shoes for exploring.

- Don’t forget your camera to capture breathtaking views and intricate art.

This historic yet thrilling quest through Church of St. Trophime and Arles promises an unforgettable adventure steeped in culture and mystery.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Arles Museum of Antiquity (Musée Départemental Arles Antique)

Why Visit?

Welcome to your thrilling journey through time at the Musée Départemental Arles Antique, a gem nestled in the historic heart of Arles, France. This adventure is not just about viewing artifacts; it’s an exploration of ancient civilizations that thrived by the Rhône River.

### Morning Arrival:

Kick-start your day with an invigorating stroll or a bike ride along the scenic Rhône riverbanks. Arles is well-serviced by regional trains from major cities like Marseille and Lyon, making it easily accessible. Once at Arles station, the museum is a pleasant 20-minute walk, or you can hop on a local bus—look for Line 2 towards "Trinquetaille" and get off at the "Musée Arles Antique" stop.

### Dive into Antiquity:

Arriving at the museum, you"re greeted by the striking modern architecture, a prelude to its vast collection. The museum opens at 10 AM, and the ticket costs around €8, with free entry on the first Sunday of each month. Begin your tour with the museum"s masterpiece, a 31-meter-long Roman barge discovered sunken in the Rhône. The barge, along with other relics like busts, statues, and ancient inscriptions, tells a vivid story of Arles as a bustling Roman port.

### Engaging Exhibits:

Don"t miss the "Blue Circus" mosaic, an intricate depiction of a chariot race, capturing the essence of Roman entertainment. The museum’s layout guides you through various halls illustrating daily life, death rituals, and artistic accomplishments of the Roman Empire.

### Lunch by the Ruins:

Post-exploration, enjoy a picnic in the adjacent archaeological park. The park houses the remains of the Roman circus, once echoing with the roars of chariots.

### Afternoon Adventure:

Conclude your visit by joining a guided tour of the nearby Alyscamps, an ancient necropolis, just a 15-minute walk from the museum. Walking through this legendary site offers a profound insight into the early Christian burial rites and concludes your day on a reflective note.

Arles and its ancient treasures await to tell their stories, packed with vibrant history and captivating ruins, promising an unforgettable adventure into antiquity.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.

Van Gogh Café (Le Café de Nuit)

Why Visit?

Embark on a stirring journey into the heart of Provence, where art meets adventure. Your quest begins in the charming town of Arles, a tapestry of ancient ruins and artistic history. Arles is easily accessible by train from major French cities like Paris and Marseille, with the journey taking about 4 hours from Paris and 50 minutes from Marseille.

Your first stop is the iconic Van Gogh Café, officially known as Le Café de Nuit. Situated at Place du Forum, this vibrant yellow café seems to leap straight out of Van Gogh’s 1888 masterpiece, "Café Terrace at Night". Here, sip a coffee where the legendary artist once found his inspiration under the Provençal stars.

As an adventure lover, pair this artistic pilgrimage with a thrilling bike ride through the countryside that Van Gogh so loved. Rent a bike locally and pedal along the Van Gogh Cycling Route, which winds through landscapes that inspired over 300 of his artworks. The route offers various paths, but a popular choice is the 15-km loop from Arles, through the lush banks of the Rhône, to the picturesque village of Le Pont de Crau.

For an even deeper dive into history, join a guided kayak tour down the Rhône. Glide past ancient Roman architecture and experience the landscapes from a fresh perspective. This unique blend of art and adrenaline is the perfect way to explore Van Gogh’s world.

As the Provencal sun sets, return to Arles for a delicious meal at a local bistro, celebrating the fusion of art, history, and adventure that defines this unforgettable region.

Adventure Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to adventure travelers.