Camargue Loop: Saint-Gilles to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

The full loop is approximately 91 kilometers (56 miles) long. While the estimated cycling time is around 5 hours and 20 minutes, this can vary significantly based on your pace, the strong Mistral wind, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery and wildlife. Plan for a full day to comfortably experience the route.

Given the route's primary composition of dirt tracks and gravel paths, including the Digue à la Mer, a gravel bike, mountain bike, or a sturdy hybrid bike with appropriate tires is highly recommended. City or road bikes are not suitable due to the loose and varied gravel surfaces.

The terrain is predominantly flat, consisting mainly of dirt tracks and gravel paths. You'll encounter stretches of loose gravel, particularly along the Digue à la Mer. While there are short paved sections, be prepared for unpaved surfaces that can be slower than typical gravel. The minimal elevation gain means the main challenge often comes from the surface and potential strong winds.

The Camargue Regional Natural Park is famous for its abundant wildlife. You'll have excellent opportunities for bird-watching, especially spotting pink flamingos. Keep an eye out for the iconic white Camargue horses and bulls in their natural habitat across the vast marshes and salt flats.

Along the route, you can explore the historic Saint-Gilles Abbey Church in Saint-Gilles. You'll also pass through the traditional village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, home to the impressive Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer Fortified Church. Don't miss the unique experience of the Bac du Sauvage Ferry Crossing, a small cable ferry that transports cyclists across the Petit Rhône.

While the Camargue Regional Natural Park generally welcomes visitors, specific rules for dogs on cycling trails can vary. It's best to keep dogs on a leash, especially given the presence of wildlife and livestock (Camargue horses and bulls). Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and doesn't disturb the natural environment or other cyclists.

The best time to cycle this route is typically in the spring (April-May) or early autumn (September-October). During these periods, the weather is usually milder, and the wildlife is active. Summer can be very hot, and the strong Mistral wind can make cycling significantly more challenging at any time of year.

Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required for cycling on public trails within the Camargue Regional Natural Park. However, some specific attractions or private reserves within the park, such as the Ornithological Park of Pont du Gau, may have their own entrance fees. Always check local signage for any specific regulations.

You can find parking in both Saint-Gilles and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. For long-term parking, look for designated areas in these towns. Starting from either location provides good access to the loop, with Saint-Gilles offering a more inland start and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer providing a coastal beginning.

Yes, this route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it includes sections of "D’Arles à l’étang du Vaccarès" and "Boucle entre les deux bras du Rhône". You'll also find smaller portions that align with "V65 (projet) : De Stes-Maries-de-la-Mer à Port-St-Louis-du-Rhône" and "Boucles du 13 - Saintes Maries".

Yes, both Saint-Gilles and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer offer various amenities. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is particularly known for its excellent seafood restaurants. It's advisable to carry sufficient water and snacks, especially for the longer stretches between towns, as the route can feel quite remote.