The 17 best churches in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Older arena where this barbaric "show" that is corrida is taking place. And what is the pleasure to attend these other races or games of Camargue cowhide or pool bull or people having fun at the animal's expense ? It is unthinkable that there are still such "shows" today. To experience pleasure in seeing a tortured animal then killed seems to be more psychiatry than a pseudo culture ! When will this bloody stain on the beautiful Camargue land be erased ? Tourists who go there out of curiosity, most of them leave the arenas before the end as they are disgusted by what they see, and those who brought their children to it even more !

The final four of the Maters of Petanque was played here. Fantastic venue for this event. Although in a big arena the playing terrain was big which provided easy viewing. All players easily approachable great friendly atmosphere. Would recommend.

Who am I to judge? I attended vachette dans la piscine & 🤡. I don't know, we went with children. Children 4&6 years old. They liked it. I was heartbroken. First vachette seemed in distress. All this noise for an animal who lives calmly in the Camargue field. Overall all this Camargue experience shows how different it can be from what I would think is normal. Overall very nice arena with very nice view from it.

What a brilliant evening,they put on such a good show and obviously care for there animals

Just happened by this arena on a day when they were playing “TAG the Bull” . The young men grabbing the tag from between the bulls horns were staggeringly brave or foolish -take your pick -but fantastic to watch. The bulls get to go back to their pasture on the Camargue after about 5 minutes in the ring .

This could so be a little gem, but the over all feeling is that it feels it has a right to be loved. Not helped at Arène front door, where they don't sell tickets but tell you to telephone.... OK if your French is good enough but (in June) you can just rock up and pay on gate- would have been nice to be told that! 🙄 Also timings delayed by an hour both nights. Went consecutive nights cos prices good... Saturday: "Bull School" €6/adult was teenagers/20's taunting bulls, running and jumping out of arena. "Authentic/traditional", but although no killing of bulls they were clearly wound up/distressed and the activity didn't hold us for two hours. OK we may have bern naive, obviously skillful but seen once and "not for me". Sunday "Camargue Riders Show". €10/ adult. Again v skilful, amazing horse handling but not really entertaining to watch horse being saddled up, then essentially "British bulldogs" with flowers, and musical chairs on horseback. The cattle skills were fantastic but didn't seem to go as planned a fair amount of the time. Cattle also noticeably less stressed/aggressive than previous night. One hour of each evening combined for €8-10 would suffice, and feel a "good deal"

This review is related to the Gipsy Kings concert on August 2, 2023. The concert was supposed to begin at 9pm but the band came on stage one hour later. The long wait time was filled by a DJ who tried to cheer up the audience with modern remixes of older and newer songs. With limited success imho. The show was not really special except for the final.

We visited the remarkable Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a small town about an hour by bus from Arles station. My first impression of this town was truly special—it felt almost dreamlike. I felt as if I were stepping into the legend of the Three Marys, who, according to tradition, landed here 2,000 years ago. Before my visit, I researched the church’s history and learned about the local Provençal poet and Nobel Prize winner, Frédéric Mistral, whose famous poem Mireio is deeply connected to this region. One of the most remarkable artists associated with this town is Vincent van Gogh. While living in Arles, he visited Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and painted several masterpieces inspired by its unique scenery. The church holds all these incredible stories within its walls. I climbed to the rooftop, where I was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the town and the ocean in the background. If you’re a Christian or a Van Gogh enthusiast, this town is a must-visit. Even for travel bloggers, the experience is truly unforgettable, offering a journey through history, art, and faith.

This beautiful church, built in the 9th and 11th centuries on an old Gallo-Roman sanctuary, replaced an oratory that, according to legend, was erected by the Saints. This site was fortified in order to withstand attacks by the Saracens. Human figures can be seem emerging from the capitals decorated with plant motifs. The crypt (1448) houses Sarah, patron saint of Gypsies, covered with robes and coats. The boat of the Saints Marys is in the left alley of the church. The 4th BC century pagan altar in the crypt is also remarkable. Church of Our Lady of the Sea is the soul of the village. Legend has it that Sara was a young black slave with mysterious origins. She is said to have accompanied Marie Jacobé and Marie Salomé on their arrival in the Camargue. The latter would have been the first to welcome Jesus on European soil, during his journey to Egypt. Saint Sara is thus considered the patron saint of all travelers and itinerants. Today, the festival of Sainte Sara is one of Camargue’s must-see events. Every year, it attracts large numbers of visitors for the procession, mass and festivities. The chapel of Sainte Sara is located in the church of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. It is an important place of worship and meditation for gypsies and pilgrims. Sainte Sara, also known as Kali sara la noire, has thus become a symbol of Camargue identity. It bears witness to the richness and cultural diversity of this region of southern France. . The town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, is a Mecca for gypsy culture and the festival of Saint Sara each year in May ...

Incredible historic church with inspiring shrines and unique history. The people of the Camargue and the Romani people cherish this place, famous for its statues related to the lore of the Trois Maries and Sainte Sara. Annual festival from May 24-26 honors the statues and saints with Mass, music, and processions to the sea. An amazing place to visit with so much history and heart.

It's definitely recommended to visit the church and go up to the roof. It's really fascinating that you can climb up on the steep roof. Also you have a nice view over the city and if you are really lucky you might also see a few Flamingos.

A really neat seaside village with tremendous atmosphere. Many restaurants and cafes. Quite a lot of Spanish food options which we unfortunately did not get a chance to try.

Beautiful little church that honors the memory of Saints Marie and also Sara, allows you to go up and see all of Saintes Marie de la mer, a really nice place. Inside then there are all the ex votos of past centuries that are remembered in the showcases. The story that encloses the well of baptism inside the church is interesting, which was the only source of fresh water for the whole city in the past.

Climb the bell tower to sit on the roof and admire the surroundings - must do! As well as go down to the crypt to look at St. Sarah

(Translated by Google) One of its magical places to feel the soul of the Camargue with fabulous flora and fauna. (Original) Un de ses endroits magiques pour sentir l’âme de la Camargue avec une fabuleuse faune et flore.

(Translated by Google) Silence in the middle of a wild and natural park where the days often end with magnificent sunsets... A place on the path of migratory birds (geese, storks, cranes, etc.) which offer us beautiful and good times... (Original) Le silence au milieu d'un parc sauvage et naturel où les journées se terminent souvent avec de magnifiques couchés de soleil... Un lieu sur la trajectoire des oiseaux migrateurs (oies, cigognes, grues etc ) qui nous offrent de beaux et bons moments...

(Translated by Google) A magical place that is wild and so calm! Ideal for observing local wildlife and admiring the beauties of nature. @yan_trav3ls (Original) Un coin magique sauvage et tellement calme ! Idéal pour observer la faune locale et pour admirer les beautés de la nature. @yan_trav3ls

(Translated by Google) One of the most peaceful places in the Camargue.. Nothing to complain about 💞 (Original) L'un des endroits des plus apaisant de la Camargue.. Rien a redire 💞

(Translated by Google) Magnificent, great show! (Original) Magnifique, du grand spectacle !

(Translated by Google) Little corner of our sunny Camargue for relaxation (Original) Petit coin de nôtres Camargue ensoleillé pour une detente

(Translated by Google) Beautiful and relaxing place. Easy observation of Pink Flamingos (Original) Endroit magnifique et reposant. Observation facile de Flamands roses

(Translated by Google) According to his wishes, his ashes, buried in the grave of his ancestors in the Avignon cemetery, were transferred to Saintes Maries de la Mer on July 21, 1951, to a grave on the site of the ruins of the Mas du Simbèu. Marquis Folco de Baroncelli (1869-1943) is credited with creating and maintaining the traditions of the Camargue: shepherd games, codification of the traditional shepherd's costume, revival of the shepherd's profession. He is committed to the preservation of the Camargue horse and Camargue bull breeds. In his time he was able to recognize the possibilities that the vast territory of the free and wild Camargue offered. (Original) Seine Asche, die im Grab seiner Vorfahren auf dem Friedhof von Avignon begraben wurde, wird seinem Wunsch entsprechend am 21. Juli 1951 nach Saintes Maries de la Mer in ein Grab auf dem Gelände der Ruinen des Mas du Simbèu überführt. Marquis Folco de Baroncelli (1869-1943) wird zugeschrieben, die Traditionen der Camargue geschaffen und gepflegt zu haben: Hirtenspiele, Kodifizierung der traditionellen Hirtentracht, Wiederbelebung des Hirtenberufs. Er engagiert sich für die Erhaltung der Camargue-Pferde- und Camargue-Bullenrassen. Er konnte zu seiner Zeit die Möglichkeiten erkennen, die das weite Gebiet der freien und wilden Camargue bot.

(Translated by Google) The story of the marquis deserves to be known 😀 (Original) L'histoire du marquis mérite d'être connue 😀

Great gothic church for which Historians were not possible to trace the exact date of its construction. But it is at least certain that before its construction, in its current place, there was a chapel dedicated to the Virgin, Notre-Dame-des-Sablons. It may take its name from the fact that the city was surrounded by sand. This makes it possible to locate its date of construction around the 13th century, but in any case, before the construction of the ramparts. In 800 years of history, the Notre-Dame-des-Sablons church in Aigues-Mortes has lived to the rhythm of the political life of the city. It was for example that Louis IX participated in his last masses on French soil before leaving for a crusade. She also underwent the effects of the war of religions and was not spared by Protestants. After her bell tower was collapsed in 1634, she only reopened in 1744. Until her last renovation in 1991 concerning her stained glass windows, she was already a barracks, a salt depot. And experienced a major transformation in the 1960s where its interior was radically changed.

Beautiful church rich in history. It feels very special when you're inside and it's not pretentious.

This church was the church the Knights Templar visited before they set sail for the crusades. I personally feel very comfortable visiting here and go there to give thanks. To walk in the footsteps of great Christian knights is an honour for me.

Beautiful little Crusaders church that you can visit. Lovely colours on the inside. Great to photograph.

Nice church. Not overly ornate but interesting.

Church of the port of Aigue Mortes for the 8th Crusade

Amen

Unfortunately, I would not recommend this restaurant. The staff was ok. The place has a nice view (by day I guess, since we went by night). The food tho was just ok and sadly overpriced (probably paying the view more than the food). There was only one vegetarian option (risotto). We were a table of 5. Beware: The menu omits mentioning the price of the “sole” fish. It is sold by weight and they don’t even mention that on the menu. There is no price at all and it’s ambiguous as it’s written right down the other fish. The staff did not mention to my brother in law that it had a different price or that it was sold by kg when he ordered. We ended up paying 66 € for the sole.

Super resto! Great restaurant with AMAZING service, delicious food and very, very friendly staff and owners. Gorgeous view of the sunset and great decor. Even gave us blankets to keep us warm!

Really beautiful place, really good food

Great location by the beach, lovely food, generous portions, good service and good music. I would definitely recommend this restaurant.

Very cosy boho setting, ocean view, amazing fresh food and very friendly accomodating staff. Great place, no notes, can't wait to revisit.

Huge thanks to Joanna, Jason and Tristan for your kindness today. You helped two wandering travellers find their way home! Your generosity will surely make the Rooftop the best and warmest place in Saintes-Mairies-de-la-Mer. See you on our next visit! Claudia and Leo

we just had two drinks, margarita and mojito, so badly done...no fresh lemon or mint for mojito...no salt on the rim of glass for margarita...charhing more than other places...not worth it to come..

(Translated by Google) Pretty chapel. View only from the outside (closed when I passed). (Original) Jolie chapelle. Vue uniquement de l'extérieur (fermée au moment où je suis passé).

(Translated by Google) Don't visit this chapel. It's the private estate of a greedy man who won't let you photograph anything, even without a flash. It's unheard of in the 21st century to restrict image-taking when we're in the midst of the era of the image. When I asked him why, he couldn't tell me; he just said they were the rules, absurd rules. (Original) No visitar esta capilla, es un cortijo privado de un señor agorrante que no deja fotografiar nada ni siquiera sin flash, es inaudito en siglo XXI limitar la toma de imagenes cuando estamos en plena era de la imagen. Al preguntar el motivo no me lo supo decir, solo que eran las normas, unas normas absurdas.

(Translated by Google) During my visit to the chapel, I was very disappointed by the attitude of an individual at the entrance who tried to charge me €6, despite the fact that all the posters indicated free entry. This man was extremely rude, going so far as to hold my arm and call me selfish just for walking through the door. It is important to note that this is not a holy site, but rather a place run by a dishonest individual who seeks to extort money from visitors. I strongly recommend paying attention to this malicious individual who seems to want to take advantage of people in a deplorable way. This unfortunately tarnished my experience of this visit! (Original) Lors de ma visite à la chapelle, j'ai été très déçu par l'attitude d'un individu à l'entrée qui a tenté de me faire payer 6€, malgré le fait que toutes les affiches indiquaient une entrée gratuite. Cet homme s'est montré extrêmement impoli, allant jusqu'à me retenir par le bras et me traiter d'égoïste simplement parce que j'avais franchi le seuil de la porte. Il est important de noter qu'il ne s'agit pas d'un lieu saint, mais plutôt d'un endroit géré par un particulier malhonnête qui cherche à extorquer de l'argent aux visiteurs. Je recommande vivement de faire attention à cet individu malintentionné qui semble vouloir profiter des gens de manière déplorable. Cela a malheureusement terni mon expérience de cette visite !

(Translated by Google) I strongly advise against visiting this chapel. The owner has posted several signs in the city indicating the direction of this place and mentioning "free entry" but this is not true. After only passing through the door of this chapel, the owner's uncomfortable attitude pushes us to leave the premises, but the individual then becomes aggressive and physically holds us back, demanding 2€ entry per person, including for my son. 5 years, for simply entering the place for 10 seconds… (Original) Je déconseille vivement la visite de cette chapelle. Le propriétaire a disséminé plusieurs pancartes dans la ville indiquant la direction de ce lieu et mentionnant "entrée gratuite" mais ce n’est pas vrai. Après avoir seulement passé la porte de cette chapelle, l’attitude malaisante du propriétaire nous pousse à quitter les lieux, mais l’individu devient alors agressif et nous retient physiquement en réclamant 2€ l’entrée par personne, y compris pour mon fils de 5 ans, pour avoir simplement pénétrer dans le lieu 10 secondes…

(Translated by Google) Very pretty chapel. But a gentleman took up our time so we weren't able to really enjoy it. (Original) Très jolie chapelle.mais un monsieur nous a accaparé notre temps alors nous n'avons pas pu en profiter vraiment.

(Translated by Google) Very beautiful chapel. To visit (Original) Très belle chapelle. A visiter

(Translated by Google) To see if you pass by., Pay attention to the schedules.. (Original) A voir si vous passez à côté., Attention aux horaires..

Impresionant construction, special place for pray and contemplation.

Interesting town with family friendly beaches, plenty of eateries and shops to visit. The church is also worth a visit and 3€ to go up the stone steps to take panoramic photos from the roof walled terraces.

A disappointment for me,full of shops and restaurants for the tourists, it has lost its old charm!

Quite disappointed in general...a quick visit is enough :)

In winter it's mostly closed but opening up for the coming season.

Ras

Suppper

The Château d'Avignon is a true hidden gem we stumbled upon by chance. It’s surprising that neither the tourist offices of Arles nor Grau-du-Roi mention this treasure, as it truly deserves a visit. Built in the 17th century, this château has stood for over 300 years, embodying a rich historical heritage. From the moment we passed through the gates, we were struck by the beauty and serenity of this place. The château, with its elegant architecture and peaceful gardens, feels like it’s from another era. Every room we explored told a story, from the richly decorated salons to the grand halls where you could almost hear the echoes of the past. What made this visit even more special was the absence of crowds. This place, still largely unknown to the public, offers an intimate and authentic experience. We were able to take our time, savor every detail, and immerse ourselves in history without feeling rushed. The Château d'Avignon, with its history dating back to the 17th century, is undoubtedly a must-visit for history and heritage enthusiasts. We hope more travelers have the chance to discover it as we did." #ChateauDAvignon #HiddenGem #HistoricalHeritage #17thCentury #TravelDiscoveries #Arles #GrauDuRoi #FrenchHistory #OffTheBeatenPath #TravelReviews #CulturalHeritage

A beautiful place and grounds and an interesting visit round the chateau. Also, totally free!

Diana did an absolutely amazing job of showing us this stunning chateau, absolutely amazing architecture on stunning grounds and absolutely loved this tour!!!

Superb castle with one of the earliest electrical and water infrastructures from the 17th and 18th centuries. Nowadays you can see those in most cities worldwide! Absolutely worth a visit ... a tour takes about 2h without hesitance. For 4€ entrance you also get an electronical guide. Good translations in several languages.

Take a walk around the Château and enjoy the nature, history and beauty of this fantastic place. It’s like travelling back in time.

Closed for the winter as of October 1. Try back in April.

Great palace to see, and for free.

(Translated by Google) Beautiful calm walk on the Petit Rhône, between fauna and flora, it's very interesting, the herons, bulls, horses... Great encounters, worth seeing!!! (Original) Belle promenade calme sur le petit Rhône, entre faune et flore, c'est très intéressant, les hérons, taureaux, chevaux... De belles rencontres, à voir !!!

(Translated by Google) The Camargues love and everything that goes with well-being relaxation very good cuisine simple people a superb environment I love this place (Original) La camargues l'amour et tout ce qu'il vas avec le bien-être la détente la tres bonne cuisine des gens simpa un environnement superbe j'adore ce lieu

(Translated by Google) A bike ride. Uniquely beautiful. (Original) Eine Radtour. Einmalig schön.

(Translated by Google) A guided boat trip from Stes Marie de la Mer to discover the fauna, flora, herds and fishermen's houses. (Original) Une promenade commentée en bateau depuis les Stes Marie de la Mer à la découverte de la faune , de la flore , des manades et des maisons de pêcheurs.

(Translated by Google) Very pretty walk where you can admire the fauna and flora of our beautiful region, (Original) Très joli ballade ou on peut admirer la faune et la flore de notre belle région,

(Translated by Google) Very nice visit, we really like it, we often do this walk. ...magnificent Camargues landscape (Original) Très jolie visite nous avons beaucoup aimer nous faisons souvent cette balade . ...paysage de Camargues magnifique

(Translated by Google) Three more months and long live the holidays (Original) Encore trois mois et vive les vacances

This is a hidden little treasure in the South of France!!! Close to so many attractions yet tucked away to provide a relaxing tranquil experience. The hospitality was superb and the apartment was spotless and beautifully appointed with all of the conveniences of home. I highly recommend this beautiful spot!!!

Location, Atmosphere and Host all deserve a 5 stars! Highly recommended!

Top

(Translated by Google) Magnificent experience of personal development within a grandiose natural environment. Gîtes and classrooms ideally located and equipped. Car parks nearby and within the estate Warm and professional welcome To consume without moderation 😉 (Original) Magnifique expérience de développement personnel au sein d’un environnement naturel grandiose. Gîtes et salles de cours idéalement situés et équipés. Parkings à proximité et à l’intérieur du domaine Accueil chaleureux et professionnel À consommer sans modération 😉

(Translated by Google) Magnificent place, a true haven of peace surrounded by nature. Very clean, you can see that the owners take great care of their cottage. Very welcoming and available if needed. Plus, there are shops nearby and the beach is less than 20 minutes away. I highly recommend it. (Original) Magnifique lieu , un vrai havre de paix au milieu de toute cette nature. Très propre, on voit que les propriétaires prennent grand soin de leur gîte. Très accueillants et à disposition si besoin. De plus il y a des commerces a proximité et à moins de 20 min la plage. Je vous recommande vivement.

(Translated by Google) I needed peace and quiet and to recharge my batteries so I chose to stay for a weekend at the Olivieraie de Paul, everything was perfect, the cottage, very clean, functional, very well decorated, the weather was magnificent so I was able to have a good breakfast on the terrace, delivered directly to the cottage, accompanied by the birdsong, I bathed in the magnificent swimming pool, the water was warm, a treat. If you need to disconnect, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, I can only recommend the Olivieraie de Paul, for the beauty of the place and the extreme kindness of the owners. (Original) J'avais besoin de calme et de me ressourcer alors j'ai choisi de séjourner le temps d'un week-end à l'Oliveraie de Paul, tout a été parfait, le gîte, très propre, fonctionnel, très bien décoré, le temps était magnifique alors j'ai pu prendre un bon petit déjeuner sur la terrasse, livré directement au gîte, accompagnée par le chant des oiseaux, je me suis baignée dans la magnifique piscine, l'eau y était chaude, un régal. Si vous avez besoin de déconnexion, loin du tumulte de la ville, je ne peux que vous conseiller l'Oliveraie de Paul, pour la beauté du lieu et l'extrême gentillesse des propriétaires.

(Translated by Google) Top! Lydie, the host, is adorable. The place is surrounded by nature yet is 3 minutes from the shops. Swimming surrounded by birdsong 🥰 Thank you and see you soon. So I'm going back next weekend and doing a retreat there in October 😅 (Original) Top ! Lydie, l’hôte est adorable, le lieu est dans la nature tout en étant à 3 min des commerces. Se baigner au milieu du chant des oiseaux 🥰 Merci et à très vite. Du coup j'y retourne le week-end prochain et j'y fais une retraite en octobre 😅

(Translated by Google) Very pretty church with pretty stained glass windows. The bell is exterior and annexed to the church. Also called St John of Malta. Beautiful Maltese cross facing the sea. (Original) Très jolie église avec de jolis vitraux. La cloche est extérieure et annexe à l'église. Aussi appelée St Jean de Malte. Belle croix de Malte face à la mer.

(Translated by Google) Beautiful place, relaxing (Original) Belle endroit, reposant

(Translated by Google) Very beautiful church. (Original) Très belle église.

(Translated by Google) Beautiful church hall! (Original) Belle salle paroissiale !