The Camargue, between the Rhône and the Mediterranean, offers from Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer one of the most distinctive family cycling outings on the French coast: a flat expanse of salt marshes and lagoons, home to pink flamingos and semi-wild horses.
The Digue à la Mer loop
From Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the route follows the Digue à la Mer, the sea dike separating the Étang du Vaccarès from the Mediterranean, toward Salin-de-Giraud. Expect about 30 km for this representative loop, on a mix of packed-earth dike and quiet small roads, through a completely flat landscape of salt marshes, reed beds and lagoons.
Getting the ride right with kids
The almost total lack of relief (around ten metres of cumulative elevation gain) allows for a pace suited to the youngest riders, in a trailer or bike seat for toddlers. The open, shadeless landscape does, however, mean full exposure to sun and wind, which makes good sun protection worthwhile even on overcast days.
When to go
April to June and in September, as the summer heat and mosquitoes make peak summer less pleasant, especially in the late afternoon near the lagoons. Spring also offers the best window for spotting pink flamingos.
Good to know
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a village on the Mediterranean coast, has a good choice of accommodation and bike rental options, with convenient access to Arles for combining the ride with a visit to the ancient city.
