3 day itinerary for Saintes Marie De La Mer

Itinerary

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a charming little town in the heart of the Camargue region, known for its stunning beaches, beautiful landscapes, and rich culture. Let’s dive into a delightful 3-day itinerary that includes beach time, horseback riding, local cuisine, and, of course, some fabulous wine!

## Day 1: Arrival and Beach Bliss

Morning:

• Arrival: Settle into your accommodation. There are plenty of cozy hotels and charming guesthouses in town.
• Breakfast: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try a croissant or pain au chocolat with a café au lait to fuel your day!

Midday:

• Beach Time: Head to the Plage de l’Espiguette, one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Relax on the sandy shores, take a dip in the Mediterranean, or just soak up the sun. Don’t forget your sunscreen!

Lunch:

• Local Cuisine: For lunch, grab a bite at a beachside restaurant. Try some fresh seafood, like grilled sardines or a classic bouillabaisse, paired with a glass of local rosé.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Town: After lunch, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. Visit the Église des Saintes Maries, a beautiful church with a fascinating history.

Evening:

• Dinner: For dinner, head to a local bistro. Enjoy traditional Camargue dishes like gardiane de taureau (bull stew) or a hearty ratatouille.
• Wine Tasting: End your day with a visit to a local wine bar. Sample some wines from the region, particularly the refreshing rosés that the area is known for.

## Day 2: Horseback Riding and Nature

Morning:

• Breakfast: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation or a nearby café.
• Horseback Riding: Book a morning horseback riding tour through the Camargue. There are several stables that offer guided rides through the stunning wetlands, where you can see wild horses, flamingos, and other wildlife.

Lunch:

• Picnic: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the beautiful natural surroundings. You can pick up some local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread from a local market.

Afternoon:

• Nature Exploration: After your ride, take some time to explore the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue. There are plenty of walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head back to town and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Try some local specialties like a Camargue rice dish or a fresh salad with local ingredients.
• Evening Stroll: After dinner, take a stroll along the beach at sunset. The colors are simply breathtaking!

## Day 3: Culture and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café.
• Cultural Visit: Visit the Musée de la Camargue to learn more about the region’s history, culture, and wildlife. It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the local heritage.

Lunch:

• Local Eatery: For lunch, try a local eatery that serves traditional Camargue fare. A nice paella or a fresh seafood platter would be perfect!

Afternoon:

• Beach Time: Spend your last afternoon relaxing on the beach. You can rent a sunbed or just lay out your towel and enjoy the sun. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider trying some water sports like paddleboarding or kayaking.

Evening:

• Farewell Dinner: For your final dinner, treat yourself to a nice restaurant with a view of the sea. Enjoy a multi-course meal featuring local ingredients and pair it with a lovely bottle of wine.
• Nightcap: End your trip with a nightcap at a local bar. Enjoy a glass of local wine or a refreshing cocktail while reminiscing about your wonderful time in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

And there you have it! A perfect blend of beach relaxation, horseback riding, local cuisine, and wine tasting. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌊🐴🍷