Things To Do
in Saint-Martin-de-Crau
Saint-Martin-de-Crau is a quiet Provençal commune in the Camargue region, just inland from the Rhône delta near Arles. It serves as a gateway to wetlands, salt pans, and migratory bird habitats that define the Camargue landscape. The town offers a relaxed Provencal charm with easy access to Arles, Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, and other historic sites.
Visitors can savor regional cuisine, outdoor activities, and rewarding day trips across southern Provence.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Saint-Martin-de-Crau and settle into your accommodation. Start your day by visiting the vibrant local market where fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and local crafts await. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere and interact with friendly vendors.
After your market visit, stroll through the charming streets of the town, admiring the Provençal architecture. Stop by a local café for a leisurely lunch, savoring regional specialties like ratatouille or bouillabaisse. Don't forget to visit the historic Saint Martin Church which showcases beautiful Romanesque art.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local bistro, sampling exquisite Provençal wines. Wrap up your day by visiting the town square where occasional live music or arts events might be taking place. Relax and soak in the warm evening atmosphere.
Prepare for a day of adventure with a hearty breakfast, then head out to explore the stunning Crau region. This area is known for its unique grasslands and diverse wildlife; keep your eyes peeled for native birds and wildflowers. A guided hike will help you appreciate the rich biodiversity of the landscape.
Post-hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the scenic spots within the Crau, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Take the afternoon to relax and reflect on your surroundings or explore more of the hiking trails. Alternatively, consider renting a bike and discovering the area at your own pace.
Return to Saint-Martin-de-Crau to freshen up before dinner. Visit a local restaurant to taste authentic Provençal dishes, perhaps trying the famous daube or a selection of local cheeses. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets, basking in the serenity of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏨1-night hotel (mid-range) | $80-150 |
| 🚌Public transportation day pass | $5-10 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming Provençal village atmosphere
- Access to the Camargue wetlands and wildlife
- Delicious regional cuisine and fresh seafood
- Great base for day trips to Arles and Avignon
- Limited nightlife in the village
- Can be crowded in peak summer near tourist draws
- Some services and shops have seasonal hours
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does this cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "Ou sont les toilettes ?" - Where are the restrooms?
Places to Visit in Saint-Martin-de-Crau
Visit one of these nice places.
Open steppe landscape with long horizons and grazing Camargue horses in the early morning light.
Boardwalks and bird-filled marshes perfect for wide-angle wildlife photography.
Riverside scenes and historic stone architecture framed by water and sky.
Shimmering white salt pans and pink flamingos create striking reflections at golden hour.
Food in Saint-Martin-de-Crau
Saint-Martin-de-Crau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked bull meat stew seasoned with onions, tomatoes, and Provençal herbs, a true Camargue specialty.
Must-Try!
Creamy salt cod purée with olive oil and potatoes, often served with crusty bread.
Flaky bread with olive tapenade and herbs, a staple in local boulangeries.
A medley of stewed vegetables seasoned with garlic and herbs de Provence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can buy olives, garlic, herbs, fresh seafood, and Provençal specialties.
Tapenades, aioli with vegetables, fougasse, and fresh seafood on the waterfront markets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir”; use Monsieur/Madame when addressing locals.
Keep voices moderate, wait for everyone to be served, and use appropriate table manners; a light kiss on the cheek is common among acquaintances.
Respect bullfighting traditions in Camargue sites; treat wildlife and protected zones with care.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Martin-de-Crau
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; it is common to round up or leave 5-10% for good service, especially in restaurants and cafes.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy in markets and small cafés; contactless payments common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, bloom-filled landscapes, and bird migrations; ideal for outdoor walks and photography.
Hot and sunny, with dry landscapes; carry water, sun protection, and plan morning/late afternoon activities.
Mild days with less humidity; harvest season produces fresh produce and fewer crowds.
Milder winters with occasional rain; towns remain cozy with markets and cultural events.
Saint-Martin-de-Crau at Night
Hiking in Saint-Martin-de-Crau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Migrantible plain trails with scrub, birds, and wide horizons; relatively flat and easy to moderate.
Boardwalk and gravel paths through marshes and salt pans; ideal for birdwatching and sunset walks.
Hilly terrain to the north offering panoramic views over the countryside and town roofs.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Martin-de-Crau by plane.
Major international hub, about 70-90 miles by road from Saint-Martin-de-Crau; convenient for international connections.
Smaller regional airport closer to Avignon, suitable for domestic and some international flights.
Regional airport near Nîmes with light air traffic; good for connections within France and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of agricultural workers, families, and retirees who live in the town year-round.
Tourists and seasonal workers who visit for the Camargue wetlands and nearby towns during spring and summer.
Some residents commute to larger towns for work and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional bull-related sport that focuses on agility and skill rather than harming the bull.
Riding Camargue horses along beaches and marsh trails.
Calm country lanes and coastal paths ideal for cycling and jogging.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Martin-de-Crau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available: ratatouille, seasonal vegetables, Provençal salads; ask for substitutions where needed.