Bed and breakfasts in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer lies on the Camargue coast south of Arles. It gives access to beaches, lagoons and delta roads. A bed and breakfast may be near the village or inland: check its location before planning outings.

A lively seaside resort

Explore the village on foot between seafront, shops and terraces. Crowds increase in summer and during gatherings. Central beaches and walks provide a different outing from more distant natural areas.

Historical and legendary origins

The origins of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer date back to Antiquity. Roman chronicles already mention the existence of a settlement at this location. Its Romanesque church, built between the 11th and 12th centuries, also served as a fortress and stands as a testimony to its turbulent past.

Pilgrimages are part of the village’s history and religious life. Traditions associated with the saints and Sara are encountered around the church and during gatherings. If your stay coincides with these dates, allow for crowds when booking and travelling.

Camargue traditions and bullfighting spectacles

Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a major venue for the Course Camarguaise, a local bullfighting tradition that showcases the agility of raseteurs in front of bulls. These spectacles take place in the town's arenas, with bulls raised in the surrounding manades.

Camargue roads lead on towards lagoons and delta villages. Arles offers a day of urban heritage visits. Group stops by location: routes go around wetlands rather than following straight-line distances.