Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer – Bouches-du-Rhône – Provence
The Pont de Gau Ornithological Park
About 50 min by car, combine with the Aigues-Mortes salt marshes
At the gateway to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, the Pont de Gau Ornithological Park lets you discover the wildlife of the Camargue in an unspoilt natural setting. Across 60 hectares of marshes, lagoons and reed beds, young and old can meet the birds the region is famous for, starting with its celebrated pink flamingos.
A marked 2.6 km loop with ten stops can be walked freely at your own pace. It lets you watch and photograph birds in their natural habitat, often at very close range, while discovering the typical landscapes of the Camargue.
Up close with the flamingos
The park is one of the best places in the Camargue to see flamingos: hundreds of birds feed and rest there, sometimes just metres from the paths. Teal, snipe, kingfishers, white storks, night herons and black kites complete the show depending on the season, to the delight of children and photography lovers.
Large aviaries also display species that are hard to observe in the wild, and a hide on the edge of the Ginès marsh lets you watch the birds discreetly. Since 1974, the park has also housed a care centre for wildlife. Allow about two hours to make the most of the visit.
A stop at the Aigues-Mortes salt marshes
On the road between Lunel-Viel and Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Aigues-Mortes and its salt marshes are worth a stop. With their pink-tinted waters, the Aigues-Mortes salt marshes are also home to many flamingos and offer a very different view of the Camargue landscapes.
It is easy to combine the two visits in one day: the salt marshes in the morning, Pont de Gau in the afternoon, then the end of the day on the beach or in the village of Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. As times vary with the season, remember to plan your route in advance.
Opening hours and prices
The park is open every day, including weekends and public holidays. From 1 April to 30 September, reception is open from 9 am to 6 pm; from 1 October to 31 March, from 10 am to 5 pm. You can leave freely until sunset, so you can enjoy the beautiful light at the end of the day. As times may change, check them before you set off.
Entry is €8.50 per adult and €5 per child aged 4 to 12, and also for people with disabilities. Group rates are available from 15 people, with or without a guided tour. Please note: animals are not allowed and holiday vouchers are not accepted.
This map is provided by Google Maps, which sets cookies.
Open in Google MapsStay less than an hour from Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
Extend your discovery of the Camargue by staying at our villa in Lunel-Viel. A comfortable, peaceful setting, ideal for exploring the villages of the Petite Camargue and the Mediterranean beaches, while enjoying some real relaxation.
In a villa sleeping 12 or an apartment sleeping 4 or 8, enjoy a peaceful stay.
Accommodation for up to 12 guests
from 100 € / night
1 night
-10 %