Discover Istres: History, Nature and Routes

Istres offers a range of starting points for planning a stay: archaeological traces at the Étang de l’Olivier, Provençal architecture, walking paths along the Étang de Berre and a market featuring Provençal specialities. These places and activities give you an idea of the different sides of the city you can explore.

History between the Oppidum and Romanesque architecture

The Oppidum du Castellan stands on a rocky promontory on the southern shore of the Étang de l’Olivier. From there, you can look out over Istres and the lake. The site was inhabited from the 6th century BC to the Early Middle Ages. At the oppidum, you can see a Gallic rock inscription and traces of a road worn down by wagon wheels. Landscape and archaeological evidence sit side by side here: the rocky promontory defines the setting, while the inscription and wheel ruts point to its long history of settlement.

Another important building is the Chapelle Saint-Sulpice, a significant example of Provençal Romanesque architecture. Since 1942, it has been listed in the Supplementary Inventory of Historic Monuments. It hosts a year-round programme of exhibitions of fine and visual art. Since the exhibitions change over time, check which one is currently on display before your visit.

The Château des Baumes is a fully restored Italian-style manor house. Conferences, tours, themed evenings and other tourism-related events are held on its ground floor. Together with the chapel, the château offers another perspective on the architectural and cultural history of Istres.

By the water: landscape and tradition

Around the Étang de l’Olivier, reed beds and safre cliffs form a well-preserved ecosystem that provides a habitat for numerous birds and fish. The lake is also the setting for Provençal water jousting. This traditional sport calls for strength and skill. Nature and local tradition meet on the same body of water, but they offer distinct experiences: on the shore, the ecosystem takes centre stage; on the water, it is the sporting tradition.

Walking paths, a town route and a cycling trail

Section A10 of the GR2013 runs for 3.2 km from Plage du Ranquet to Port des Heures Claires. The route follows the shore of the Étang de Berre, passing beaches and coves. The “Istres: Entre ville et nature” route has a different focus: it leads through the historic centre and the town, to viewpoints over the Étang de Berre, and along the shore past protected coves. The two routes therefore differ mainly in their described itineraries: one is a measured waterside stretch, the other links the town, viewpoints and coastal scenery.

For a cycling trip, there is the “Parcours Cyclotourisme pour découvrir Istres”. It uses available cycle paths and lightly trafficked roads, passing near the town’s main tourist attractions. The three routes can thus be considered according to your preferred focus: the shore, the town and protected coves, or a route by bicycle.

Labyrinth, water sports and dinosaurs

On the shore of the Étang de l’Olivier lies Le Labyrinthe de l’Olivier, a free-to-enter plant maze. Its 750 m family trail winds between plant hedges 1.5 m high. Paths, turns and detours shape the route—unlike a waterside walk, the aim here is to find your way through the maze.

The water sports on offer at Plage de la Romaniquette include jet skiing, towable inflatable rides, flyboarding, paddleboats, pedal boats, canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboarding. Check which activities are available on your chosen date before visiting. For a different kind of themed outing, more than 40 dinosaurs can be seen in the Dinosaur’Istres park, including Spinosaurus, Diplodocus, Tyrannosaurus rex and Velociraptors.

Market and Provençal cuisine

The Marché d’Istres takes place on Tuesday mornings in the town centre and offers Provençal specialities. These include salted cod for Aïoli, vegetables for Soupe au pistou, olives and paella. The market combines a regular weekly time with specific regional ingredients and dishes. Check the market day before you travel so your plans match the stated schedule.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade, Saint-Rémy-De-Provence, Gignac-La-Nerthe, Eyguières, Carro, Salon-De-Provence, Aurons, Rognac.

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