Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône: Camargue, Beaches and Culture

Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône combines natural and waterside landscapes with historic and traditional attractions. The local scenery includes the Parc naturel régional de Camargue, the Rhône, sandy beaches, an ornithological collection, and activities involving cycling and water sports.

Landscapes between the Camargue, the Rhône and the sea

Since February 2011, Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône has been part of the Parc naturel régional de Camargue. The landscape encompasses salty seawater and the Rhône’s alluvium-laden fresh water, as well as freshwater canals and brackish lagoons. They du Mazet is a sand formation shaped by the sea and the river. Plage Napoléon offers a different kind of landscape: at 10 kilometres of fine sand, it is one of the largest beaches in the Camargue. This means trip plans can take in a range of scenery, from waterways and lagoons to a long sandy coastline.

Tour Saint Louis and Nègo-Chin excursions

The Tour Saint Louis was built in 1737 and added to the inventory of Monuments historiques in 1942. The tower houses an ornithological collection with more than 165 birds on display, and its terrace offers panoramic views. If you would like to see the collection or visit the terrace, check in advance whether the collection is currently on display and whether the terrace is open to visitors.

Nègo-Chin excursions to They du Pégoulier depart from the Tour Saint Louis and last more than an hour. This makes it possible to add a longer excursion to a visit to the tower. Allow for the duration when planning your day rather than treating both experiences as brief stops.

Cycling route and activities on the water

Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône is the endpoint of the 815-kilometre ViaRhôna, which begins in Saint-Gingolph on the French-Swiss border. If you are including the cycle route in your trip, check the route details before setting off. The beaches of Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône offer excellent conditions for kitesurfing and learning the sport.

For 2024/25, the municipal association guide lists introductory sessions in Provençal water jousting and traditional rowing, as well as opportunities to take part, at Club Nautique Rhodanien. Check the latest details before attending. Sea kayaking is also offered by Base Nautique de Port Saint Louis; confirm availability for your dates in advance.

Traditional houses and local produce

The Cabane de gardian can be visited as a traditional house of the « gens du marais ». On display are everyday objects, tools, old furniture and animal sculptures. Visits to Manade Carreton include a livestock-sorting demonstration and tastings of local produce. The two attractions offer different experiences: the Cabane focuses on the home and its objects, while the Manade features the demonstration and tasting.

If you would also like to include local produce in your trip plans, make a note of Moule de Carteau: it is produced in Anse de Carteau, southwest of the town.

Find a hotel for your stay

Use these highlights as a guide when looking for a hotel in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. Before booking a specific hotel, check the information it provides about its location and amenities.

Discover more destinations: Châteauneuf-Le-Rouge, Boulbon, Graveson, La Fare-Les-Oliviers, Lançon-de-Provence, La Penne-Sur-Huveaune, Beaurecueil, Paluds De Noves.

For the broader travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.