Discover Saint-Martin-De-Crau

Saint-Martin-De-Crau brings together nature observation and themes related to sheep farming and its history. At the Étang des Aulnes, different habitats and birdwatching take centre stage; the museums offer their own perspectives: the Écomusée de la Crau explores the landscape, agriculture and natural environment, while the Rétromusée displays reconstructed scenes. There is also the Fête du Printemps, an annual event in May. If you are looking for a hotel, these different interests can help shape which themes you want to focus on during your stay.

Nature and wildlife

At the Étang des Aulnes, dry grasslands, wet and dry meadows, garrigue, ponds and aquatic areas come together. Thus, this landscape includes meadows and bodies of water as well as dry areas. The site is open to hikers and horseback riders, and there are also riding trails. If you are planning a ride, check the local conditions beforehand.

You can observe numerous resident and migratory bird species at the Étang des Aulnes. Which species you see varies with the season. In practical terms, birdwatching is a nature activity whose appeal can change throughout the year, while the different habitats define the character of the place.

The Réserve naturelle nationale des coussouls de Crau is also open to the public. To enter, you need a permit costing 3 euros and a map; you must collect both from the Écomusée de la Crau. Check the requirements and fee before your visit. A visit to the reserve therefore cannot simply be treated as the same as a visit to the Étang: a permit and map are part of the preparations for the Réserve.

Museums: landscape, agriculture and history

The Écomusée de la Crau is in the centre of Saint-Martin-de-Crau, opposite the church. Behind the building, visitors can use a large free car park with a disabled parking space. Check parking and access information again before you travel.

The Écomusée presents the Crau landscape, agro-pastoral activities and the natural environment through illustrated explanations, photographs and videos. Topics include sheep farming with the Mérinos d’Arles, Foin de Crau production with the AOP and AOC designations, and the management of water resources. The themes therefore range from sheep farming and hay production to water management.

The Rétromusée was founded in 1987 through a collaboration between the town of Saint-Martin-de-Crau and the Avis family. It is housed in a former sheep barn measuring 300 m². Around forty mannequins in historical costumes depict reconstructed scenes and bring the historical setting to life. The number is approximate; individual exhibition details may change.

Fête du Printemps and when to visit

The Fête du Printemps, also known as the Fête de la transhumance, has been held in Saint-Martin-de-Crau since 1986. It is celebrated every year in mid-May and symbolises the departure of shepherds and their sheep for the alpine pastures. The event provides a recurring seasonal point of reference, while birdwatching at the Étang des Aulnes can vary with the time of year.

These activities involve different planning considerations: the Réserve has permit and map requirements, birdwatching is seasonal, and the Fête depends on the event date for that year.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Vernègues, Peyrolles-En-Provence, Eyragues, Mas-Blanc-Des-Alpilles, Aurons, Le Puy-Sainte-Réparade, Lançon-de-Provence, Saint-Chamas.

For the regional travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.