Camargue retreats in all seasons, from Arles to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Hôtel les Arnelles

Located between two arms of the Rhône delta, this hotel-estate is decidated to all those looking for 100 % nature weekends. No glitzy luxury in the rooms with each their own private terrace. They mingle perfectly with the « Gardian » spirit around an equestrian club, a pool with sensual curbs and a restaurant featuring menus based on local products. It's the ideal recipe for a successful Fall escapade in the Great South ! www.lesarnelles.com

Hidden by swaying reeds, the pool is an extension of the hotel that mingles in harmony with the landscape. © DR

In Camargue, comfort is not everything, one comes here mainly for the wildlife, almost virginal. © DR

La Manade des Baumelles

In the middle of nowhere, this ranch with a unique setting, comprising 4 rooms with authentic charm, attracts all the aficionados of the Ferrade bull branding tradition, bull runs and horse trails, in Camargue. One climbs on tracted chariots to discover free range bulls that participate in the Camargue races and courses or ride white horses through the countryside before savoring muscles cooked à la gardiane, exhausted, but happy… www.manadedesbaumelles.fr

Solid farmer breakfasts, concerts of flamenco, sunny Arlesian cuisine, the Mas des Baumelles is a mythical address. © DR

Here, you can enjoy a well-deserved rest between the bull fields and the stables. © DR

L'Estelle en Camargue

Cultivating the spirit of a guest house, this 5 star hotel, nestled amidst nature, is bordered with canals and ponds. To this one adds Southern softness in spacious and luminous rooms at garden level with direct access to the pool. The low-key piano-bar becomes animated at the beginning of the evening with the crackling sound of the fireplace, while chef Sven Fuhrmann is busy in the kitchen preparing his regional specialties that are a unanimous success. www.hotelestelle.com

In the evening, the water from the pool seems to throw itself in the pond of the property. © DR

Ask to have your breakfast served in the bedroom, in order to take advantage of the Camargue early sun from your private terrace-garden. © DR

Mas de la Foulque

Renowned for its excaptional location, the Mas de la Foulque borders the Regional Natural Park of Camargue. Close to deserted beaches, it has been beautifully renovated by leading designers. Here, the local fauna, comprising swans, pink flamingos, wild ducks and horses, is visible from the rooms with streamlined decors. And when it comes to gastronomy, the table of Grégory Van De Wege is 100 % organic, a perfect match with this timeless haven of peace. www.masdelafouque.com

Quite surprising, thejacuzzi has invited itself in the middle of the pond, and the sunsets are unforgettable. © DR

This elegant suite has not forgotten the codes of luxury while featuring decorating details that include local culture. © DR