Gardians Heritage & Beaches of Camargue
- Experience a tri Camarguais, or bull sorting, along with a third-generation Gardian and learn about the century-old traditions of the Manade and its horsemen.
- Gallop with free-spirited, white Camargue horses across wild beaches and wide-open marshlands, as flamingos, great egrets, and avocets grace the landscape.
- Stay in a beautifully renovated 17th-century Mas, nestled in the heart of the Camargue Regional Natural Park, and discover its Chef’s refined take on Provençal cuisine.
Centrally located in Camargue, the Mas de Peint is easily accessible by plane or train from Paris, to the cities of Arles, Montpellier, and Marseille.
On your arrival day, your driver will meet you at Arles train station and transport you to the heart of Camargue, where your accommodation awaits. The journey to the Mas de Peint typically takes 35-minutes from Arles. Transfers from Montpellier or Marseille can also be arranged upon inquiry.
Throughout your journey, a private chauffeur will accompany you between the different sites, accommodations, and riding locations, for you to enjoy a relaxed horse riding tour in Camargue.
The Gardians Heritage & Beaches of Camargue is a private ride designed to welcome intermediate to experienced riders; comfortable riding at all 3 paces and cantering in open nature.
You will spend between 2 to 4 hours in the saddle each day, with the native and free-spirited Camargue horses.
If you are a beginner rider, we are happy to craft a tailor-made itinerary according to your riding background.
Non-riders are also welcome to join the journey: While equestrians explore the trails in the morning, we offer tailored alternative experiences including 4x4 safaris, birdwatching, and more - ensuring every participant enjoys a memorable and personalized experience.
Contact us to design your ideal Camargue riding escape.
We exclusively offer private horseback riding holidays in Camargue, allowing you to design a fully tailored journey for you and your family or friends. This private approach gives you complete flexibility to ride at your own pace and enjoy a truly personalized experience:
You can customize various aspects of your journey, including the travel dates, number of riding days, time in the saddle, and choice of optional activities.
Tell us about your dream Camargue horse riding holiday, and let us bring it to life: Contact us to plan your tailor-made journey.
When you reach out through our booking or contact form, our team will provide you with a comprehensive brochure of your chosen journey. This booklet includes the full itinerary, details about accommodations, rates, and available departure dates (along with many pictures to give you a glimpse of the ride!).
If this horseback riding in Camargue adventure aligns with your wishes and you would like to join, we will send you a detailed form to complete. This helps us understand your riding level, background, and experience, ensuring you meet the required skill level for the ride. This step not only prioritizes safety but also guarantees an enjoyable experience for the entire riding group.
Once our team and riding guide confirm your suitability, you can secure your saddle by paying a 50% deposit. For your convenience, this can be easily completed via our secure payment link or through a traditional bank transfer.
One of France’s most distinctive regions, the Camargue is renowned for its free-spirited white horses, powerful black bulls as well as its untouched nature reserve, home to an extraordinary variety of birdlife. At the heart of the Delta Rhône, the Gardians carry on a rich equestrian heritage, which has been preserved through the centuries, and shapes a unique way of life that still thrives today.
Ride between land and sea with the Camargue emblematic white horses, galloping freely along the endless Mediterranean beaches as flamingos and herons rise above the surrounding marshes. Discover a traditional manade, where Gardians breed and work with their herds of horses and black bulls, maintaining a remarkable bond that has been passed down through generations.
Stay in a beautifully restored 17th-century Mas, nestled in the heart of the Camargue Regional Natural Park, and discover the region through its flavours - from gourmet lunches paired with local wines to a Roman-inspired brunch in Arles and memorable candle-lit Chef dinners.
A unique experience within Camargue’s one-of-a-kind natural, cultural, and equestrian heritage.
THE SCHEDULE
☼ A.M – Upon arrival by train in Arles (or Marseille, Montpellier - upon request), your private driver will transfer you to your home for the next three nights - Le Mas de Peint - nestled in the heart of the Camargue Regional Nature Park. The journey takes approximately 35 minutes.
Guests are welcome at the Mas de Peint from 3 p.m. onwards.
☽ P.M – After settling into your room, discover the timeless charm of Mas de Peint, a 17th-century estate set within a 500-hectare property. Wander through the gardens, unwind by the swimming pool, or simply enjoy the tranquillity of the estate. In the evening, dine at Mas’s gastronomic restaurant, featuring local and seasonal produce.
☽ Dinner & Night at the Mas de Peint
☼ A.M. – After breakfast, visit the Manade Jacques Bon, a working Camargue bull and horse ranch for more than 3 generations. Meet your horse for a tri camarguais (approximately 1h30), following the Gardians on horseback to gather and sort the bulls, offering an authentic glimpse into one of the Camargue’s enduring equestrian traditions. Discover the traditions of the Manade and learn about the breeding, training, and handling of the region’s distinctive black bulls and white Camargue horses.
☽ P.M. – After your first ride, your driver will take you to Mas de Valériole, a family-run estate whose history dates back to 1426, for a gourmet lunch paired with its selection of wines. Discover its organic vineyards and rice fields, while learning about the estate’s long-standing farming traditions and family heritage. Then, return to Mas de Peint to rest and prepare for your evening dinner at the gastronomic restaurant La Chassagnette.
☽ Night at the Mas de Peint
☼ A.M. – Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the Mas before a 45-minute transfer to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where you will meet your riding guide for a 3h30 beach ride. Ride along the wide, sandy shores of the Mediterranean, with plenty of opportunities for exhilarating gallops. After the ride, enjoy lunch at your leisure in Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a former fishing village, full of history and charm.
☽ P.M. – After lunch, continue immersing yourself in Camargue heritage with the famous course camarguaise. Watch skilled raseteurs attempt to remove ribbons and rosettes from the horns of the Camargue bulls, in a lively display of agility, speed, and tradition. Then, return to Mas de Peint for your final evening, with a candle-lit dinner served at the Mas.
☽ Dinner & Night at the Mas de Peint
☼ A.M. – Begin the day with breakfast at the Mas before heading to Arles for a guided visit of the city center, exploring the Roman Theatre, the Arles Amphitheatre, and the remains of the Roman Circus. Discover how these ancient monuments later became fortresses, with local families once living within the amphitheatre’s walls. Continue with a Roman-inspired brunch, featuring 12 dishes inspired by the cuisine of the Roman emperors and created by an Apicius-trained chef.
☽ P.M. – After lunch, your driver will be ready to transfer you to the train station of Arles for your departure.
What our riders say
Optional activities
Accommodations
Nestled in the heart of the Camargue Regional Natural Park, Le Mas de Peint is a 12,000-acre estate that has been home to the Bon family, renowned Camargue horsemen, for several generations. Dating back to the 17th century, the Mas has been beautifully restored, offering a subtle blend of comfort and refinement while preserving the Camargue’s heritage and attachment to horses.
Surrounded by gardens, marshlands, and open fields where mares graze freely with their foals, the estate offers an idyllic setting to slow down and embrace the peaceful rhythm of the countryside. The swimming pool and sun-drenched terrace provide the perfect setting to unwind, whether with a refreshing swim or a sundowner overlooking the surrounding landscape. Each evening, the estate’s Chef welcomes guests for a gastronomic immersion to celebrate the flavors of the Camargue and fresh produce from the garden, served in an intimate and elegant setting.
Just a few meters from the estate lies the renowned Manade Jacques Bon, where horses and bulls roam across the domain. Here, third-generation Gardian Frédéric Bon continues the traditions of the Manade, preserving the unique relationship between the horsemen, their horses, and the iconic black bulls of the Camargue.
MAS DE PEINT
Authentic, Peaceful & Intimate
THE CAMARGUE:
The Camargue is a unique natural and cultural region in the South of France, formed some 6,000 years ago in the delta of the Rhône River. Set between the river and the Mediterranean Sea, this extraordinary landscape of marshes, lagoons, salt flats, and open plains has developed into one of Europe’s most remarkable natural environments.
Recognised as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve since 1977, it is home to an exceptional diversity of wildlife, including flamingos, herons, and the emblematic white horses and black bulls of the Camargue. The region has also developed a strong identity influenced by its landscapes and the people who have lived and worked here for generations. Camargue red rice cultivation, salt production, and the breeding of Camargue bulls and horses have all played an important role in its history and way of life.
The Gardians, the traditional horsemen of the Camargue, continue to work with the region’s bulls and horses at manades across the delta. Their traditions are celebrated through local festivals and equestrian events, keeping alive a distinctive way of life that has become one of the defining symbols of the Camargue.
THE CAMARGUE HORSE, MADE OF SALT, MISTRAL & COURAGE
The Camargue horse is one of the region’s most iconic symbols, and a source of great pride for the Camarguais (inhabitants of Camargue). Considered one of the oldest horse breeds in the world, its origins remain for now unknown. Small, hardy, and remarkably sure-footed, the Camargue horse was traditionally used for agricultural and pastoral work, especially for harvesting. Over the centuries, the breed adapted to the extreme conditions of the Mediterranean climate, developing exceptional strength, agility, courage and resilience, hence the poetic expression to describe the Camargue horse as “made of mistral, salt, and courage.”
These outstanding qualities have made the Camargue horse the ideal working companion for the Gardians (cowboys of Camargue), allowing them to navigate the marshes safely while managing herds of powerful black bulls. Nowadays, most Camargue horses are raised in semi-freedom within manades - traditional estates where herds of bulls and horses roam freely across the wetlands and pastures of the Camargue. They still remain loyal partners for the Gardians, as well as wonderful companions for exploring the wild landscapes of the Camargue on horseback.
Frequently asked questions
The Gardians Heritage & Beaches of Camargue is a private horseback riding holiday in the Camargue designed to welcome intermediate to experienced riders; comfortable riding at all 3 paces and cantering in open nature.
You will spend between 2 to 4 hours in the saddle each day, with the native and free-spirited Camargue horses.
If you are a beginner rider, we are happy to craft a tailor-made horseback riding in the Camargue itinerary according to your riding background.
Non-riders are also welcome to join the journey: While equestrians explore the trails in the morning, we offer tailored alternative experiences including 4x4 safaris, birdwatching, and more - ensuring every participant enjoys a memorable and personalized experience.
If you would like to explore other luxury horseback riding experiences in France, we invite you to discover our weekend rides, including the Abbey to Castle Getaway and the Imperial Weekend Getaway, or embark on a longer adventure with our Loire Valley Castles Tour.
If you find yourself uncertain about your suitability for this ride, we are here to help and assist you. Please feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, and we will be more than happy to guide you.
Yes - Our commitment lies in curating tailor-made experiences that cater to the unique preferences and needs of each of our guests. This includes accommodating dietary restrictions and allergies to ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey.
Prior to embarking on a horse riding holiday or day trip, we request guests to complete a comprehensive form. This form allows us to gather essential information, not only about dietary restrictions and allergies but also about your gastronomic preferences. By doing so, we can craft an experience that not only meets but exceeds your expectations.
Your safety, well-being and satisfaction are at the forefront of our personalized service, making every ride with us a truly unforgettable experience.
For our horseback riding vacations, the general guideline sets the minimum age for participants at 6 years old. However, age restrictions can vary based on the destination and individual circumstances. We take into consideration factors such as size, stamina, and riding ability, as well as the dynamics of the group.
At the heart of our philosophy is a commitment to providing tailor-made experiences for each guest. We understand that everyone is unique, and our goal is to design experiences that cater to individual preferences and needs.
If you find yourself unsure whether a horse-riding holiday is the perfect fit for your family, particularly when considering the participation of your children, do not hesitate to reach out to us. We understand that safety and comfort are paramount, especially when it comes to younger riders. We will be more than happy to assist you in making an informed decision.
Feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, with any questions or concerns, and we will work together to ensure that your horse-riding adventure becomes a cherished and memorable experience for every member of your family.
When gearing up for your horseback riding trip in France, packing the right essentials is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Each horse-riding holiday is unique, and your packing list will be influenced by factors such as the weather conditions, the ride’s difficulty, the destination’s disease risks and sometimes dress code requirements for riding in nature. Before embarking on your journey, we provide guests with a comprehensive list tailored to their specific horse-riding holiday.
We have outlined a typical packing list designed to cover the basics for riders:
For the time in the saddle:
- Riding Pants: Choose the fabric based on the weather of the destination, ensuring comfort and adaptability.
- Riding Boots and Chaps: If not provided on-site, these are essential for a secure and comfortable ride.
- Lightweight Riding Helmet: Ensure you have a suitable helmet for protection, especially if not provided on-site.
- Sports Bras for Women: Prioritize support and comfort during rides.
- Long Socks: Opt for woolen ones in colder weather to keep your feet warm and cozy.
- Button-Up Long-Sleeved Cotton Shirts: Choose thermal options in cold weather for added warmth.
- Fleece or Wool Jumper: Layering is key, and a jumper provides insulation during cooler rides.
- Waterproof Windbreaker Jacket: Be prepared for unexpected weather changes with a reliable, waterproof jacket.
- Waterproof Over Trousers: Protect yourself from rain and wind with these essential over trousers.
- Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from sun, wind, and dust for a clear and comfortable ride.
- Riding Gloves: Ensure a good grip and protect your hands during the ride.
- Filtered Water Bottle: Stay hydrated with clean water throughout your journey.
- Sunscreen: Guard against sun exposure, especially for extended rides under the open sky.
For after the ride:
- Hat and Gloves : Stay warm during chilly evenings after your ride.
- Sun Hat: Shield yourself from the sun during the afternoon visits.
- Soft Shoes: Slip into comfortable footwear after hours in riding boots.
- Comfortable Loungewear: Relax and unwind post-ride with comfortable clothing.
- First-Aid Necessities: Be prepared with a basic first-aid kit, based on your medical needs.
- Paracetamol: For general pain relief and fever.
- Gastro-Stop Medication: To address digestive issues if they arise.
- Nurofen or Ibuprofen: In case of muscle soreness for a comfortable recovery.
- Lip Balm: Keep your lips moisturized, especially in varying weather conditions.
On this riding adventure to the Camargue, you will be welcomed and guided by passionate guides, who are fluent in English and French.
For Gardians Heritage & Beaches of Camargue Ride, travel insurance and medical coverage is not mandatory. However, we highly recommend securing travel insurance and medical coverage for your convenience and peace of mind.
Should you decide to purchase insurance, please ensure that it covers personal liability, medical expenses (including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation), accidental injury, and holiday cancellation. The coverage must be valid from the moment your booking is confirmed until the end of your trip.
While travel and medical insurance are not included in our standard packages, we are happy to arrange it for you at a fee of 5% of the total journey cost.
We recognize the importance of being prepared for the unexpected, and, upon request, we will provide a comprehensive insurance package to ensure you can travel with confidence.
If you have any questions about the insurance options available, please don’t hesitate to reach out via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp. Your safety and peace of mind are our highest priorities.
To confirm a ride’s booking with us, guests have the possibility of sending a deposit through two payment options: Traditional bank transfer or Secure payment link.
Traditional bank transfer provides a secure and direct way to process payments.
Alternatively, secure payment link offers more convenience but usually include additional card payment fees.
We acknowledge that unforeseen events may occur and we are committed to providing our guests with a fair and transparent cancellation policy. It is important to note that our cancellation policy may be subject to variations based on the conditions of our guiding partners.
If you need to cancel your reservation, the following terms apply:
- Cancellation for the group:
- The deposit is non-refundable.
- Cancellation made 45 days or more before departure: 50% of the remaining balance will be refunded.
- Cancellations made less than 45 days before departure: Unfortunately, no refunds can be provided.
- Cancellation for one/part of the group:
- The deposit is non-refundable.
- Cancellation made 45 days or more before departure: 50% of the remaining balance will be due (alternatively, the remaining balance may be redistributed among the other participants in the group).
- Cancellations made less than 45 days before departure: Unfortunately, no refunds can be provided.
Please note: A booking fee of €150 per participant will be deducted from all refunds.
Feel free to contact us via our Contact form, email, or WhatsApp, and we will be more than happy to guide you.
As in most of our horse riding vacations in Europe, the Gardians Heritage & Beaches of Camargue Ride accommodates riders weighing up to 90 kg / 200 Ibs.
This limit ensures the safety and well-being of our horses, as they cannot comfortably carry more weight.
A glimpse into the Gardians Heritage & Beaches of Camargue Ride
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