France’s global presence far surpasses that of Spain, Italy, and Mexico.
Each year, Paris welcomes a staggering 100 million visitors, drawn from around the globe to behold the Eiffel Tower’s dazzling nighttime display and bask in the grandeur of royal residences like the Palace of Versailles.
While residing in Paris, I’ve gained insight into this iconic city and beyond – an experience that has taught me that despite its widespread popularity, significant parts of France remain off the beaten path.
As international tourists often prioritize visits to iconic Paris and a few sun-kissed French Riviera towns, many overlook the breathtaking, whimsical destinations that remain under their radar?
During our recent expedition to the picturesque Camargue region, we stumbled upon a captivating gem that left us awestruck – a true natural wonder, surprisingly devoid of international tourists.
Is this secluded haven the ultimate French treasure waiting to be unearthed?
Tucked away in southern France lies Aigues-Mortes, a medieval gem often overlooked by tourists flocking to more popular destinations.
While popular destinations like Nice, Avignon, and St Tropez attract millions of tourists annually, there are hidden gems in France that the locals would prefer to keep under wraps.
Nestled in the heart of historic Camargue, this small settlement stands out against the backdrop of France’s renowned wetlands, often overlooked by tourists who hastily pass through en route to Montpellier along the N113.
Intrigued by the prospect of exploring Europe’s premier birdwatching and wildlife-spotting destination, I might just pen a standalone article on this nationwide playground, where one can marvel at elegant red flamingos and majestic wild ponies in their natural habitat. However, let us focus on Aigues-Mortes for now.
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Maritime channels, Aigues-Mortes has long been an important transportation hub for boats traveling between the coast and inland destinations; historically, it occupied a strategic position at the heart of Europe’s cultural heritage.
As I navigated alongside the imposing medieval ramparts, uncertainty reigned; yet, a short while later, I discovered that this unconventional city, nestled within the salt pans of Camargue, was merely one of the many unexpected gems struggling to survive in modern-day France.
Why Is Aigues-Mortes So Unique?
While instantly recognizable as Mont-Saint-Michel may be a challenge for some, it’s undeniable that the fortified city of Aigues-Mortes boasts an impressive, well-preserved medieval curtain wall encompassing its square shape, further secured by robust towers and strategic gateways.
Chivalric relationship material, you know?
As you wander through the enchanting Old Town, a picturesque promenade lined with identical rock houses is distinguished by vibrant rose plans and kaleidoscopic window shutters, transporting you effortlessly to a bygone era.
Investing extended periods in leisurely exploration is a rewarding experience, as you’re likely to stumble upon one or two hidden courtyards featuring centuries-old fountains, surrounded by souvenir stores offering authentic Camargue salt, fragrant lavender goods, and distinctive local craftsmanship.
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Walking through Europe’s castles, one striking feature stands out: the moats that surround the ancient walls. If you’ve visited a fair share of these historic strongholds before, you might already be familiar with this iconic sight – or perhaps it’ll still catch your eye even if you’re numb to the manmade wonders of European history, as the medieval allure of these waterways remains undeniable.
While these shallow pools of water, typically tinged with a salmon hue due to the proliferation of microscopic algae, are often mistakenly referred to as ponds, they are in fact saltpans by definition.
Attempting to swim without proper precautions is extremely hazardous and unlikely to result in a safe experience.
It’s rare to find oneself with the opportunity to behold a medieval citadel situated atop a lake, its beauty undiminished by the serene stillness of the surrounding water. My friends, let us cherish this moment.
Discovering the best ways to experience Aigues-Mortes? Here are the top 3 most readily useful tourist strategies for this charming French city:
1. Explore the historic town walls and gates: Take a leisurely stroll along the medieval ramparts, offering breathtaking views of the Camargue region and the Mediterranean Sea.
2. Visit the Saint Louis Church: This beautiful 17th-century church boasts an impressive baroque architecture and stunning stained-glass windows.
Visiting Aigues-Mortes is a must-do experience, and one of its most iconic attractions is the Salin d’Aigues-Mortes, a historic saline that serves as the gateway to the largest salt-marsh in the entire Mediterranean basin, where approximately annually, tonnes of salt are produced.
As you seek unique ways to capture the essence of Aigues-Mortes, consider exploring beyond flavored sodium and instead hop aboard a vintage tourist train that winds its way through narrow lanes and picturesque saltpans.
On-site, a compact yet fascinating museum awaits visitors, offering an additional attraction. Moreover, adventurous souls can ascend the salt mound to revel in a panoramic view of the quintessential Camargue scenery, boasting a truly breathtaking panorama.
The visit lingers for just over an hour, and that’s all it costs – a mere €1.
Around this must-do destination lies accessing the ramparts and their adjacent Constance Tower: yes, you can easily explore these structures, remembering to bring a refillable bottle of water and a portable power bank for your limited-battery phone, as you’ll likely be taking pictures at every step along the way.
A stay in Aigues-Mortes offers an array of activities to keep you engaged for two days, so consider planning ahead; we opted for Resort L’Escale, situated in the heart of the Inner City’s walled Old Town, with rooms starting at $56 per person for a double occupancy.
While room rates in Aigues-Mortes typically range from $113 to $160, this is significantly more affordable than the staggering $208 to $342 seen in Paris during the Olympic season.
As you indulge in the pleasures of sampling various mozzarella cheeses amidst the scorching sun and savoring a refreshing glass of Sable de Camargue Rosé, the picturesque Main Street unfolds before you, leading from Porte de la Gardette toward the historic Notre-Dame des Sablons Church.
Savor rustic, wood-smoked cuisine reminiscent of bygone eras at the esteemed Chez Coco, where traditional cooking methods evoke a sense of time-honored heritage.
They present freshly crafted pizzas and pastas catering to those seeking comfort food, as well as adventurous diners like yourself, who can indulge in their finest andouillette sausages paired with succulent, tender lamb neck that simply melts in your mouth.
Should you consider veganism? The allure of a serene, tree-shaded alfresco retreat can be matched only by the divine union of fresh greens and crispy toast on sweltering summer afternoons.
In Aigues-Mortes, France, the culinary star shines brightly on seafood, particularly its renowned mussels, which can be savored fresh from local vendors in town. Be sure to indulge in salted mussels to suit your taste buds, and when possible, complement them with an anchovy-based dipping sauce for a delightful bread accompaniment.
The picturesque town of Annecy, affectionately known as the “Venice of the Alps,” is undoubtedly one of the most welcoming places in all of France.
The average price range for dining at restaurants in Paris is typically $30-35 per person, considering a small main course and one cup of wine or a similarly priced beverage, with exceptional service being the norm; as someone who resides in Paris, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve encountered excellent service from waitstaff.
Aigues-Mortes stands out from the typical big-city experience, free from the trappings of fast-paced lifestyles, traffic congestion, and hustle and bustle. Not surprisingly, when visitors arrive, they often find themselves in a more relaxed state than Parisians overall; it’s little wonder that Aigues-Mortes has been highly rated by…
While the charm of Aigues-Mortes’ friendly residents and unique character are undeniable, it’s a destination that has retained its distinctiveness in my experience of exploring France – a haven that still feels off the beaten path for international tourists.
Simple tips to Attain Aigues-Mortes
The nearest airport to get to the right destination is Montpellier Airport (MPL), which provides a direct connection to the city it’s named after and operates seasonal budget-friendly flights from various European regions, including London (Gatwick), Copenhagen, Berlin, and Paris.
Currently situated in southern France, the town offers a convenient stop with direct links to Nîmes via the SCNF-TER service, which takes approximately 53 minutes to complete the journey.
Traveling through southern France? When visiting Montpellier, you can effortlessly reach Aigues-Mortes, with a necessary stopover in Nîmes. This journey typically takes around 1 hour and 28 minutes, with fares starting from $7.48 for a one-way ticket, offering the shortest transfer times available.
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