Tag: Camargue
Traditional Les Saintes Maries de la Mer
by The Bogtrotter on Mar.08, 2009, under France, French Experiences
Les Saintes Maries de la Mer is one of those places whose name alone conjures up images of legends from the past. Set in the heart of the Camargues region of southern France, this coastal town is steeped in history and folklore. The local Camargue culture is infused with gypsy traditions, and the highlight of the local calendar is the annual gypsy pilgrimage to the town in May.
View from the roof of the church
Looking out over Les Saintes Marie de la Mer
For more information visit the local tourist office web site.
Bull Running in the Camargue
by The Bogtrotter on Jan.18, 2009, under France, French Experiences
Running the bulls through Le Grau Du Roi
If you have ever wanted to chase a bull down the road then this is your chance!
The Camargue region of Southern France is one of the last remaining wild areas of Europe. Across the salt marshlands you will see jet black horses mingling with the famous white Camargue horses. The area is full of ranches (manades or mas) where bulls are bred for their meat, but also to play with.
All the local villages have an arena, whils Nimes and Arles maintain their impressive Roman arenas. But unlike in Spain, the French prefer not to kill the bulls. Throughout the summer “Course Camarguaise” are held, where the competitors win prizes by grabbing ribbons from between the horns of the bulls.
Before and after these events some of the bulls are run through the streets, guides by the local “guardians” on horseback. The locals have one aim – distract the horses and guardians, and allow the bull to roam loose through the town.
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My experiences and travels through Britain and France. Find out about places I have visited, things I have seen and done - from country walks to garden visits.
