Le Grau-du-Roi can be explored through several specific themes: the protected coastal landscape of Plage de l’Espiguette, the history of the lighthouse and fishing, and events and activities at sea. When planning your trip, you can first consider whether nature, local history or a particular event date should shape your stay.
Coastal Landscape at Espiguette
Plage de l’Espiguette is part of the Grand Site de France de la Camargue gardoise. It covers 534 hectares of protected natural area and ten kilometres of undeveloped coastline; the dunes reach heights of up to twelve metres. These figures illustrate two aspects of the landscape: the protected natural area and the long stretch of undeveloped coast. The beach is about ten minutes from the centre of Le Grau-du-Roi. If coastal scenery and natural landscapes are a priority for your trip, you can plan Espiguette as a focus in its own right.
Lighthouse and Fishing History
The Phare de l’Espiguette has been listed as a historic monument since 2012 and lies in a protected, classified landscape area. It was commissioned in 1869 and today stands more than 700 metres from the sea, following shifts in the wind and sand. The lighthouse’s history and its current distance from the sea are among the distinctive features of this coastal town. Climbing the Phare involves 111 steps.
The Maison du phare houses a permanent 60 m² exhibition on the history of the fishing port. The visit includes three rooms covering the history of the lighthouse, a day in the life of the fishing community, and portraits of fishermen. The exhibition thus brings together the history of the lighthouse and different insights into fishing.
Events Throughout the Year
Les Graulinades is a popular annual public event that is free to attend. Residents and visitors gather for live cooking demonstrations and tastings. Check the specific dates and programme before your trip. Another recurring tradition is the Abrivado des plages, held every year in March, which reenacts the driving of bulls along the beach.
Toro-piscines and Courses camarguaises are held at the Arènes du Grau du Roi. The schedule may change, so check the dates for your travel period. The events have different scheduling details: March is specified for the Abrivado des plages, while you should check the dates for Graulinades and the arena events.
Fishing, the Swing Bridge and Activities at Sea
At stalls located right on the quays, small-scale fishermen sell the day’s catch every morning throughout the year. If the morning fish market is important to your plans, check the current arrangements in advance. In addition to fishing as an exhibition topic, the sale of the catch is another aspect of local life associated with the town.
The swing bridge opens and closes to allow recreational and fishing vessels to pass. Opening times and procedures may vary; if this affects your daily plans, check the latest information. Activities at sea associated with Le Grau-du-Roi include sailing, kitesurfing, wingfoiling, stand-up paddleboarding, rowing and kayaking. Which activities are available depends on providers and conditions. You can therefore consider the coastal landscape, local fishing and maritime activities as distinct priorities when planning your trip.
Discover more destinations: La Barben, Lançon-de-Provence, Meyreuil, Carnoux, Mouriès, Cassis, Luynes, Rognes.
For the broader travel overview: Bouches Du Rhone.
