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Salin d’Aigues-Mortes: A Journey into the Pink Salt Flats

Discover the pink salt flats of Aigues-Mortes: a unique landscape where salt production meets stunning natural beauty and wildlife.

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Explore the Salin d’Aigues-Mortes, a sprawling salt production site next to the medieval city of Aigues-Mortes. Witness the mesmerizing pink waters, learn about salt harvesting, and discover the unique flora and fauna of this protected area. Enjoy guided tours, bike rides, and panoramic views of the Camargue region.

A brief summary to Salin d’Aigues-Mortes

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or biking on uneven terrain.
  • Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as there is little shade on the salt flats.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the Salin can be exposed to strong winds.
  • Consider booking a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the salt-making process and the local ecosystem.
  • Purchase Fleur de Sel de Camargue at the on-site shop for a taste of the region.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Aigues-Mortes city center, the Salin is approximately 2km away. You can take the local bus, with a stop near the Tour de Constance, which is a short walk to the entrance of the Salin. Alternatively, you can walk from the city center, which takes around 30 minutes. Bus tickets cost around €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Aigues-Mortes and can take you directly to the Salin d'Aigues-Mortes. A short taxi ride from the city center will cost approximately €10-€15. Uber is also available. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    The Salin d'Aigues-Mortes is located on Route du Grau du Roi (D979), just outside Aigues-Mortes. Follow the D979 from Aigues-Mortes towards Le Grau du Roi. The entrance to the Salin will be on your right. There is free parking available for visitors.

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Discover more about Salin d’Aigues-Mortes

The Salin d’Aigues-Mortes, located adjacent to the historic walled city of Aigues-Mortes in the Camargue region, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage. This vast salt production site, one of six operated by the Salins du Midi company, has been harvesting salt since antiquity. The name Aigues-Mortes itself translates to "dead waters," referring to the stagnant marshes that surround the town. Spanning 8,000 hectares, an area equivalent to the size of Paris, the Salin is a mesmerizing landscape of salt marshes, evaporation ponds, and dazzling pink waters. The pink hue is caused by a specific algae, Dunaliella salina, which thrives in the high salt concentration. Visitors can witness the various stages of salt production, from the initial intake of seawater to the formation of salt crystals. The Salin offers several ways to explore its unique environment. A popular option is the petit train, a tourist train that takes visitors on a guided tour through the salt flats. The tour provides insights into the salt-making process, the history of the Salin, and the ecological balance of the area. Visitors can also explore the site on foot or by bike, following marked trails that wind through the salt marshes. Guided walking tours are available, led by naturalist guides who share their knowledge of the local flora and fauna. The Salin d’Aigues-Mortes is not only a place of industrial activity but also a haven for wildlife. The salt marshes provide a habitat for numerous bird species, including the iconic pink flamingos, which can be seen in large numbers. The site is home to over 400 plant species, many of which are protected. Visitors can also climb a camelle (salt mountain) for panoramic views of Aigues-Mortes and the surrounding Camargue region. The site includes a shop where visitors can purchase various salt products, including the renowned Fleur de Sel de Camargue.

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