Salins du Midi Guide
Salins du Midi: Where Salt Meets the Sky Guide
Prepare to be amazed by the Salins du Midi, the vast salt marshes of the Camargue! This isn't just a place to harvest salt; it's a surreal landscape of pink-hued waters, geometric salt mounds, and a fascinating industrial history. The Salins du Midi offer a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing the power of nature and the ingenuity of human endeavor. Salt production in the Camargue dates back to ancient times, with the Romans being among the first to exploit the area's natural resources. The Salins du Midi, as they exist today, were developed in the 19th century, transforming the landscape into a highly efficient salt-producing operation. The process involves channeling seawater into shallow basins, where the sun and wind evaporate the water, leaving behind crystallized salt. The pink color of the water is due to a specific type of algae that thrives in the salty environment. Take a guided tour of the Salins du Midi to learn about the salt-making process, the history of the site, and the unique ecosystem that supports it. You can explore the salt marshes by foot, bike, or even by a small tourist train. Don't forget your camera – the vibrant colors and geometric patterns of the salt mounds make for stunning photographs. And of course, you can purchase locally harvested Camargue salt to take home as a souvenir. The salt is known for its unique flavor and is used in many regional dishes.
Transportation
From Arles, take the D36 towards Salin-de-Giraud. The Salins du Midi are located near Salin-de-Giraud. Look for signs indicating the entrance to the salt marshes. Check local bus schedules from Arles to Salin-de-Giraud, though service may be limited.