Hotels in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Arles
Updated 15 September 2026 · 6 real hotels
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is a small, distinctive coastal village at the southern tip of the Camargue, roughly 40 kilometres from central Arles. It suits travellers who want beaches, wildlife, and a relaxed Provencal atmosphere more than city sightseeing. It is a particularly good base for nature lovers, horse-riding enthusiasts, and anyone travelling by car.
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Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer sits at the edge of the Camargue wetlands, where the Rhone delta meets the Mediterranean Sea. The village has its own distinct character: a whitewashed fortified church, wide sandy beaches, a lively marina, and flamingos visible in nearby lagoons. Hotels here range from simple, affordable rooms steps from the seafront to four-star mas (traditional Provencal farmhouses) set among rice fields and salt marshes on the outskirts of the village. Rates reflect the seasonal nature of the area, peaking in summer when the beaches and the famous Gitan pilgrimage draw large crowds.
Staying in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer means you are not staying in Arles in the conventional urban sense. The two places share an administrative connection, but the village feels like its own world. Public transport between Saintes-Maries and central Arles is limited to infrequent bus services, so a car is strongly recommended. In return, guests get immediate access to Camargue nature reserves, horse treks across the marshes, cycling paths through the delta, and a quieter pace that the city of Arles cannot offer. Families, couples seeking a nature retreat, and photographers drawn to the landscape will find this corner of the region especially rewarding.
Where to stay on any budget?
A real selection, real prices, from the most affordable to the showstopper.
| Hotel | Area | Rating | Price / night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hôtel les Arcades ★★★ | Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer | ★ 4.5 | 86 €/nuit |
| Hôtel Mas de la Grenouillère ★★★ | Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer | ★ 4.4 | 88 €/nuit |
| Hôtel Mas le Sauvageon | Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer | ★ 4.3 | 99 €/nuit |
| Hôtel Le Dauphin Bleu ★★★ | Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer | ★ 4.5 | 109 €/nuit |
| Hôtel Le Neptune en Camargue ★★★ | Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer | ★ 4.1 | 109 €/nuit |
| Mas du Couvin - maison d'hôtes Camargue | Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer | ★ 5 | 269 €/nuit |
Frequently asked questions
Is Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer far from the centre of Arles?+
Yes, the village is approximately 40 kilometres south of central Arles, following the D570 road through the Camargue. By car the drive takes around 40 to 50 minutes depending on traffic. A seasonal bus service (the Cartreize network) connects the two, but departures are infrequent, so guests without a car will find their movement limited. If your priority is visiting Arles Roman monuments and museums daily, you may prefer a hotel closer to the city centre.
What type of traveller suits a stay in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?+
The area is best suited to travellers who want outdoor experiences: Camargue wildlife watching, beach access, horse riding, cycling, and birdwatching. Families with children tend to enjoy the sandy beaches and open spaces. Couples looking for a quieter, nature-focused break are well served by the four-star mas properties outside the village. It is less suitable for travellers whose main goal is exploring Arles city, Roman heritage, or urban dining, since all of that requires a significant drive.
What is the price range for hotels in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?+
Based on listed properties, nightly rates start at around 80 euros for a two-star hotel such as Hotel Camille and reach 284 euros for a four-star spa property such as Les Bains Gardians. Mid-range four-star mas options like Le Mas de Calabrun and Le Mas de Cocagne sit between 134 and 184 euros per night. Prices rise noticeably during July and August and around the Gitan pilgrimage dates in late May, so booking well in advance is advisable for those periods.
Are there things to do directly in or around Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer?+
Yes, the village and its surroundings offer a full range of activities independent of Arles city. The fortified Notre-Dame-de-la-Mer church is a central landmark with historical and religious significance. The beach runs along the southern edge of the village and is easily walkable from most hotels. Camargue nature reserves nearby support populations of flamingos, wild horses, and black bulls. Local outfitters offer guided horse treks, boat trips through the marshes, and bicycle rentals. The village also has restaurants, a small market, and shops concentrated around the main square and seafront promenade.
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