Le Petit Hôtel du Grand Large is a mid-range hotel at 25 Route d'Arles in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Bouches-du-Rhône, located in the Camargue natural park within the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region. Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is the principal town of the Camargue, a wild delta landscape of rice fields, flamingo-inhabited lagoons, and white horses that forms one of France's most distinctive natural environments. The town sits equidistant between Arles to the north and the broad Mediterranean beaches to the south.
The hotel is set on the Route d'Arles, the main approach road into the town from the north, and provides a comfortable base for exploring the Camargue on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback. Horse riding is available at several ranches within a short distance of the property, and the hotel can assist in arranging introductory excursions for guests unfamiliar with the Camargue tradition of gardian horsemanship.
The outdoor pool and terrace are the hotel's social centre during warm months. A bar serves local wines, including those from the Alpilles vineyards nearby, alongside regional dishes. Breakfast is included in most rates and features local produce including the distinctive black rice cultivated in the Camargue.
Rooms range from Standard and Superior categories to Family Rooms sleeping up to four guests, suited to families exploring the natural park with children. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, essential during Camargue summers when temperatures can reach 38°C.
The flamingo colonies of the Étang de Vaccarès, France's largest lagoon, lie about 20 kilometres north. The Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau, one of Europe's best birdwatching sites, is 5 kilometres north of the town.
Room types
- standard room
- superior room
- family room
Amenities
- pool
- terrace
- bar
- WiFi
- horse riding nearby
Location
25 Route d'Arles, 13460 Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, France
43.4531, 4.4278 View on map
Highlights
- Gateway hotel for exploring the Camargue, famous for wild white horses, flamingos, and black bulls
- Outdoor pool, terrace, and bar featuring local wines and Camargue black rice specialities
- Horse riding at nearby ranches can be arranged from the hotel, part of the Camargue gardian tradition
- Family rooms accommodating up to four guests, ideal for nature-based trips to the natural park
- 5 km from the Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau, one of Europe's premier birdwatching sites
Tips for visiting
- Birdwatching is best in the early morning from March to May, when flamingos are most active and summer crowds have not yet arrived; binoculars are recommended
- Book horse riding excursions a day or two in advance, especially in July and August when ranch schedules fill quickly
- The Pèlerinage des Gitans (Romani pilgrimage) in late May draws large crowds; accommodation books out months ahead for that period
- Bicycles can be hired in the town centre for exploring the Camargue's flat cycling tracks through the lagoon landscape
- Sunscreen and mosquito repellent are essential in summer; the wetlands generate significant mosquito activity from June to September
Accessibility
The hotel has ground-floor accessible rooms and a largely flat site consistent with the Camargue's flat terrain. The pool area and terrace are accessible without significant steps. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the hotel to confirm room configurations and outdoor area access.
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Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit the Camargue and this hotel?
Spring (March to May) offers mild temperatures, peak flamingo populations, and fewer crowds than summer. July and August are the warmest but also the most crowded and mosquito-active. Autumn is pleasant for walking and cycling.
How far is the hotel from the beaches?
The Mediterranean beaches of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer are approximately 1.5 kilometres from the Route d'Arles, a short cycle or taxi ride from the hotel. The beaches are wide and sandy with a wild, undeveloped character.
Is the Camargue natural park accessible on foot from the hotel?
The hotel is positioned at the edge of the town, and several nature paths begin within walking distance. More remote areas of the park require a bicycle or car; the hotel can advise on routes and hire options.
Does the hotel provide transfers from Arles?
Private transfers can be arranged on request. Public buses connect Arles and Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer several times daily; the journey takes about 45 minutes and arrives at the town centre bus stop, a short walk from the hotel.
Are flamingos visible near the hotel?
Flamingos are not typically visible from the hotel itself, but the Camargue is home to Europe's largest flamingo colony. The closest reliable viewing points are the Étang du Fangassier and the Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau, within 5–20 kilometres.