Mediterranean Provence & the Camargue — Sea, Stone & Wild Horizons
A private journey from Marseille and the Calanques to Roman Arles and the wild wetlands of the Camargue, balancing Mediterranean culture, a day at sea, art, wildlife and refined regional hotels.
An overview
Experience the essence of southern France as you travel privately from the vibrant port city of Marseille and the dramatic limestone Calanques, through charming Cassis, all the way to the Roman treasures of Arles and the wildlife-rich wetlands of the Camargue. Stay in handpicked hotels, explore historic quarters, cruise the Mediterranean by private boat, immerse yourself in local culture and art, and discover spectacular natural landscapes guided by local experts.
- 3 nights on the Mediterranean coast and 3 nights in Arles or the Camargue
- Private guided introduction to Marseille, from Le Panier and the Old Port to Mediterranean architecture
- Private boat through the Calanques with a professional skipper and seasonal swimming stops
- Cassis harbor, Cap Canaille views and a relaxed coastal lunch
- Roman Arles, Van Gogh connections and curated contemporary art experiences
- Private 4x4 Camargue safari with a local expert, wildlife observation and regional traditions
Day by Day
Arrival in Marseille — The Old Port and the Mediterranean
Arrive in Marseille, where a private driver will transfer you to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a gentle orientation walk along the Old Port and waterfront with panoramic views toward Notre-Dame de la Garde. The evening is at your leisure, with dining recommendations tailored to your mood—from elegant rooftops to casual seafood spots overlooking the harbor.
Marseille — Le Panier, MUCEM & a City Shaped by the Sea
Set out with a licensed guide for a private walk through Le Panier, Marseille’s oldest district, discovering La Major Cathedral, MUCEM’s waterfront, and the historic Old Port. Learn about the city's Greek origins, maritime trade, artisan crafts, and vibrant multicultural identity. The afternoon offers options such as exploring MUCEM, taking a food-focused walk, or enjoying free time at the hotel. Families can opt for a more visual, story-driven route.
The Calanques by Private Boat
Embark on a private boat cruise with an English-speaking skipper from Marseille or Cassis, depending on your hotel and sea conditions. Glide beneath the Calanques' soaring limestone cliffs and visit coves like Sormiou, Morgiou, Sugiton, Port-Miou, Port-Pin, or En-Vau. Swim and snorkel in secluded spots, weather permitting. Choose a full-day cruise with a simple Mediterranean lunch on board or a shorter outing with time to relax seaside or at your hotel.
Cassis & Cap Canaille — Then Onward to Arles
Spend the morning wandering Cassis’s pastel harbor and historic streets, followed by a relaxed coastal lunch. Afterwards, drive along scenic viewpoints toward Cap Canaille, home to stunning ochre cliffs above the Mediterranean. Continue to Arles for hotel check-in and enjoy a free evening—whether indulging in a spa treatment, exploring the hotel’s garden, or dining in the historic city center.
Arles — Roman Heritage, Van Gogh & Contemporary Art
On a private guided walk, explore Arles’s Roman amphitheater, ancient theater, winding old streets, and Rhône River setting. Interwoven are stories of Van Gogh’s time in the city. Depending on your interests and what's open, visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh, LUMA Arles, or other cultural venues. Families may follow a route focusing on the amphitheater, visual tales, and the interplay of ancient and modern architecture.
The Camargue — 4x4 Safari, Wildlife & Delta Traditions
Venture into the Camargue for a private 4x4 safari with a specialist guide, exploring marshes, lagoons, reed beds, and open plains. Observe the region’s iconic white horses, black bulls, and—when in season—flamingos. Visit Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer or another scenic delta spot for lunch by the sea. Discover local rice cultivation, salt landscapes, and the unique traditions shaped by water and wind.
Departure or Continue Along the Mediterranean
After breakfast, your private driver will shuttle you to Marseille Airport, Avignon TGV, Nîmes station, Aix-en-Provence, or your next destination. The journey can be extended to the Luberon, the Alpilles, the French Riviera, or with more time in Cassis or the Camargue for deeper relaxation or further exploration.
A bespoke proposal can be tailored to your dates and party.
Recommended hotels on the Mediterranean coast and in Arles or the Camargue
This itinerary is best experienced with two distinct stays: three nights in Marseille or Cassis and three nights in Arles or the Camargue. We recommend the following properties for their superior locations, amenities, and atmosphere. Final hotel selection is tailored to your preferences, needs, and availability.
Marseille & Cassis
A grand five-star hotel in a historic building above the Old Port, chosen for its panoramic terraces, central setting, full-service amenities, and easy access to Le Panier and the waterfront.
A five-star hotel between the village and the Calanques, boasting exceptional views toward Cap Canaille, with sea terraces, pools, spa and direct access to the Mediterranean coastline.
Arles & Camargue
A uniquely styled hotel in the heart of Arles, celebrated for its striking art-driven interiors, historic location, and proximity to Roman monuments, galleries, and restaurants.
A refined private mansion offering characterful architecture blended with contemporary luxury, featuring a tranquil garden, pool, spa, and a discreet residential feel in a peaceful setting.
A five-star boutique estate at the heart of a working Camargue domain, renowned for its authentic sense of place, wildlife-rich surroundings, regional traditions, and serene countryside atmosphere.
Final property and room category are confirmed in your private proposal and are subject to availability. Coastal and Camargue properties can be highly seasonal, and private boat schedules depend on safe sea conditions.
In your journey
- 3 nights on the Mediterranean coast and 3 nights in Arles or the Camargue, with daily breakfast
- Private arrival, intercity, and departure transfers, plus transportation for scheduled touring
- English-speaking licensed guides, driver-guides, skipper, and safari expert as described
- Private guided exploration of Marseille
- Private Calanques boat excursion with skipper, safety equipment, and soft drinks
- Private Cassis and Cap Canaille coastal touring
- Private guided exploration of Arles with selected reserved admissions
- Private 4x4 Camargue safari and nature interpretation
- Seasonal swimming or snorkeling equipment when provided by the confirmed boat operator
- Restaurant recommendations and concierge support throughout the planning process
Worth knowing
- International or domestic flights and rail tickets
- Lunches and dinners unless specifically stated
- Hotel city tax, personal expenses, and minibar charges
- Optional spa treatments, additional museums, and experiences not listed in the confirmed proposal
- Personal purchases at markets, boutiques, and galleries
- Gratuities for guides, drivers, skippers, hotel staff, and local hosts
- Travel insurance and extensions not listed in the confirmed itinerary
A sense of place
Questions, answered
Anything else on your mind? Speak to a concierge directly.
+1 210 303 9960Yes. All transportation, guides, boat, and the scheduled safari are arranged exclusively for your party unless otherwise requested.
A journey rewritten in your name
Share your dates, your party and the moments that matter. We'll return a private proposal within 48 hours.
