DAY 25 27 June La Camargue

Today we explored the Camargue area near the coast, to visit the fortified Mediterranean town of Aigues-Mortes. This area has the Camargue horses, reputed to be one of the oldest breed of horse in the world.  They are white horses and are used to herd the black bulls (they call all cows bulls). The French cowboys are called gardians.

The walls of Arles and moat and adjacent canal.

The walled city of Arles and the monument to the French king, Louis IX, was so loved he was made a saint. Our tour guide told us it was because he was such a just king, but Wikipedia states that he abolished the salt tax for the town, which seemed to be the main income of the town – you decide. He died of disease during his second crusade.

Inside the church, there wasn't a lot to see as after the 1791 French Revolution, the church was used as a warehouse for a while.

We also were able to see flamingos who inhabit the area and we managed to get some good shots. The pinker they are, the healthier they are. It is based on the zooplankton they eat, as they are filter feeders and have to continually shake their head back and forth. The mirror reflections were impressive.

This farmhouse complex had an unusual looking silo, which looked like it could be a missile silo, but we were told that it was for breeding "pigeons".

It was another hot day - over 40 degrees.  But it was a dry heat!

Tonight, a Camargue gypsy band performed on board.