Gîtes and life on a Camargue ranch

Located in Le Sambuc, in the heart of the Camargue, between Arles and Salin-de-Giraud, just 20 km from Arles city center, the Domaine de Paulon is one of the oldest farmhouses in the region. Its origins are believed to date back to the Middle Ages, when it was supposedly built by the Knights Templar before coming under the authority of the Order of the Hospitallers of Saint John of Jerusalem, the future Order of Malta. Over the centuries, Paulon developed into a significant agricultural estate dedicated to livestock farming, grazing, and cultivating the Camargue land. Jean-Claude, Brigitte, Véronique, Olivier, and Laurent, passionate livestock farmers and rice growers for several generations, proudly perpetuate the Camargue tradition. Even today, this iconic place retains all its authenticity and bears witness to the close bond between humankind and nature in this exceptional region.

Camargue glossary

Reviews

Très belle 1/2 journée dans une manade. Visite dans un chariot tracté pour aller voir une démonstration du travail des gardians lors du tri des taureaux au plus près des animaux, puis visite de la rizière avec les explications du propriétaire et de sa fille. Pour finir apéritif et repas avec les produits de la manade dont une excellente gardiane. Je recommande

Agnès A

via TripAdvisor

Visite très complète et sympathique commentée par le propriétaire de la manade . Nous avons pu assister au tri des taureaux par les gardians. La soirée se termine par un repas qui permet de découvrir la production du site (viande de taureau et riz) Ambiance très conviviale.

Nonaure

via TripAdvisor

Super expérience : nous avons vraiment apprécié l accueil des propriétaires, les explications sur le tri des taureaux fait par les gardians . Le repas qui suit cette visite est très bon et chaleureux. En résumé : une visite qui vaut le détour !

Corinne N

via TripAdvisor

Très intéressant, une famille passionnée, accueil très sympathique. Une vision complète d’une manade, des tauros , chevaux, guardians . La propriétaire du domaine familial en charge de nous faire découvrir tout cela est compétente et extrêmement sympathique. Je recommande ce domaine.

Martine R

via TripAdvisor

A family story

For several generations, the Blanc family has lived and worked on these Camargue lands. Breeders of Camargue bulls and horses, but also rice farmers, Jean-Claude, Brigitte, Véronique, Olivier and Laurent passionately perpetuate the know-how that shapes the identity of the territory.

Their daily commitment helps to preserve Camargue traditions while sharing with visitors their love for this unique land.

The White Herd

At the heart of the estate, the Manade Blanc raises Camargue bulls and horses in accordance with local traditions. Roaming vast natural spaces comprised of marshes, salt flats, and pastures, the herds contribute to the preservation of the Camargue's iconic landscapes.

The herd is today the expression of a living heritage, passed down from generation to generation.

Bull breeding

Discover our Camargue bull farm: approximately 200 animals destined for Camargue bullfights. These robust and proud animals, regional symbols, roam freely on our vast pastures. A visit will allow you to observe their daily lives and witness cattle sorting demonstrations – a truly unique experience.

Horse breeding

Our stud farm has 40 Camargue horses, including 2 stallions and 4 broodmares, raised in semi-freedom in a natural setting. These horses, renowned for their endurance and hardiness, are perfect for trail riding or working in a herd. A tradition we have passionately perpetuated for generations.

Rice cultivation

Domaine de Paulon is also a rice farm. An emblematic crop of the Camargue, rice shapes the landscapes throughout the seasons and contributes to the balance of this exceptional environment.

This agricultural activity, deeply rooted in the history of the estate, illustrates the constant adaptation of people to the riches and constraints of this territory between land and water.

Cottages in the heart of a bull ranch

Our five cottages, open year-round, welcome you to fully equipped and authentic spaces. With bus-accessible parking, Wi-Fi, a charging station, and pet-friendly accommodations upon request, they are perfect for holidays with family or friends. Please note: cleaning and linens are included, check-in is from 4 pm and check-out is before 10 am.

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