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House Of The Crau

Saint Martin De Crau, France

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House of the Crau Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Saint-Martin-de-Crau Historical Sites Guide

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction to the House of the Crau and Its Significance

Nestled in southern France, the House of the Crau (Maison de la Crau) in Saint-Martin-de-Crau offers a gateway to the extraordinary natural and cultural tapestry of the Crau plain. Famed for its rare steppe ecosystem—the “Coussoul”—and enduring pastoral traditions, this region invites exploration of landscapes forged by millennia of geological change and generations of human stewardship. Visitors can engage with the Crau’s story through interactive exhibitions, educational programs, and guided tours that spotlight the ecological importance and rich heritage of the area.

Saint-Martin-de-Crau is more than a starting point for exploring the museum and adjacent nature reserve; it’s a vibrant Provençal community alive with local festivals, historic sites, and outdoor adventures. From the internationally celebrated Foin de Crau hay to the traditions of Merinos d’Arles sheep transhumance and the rare birds that thrive here, visitors gain a holistic understanding of the mutual evolution of nature and culture.

This guide details visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, and travel tips to ensure a seamless experience. Official resources and the Audiala app provide virtual tours, event updates, and interactive maps for an enriched visit. Immerse yourself in the living heritage of the Crau and discover the depth of Saint-Martin-de-Crau’s history, ecology, and community (oiseaux-de-camargue.fr, lecoeurdelaprovence.fr, Maison du Tourisme).

Table of Contents

Welcome to the Crau Region: A Unique Blend of History, Nature, and Culture

Located east of the Rhône and bordering the Camargue, the Crau region is a captivating destination offering geological marvels, rare biodiversity, and a deep pastoral legacy. This guide covers essential visitor information, history, ecology, and highlights around Saint-Martin-de-Crau, making it perfect for both day-trippers and those planning a longer stay.

Geological Origins and Landscape Evolution

Spanning roughly 57,000 hectares (oiseaux-de-camargue.fr), the Crau was shaped by the ancient Durance River delta over nearly five million years. About 18,000 years ago, a shift in the river’s course gave rise to the stony, semi-arid Coussoul steppe (limnology.ro). Today, the Crau is defined by two main landscapes: the dry, open Coussoul and the irrigated northern meadows nurtured by the Craponne Canal.

Human Settlement and Pastoral Heritage

Pastoralism in the Crau dates back 6,000 years (oiseaux-de-camargue.fr). The seasonal movement of sheep—transhumance—remains central to local culture and ecology. Roman settlers left their mark by constructing enduring stone sheepfolds, some of which still dot the landscape.

The Craponne Canal: Creation and Impact

In 1559, Adam de Craponne engineered the canal that transformed the region, channeling water from the Durance River to irrigate the northern Crau (limnology.ro). This enabled the production of the AOC-protected Foin de Crau hay and replenished crucial groundwater reserves, reshaping both agriculture and ecology.

Biodiversity and Conservation

The Crau is recognized as one of Europe’s premier steppe ecosystems, hosting rare birds like the Little Bustard, Pin-tailed Sandgrouse, and Lesser Kestrel (oiseaux-de-camargue.fr). Its blend of grasslands, meadows, and wetlands supports a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna.

Visiting Information: Crau Nature Reserve and House of the Crau

Crau Nature Reserve

  • Location: Coussoul plain, near Saint-Martin-de-Crau
  • Hours: April–October, Tue–Sun, 9:00–18:00 (closed Mondays)
  • Tickets: Adults €5; children under 12 free; guided tours weekends
  • Accessibility: Wheelchair-friendly paths; accessible visitor center
  • Activities: Birdwatching, hiking, workshops

House of the Crau (Maison de la Crau)

  • Address: Saint-Martin-de-Crau
  • Hours: Tue–Sat, 10:00–17:00
  • Tickets: €3 entry; combined tickets available
  • Exhibitions: Geology, pastoral heritage, ecology
  • Visitor Services: Guided tours, interactive exhibits, shop

For current information, visit:

Travel Tips for Visitors

  • Best Time: Spring and early autumn for mild weather and wildlife activity.
  • Essentials: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, binoculars, water.
  • Weather: Summers are hot and dry—plan accordingly.
  • Getting There: By car from Arles or Avignon; public transport is limited.

Nearby Attractions

  • Explore Saint-Martin-de-Crau’s markets and Provençal cuisine.
  • Visit Camargue Natural Regional Park for wild horses and flamingos.
  • Discover Arles’ Roman ruins and Van Gogh heritage.

Écomusée de la Crau: Exhibitions and Activities

Permanent Exhibitions

  • The Crau Plain: Interactive displays on geology, flora, and fauna, including rare steppe birds.
  • Agricultural Heritage: Tools, videos, and information on Foin de Crau hay and traditional irrigation.
  • Settlement and Culture: Artifacts and scenes illustrating transhumance and local crafts.

Temporary Exhibitions and Events

Rotating displays highlight water management, conservation, and contemporary art. Events like the Marché Nocturne and Semaine du Goût celebrate local food and crafts (Maison du Tourisme).

Educational and Family Activities

  • Guided Tours: Expert-led in multiple languages, customizable for groups.
  • Workshops: Nature discovery, crafts, and games for all ages.
  • Nature Excursions: Guided or self-guided walks and cycling tours (Maison du Tourisme).

Visitor Experience and Amenities

  • Tourist Info: Maps, bookings, and personalized advice at the Bureau d’Information Touristique.
  • Gift Shop: Local products, crafts, and sustainable souvenirs.
  • Facilities: Restrooms, baby stations, seating, Wi-Fi, charging, and air-conditioning.

Practical Visitor Information

  • Hours: Open year-round; extended in peak seasons—check Maison du Tourisme.
  • Tickets: Affordable, with discounts for children, students, seniors, and groups; some events cost extra.
  • Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible; service animals welcome.
  • Photography: Allowed except in sensitive areas.
  • Language Support: French with English translations; multilingual staff.

Local Events and Cultural Festivals

Major Annual Events

  • Féria de la Crau: April 3–6, 2025; bullfighting, equestrian shows, parades (Feria TV, The Good Arles)
  • Féria di Pichoun: April 2, 2025; children’s games and parades (The Good Arles)
  • Fête du Printemps: May 10–11, 2025; sheep parade and cultural performances (The Good Arles)

Other events include the Friday market, Christmas fairs, and seasonal festivals.

Event Tips

  • Book tickets and accommodation early.
  • Expect street closures during festivals.
  • Family-friendly activities abound, especially during Féria di Pichoun and Fête du Printemps.

Outdoor Activities and Sustainable Tourism

  • Nature Reserve: Over 7,000 hectares of protected steppe (Avignon et Provence).
  • Hiking and Cycling: Explore marked trails for all levels.
  • Birdwatching: Spot Little Bustard and Lesser Kestrel.

Visuals and Interactive Resources

  • Virtual tours, maps, and galleries on the House of the Crau website.
  • Onsite QR codes provide access to videos, guides, and interactive maps.
  • Alt-tagged images for accessibility and SEO.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are dogs allowed in the Crau Nature Reserve?
A: No, to protect wildlife.

Q: Is the House of the Crau suitable for children?
A: Yes, with interactive and educational exhibits.

Q: Can I book guided tours in advance?
A: Yes, via official websites or at the visitor center.

Q: Are there picnic areas?
A: Yes, near the visitor center.

Q: Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, fully accessible.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Generally yes, except where specified.

Conservation Efforts and Modern Challenges

Since the 1990s, over 7,400 hectares of the Coussoul have been protected as a nature reserve, managed by collaborative environmental and agricultural partnerships (oiseaux-de-camargue.fr). Urbanization, industrial growth, and evolving agricultural practices remain ongoing threats (limnology.ro). Groundwater conservation is crucial for sustaining nature and local communities.

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For up-to-date information, tickets, and guided tours, consult the House of the Crau website and Nature Reserve site. Download the Audiala app for interactive maps and audio guides, and follow us on social media for news and events.

Summary of Key Points and Recommendations

The House of the Crau is a beacon of cultural and ecological heritage in Saint-Martin-de-Crau. It offers immersive exhibits, accessible facilities, and connections to vibrant local festivals and the adjacent nature reserve. The museum’s dedication to community engagement, sustainability, and visitor accessibility ensures an enriching experience for all.

For those eager to explore the storied landscapes and living traditions of Provence, the House of the Crau is an essential destination. Plan your trip with the latest information and embrace the enduring legacy of the Crau’s people and environment (provence-alpes-cotedazur.com, Avignon et Provence, Maison du Tourisme).

References and Further Reading

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Saint Martin De Crau

Centre De Développement Culturel
Centre De Développement Culturel
House Of The Crau
House Of The Crau

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