In Saint-Laurent-D'aigouze, wetlands and wildlife watching are just as much in focus as buildings whose history is linked to the salt works. Two questions can help with your planning: Would you mainly like to experience the landscape, or would you like to plan a guided or active excursion? When visiting historic sites, it is also worth checking access: Fort de Peccais and Château de Calvières can be viewed in different ways.
Marshes and Wildlife
The Réserve Naturelle Régionale du Mahistre et Musette is a protected 130-hectare complex of marshes, ponds, and reed beds, with a diverse range of wildlife. The landscape and its wildlife are two closely connected aspects of the nature reserve: alongside the wetlands, the animals found there help shape its character.
At Tour Carbonnière, the terrace offers a viewpoint over the marshland. Information panels accompany the view; wetland birds, as well as Camargue horses and bulls, can be spotted there. The Réserve Naturelle du Mahistre offers guided visits year-round to discover its flora and fauna.
Towers and Salt History
Tour Carbonnière is a medieval observation tower dating from the 13th century. As an outpost, it stood along the only land route to the medieval town of Aigues-Mortes and its salt works. Fort de Peccais served a different purpose: this 16th-century royal fortification was used to monitor and protect salt harvesting and trade. Together, the buildings illustrate the different historical roles connected with the salt works.
What You Can Visit
The interior of Fort de Peccais is closed to the public. However, the remains can be viewed from a footpath, where an information panel is located. Château de Calvières is also closed to visitors, but its façade can be seen from the village square or Boulevard Alexandra David-Néel.
The château is a private estate dating from the 14th century. Its four-hectare park, visible from the road, is home to numerous rare Mediterranean plant species. The views from outside therefore differ: at the fort, you can see the remains from a footpath; at the château, you can see the façade and park from outside. Check local access information before your trip.
Planning Tours and Activities
For 2026, free one-hour guided tours of Tour Carbonnière with a costumed guide are scheduled for February 19 and October 29. Reservations are required. Check the date before making plans, as the program may change.
For a water-based activity, Indiana River in Saint-Laurent-D'aigouze offers pedal boat, kayak, and paddleboard rentals on the Vidourle. Provider information may change, so check it before making plans. Alternatively, the signposted “Promenade à cheval - Saint-Laurent-d'Aigouze†horse-riding route is 12.5 kilometers long. It is considered easy, takes about two hours, and starts and ends in Saint-Laurent-D'aigouze. The time estimate gives you a concrete guide for this route; check current trail conditions before setting out on your ride.
Discover more destinations: Codognan, Saint-Geniès-De-Comolas, Lédignan, Garrigues-Sainte-Eulalie, Pompignan, Saint-André-De-Majencoules, Fons, Fontanès.
Return to the regional travel guide: Gard.
