Alpilles

The Alpilles is a remarkable yet little known inland birdwatching area bordering the Camargue and the Crau.

The craggy limestone escarpments are home to many sought after species including Wallcreeper in the winter months, Egyptian vulture in the summer and Bonelli’s eagle all year round. These dry abrupt landscapes alternate with olive groves and fruit orchards that are attractive to a different range of species including Roller, Bee-eater, Hoopoe, Rock sparrow and many other emblematic Mediterranean species. The warm sunny climate offers birdwatchers from northern Europe a tempting destination all year round, and is especially worth a visit in winter. With easy access by train to Avignon, the Alpilles regional park is at the gateway to Provence and close a wealth of cultural heritage sites such as Avignon and Arles, this rich birding area has much to offer any non-birding members of your group.

Download the Life Alpilles smartphone application and follow 6 birdwatching walks combining opportunities to see 13 top species including Eagle owl, Little bustard, Lesser kestrel and Short-toed eagle amongst others. Check out the interactive bird information kiosk at the Urgonia museum and try out the games, videos, links, information sheets and find out about local birding trips.