Crau, Protected steppe plain near Arles, France
Description
The Crau is a flat plain that spreads across a large area between several cities and is covered mainly with pebbles and gravel. The terrain was shaped by ancient river flows and still shows the traces of these natural forces.
History
The plain was created long ago by deposits from two major rivers that changed their paths over time. An ancient writer described this location about 2000 years ago as a remarkable land formation.
Culture
The northern section produces hay using traditional irrigation methods that rely on channels built centuries ago. This farming practice shapes how the land looks and how people work the soil today.
Practical
Visitors can observe animals that typically live in steppe areas and explore the open landscape on this protected land. It is best to bring sturdy footwear and sun protection, as there is little shade and the terrain is uneven.
Did you know?
Thousands of sheep graze on this land, helping to keep the landscape open and the ecosystem in balance. These flocks are part of a system where animals and humans together shape the terrain.
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Réserve naturelle nationale des Coussouls de Crau
2.2 km
Réserve naturelle nationale des marais du Vigueirat
9 km
Plage de la Romaniquette
13.6 km
Oppidum du Castellan
12.5 km
Église Notre-Dame-de-Beauvoir
12.5 km
Église de Saint-Martin-de-Crau
8.3 km
Château de l'Armellière
14.2 km
Porte d'Arles
12.4 kmBorne milliaire de la Calanque
13.3 kmÉglise Saint-Léger de Saint-Chamas
14.7 km
Réserve naturelle régionale de la Poitevine-Regarde-Venir
14.5 km
Réserve naturelle régionale de L'Ilon
15.1 kmLe Bayle-Vert
14.5 km
Chapelle Saint-Julien de Miramas
13.8 km
Golf Club de Miramas
13.5 km
Saint Joseph and the Child
13.2 km
Chapelle Saint-Sulpice d'Istres
12.2 km
Chapelle d'Entressen
6.7 km
Église Saint-Jacques-le-Majeur de Mouriès
13.2 km
Golf de Saint Martin de Crau
8.8 km
Town hall of Saint-Martin-de-Crau
8.3 km
Arboretum le Jardin de Gaston
7.9 km
Centre de développement culturel
8.3 km
Église Saint-Genès de Raphèle-lès-Arles
14.2 km
Église de la Nativité-de-la-Vierge du Sambuc
12.3 km
Town hall of Fos-sur-Mer
14.8 km
City walls of Fos-sur-Mer
14.1 km
War memorial in Saint-Martin-de-Crau
8.3 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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