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The Camargue
Wetlands of Provence
 If I told you there was a region in Provence where you could see wild white horses, red rice, and pink flamingos would you believe me?
The Camargue is a triangular area lying on the coast of southern France between the Languedoc-Roussillon and Provence, where the Rhône meets the sea. It is primarily marshy wetland forming an ecosystem unique to certain species of animals. Most of the Camargue is a protected national reserve. The Camargue Regional Park was created in 1970, to protect various bird species, wetland ecosystems and to find viable methods of exploiting the natural resources without jeopardizing its wildlife.
The wild horses of the Camargue form a distinct breed. Known as Camargue, it is one of the oldest breeds in the world. In fact, they are believed to have descended from the prehistoric horses, which lived during the Paleolithic period, around 17,000 years ago. The Camargue are born a dark brown or black color, but turn white around the fourth year. The breed is used to manage the bull herds of the marshland. Because of their natural environment Camargue horses thrive in Sea water. They are often called "the horse of the sea".
Among the 400 species of birds found in the Camargue is the pink flamingo. Yes, you heard it right. The Camargue is the only place in France, and probably one of the few places around the Mediterranean, where you will find pink flamingos. The flamingo is a protected species, and an emblem of the Camargue.
There are few towns of any size in the Camargue. Its "capital" is Arles, located at the extreme north of the delta. Despite this, the Camargue is not only home to hundreds of animal and plant species. People have cohabited harmoniously with wildlife in the Camargue for centuries, affecting it with drainage schemes, dykes, and rice paddies, but remaining cautious not to disrupt the land’s ecosystem.
Its marshy geography provides an ideal environment for growing rice. Camargue's round and long varieties of rice account for a quarter of all rice eaten in France. A chance cross between the wild rice and short grain rice was discovered in 1983. It was found growing at the foot of the Montmajor Abbey. Development of the cross was pursued in conjunction with the French Institute for Agricultural Research (INRA). The result of this cross in grains is the plant breed known today as red rice. It was first harvested in 1988, and now red rice is harvested annually in October. The harvest is usually celebrated by a Rice Festival in nearby Arles. Camargue’s red rice is a sticky, brown color, short grain rice with an earthy, nutty flavor.
It’s biological diversity and unique breeds and species makes the Camargue nearly fantastical and whimsical. The successful coexistence of man and nature in this unique environment adds to its marvelous attraction. You must see it for yourself.
Culinary Corner - Calissons
 Almonds are harvested once a year, typically in late September and October, and Provence is an ideal location for almond production due to its warm climate and cool winters. So it’s no surprise that the Calissons of Aix are a gourmet specialty of Provence. Calissons are a traditional Provencal candy consisting of a smooth, pale yellow, sweet paste made of local ground almonds and candied fruit (typically melons and oranges), topped with a thin delicate layer of white icing. These sweet treats are produced today following the same traditions and old techniques through which they began in the 16th Century, when the almond was first introduced to Provence. They are the perfect companion to an afternoon tea or espresso.
The Game of Boules
 If you’ve travelled to France and have wandered into any of a number of local parks or squares you’ve probably witnessed a gathering of gentlemen, concentrating heavily, possibly with a glass of pastis in hand, playing a game of Boules. Boule, also known as Petanque, is Provence's national pastime. Although it was considered a masculine sport, both men and women of all ages have taken it on. The object is to be the closest toss of an iron ball (boule) to the wooden target (cochonnet). Just when you think you’ve come closest the next player knocks your boule out of the way. The speed of the game and the social aspect of it typifies the Provencal life - the warm sun, the smell of lavender and the sounds of clanking balls and glasses of pastis and the conversations of players and friends. Do you think you have what it takes to play? Give it a try!! Complete rules
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