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Camargue and Pyrenees - The best of France in Autumn
Saturday 8th - Saturday 15th September 2012
The freshwater marshes of the Camargue are famous for the white horses and black fighting bulls. However, there are masses of birds to be seen too! Cattle Egrets feed beside domestic animals while Grey Herons, Little and Great White Egrets stalk through the shallow 'etangs'. Closer to the Mediterranean, saline lagoons hold masses of Greater Flamingos as well as a host of migrating or resident waders such as Avocet, Black-winged Stilt, Kentish Plover, Curlew Sandpiper and Dunlin. Migrant Ospreys vie for attention with Marsh Harriers quartering the reedbeds and Short-toed Eagles hunting a reptilian meal.
The nearby boulder-strewn steppe of La Crau hosts flocks of Little Bustards, groups of Stone Curlews and occasional Short-toed Larks and Tawny Pipit. There is also a chance of Pin-tailed Sandgrouse too.
Contrast this flat landscape with the rugged peaks and scenic 'cirques' of the Pyrenees, and you know that with a change of scenery comes a change of wildlife. Alpine Marmots and Isards (the Pyrenean form of Chamois) are found on high meadows while overhead, Griffon and Egyptian Vultures soar on extended wings. Also here are Lammergeiers, Golden Eagles, Booted Eagles and Red Kites all riding the thermals over the mountains. Snow Finch and Alpine Accentor will also be sought along with Black Redstart, Rock Thrush and Water Pipits.
This two centre tour combines fabulous wildlife with great food and lovely wine with the evening meals. Yes, the wine is included in the price of the tour!
For more details and price click here.
