Camargue racing, a local sport that respects the bull

Camargue bullfighting is a tradition deeply rooted in the Camargue's historical and cultural heritage. During a stay in this region, attending a Camargue race and visiting a manade are activities not to be missed. Here's why.

Camargue racing is a tradition in our region

Camargue racing is an important Camargue tradition. Two, three or four raseteurs"face off" against a castrated bull, the cocardier. Their aim is to use a hook to remove the award-winning attributes decorating its horns and forehead, in order to earn bonuses and points. Unlike bullfighting, Camargue racing is a traditional sport, with no pain and no killing.

Practised for decades in the Camargue, it was known as course libre before regulations were established in the 20th century. The Fédération Française de la Course Camarguaise, recognized by the French Ministry of Sports, was created in 1975. Today, Camargue racing is practiced in several departments of the Rhône Valley, beyond the Camargue: Bouches du Rhône, Gard, Hérault and Vaucluse.

The Camargue bull is at the heart of our traditions

Even if accidents do happen, Camargue racing is about respecting the riders, the public and the bull. The spirit is one of friendly competition between two types of athletes: men and animals. In fact, bulls are the main stars of Camargue racing, so much so that their names are inscribed on the race posters, whereas in the case of bullfighting, only the names of the matadors are inscribed.

The Camargue bull is one of the region's emblems. They are still raised in the traditional way, in semi-wild herds led by a gardian. These animals, with their strong character, are raised in manades: large natural areas where they evolve in semi-liberty. There are over 150 manades in the Camargue, where between 18,000 and 20,000 bulls are bred. Camargue bulls are mainly used for bullfighting events such as the course camarguaise.

Why not visit a manade in the Camargue?

Take advantage of your stay in the Camargue to visit a manade, a traditional horse or bull farm. In the manades, the bulls live in semi-liberty, and the manadiers and gardians live at their own pace. Some manades welcome groups or individuals by appointment for an immersion into the heart of Camargue tradition. Depending on the farm, visits can be made on foot, in a 4x4 vehicle or in a towed wagon.

Whether you're with family, friends, alone or as a couple, our team can help you find the best way to discover the Camargue bulls, or advise you on other activities to consider in the area during your stay.

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