Perfect balance

Taking the reins of the boat was a different experience entirely.

- 

It was remarkably easy as there are no locks to negotiate on the waterways of the Camargue, so no prior experience is necessary. It can be driven in the open air on the upstairs sundeck or from the interior below in cases where we needed respite from the weather.

With five ensuite cabins, plus a spacious sofa in the saloon that can convert into an extra bed, there was plenty of space for everyone.

And our next excursion plunged us straight into the quintessentially Camarguaise scene that adorns the postcards and fridge magnets in the souvenir shops - slender white horses walking on water as they stroll down the beach at sunset, a flame orange hue lighting up the sky.

To become part of the postcard, Ecurie des Dunes offers two-hour beach riding sessions for around £50.

Also in the area is the unmissable 17th century lighthouse Phare de l'Espiguette, which boasts panoramic views to those willing to climb the spiral staircase to the top.

The wildlife adventures continued when we spotted flamingos. For close-up views of the elegant pink birds with no need to zoom on your camera, Parc Ornithologique du Pont de Gau fits the bill. But you can also see wild flamingos at Scamandre Nature Reserve - a haven of biodiversity surrounded by beautiful marshes that can be accessed via boardwalks.