Réserve Naturelle De L'Ilon
Réserve Naturelle De L'Ilon
4.6
(1747)
8,658
hikers
3
hikes
Urban hiking trails in Réserve Naturelle De L'Ilon traverse a protected area characterized by a mosaic of natural environments. The region features marshlands, seasonally flooded pastures, and ancient forests, situated at the foot of the Alpilles mountains. Elevation changes are generally minimal, with routes typically remaining below 100 meters of ascent. This diverse landscape provides varied scenery for urban hikers.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
8
hikers
2.41km
00:37
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(6)
30
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
3.0
(1)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
2.5
(2)
19
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
"Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" is the title of a television series that, through several hundred films, presents culture-loving viewers with sites from every continent and across centuries. Despite the diversity of each site, all have one thing in common: they have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One episode of the series – which I highly recommend – also focuses on ARLES, a city with a rich history and a wealth of cultural heritage. The film accompanying this highlight (although exclusively in German) can be viewed in the ARD Media Library as episode 124 of "Treasures of the World – Heritage of Humanity" at => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/arles-frankreich-folge-124/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTc1OTMw
0
1
A very beautiful old town with many lovely shops and restaurants. The absolute highlight is the historic arena with a capacity of 20,000, where events are still held today.
3
0
The Roman theatre, which was completed around 12 BC. It later disappeared from memory after its stones were dismantled and reused in the Middle Ages. A monastery was then built on the site, and the two columns that are still standing today adorn its courtyard. In the 19th century, however, it was given back its original function and today it serves as a venue for renowned festivals.
1
0
On the website for the television series “Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity” - which I can recommend without reservation - it says: “Roman culture and Romanesque heritage shape the cityscape and history of Arles. Arles was the second largest city in the Roman Empire. Half a century later, Arles developed into a religious center. But Arles is also the city of Vincent van Gogh. He moved to Arles in February 1888. This is where he created his most famous works.” The film about ARLES (in German) can be viewed in the ARD media library at => https://www.ardmediathek.de/video/schaetze-der-welt/arles-frankreich-folge-124/swr/Y3JpZDovL3N3ci5kZS83MTc1OTMw
0
0
The Place de la République is surrounded by buildings in a variety of styles and eras: the town hall, completed in 1676, the Renaissance-style bell tower, the 17th-century Sainte-Anne church and the Saint-Trophime church with its 12th-century cloister. Around the square you will find a variety of delightful shops, including several bookstores, cafés and cozy restaurants.
1
0
The former Saint-Trophime Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church in Arles in southern France. It was initially an abbey church of the Benedictine order, later the bishop's church of Arles. Today it is the most important building in the city of Arles and an important example of Romanesque architecture. The Romanesque part of the church was built between 1100 and 1150. Between 1454 and 1464 the Gothic choir was added and some other changes were made. On the south side was the Saint-Trophime monastery until 1792, arranged around the cloister of the church. Saint-Trophime was the first bishop of Arles in 250. Augustine of Canterbury returned to Arles in 597 after his missionary journeys to England. Because of this, the Anglican Church still has a connection with this cathedral. de.wikipedia.org/wiki/St-Trophime_(Arles)
1
0
The former Saint-Trophime Cathedral is a Roman Catholic church in Arles in southern France. It was initially an abbey church of the Benedictine order, later the bishop's church of Arles. Today it is the most important building in the city of Arles and an important example of Romanesque architecture. The Romanesque part of the church was built between 1100 and 1150. Between 1454 and 1464 the Gothic choir was added and some other changes were made. On the south side was the Saint-Trophime monastery until 1792, arranged around the cloister of the church. Saint-Trophime was the first bishop of Arles in 250. Augustine of Canterbury returned to Arles in 597 after his missionary journeys to England. Because of this, the Anglican Church still has a connection with this cathedral. https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/St-Trophime_(Arles)
2
0
Urban hiking in and around the Réserve Naturelle De L'Ilon offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty and historical exploration. While the reserve itself is known for its marshlands, ancient forests, and rich biodiversity, nearby urban trails often connect these natural elements with cultural landmarks in towns like Arles, providing a varied experience from wetland observation to ancient Roman sites.
Komoot lists over 270 hikes in and around the Réserve Naturelle De L'Ilon, offering a wide selection for various preferences. This guide specifically highlights several urban routes that allow you to explore both the natural surroundings and nearby historical towns.
Yes, for an easy and relatively short urban hike, consider the Baïsse du Raillon loop from Saint-Martin-de-Crau. This route is just over 2 kilometers long with minimal elevation gain, making it perfect for a relaxed walk.
Many urban hikes in the area, particularly those around Arles, feature significant historical landmarks. For example, the Roman Theatre of Arles – The Arles Amphitheatre loop from Aqueduc du Pont de Crau takes you past impressive ancient Roman structures, offering a glimpse into the region's rich past.
Yes, many urban routes are suitable for families, especially those with moderate distances and gentle terrain. The Arles Summer Garden – Historic Center of Arles loop from Aqueduc du Pont de Crau, for instance, is a moderate 8.2-kilometer route that combines cultural sights with pleasant walking, ideal for an active family outing.
The Réserve Naturelle De L'Ilon and its surrounding urban areas are pleasant for hiking for much of the year. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring bringing vibrant flora and autumn showcasing rich colors. Summers can be warm, so early mornings or late afternoons are best if hiking during this season. Winters are generally mild, making it possible to hike year-round.
Yes, most of the urban hiking routes in this guide are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Historic Center of Arles – The Arles Amphitheatre loop from Aqueduc du Pont de Crau, which offers a comprehensive tour of Arles' historic core.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1700 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil marshlands to the historic urban centers, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable exploration.
Absolutely. The reserve is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, including 147 bird species and over 50 types of dragonflies. While urban trails might lead you through towns, they often connect to or run alongside natural areas, providing opportunities for birdwatching and observing local fauna. The marshlands and ancient forests are particularly rich in wildlife.
Yes, for a comprehensive exploration of Arles' historical sites, consider the Historic Center of Arles – The Arles Amphitheatre loop from Nécropole des Alyscamps. This moderate 12.3-kilometer route guides you through many of the city's iconic ancient and medieval landmarks.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.