CAMARGUE HORSE
Gill Shaw finds out more about these athletic and majestic ‘horses of the sea’
THE ‘WHITE HORSES’ of the Camargue are reputed to be one of the oldest breeds in the world, and you’re bound to have seen the iconic images of these grey beauties cantering across the beaches and saltwater marshlands. The breed’s origins are largely unknown, but horses imported by settlers from all over the Mediterranean, north Africa and further afield are believed to have influenced the breed.
For centuries, the semi-wild herds have roamed the Camargue marshes and wetlands of the Rhone delta in the south of France. The horses are the traditional mount of the
gardians, the Camargue ‘cowboys’ who herd the region’s diminutive black Camargue cattle.
Although the horses have lived on the marshlands for centuries, it wasn’t until 1978 that the French government set up the Stud Book to preserve the purity of the breed. The
berceau or ‘cradle’ of the breed is strictly defined and only foals born within the defined Camargue region are registered sous berceau — ‘under the cradle’. To be registered, foals must be born out of doors and must be seen to suckle from a registered mare as proof of parentage. There are two other categories for those born outside the region or not in a manade (semi-wild herd). The manades are rounded up annually by the gardians for health inspections and branding, and those colts not required for breeding are gelded.
The Carmargue horse has a short neck, deep chest, compact body, strong limbs, and a full mane and low-set tail. The head is square and expressive with bright, wide-set eyes, a straight profile and a flat forehead. The influence of Arab, Barb and Thoroughbred blood can clearly be seen. Their hooves are strong and tough, with large, wide soles that are well suited to the marshy habitat.
Camargues are a very hardy breed and used to living out in all weathers. In spring they graze on marsh samphire and the new shoots of tall reeds; in winter they survive on dried grass and tough goosefoot. When food is scarce they can graze for up to 22 hours a day; when it’s plentiful, they’ll only graze at dawn and dusk.
Known for their intelligence, calm temperament, agility and stamina, Camargue horses make excellent riding and endurance companions. One of the best ways to see this region of France is on horseback and there are a number of riding centres within the national park. Some of these cater largely for tourists, but for experienced equestrians, others offer exciting day rides across the wetlands on these glorious greys.