Istres is a peaceful and welcoming town in the Provence region, located between the Étang de Berre and the Étang de l’Olivier. It is a place surrounded by nature, water, and soft hills, where the atmosphere feels calm and authentically Provençal. During our visit, we didn’t explore the historic center, but we still had a wonderful time discovering one of its most charming attractions: the Dinosaur Park. The Parc des Dinosaures impressed us with its size and creativity. Walking among life-sized models of prehistoric creatures surrounded by trees and natural scenery felt both educational and entertaining. The paths are well maintained, and each area reveals a different era of Earth’s history. Families with children especially seemed to enjoy it, but even for adults, it was fascinating to imagine what these animals must have looked like millions of years ago. The park is set in a peaceful green space, making it a pleasant escape for a few hours.
We spent only a short time in Istres, but the experience was relaxing. We first parked our motorhome in the camper area, which we found very clean, well organized, and surrounded by greenery. It was ideal for a brief stop, and we stayed there for about two hours, enough to rest and enjoy the quiet atmosphere. Later, we decided to move to the parking area below the Mairie d’Istres. This spot turned out to be very convenient, close to several points of interest, and with easy access to the main roads.
Even though we didn’t visit the town center, Istres left us with a very positive impression. The combination of its natural surroundings, well-kept spaces, and family-friendly attractions makes it a pleasant destination, whether for a quick stop with a camper or for a longer stay. The view over the Étang de l’Olivier at sunset, the presence of birds on the water, and the gentle light typical of Provence all make Istres a place worth returning to and exploring more deeply next time.