Discover Prés Salés
Between the communes of Lège-Cap-Ferret and Arès, you can discover the magnificent Réserve Naturelle Nationale des Près Salés. It offers visitors the chance to observe all the flora and fauna it shelters, between its various natural environments. In this blog post, we’ll share with you its history, its importance, and all the amazing things you can see and do while exploring this hidden gem.
History of Lège-Cap-Ferret and the Prés Salés National Reserve
Lège-Cap-Ferret is a small town on France’s Atlantic coast, in the Gironde département. It’s known for the charm of its beaches, its oyster beds and the Prés Salés National Reserve. The reserve is a 496-hectare protected area, including 350 hectares of public maritime domain. Before it took on the appearance it has today, it was open to the sea, only to be dyked in 1970. For several years, the reserve was no longer considered a salt meadow and became overrun with invasive plants. Then, on September 7, 1983, its creation was declared to the commune, and the reserve was protected and recognized. The main features of the reserve are salt marshes, mudflats and sandbanks, as well as a large, unique ecosystem that is a haven for migratory birds.
Discover the reserve’s footpaths and trails
One of the best ways to explore the Salt Meadows is on foot. There are several routes and footpaths in the reserve, ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate.The reserve offers 9 km of freely accessible trails. The trails offer breathtaking views of the salt marshes, sand dunes and Atlantic Ocean. You can also see the oyster beds and get an idea of the region’s traditional oyster farming practices.
The diversity of flora and fauna in the reserve
The reserve’s landscape offers visitors a blend of urbanism, with its landscaped paths, and the reserve’s natural charm. You can observe 200 species of birds, most of them migratory, such as sandpipers, plovers, herons and several species of ducks. The marshes are also populated by various species of grasses, herbs and flowers, providing a rich habitat for insects and small animals. The waters surrounding the reserve are home to fish, crabs and shrimps, which are part of the local cuisine.
Things to do in the Prés Salés national reserve
As well as hiking and birdwatching, there are many other activities to do in the Prés Salés reserve. You can take a guided tour of the oyster beds and learn about traditional oyster farming techniques, or visit the old fish tanks. Boat trips are also available, offering a breathtaking view of the reserve and its surroundings.
Tips for preparing your visit to Les Prés Salés
To prepare for your visit to Lège-Cap-Ferret and the Prés Salés reserve, it’s essential to plan ahead. The best time to visit is in spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and migratory birds are in the area. We advise you to wear your best walking shoes and also bring a hat and sun cream, as it can get hot in the reserve during the summer months. Don’t forget to bring a pair of binoculars too, so you can keep an eye out for the inhabitants of the Prés Salés!
How to get to Lège-Cap-Ferret and the Reserve?
Lège-Cap-Ferret is accessible by car, train and bus. The nearest train station is Arcachon, with links to Bordeaux and Paris. If you’re driving, there are plenty of parking facilities in town, and you can get to the reserve on foot or by bike. Finally, if you’re already in the area, you can reach Les Prés Salés from the oyster port of Arès or from the Résinier hut in Lège-Cap-Ferret.
Sustainable tourism practices in the Prés Salés national reserve
Réserve des Prés Salés is committed to sustainable tourism practices. It promotes responsible tourism and encourages visitors to respect the environment. It also offers educational programs for schools and groups, focusing on the importance of the Prés Salés ecosystem and the need to preserve it. A real program for young and old alike! The Prés Salés National Reserve in Lège-Cap-Ferret is a veritable jewel of nature. The reserve is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, and is a haven for migratory birds. Ideal for visiting during the summer months, the Prés Salés National Nature Reserve will plunge you into the heart of the natural beauty of the Bay of Arcachon! Our campsite, Les Écureuils, located in Arès, will be delighted to welcome you!
