Le Teich bird sanctuary
A must-see site in the Arcachon basin, the Le Teich bird sanctuary is a wild park home to over 300 species of birds. Located 25 km from Les Écureuils campsite in Arès, it’s sure to please nature lovers and birdwatchers alike.
The Teich ornithological reserve, a refuge for thousands of wild birds
Set in a landscape of lagoons, marshes and wooded areas bordering the Arcachon Basin, the Le Teich ornithological reserve is an outstanding birdwatching site. The reserve was created in 1972 by a group of ornithologists wishing to protect the many birds around the Arcachon Basin. Its role is also educational and touristic. Since then, 323 bird species have been observed on the reserve’s 100 hectares. Dozens of species nest here, including grey herons, great spotted woodpeckers, robins, white-winged bluebirds and storks. Most species nest in spring. Other birds only spend the winter on the reserve. There are also 2 migration periods, one from late winter to late spring, the other during summer and autumn. Depending on the period, you may see white spoonbills, mallards, little egrets and black-headed gulls. But you don’t have to be an amateur ornithologist to visit the Le Teich ornithological reserve…
What to do at the Le Teich bird sanctuary
The bird sanctuary can be visited freely on foot, following a superb trail. The 6 km loop passes by 20 observation huts and 4 high viewpoints to better appreciate the reserve’s landscapes. To take your time, allow 3 to 4 hours on site. A 2.5 km itinerary is available, as well as one adapted for people with reduced mobility. All visits are made with the strictest respect for the animals. No one is allowed to make noise or leave the trail.
In addition to this self-guided tour, several activities are organized. Guided tours take place every morning during school vacations and in the evenings in summer. If you know nothing about birds, this guided tour is particularly recommended to get the most out of the place.
The Le Teich ornithological reserve is well suited to wildlife photography, and photographers come from far and wide to take pictures of wild birds. The observation huts are designed to suit photographers’ needs.
Practical info
The reserve welcomes visitors all year round:
- 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. from January 1 to March 31 and from October 1 to November 30 ;
- 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. April 1 to June 30 and September 1 to 30 ;
- 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 1 to August 31 ;
- 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. December 1 to 31.
The full price is €9.60. A children’s ticket is available at €7.40. Reduced and group rates are also available. Those wishing to visit the Arcachon Basin regularly during their camping vacations can take advantage of a weekly pass at a cost of €33 (€24 for children). The reserve’s website provides a calendar of the best times for birdwatching, which you should consult before coming. A brasserie and store are located at the entrance to the reserve.
